Schengen Visa Types and Validity Rules You Must Know Before Applying
What is a Schengen Visa? A Schengen Visa is a short term visa that lets you travel to all Schengen Area countries (over 27 countries) and travel freely among them.Schengen Country Visa policies permit travelers to travel borderless to those countries that have a Schengen Visa.However, there is a catch.Depending on a traveler’s nationality, he/she may be required to have a Schengen Visa to travel to Schengen countries on business, do tourism, or visit them for a short period of time.A large proportion of travelers, especially those who are outside of Europe, need a European Schengen Visa to be able to travel to and enter the Schengen Zone.Visa requirements are dependent on a traveler’s nationality and the first point of entry.Different countries have different visa requirements for travelers. Certain countries have short stay regulations.These countries do not issue visas for absences of up to 90 days within a rolling period of half a year (180 days).However, for travelers from countries that have visa requirements, obtaining a Schengen Visa is a must before traveling to these countries.
Schengen visa types you must know before applying
Before applying, it is important to understand the different types of schengen visas, associated with each, to determine which one is right for you.
Types of schengen visa
- Type C: Short stay visa
The Short Stay Visa is the most common among the Schengen Visa types.With this visa, travelers can stay in the Schengen area for 90 days within a period of 180 days.This is suitable for the purpose of traveling, business, or visiting friends or family.
- Type D: Long stay visa
For those who want to stay for over 90 days, the Long Stay Visa is issued.This allows travelers to stay in the Schengen area for a longer length of time, usually in the period of 3 to 12 months.This is for the purposes of studying, working, or family reunification.
- Type A: Airport transit visa
The Airport Transit Visa is a must-have when you are passing through a Schengen airport but are not entering the Schengen area.This visa is a requirement for nationals of certain countries, even if they are just in the airport.
- Visas for family visits
This visa type is for those who wish to visit their relatives or friends in the Schengen countries.An invitation letter from the host is needed along with proof of accommodation and proof of sufficient financial resources.
- Multiples entry visa
With a Multiple Entry Visa, travelers can enter the Schengen Zones for a number of different times, even spanning several different years, though travelers will always be subject to the 90/180 rule on a per visit basis.
Schengen visa validity rules you must know before applying
Before applying, it is important to understand the different Schengen visas validity rules associated with each, to determine which one is right for you.
Rules of the schengen visa
- 90/180 Rules of short stay
For Short Stay Visas, the 90/180 rule applies, stating that you will be able to stay for no more than 90 days out of the total 180 days.Remaining in the Schengen Zone for 90 days or more will require you to leave, but you will be able to return after 90 days.
- Long stay visas
Long Stay Visas can allow a stay of more than 90 days, but how long you can stay will depend on the type of visa and your circumstances, whether your job, studies, or family situation.
- More on multiple entry visas
With Multiple Entry Visas, travelers can enter the Schengen Zone several times, but the same stay restrictions apply, up to 90 days within 180 days.
- The validity of visa and schengen member countries
Even though you can travel within several countries with the Schengen Visa, you still have to submit your application to the country you will spend the most time in or the country you will first enter in the Schengen visa zone.
- Visa overstays and extensions
Visa extensions within the Schengen Area are seldom granted, while visa overstays can result in hefty fines, deportation, and even the possibility of being banned from the Schengen Area.
Considerations before applying
Before you submit your Schengen Visa application, take into account the following:
- Select correct visa: Ensure you are applying for the correct category of visa that aligns with the purpose of your travel.
- Documents: Confirm you have all requisite documents to avoid delays.
- When to apply: You can apply for your visa up to six months in advance, but no later than 15 days prior to your planned travel.
- Be mindful of processing times: Visa fees go hand in hand with the processing time, which can take 15 to 30 days
What documents am i required to prepare when applying for a schengen visa?
When applying for a Schengen Visa, it is important to prepare all of the required documentation in order for your application to be analyzed.Specific documentation varies based on your visa type and the country of application, however, these are the most standard documents required:
Application for visa
The Visa application has to be completed and signed.
Travel documents
Your passport has to be valid for a minimum of three months after your planned departure from the Schengen Area, and must have at least 2 blank pages.
Photographs
You have to include two photographs that are recently taken, and have to be the exact size in accordance to the Visa requirements.
Travel medical insurance
You have to obtain a travel insurance policy that has a coverage of at least €30,000, which included at a minimum medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation during the period of your stay in the Schengen Area.
Proof of accommodation
You must provide either a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a friend or family member where you will be staying during your visit.
Financial means
Proof of financial means to support yourself while in the Schengen area, such as bank statements, income statements, or letters of sponsorship.
Travel itinerary
Information about your travel, including flight reservations and arrival and departure dates.
Visa fee
Visa costs are as follows: €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6 to 12.
Extra documents
You may need to provide employment letters, invitation letters, or letters of enrollment, depending on the category of your visa.
Conclusion
A Schengen Visa application requires comprehension of the different types of visas, the rules related to their validity, and the requirements of supporting documents.These pointers will help you to apply in a streamlined manner, irrespective of whether you are visiting the Schengen states for a short or extended stay.Remember to apply early and check for the Schengen Visa requirements and select the right type of visa according to your travel objective.Once you have all your documents in order, you can visit the Schengen Area and have peace of mind.