schengen tourist visa seattle

General Topics

Where to get schengen visa in Seattle?

I have a green card. Any embassies or consulates in Seattle where I can get the schengen visa? I do not care which country it is.

You need to go to San Francisco consulates to get a schengen visa. Most of them need you to be there in person

There are plenty of consulates in Seattle. Try Spanish one, they usually are the most generous. https://www.embassypages.com/city/seattle

Spanish one is honorary! It does not issue visa! Checking the others!

None in Seattle issue visas!

You typically need to get it from the first country you will visit on your trip. Some countries do not have an embassy or consulate in SF. You may have to fly to LA.

I believe they changed that. You can get a visa from any country now.

Nope, but you need to have more than half of your travel to that country during visa period, or your next application can get denied.

None in Seattle, closest one San Francisco... get from French consulate

Netherlands consulate in Vancouver is closer but no appointments till Jan!

Following - which embassy do you recommend at the end?

I ended up not doing the visa. Could not find any available appointments before tge end of the year

Ugh that sucks ;( story of my life

Try Vancouver. I got my visa from Dutch consulate several times. Call them beforehand though.

How do you get your passport back to Seattle after stamping?

Tech Industry

"Successful" but depressed af

Went back to India in 2022 boomerang back to Meta earlier this year

Ask Blinders

I am attracted to my teammate. Should I change team and approach him ? seeing him every day is not helping.

NYC is a mini Mumbai

How to tell my partner to f lose weight?

In this article

Applying for a Schengen Visa from the United States

US citizens can visit EU/Schengen countries without needing a visa . However, if you live in the US and you are a passport holder of a country that hasn’t established visa-free agreement with the EU , you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa if you plan to visit any country in the Schengen Area.

Our team of Schengen visa experts has crafted this guide to assist you in applying for a Schengen visa from the US. Filled with valuable tips and expert advice, this brief yet comprehensive guide will help you prepare thoroughly for your Schengen visa application in the US.

How to Apply for a Visa to the Schengen Area from the U.S.?

To apply for a Schengen Visa from the US, you have to follow these steps:

Check if You Need a Schengen Visa

Confirm your eligibility to apply from the us, understand the type of visa you need.

• Determine Where to Lodge Your Visa Application in the US
• Complete and Download the Application Form

Schedule Your Visa Appointment

Prepare the required documents, attend your appointment, wait for the visa to process, collect your passport.

Whether or not travelers from the US require a visa to enter the EU/Schengen area varies depending on nationality.

You will have to apply for a Schengen visa when traveling from the US to any member of the EU/Schengen zone if you are:

• A US legal resident, but you hold a passport from a country that has not reached a visa liberalization agreement with the EU .
• A US passport holder, but you were denied entry into the Schengen area without a visa.

You can also use our Schengen visa wizard , crafted by our team of visa experts, to determine if you require a visa to travel from the US to the Schengen zone. This tool also assists you in locating the appropriate embassy, consulate, or visa application center in the US where you can submit your Schengen visa application.

Schengen Visa Wizard

I am a citizen of:

I am travelling to:

I am travelling from:

Have you ever been denied entry into the Schengen Area?

Do you hold a valid residence permit of ?

You must be a legally registered resident of the United States to be eligible to apply for a Schengen visa from the US.

You’ll need to have a valid residence permit, like a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card), a US alien registration card, or a valid US resident visa (types A, E, F with an endorsed I-20, G, H, I, J with a J1 document, L, O, R).

Additionally, this permit should remain valid for at least three months after your intended return from the Schengen Area.

As a Non-US Resident, Where Should I Submit My Application?

If you are a non-US resident, you cannot apply for a Schengen visa in the US—you have to apply from your home country.

If your plan involves a short trip to EU/EEA/Schengen, lasting up to 90 days, whether it’s for tourism, visiting friends and family, or business purposes, you should apply for a short-stay visa, commonly referred to as a C-type or Schengen Visa.

Short-Stay Visa (C) Types

• Transit visa . If you’re passing through a Schengen airport on your way to another destination, you’ll need an onward flight ticket along with a visa for your final destination (if applicable). Check if you need an Airport Transit Visa!
• Tourism visa . This visa is for people who plan to travel to the EU/Schengen solely for tourism, sightseeing, etc.
• Visa for visiting family or friends. If you visit family or friends in the EU/Schengen, you will need an invitation letter from them.
• Medical treatment visa. If you will receive medical treatment in an EU/Schengen medical facility.
• Business visa. If you will be traveling for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, etc.
• Cultural, religious, or sports events visa. This visa is for travelers who will be attending a cultural event, such as an art show or festival, a religious event, or sports-related activities.
• Official visit visa. For individuals traveling as representatives of their country for official visits.
• Short-term study visa. If you’ve been accepted into a short-term study program lasting up to three months.

As you complete the application form, you must specify the purpose of your visit.

If you’re traveling from the US to the Schengen zone for reasons other than short visits or if you intend to stay for more than 90 days, you’ll require a long-stay visa, which is also referred to as a D-type visa or National visa.

Long-Stay Visa (D) Types

These types of visas are issued to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who wish to travel to a Schengen or EU country for work or for any purpose that requires a stay of longer than 90 days.

Each EU/Schengen member country handles the issuance and rules of its national visas separately. For precise details on visa purposes and regulations, visit their official websites.

Determine Where to Lodge Your Visa Application

Where you should lodge your Schengen visa application in the US depends on which Schengen country—or countries—you will travel to.

If Visiting One Schengen Country

If you only plan to visit one Schengen country during your trip, where to apply is pretty straightforward: you should apply for the visa of that country you plan to visit. For example, if you’re only going to Germany, then apply for a German Schengen visa .

It gets slightly trickier when you visit multiple countries.

If Visiting More Than One Schengen Country

If you will travel to multiple countries within the Schengen Area, to determine where you should lodge your application, consider the following factors:

• Main destination. You should apply for a visa from the country in which you will be spending the most time. For instance, if you plan to spend a week in France and two days in Italy, apply for a French visa.
• Entry point. If you are spending an equal amount of time in various Schengen countries, you should apply for a visa from the country you will be entering the Schengen zone first.

Finding the Right Submission Location

Schengen visa application centres in the us: where to apply for each schengen country.

Please review the following to decide whether you should apply for your Schengen visa at the embassy/consulate of the Schengen country in the US or through Visa Application Centers (VACs). These VACs are authorized by the EU missions in the United States.

Here’s where to lodge your Schengen visa application in the U.S. based on each Schengen Member State:

When applying for an Austrian visa from the US, you have to submit your application at a VFS application center or the Austrian Consulate in Los Angeles.

To apply for a visa to Belgium in the US, you have to lodge your application at one of the following:

You have to lodge the application for a Croatia visa at the Croatian Embassy to the US or in one of the General Consulates:

See the addresses of the Croatian Embassy and Consulates in the US.

To apply for a Cyprus visa from the US, you have to lodge your application at either the Cyprus Embassy in Washington, DC or the Consulate General of the Republic of Cyprus in New York. Find the address of the Cyprus Embassy or Consulate here.

Czech Republic

To apply for a Czech Republic visa, you have to lodge your application in one of the following locations, depending on which US State you live in:

When applying from the USA, you have to lodge your application for a Denmark visa at one of the VFS Centres in:

• San Francisco
• Washington DC

When applying from the USA, you have to lodge your application for an Estonia visa at one of the VFS Centres in:

• Los Angeles

When applying from the USA, you have to lodge your application for a Finland visa at one of the VFS Global centres in:

When applying from the US, you have to lodge your France visa application at one of the following VFS Global centers:

To get detailed guidance on applying for a Germany Schengen visa from the US, refer to the following resource:

How to Apply for a German Schengen Visa in the U.S.

You should start by figuring out where to submit your Germany visa application in the US , and then schedule your Germany visa appointment accordingly.

Here’s where to apply for a Greek visa in the USA:

When applying from the USA, you can lodge your application for a Hungary visa at the Hungarian embassy in Washington DC, or one of the Consulates General in New York, Chicago, or LA.

You can lodge your application for an Iceland visa at one of the following VFS Global centers in the US:

You can lodge your application for an Italy visa at the Italian embassy in Washington or one of the Consulates.

In the US, you can lodge your application for a Latvia visa in a VFS Global center:

You can also lodge your application at the following locations:

• Embassy of Latvia in Washington, D.C
• Consulate General of Poland in Los Angeles
• Consulate General of Lithuania in Chicago
• Consulate General of Poland in Houston

Note: Citizens of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus can only apply for a visa in person at the Embassy of Latvia in Washington D.C.

In the US, you can lodge your application for a Lithuanian visa in one of the following VFS centers:

You have to lodge your application for a Luxembourg visa at the Luxembourg Embassy in Washington or the Consulates in San Francisco or New York, depending on where you live:

In the US, you must lodge the application for a Malta visa either at the Malta Embassy in Washington DC or in the Malta Consulate in New York .

Netherlands

To apply for a Netherlands visa in the US, lodge an application at one of the following VFS centers:

If applying for a Norway visa, you must lodge your application in one of the following VFS centers in the States:

You have to lodge your application for a Portugal visa in one of the following centers:

• VFS center in New York – if you live in the States of Connecticut, Michigan, and New York. Territories of American Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico.
• VFS center in San Francisco – if you live in AAlaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming and the territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas.
• VFS center in Washington DC , Miami , or Houston – If you live in States of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, District of Columbia and Bahamas.
• Consulate General in Boston – if you live in Massachusetts (except the area covered by the consulate in New Bedford), Maine, New Hampshire or Vermont.
• Consulate General in New Bedford – if you live in the cities of Acushnet, Dartmouth, New Bedford or Fall River or the counties of Barnstable, Bristol, Dukes, Nantucket, or Plymouth
• Consulate General in Newark – if you live in Delaware, New Jersey or Pennsylvania
• Consulate General in Providence – if you live in Rhode Island

In the US, you have to lodge an application for a Slovakia visa through one of the BLS visa application centers in Washington D.C, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Houston, Atlanta, Miami, Seattle, or Boston.

When applying from the US, you have to lodge your application for a Slovenia visa through one of the VFS global centers in:

To apply for a Spain visa in the US, lodge your application at one of the following VFS Global centers:

If you are applying for a Sweden visa, you must lodge your application at one of the VFS centers in:

Switzerland

If you are applying for a Switzerland visa from the US, lodge your application at one of the following VFS centers:

Who Makes the Visa Decisions?

Although nearly all Schengen visa applications in the U.S. are outsourced to visa centers, such as VFS Global or BLS International, these centers do not make decisions on visa applications—they will only accept your application and documents and send them to the right Schengen embassy/consulate for a decision.

Complete and Download the Visa Application Form

One of the first steps when applying for a Schengen visa from the U.S. is to download and complete the visa application form . Although this form is the same for all Schengen countries (harmonized), many embassies or consulate offices prefer that applicants complete it through a specific online application or through a visa center.

Here’s where to complete or download the Schengen visa application form in the US, depending on the Schengen country:

• Iceland ( online )

Once you have completed the application form, you have to schedule an appointment with the relevant visa application center or Schengen embassy/consulate in the US.

Here’s a guide on how to schedule your Schengen visa appointment in the U.S. for each Schengen Member State:

You have to schedule your Austria visa appointment with a VFS Centre in:

• Houston , Miami , or Washington, DC – if you live in Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, U.S. Virgin Islands, or the Bahamas
• Los Angeles or San Francisco if you live in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, U.S. Pacific Islands
• Chicago or New York City if you live in Bermudas, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin

Schedule an appointment with the Austrian Consulate General in Los Angeles if you live in Northern California.

To schedule your Belgium visa appointment in the US, you have the following options:

• Embassy of Belgium in Washington, D.C. – if you live in the District of Columbia, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands, or the Bahamas.
• Consulate General of Belgium in Atlanta – if you live in Alabama, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky (except the counties of Campbell and Kenton), Louisiana, Mississippi, or Tennessee.
• Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles – if you live in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, United States Territory of Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, or Guam.
• Consulate General of Belgium in New York – if you live in Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North and South Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, or the counties of Campbell and Kenton (Kentucky).

To schedule your Croatia visa appointment in the US, follow these instructions:

• Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Washington DC – Email: [email protected] or Phone: +1 202-588-5899. Jurisdictions: Alabama, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, American Samoa, Guam, Howland, Jarvis and Baker Islands, Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, Navassa, Palmyra, Wake Island, Micronesia (Federal States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau), Panama, or Mexico.
• Consulate General of the Republic of Croatia in New York – Email: [email protected] or Phone: (212) 599-3066. Jurisdictions: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Puerto Rico, or the Virgin Islands.
• Consulate General of the Republic of Croatia in Los Angeles, CA – Email: [email protected] or Phone: (310) 477-1009. Jurisdictions: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming.
• Consulate General of the Republic of Croatia in Chicago – Email: [email protected] or Phone: (312) 482-9902. Jurisdictions: Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, or Wisconsin.

See the addresses of the Croatian Embassy and Consulates in the US .

If you’re applying for a Croatian visa at the VFS Centre in New York, you have to book your appointment online via this link .

To schedule an appointment for a Cyprus visa in the US, contact the consular services department of the Cyprus embassy:

• Phone Number: (202) 462-0632
• Web: www.cyprusembassy.net

To schedule an appointment with a Czech Embassy or Consulate General in the US, you have to send an email with the Subject line “SCHENGEN VISA appointment request: [SURNAME(S) OF APPLICANT(S)]” to one of the following email addresses:

• Czech Embassy in Washington, DC : Send an email at [email protected] . (If you live in Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda).
• Czech Consulate General in Los Angeles : Send an email at [email protected] . (If you live in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming).
• Czech Consulate General in New York : Send an email at [email protected] . (If you live in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont).
• Czech Consulate General to Chicago : Send an email at [email protected] . (If you live in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wisconsin).

In the US, you have to book an appointment for a Denmark visa online through VFS Global .

To submit an Estonian visa application in the US, you must schedule an appointment online through the VFS Global Center .

To submit your Finland visa application in the US, you have to schedule an appointment online through a VFS Global center .

Book your appointment for a France Visa in the US online, through the VFS website .

To access detailed instructions on booking your Germany visa appointment in the US, simply click the link below:

Scheduling Your Germany Visa Appointment in the US

Here’s how to schedule your appointment for a Greek visa in the USA:

• Book an appointment online with the Greek Consular Office in Washington DC if you live in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia or West Virginia.
• Book an appointment online with the Greek Consulate General in San Francisco if you live in Alaska, California (zip codes 93000+), Idaho, Montana, North Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming.
• Schedule appointment with the Greek Consulate General in Boston by calling +1 617 523 0100 or sending an email to: [email protected] if you live in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont.
• Book your appointment online with the Greek Consulate General in Los Angeles if you live in Arizona, California (zip codes: 90001-93199), Colorado, Hawaii, New Mexico or South Nevada.
• Book your appointment online with the Greek Consulate General in New York if you live in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania or Connecticut.
• Book your appointment online with the Greek Consulate General in Chicago if you live in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, N. Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, S. Dakota, or Wisconsin.
• Book your appointment with the Greek Consulate General in Tampa by calling 0018138650200 or sending an email to [email protected] if you live in Florida, Alabama, or Mississippi.
• Book your appointment online with the Greek Consulate in Atlanta if you live in Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, or South Carolina.
• Book your appointment with the Greek Consulate in Houston by calling +1 713 840 7522-ext.1 or sending an email to [email protected] if you live in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma as well as Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands.

Here’s how to schedule your appointment for a Hungary visa in the USA:

You can schedule your appointment for an Iceland visa online through the VFS Global centers in Chicago, Houston, New York, San Francisco, and Washington.

If you are submitting your visa application in the US, you have to schedule your Italy visa appointment online.

If you will apply for a Latvia visa at one of the VFS Global centers in the US, you can schedule your appointment online .

If you will apply at the Latvian Embassy or other Schengen Consular offices, schedule your appointment as follows:

• To apply at the Embassy of Latvia in Washington, D.C schedule your appointment via email: [email protected] .
• To apply at the Consulate General of Poland in Los Angeles schedule your appointment here
• To apply at the Consulate General of Lithuania in Chicago call the consulate: 312-397-0382 or visit the official website .
• To apply at the Consulate General of Poland in Houston, schedule your appointment here .

You can book your visa appointment online at one of the VFS centers in  Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, or Washington.

To schedule your appointment for a Luxembourg visa in the US, you have to contact the Embassy or one of the Consulates.

• Contact the Embassy of Luxembourg, Washington DC if you live in Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
• Contact the Consulate General in San Francisco if you live in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Washington.
• Contact the Consulate General in New York if you live in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont.
• To schedule an appointment with the Malta Embassy in Washington DC , email [email protected] ​.
• To schedule an appointment with the Malta Consulate in New York , email [email protected] .

In the US, you have to book your appointment for a Netherlands visa online through a VFS Global application center. There are application centers in Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Washington DC.

You have to book your appointment online with one of the VFS application centers in Chicago, Houston, New York, San Francisco, or Washington DC.

If applying through a VFS center (in Houston, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Washington DC), you have to book your appointment online . Check your Consular Jurisdiction as stated on the VFS website before scheduling an appointment.

If applying through one of the Portuguese General Consulates, you have to contact the relevant consulate:

• Consulate General in New Bedford – if you live in the cities of Acushnet, Dartmouth, New Bedford or Fall River or the counties of Barnstable, Bristol, Dukes, Nantucket, or Plymouth.
• Consulate General in Newark – if you live in Delaware, New Jersey or Pennsylvania.
• Consulate General in Providence – if you live in Rhode Island.

Book your appointment for a Slovakia visa in the US online through the BLS website .

You must book your appointment for a Slovenia visa online at one of the VFS centers in US cities (Chicago, Houston, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Washington DC).

To schedule your Spain visa appointment in the US, you can book your appointment at the BLS centers located in various cities:

You should book your appointment for a Sweden visa in one of the VFS centers in Chicago, Houston, New York, San Francisco, or Washington DC. You must book the appointment online .

Schedule your appointment for a Swiss visa Consulate General of The Republic of Lithuania in Chicago if you live in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, or Wisconsin. For residents of these states there is a representation agreement allowing them to apply through the Lithuanian consulate.

If you live elsewhere in the US, you have to schedule your appointment with one of the Swiss representation offices in the US through this website after you complete your visa application form.

To apply for a Schengen visa in the US, you need a standard set of documents . As a US resident, you also need to submit the following:

• Proof of legal residence in the USA and re-entry document. Original of your valid US Alien Registration Card (Green Card) or a valid US Resident Visa (e.g., type H-1B). The US residence permit or visa should be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen Area.
• If you are employed in the US: Submit a declaration from your employer stating the period of your intended absence.
• If you are self-employed in the US: Submit a tax return document from the previous fiscal year or proof of previous economic activity and income during that period.
• If you are a student in the US: You may have to submit an I-20 form, along with a letter from your US educational institution.
• If you are retired: Submit a copy of your pension certificate, a letter from a previous employer, a pension check stub, or confirmation from the responsible authority about your pension amount.

US residents applying for a Schengen visa can get travel insurance from either Europ Assistance or vti.travel , a European insurance comparison website, comparing insurance policies of AXA, Allianz, Europ Assistance, and Mutuaide. These insurance providers are acknowledged and accepted by the EU/Schengen missions in the US. Moreover, you can cancel the insurance at no cost by submitting proof of a visa rejection.

• Legalization of documents from countries other than the US. If you are submitting documents to prove family relationships from countries other than the US, you must have the documents legalized by the embassy or consulate of the country to which you are traveling.

The Schengen embassies and consulates in the US may ask for specific documentation as per the regulations of their institution.

Please make sure that you have all the documents as required on the checklist—a document checklist is usually provided along with the application form at visa application centers or is posted on the embassy/consulate website. 

How Much Money Do I Need to Apply for a Schengen Visa in the US?

To apply for a Schengen Visa from the US, you must demonstrate that you have enough funds to support your visit to the Schengen area. The required minimum bank balance varies depending on the specific Schengen country you’re applying to, ranging from €14 to €100 per day.

Learn more about proving your financial sufficiency and check the required balances for each Schengen country here .

On the day of your appointment, you must show up on time, have your passport, application form, and all the required documents with you, and have enough money to pay the visa fee if you haven’t already paid it online while scheduling the appointment.

Paying the Application Fee

Schengen visa fee for the us residents.

The standard fee for a Schengen visa is €90 (appx. $86). If you apply through a visa application center, an additional service fee may apply. Payment methods include cash, credit/debit cards, or payment slips (depending on the visa center or embassy). Confirm the payment options before your appointment.

Biometric Data

On your appointment, you will need to submit a biometric visa photo as well as scans of your fingerprints. Your biometric information is taken for security and identification reasons and is stored in the Schengen Visa Information System (VIS) .

If you have applied for a Schengen visa in the last five years, your information is still stored in VIS, and you may be exempted from submitting fingerprint scans again.

Visa Interview

Sometimes, when you apply for a Schengen visa in the United States, the consular officers at the embassy or consulate will ask you questions about your planned trip to Europe (why you’re going, what you plan to do when you will return) and personal questions (about your life in the US, your job or studies, your family, etc.).

Make sure you answer all the questions truthfully and without hesitation.

Most Asked Questions During a Schengen Visa Interview

Top mistakes to avoid during a schengen visa interview, can someone else apply for a schengen visa on my behalf.

Yes, someone else can apply for a Schengen visa on your behalf, but only if you’ve granted them authorization to do so and you’re not required to submit your biometric data.

In the US, a Schengen visa application usually takes 15 days to process. However, this timeframe could be extended up to 45 days if the consulate requires additional documents, if there’s a high volume of applications, especially before holidays, or if other reasons delay the process.

This is why it is important to apply well ahead of time!

Tracking Your Application

Since most Schengen visas in the US are submitted through a visa application center (VAC), you can typically track the status of your application through the VAC’s website.

To see your application status, you just need to enter your visa reference number (usually found on the application fee slip) and your last name.

If you applied through a Schengen embassy or consulate, it may not be possible to track your application.

Receiving a Visa Decision

If your visa is granted , the Schengen visa will be affixed to your passport, and you will be able to travel to the Schengen Area within the dates specified on the visa sticker.

If your visa is rejected , the reason for the rejection will be stated in the decision letter. You can either re-apply for the visa or try to appeal the decision . Whether you can appeal a decision (and how) will also be stated on the visa decision letter.

After your Schengen visa application in the US has been processed, you must collect your passport from the embassy, consulate, or visa application center. You can collect your passport in person at the designated pick-up counters, or it may be mailed to you through a courier service (if this is an option).

In the latter case, you will have to pay for the service at the time of visa application.

Entering the Schengen Area from the US as a Non-US Citizen

After your visa is granted, you can enter the Schengen Area within the dates specified on your passport. As a non-US citizen entering the Schengen Zone, you must have the following documents with you.

• Your valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond your intended stay)
• Schengen visa, affixed to your passport
• Travel itinerary (including flight reservations and other planned activities)
• Proof of travel health insurance (with coverage of at least €30,000 across the Schengen Area)
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the Schengen Area (e.g., bank statements, credit cards, sponsor letter, etc)
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations, rental agreements, or letter of invitation)
• Any other relevant documents, such as an invitation letter from a friend, family member, or organization, acceptance letter in a short-term study course, proof of the business you plan to conduct in the Schengen Area, proof you will attend a cultural event, etc.

I'm a U.S. green card holder, not a U.S. citizen. Do I need a Schengen visa for short-term travel to Europe?

If you’re a US green card holder planning a short trip to Europe, you might require a Schengen visa depending on your nationality. Use our visa checker tool to determine whether you need a Schengen visa to travel from the US to the EU.

As a US tourist, am I eligible to apply for a Schengen Visa from the US?

If you’re visiting the U.S. as a tourist and don’t hold a U.S. residence permit, you’re unable to apply for a Schengen visa from within the U.S. You must apply from your home country instead.

Do I require a transit or Schengen visa for my journey from the USA to Pakistan, with connecting flights in Amsterdam and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport? I hold Pakistani citizenship and possess a valid US visa.

If you hold a Pakistani passport and you’re traveling through two airports within the Schengen Area, according to Schengen visa code, you need a valid short-stay visa, not just an airport transit visa .

Can an Indian passport holder apply for a Schengen visa from the US?

Yes, Indian citizens and passport holders who are legally registered residents of the United States are eligible to apply for a Schengen visa while residing in the US.

Non-residents, such as Indian travelers and tourists who plan on staying in the US for three months or less, should be discouraged from applying for a Schengen visa from within the US. Instead, they should apply for a Schengen visa in India.

Other Information:

Data Protection

Your personal data submitted during the Schengen visa application process in the US is safeguarded and managed in compliance with Articles 13 and 14 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 , also known as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) .

If you have any concerns about the security of your data, you can contact the Data Protection Commissioner of the Schengen country where you’re applying for a visa.

Related Links

Applying for a schengen visa from boston.

Este sitio web utiliza cookies propias y de terceros para su funcionamiento, mantener la sesión y personalizar la experiencia del usuario. Más información en nuestra política de Cookies

• Consular services

Schengen Visas

​general information.

The Schengen area encompasses 27 European countries without border controls between them: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

The Schengen visa allows the holder to travel to any of the Schengen States and to transit through their territory, but it does not automatically entitle them to enter the Schengen area. The border authorities can refuse entry if the visa holder does not provide proof of the purpose and specifics of the trip, or if any of the other entry requirements are not met (please refer to the section Conditions for entry into Spain ). ​

Please make sure that your main destination is Spain . If you plan to travel to different Schengen area countries, you must apply in the Consulate of your main destination, depending on the purpose of your trip and the length of stay, or in the first country of entry if the length of stay is the same in different Schengen States.

Applications for short-term Schengen visas (stays of up to 90 days, including tourist, study or business visas) must be submitted in person by appointment only to the BLS Spain Visa Application Center in Washington DC.

​To find more information and schedule an appointment for Schengen visas at BLS Spain Visa Application Center in Washington DC, please follow the link:  BLS Spain Visa Application Center​ ​

​​​​ BLS Visa Application Center : 1660 L Street. NW, Suite 216, Washington, D.C., 20036

Email:  [email protected]

Phone number:  516-888-1169  (BLS call-center for USA)

Direct family members of EU, EEA or CH citizens  are entitled to submit their applications for short-term visas at the Visa Office in the Consular Section of the Embassy if they are traveling with the EU, EEA or CH citizen, or are on the way to joining them. In this case, the applicant must request an appointment in advance to the Visa Office of the Embassy via email  [email protected]  attaching scanned copies of the required documentation. Please write the email subject as follows: “ APPOINTMENT REQUEST. Shengen visa for EU Family member. Given Name FAMILY NAME of the applicant ”. In order to accelerate the process, they can also submit their application at the BLS Spain Visa Application Center in Washington DC . Please find specific information in the section Visa for Family Members of a Citizen of the EU ​

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR SCHENGEN VISAS

2.- One photograph:  Glued or clipped (not stapled) onto visa application form. Photo specifications: Passport-size, color photograph, recent (taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance), printed on matte/glossy paper, taken against a white, light, clear, uniform background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any garments concealing the applicant’s full oval of the face. 

Photos with a dark background or with objects or people that can be seen behind your head will not be accepted. Photographs of babies must not show any part of the adult holding them. 

3.- Valid, unexpired passport or official travel document.  Original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport that contain biometric data. The passport must be valid for a minimum of 90 days after your expected departure date from the Schengen area. The passport must have at least two blank visa pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago are not accepted.

If the passport does not meet the requirements, it must be renewed before applying for the visa.

4.-  Proof of legal residence in the United States. Non-U.S. citizens must also submit proof of legal residence in the United States: U.S. Resident Card (Green card) or valid U.S. long term Visa. Original and a photocopy.

The document proving legal residence in the United States must be valid to re-enter the US after your expected departure date from the Schengen area.

B1/B2 visa holders do not qualify to apply for a visa at this Consular Office. They must apply for a visa in their country of residence or country of origin.

5.- Proof of residence in the consular district .  The applicant must be a legal resident or be enrolled in in-person studies within our consular jurisdiction (Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina). 

Residence must be proved by one of the following, valid documents: U.S. Driver’s License, State ID, University Student ID. Original and a photocopy .

If you do not have a US Driver's License or State ID it is possible to prove residence in our consular district through other documents, e.g. a copy of a lease agreement or utility bill. 

6.-  Documents supporting the purpose of the travel and specifics of the stay, as well as the intention of the visa applicant to leave the Schengen area before the visa expires.

• Complete travel itinerary (round trip from the U.S.): Copy of flight reservation with booking reference number. Travel itinerary should include:
• ​Applicant’s name;
• Clear details of travel dates;
• When traveling from one city to another within the Schengen area:
• ​Flight numbers, bus tickets, euro pass (if applicable). 
• Car rental details (if applicable). ​
• Copy of confirmed hotel (or tourist apartment) reservations containing the applicant’s name, hotel's address and telephone, matching with flight dates;
• Official invitation letter from a Spanish citizen or foreign legal resident in Spain issued by the Police Department. You must submit the original invitation letter. Please add a copy of the host’s Spanish ID or passport and proof of legal residence if the host is not a Spanish citizen.
• ​If trip is arranged by a tour operator or travel agency ​:
• Confirmation of booking of the trip;
• Travel itinerary: Specifying hotels outlined day by day and including each location’s address, phone number and email.
• For cruises : Itinerary with ports outlined day by day.​

7.- Travel medical insurance : The certificate of the Insurance Company must indicate: the applicant’s name, dates of coverage and the minimum coverage. 

The insurance must cover the costs of repatriation for medical reasons or death, as well as for urgent healthcare and/or emergency hospital treatment for the entire stay and throughout the Schengen area, with no deductibles and no copayments. 

Coverage must be of at least 30.000€, or its equivalent in local currency (approx. $32.000 USD). 

If the application is for a multiple entry visa, the health insurance must be valid for the first planned entry.  The applicant must undertake to purchase insurance for future trips.

An Insurance card is not accepted as proof of coverage.

8.- Proof of financial means : Applicant must submit the 3 latest bank statements with an ending balance that meets the minimum requirements for the length of your stay.

In 2024, sufficient financial means are considered to be: ​

• If trip is less than 9 days: Minimum average balance of 114€ ($125 approx.) per day of stay.
• If the length of stay is 9 days or more: Minimum average balance of 1021 € ($1125 approx.) regardless of the duration of the stay.​​
• Notarized sponsor letter from the sponsor assuming full financial responsibility for the applicant’s stay;
• Notarized copy of sponsor’s ID;
• Sponsor’s proof of employment: Letter from the company that the sponsor is working for;
• Sponsor’s 3 latest bank statements;
• Proof of relationship:
• Notarized copy of birth certificate, or;
• Tax returns certifying dependence.​​
• For employees : Updated employer letter indicating position, length of employment, position, wage or salary, and vacation period.
• For self-employed : Proof of self-employment and
• Most recent yearly income tax return(s);
• Last 3 corporate bank statements.
• Retirees : Proof confirming monthly retirement income.
• ​Students : Proof of enrollment (F1 student visa holders must submit a copy of the I-20 certificate ).
• Business travelers : 
• Letter from their U.S.-based company indicating purpose and length of stay;
• ​Letter of invitation from the Spanish company or conference, or invitation letter from a host.​

11.-  Payment of the visa fee : Fees in 2024:

• ​General visa fee:
• General fee (citizens age 12 and over): $88
• Children of 6-11 years: $44​
• Children aged 5 and under: Exempt
• Countries subject to Visa Facilitation Agreements and reciprocities:
• Citizens of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Belarus:
• Citizens aged 12 and over: $38
• Children aged 11 and under: Exempt
• Citizens of Cabo Verde:
• Citizens aged 18 and over: $66
• Children of 12-17 years: $33
• Citizens of Gambia:
• Citizens aged 12 and over: $131
• Citizens of Albania, Georgia, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia and Ukraine:
• Holders of non-biometric passports need a Schengen visa: $38
• Holders of biometric passports do not need a Schengen visa

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR MINORS (UNDER 18)

• Minor’s birth certificate , in English or Spanish, or translated into English or Spanish. Original and photocopy .
• ​If the minor is travelling with only one parent/legal guardian:
• Notarized authorization letter from the parent or legal guardian who is not accompanying the minor to travel abroad. Original and photocopy ;
• Notarized copy (and a photocopy) of the parent's or legal guardian’s passport who is not accompanying the minor;
• If only one parent has full custody: Notarized copy (and a photocopy) of the Family Court Order. It must be translated into Spanish. 
• If the minor is traveling unaccompanied (without parents/legal guardians):
• Notarized letter from both parents granting permission to the minor to travel with a person that will be responsible for the minor during the trip to and stay in Spain. Original and photocopy ;
• ​ Notarized copy of the parents’ passports (please add a photocopy);
• Notarized copy of the passport of the person that will be responsible for the minor  (please add a photocopy);
• If the minor travels with a school group: Letter from the school explaining the travel and indicating the person responsible for the minor during the trip.

Who can apply for a visa:  This Consular Office is competent to accept visa applications from legal residents or students enrolled in in-person studies within our consular jurisdiction (Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina).

Visa application period:   Visa applications must be submitted between 6 months and 15 days before the scheduled date of travel. Seafarers may apply for the visa up to 9 months before the date of travel.   ​

Please be sure that you have all required documents before scheduling an appointment, as only complete applications with all requirements will be admitted.

Every applicant (including minors) must come to the BLS Office to submit the application in person.

Biometric data capturing : The applicant's facial image and fingerprints will be captured during the visa application procedure. Applicants under 12 and applicants whose fingerprints have been taken in the last 59 months are exempt from fingerprint taking. However, in the latter case, if the applicant's prints are of poor quality, the Consular Office will request that they come back in to have their fingerprints retaken​.

• The dates (dd/mm/yy) are the first day and the last day of visa validity;
• The number of days you are allowed to stay in Schengen territory;
• The number of entries and exits allowed in the Schengen territory.

DATA PROTECTION 

The processing of personal data of visa applicants is done in accordance with the  General Data Protection Regulation . 

Persons wishing to exercise their rights of access, rectification and erasure of their personal data in the Visa Information System (VIS) may do so by addressing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Union and Cooperation: 

Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación Inspección General de Servicios Postal address: Plaza de la Provincia, 1, Madrid, España Email:  [email protected]  

The following forms may be used to do so: 

Persons whose visa application has been refused because they are banned from entering the Schengen area may exercise their rights of access, rectification and erasure of their personal data in the Schengen Information System (SIS) by addressing the Ministry of the Interior. 

​BASIC LEGISLATION

What are you looking for?

Scheduling an appointment.

Every German Mission in the U.S. requires that you schedule an appointment via the O nline Appointment System for the application of a visa, a passport or identification card . If you would like to apply for both a passport and an identification card, you need to book two appointments, one for each document.

Please note that you always have to schedule an appointment beforehand via phone or email for full notarizations (“Beurkundungen”).

Please inquire about the right appointment procedure and whether you need an appointment for other consular services at the appropriate German mission that serves your U.S. home state:

Los Angeles

San Francisco

Washington DC

Related content

Moving to germany as a skilled worker, foreign minister maas on the 70th anniversary of the berlin airlift, wunderbar together, take part in the public diplomacy campaign “deutschlandjahr usa”.

• Top of page

Apply for Visa to Spain In Washington DC

Tourist Visa

Documents Required

• Photo Specifications
• Processing Time
• Download Form

The issuance of a Schengen visa must be done at the consulate of the country considered to be its main destination, depending on the purpose of your trip and the length of stay, or in the first country of entry if it is the same length of stay in the different Schengen States.

Application for visa must be submitted in person with no more than 180 days in advance to your trip and at least 15 days before. Applications with more than 180 days in advance to your trip will not be accepted. Crew members can apply 9 months in advance.

The Schengen States: Germany, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Sweden and Switzerland.

Honorary Vice Consulates of Spain are not allowed to issue visas.

You can apply at this Consulate If the majority of the duration of your stay will be in Spain, and you are a permanent resident of Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, District of Columbia or North Carolina (State ID required) Due to the quantity of applications received by this office, it is recommended that you plan your trip to the Schengen area with sufficient time to apply for an appointment and to process your visa application.

Citizens of certain countries DO NOT require a visa to travel as tourist (for a stay that does not exceed 3 months within a period of 6 months). Exceptions also apply to holders of Biometric Passports from certain countries Check list of countries whose nationals must be in possession of a visa when crossing the external borders

Holders of a B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.

Application for visa must be submitted in person with no more than 180 days in advance to your trip and at least 15 days before. Applications with more than 180 days in advance to your trip will not be accepted.

Obtaining a visa is not a legal right and the Administration has complete authority to evaluate, deny and request additional information to complete the file. The purpose of the trip cannot be altered.

Application for minors must be made by parents or legal guardian with proper legal documentation (Birth certificate, legal custody, notarized letter signed by both parents giving permission to travel and notarized copy of parent’s I.D). Children of 12 years and older must be present at the time of appointment in order to get fingerprints.

The Revised visa fee and BLS service charge are as follows:

Note: Exemption of Visa Fee for a child is applicable only in the case of Short Term category, if the child's age is less than 6 years at the date of submission.

BLS International Service charge

Applicants applying at the Spanish visa application Centre shall be levied a service charge of 18 USD /- (inclusive tax) payable in Cash or Debit Card. Children under 6 are exempted from service charge.

The Visa Fee is subject to change without notice' The fee is non-refundable

YOU MUST BRING ORIGINAL OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS:

Please ensure you have checked the jurisdiction before submitting your application in Washington DC. You can only apply 6 months or 15 days before your travel to the Schengen Area

Travel Insurance is mandatory for travelling to Spain. You may get your travel insurance from any authorized insurance company/agent or you may Click here if you wish to avail it now from Europ Assistance.

• Non-refundable Visa Fee, payable with only Debit Card / Cash Payments (No money Order).
• Two applications for Schengen Visa completed and signed by applicant or both parents in case of minor. (If is incomplete if can affect the visa decision)
• Two Recent US passport size pictures in color, 2x2 inches (51x51mm) in size, printed on matt/glossy paper, taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance in front of a white/off white background, non-smiling.
• Ordinary passport or travel document issued in the last 10 years and within at least two empty pages, recognized by the Schengen States for the issuance of a visa, valid for a period of 3 months beyond the expected length of stay in the Schengen area or the period of validity of the visa.
• Driver’s license or state ID (from Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Distric of Columbia and North Carolina) with correct physical permanent address. (No applications will be accepted without this document).
• Permit to return to the United States of America in the form of a Residence Card, or a Student/work visa, stamped on the passport, or parole. Residence Card or US visa must be valid at least three months beyond the expected length of stay in the Schengen area. • Holders of a B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
• Complete travel itinerary (Round Trip from USA- Flight reservation with booking reference number). We urge you NOT to purchase travel tickets until your visa has been approved. We will need a booking reference number with applicant’s name on booking and clear details of travel dates, and flight numbers or bus tickets, euro pass, rent a car details when traveling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
• Confirmed hotel reservations with address and telephone matching with flights dates.
• Official invitation letter from a Spanish national or foreign legal resident in Spain, issued by the Police Department letter from a Spanish national or foreign legal resident in Spain, issued by the police/governing body OR letter from inviting person confirming the address of stay, hosts passport copy or host’s residence proof if not a national.
• If the trip is arranged by tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels day by day including each locations address, phone number and email ID.
• For Cruise: itinerary with ports day by day.
• Medical travel insurance with a minimum coverage limit of 30,000 Euros or its equivalent in USD approx. $50,000 for the entire duration of your trip throughout Schengen territory for urgent medical assistant, hospitalization, repatriation due to an accident or death, and Zero deductible. The insurance must be valid in all the Schengen countries and covers the entire length of stay. (Insurance card not accepted. Full breakdown of coverage/visa letter must be submitted).
• Notarized Letter assuming all cost of applicant’s stay
• Notarized copy of Sponsor’s ID
• Proof of employment: letter from Company that the sponsor is working for and last 3 paystubs.
• Most recent 3 last Bank Statement.
• Tax Return 1040 Form and W2/1099.
• Proof of relationship (Birth Certificate, Tax returns showing dependent).
• 2nd grade relatives may sponsor (lease proof with both names may be provided) however decision lies at the discretion of the Consulate.
• Self-employed individuals must provide most recent year income tax return (s), 3 last corporate bank statements, professional license if applicable and certificate of incorporation.
• For retired: letter from the Social Security Administration confirming the monthly retirement income.
• Students must provide proof of enrollment for e.g. F1 copy, School ID card, transcripts.
• Business travelers must bring a letter from their US Company indicating purpose and length of stay and a letter of invitation from the Spanish company or conference, invitation letter of the host.
• Application for minors must be made by parents or legal guardian with proper legal documentation: Birth certificate, legal custody, notarized letter signed by both parents giving permission to travel and notarized copy of parent’s ID and financial assets (3 latest bank statements, Taxes (W2 and 1040 Form) last 3 paystubs, notarized green card copy in specific cases).
• Before a public Notary, legalized or apostilled and translated into Spanish (only for letter written in a language other than Spanish or English)
• If one of the parents does not reside in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Distric of Columbia and North Carolina, it can be done before the Consulate of Spain corresponding to their place of residence.

When parents are divorced, final sentence of divorce and sentence of the judge containing the provisions on custody of the child.

• We provide express courier services for speedy return of your passport once decision is received from the Consulate (Please do not buy Pre-paid envelopes)

* Additional documents may apply * All documents must be in English or Spanish only-Certified translation if in other language * All currency must be in USD or Euros only * Screenshots will not be accepted for any documents * Payments by cash or debit card only- Money order not accepted * Express courier service provided- Pre-paid courier envelope not accepted

Note: We regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements

Please provide one recent photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, which should not have been used previously in the passport. The photograph should be in colour and:

• Taken against a white background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear share quality and with the face in focus.
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
• Full face, non-smiling [without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background]
• Please stick the Photograph on the Visa Application Form.

Note: Please follow these instructions carefully. If photographs presented do not meet these requirements your application will be considered incomplete. A photo booth meeting these requirements is available at the centre..

Applications accepted at the Spain Visa Application Centre will be submitted on the next working day at the Consulate General of Spain. Once the application has been submitted, the applicant can be further requested additional documentation in support of the same. Please note as per the instructions received from Consulate General of Spain minimum processing time is 15 working days (It may delay depending on case to case).

All applications must be submitted at least 15 days prior to the proposed date of travel to accommodate any unforeseen processing delays.

Below mentioned forms/checklist are mandatory for all visa categories accepted by BLS

Note: All application form/checklist has to be filled by Blue pen

Application Form

Parental authorization for minors.

Parental Authorization Letter for Minors

Sponsor Letter

Visa Collection Acknowledgement Notice

Please Note: The forms are in PDF format. You will need an Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and download this form.

To download the Application Form:

1. Click on the form link 2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link. 2. Select Save Target As from the list 3. Save the form on your computer.

• New or First Time Passport
• U.S. Passport Renewal
• Kids or Minors Passport
• Damaged or Mutilated Passport
• Lost or Stolen Passport
• Passport Name / Data Changes
• Second Valid Passport
• Renewal of Second Valid Passport
• Passport Card
• Concierge Passport Service
• All Visa Services
• United Kingdom
• e-Visa Services
• British Passport Over 16
• British Children’s Passport
• Translation
• Immigration
• Document Authentication

Schengen Visa Fee increased as of 11 June 2024

Every three years, the Commission assesses the need for revising the visa fees and according to the Visa Code can increase them based on a list of “objective criteria”. This includes Euro area annual inflation rate and the average salary of a civil servant in EU countries.

As of 11 June 2024 , the fee for a Schengen visa has raised from EUR 80 to EUR 90 for adults and from EUR 40 to EUR 45 for children aged six to below 12 years. The fee for nationals of Cabo Verde under the corresponding visa facilitation agreement has increased from EUR 60 to EUR 67,50. Visa fees under other visa facilitation agreements remain the same EUR 35. 

The income generated through visa applications will be reinvested into making available more resources, including staff for processing visa applications. This should decrease the waiting time for appointments for a Schengen visa.

Figures published by the European Commission show that the consulates of EU countries and Schengen associated countries received more than 10.3 million applications for short-stay visas in 2023. This is a 37% increase compared to 2022 (7.5 million).

Find out more

Visa applications reach 10.3 million in EU- and Schengen Associated Countries

Visa policy

Applying for a Schengen visa

The Schengen area explained

Share this page

• Nation & World

Even when Africans want to visit Europe legally, rejection rates are high. Algeria is one example

ALGIERS, Algeria (AP) — France has twice rejected visa applications from Nabil Tabarout, a 29-year-old web developer from Algeria who hopes this year to visit his sister there.

He’s among the many people navigating the often arduous visa process throughout Africa, which faces higher visa rejection rates than anywhere else in the world when it comes to visiting Europe’s Schengen Area. Appointments are often difficult to secure. Applicants often must prove a minimum bank balance, substantiate the purpose of their visit and prove they plan to return home.

“That’s how it is. Every pleasure deserves pain,” said Tabarout, who has succeeded just once in obtaining a French visa.

Though much of Europe’s debate about migration centers on people who arrive without authorization, many more people choose to come by legal means. It’s painful, then, to discover that following the rules often fails.

The disproportionate rejection rates — 10% higher in Africa than the global average — hinder trade, business and educational partnerships at the expense of African economies, according to an April study from U.K.-based migration consultancy firm Henley & Partners.

The study called the practices discriminatory and urged Schengen countries to reform them.

Nowhere are applicants more rejected than in Algeria, where more than 392,000 applicants were rejected in 2022. The 45.8% rejection rate is followed by a 45.2% rejection rate in Guinea-Bissau and 45.1% in Nigeria.

Only one in 25 applicants living in the United States were rejected.

While the study found that applicants from poorer countries experienced higher rejections in general, it noted that applicants from Turkey and India experienced fewer rejection than applicants from the majority of African countries.

The reasons for that anti-Africa bias could be political, according to the study’s author, Mehari Taddele Maru of the European University Institute’s Migration Policy Center. Visa rejections are used as a political tool by European governments, including France, to negotiate the deportation of those who migrate to Europe without proper authorization. North African governments have refused to provide consular documents for their citizens facing deportation.

In an interview, Maru said Algeria has continent-high rejection rates because its number of applicants outpaces those from other African countries for geographic, economic and historical reasons. Many Algerians apply for visas in France, where they speak the language and may have family ties. And North Africa’s proximity to Europe means flights are short and cheap compared to flights from sub-Saharan Africa, leading more people to apply, he said.

Beyond rejection rates, the difficulty of applying is also a policy choice by European governments, Maru said. “When we talk about increasing barriers for potential applicants, it’s not only the rate of rejections, it’s also the restrictions to apply.”

That means the challenges can be local too.

For Algerians like Tabarout, VFS Global is a new player in the visa application process. The subcontractor was hired by French consular authorities after years of criticism about the previous system being dominated by a so-called “visa mafia.”

Applicants previously faced challenges securing time slots, which are quickly reserved by third-party brokers and then resold to the public — similar to how scalpers have dominated concert platforms. Rumors swirled about intricate computer programs connecting to appointment platforms and gobbling up slots within moments.

“They’re a bunch of swindlers who’ve been at it for years, making fortunes on the backs of poor citizens by making them pay dearly to make an appointment to apply for a visa,” asserted Ali Challali, who recently helped his daughter submit a French student visa application.

Under the previous system, applicants told The Associated Press they had to pay 15,000 to 120,000 Algerian dinars (103 to 825 euros) just to get an appointment.

In Algeria, many decide to pursue opportunities in France after not finding adequate economic opportunities at home or seek residency after going to French universities on student visas. According to a 2023 report from France’s Directorate General for Foreign Nationals, 78% of Algerian students “say they have no intention of returning to Algeria” upon finishing their studies.

The visa issue has historically been a cause of political tensions between the countries. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is scheduled to visit France later this year.

“Everything that can contribute to increasing trade between France, Europe and Algeria must be facilitated in both directions,” French Ambassador Stephane Ramotet said at a recent economic conference in Algiers. “Algerians who want to go to France to develop a business must be able to benefit from all the facilities, particularly visas.”

Follow AP’s coverage of migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration

Most Read Nation & World Stories

• 64 people missing and many rescued from 2 shipwrecks off Italy. At least 11 have died VIEW
• Winery owners, guests flee as fire erupts in Sonoma County wine region
• Yellowstone tourist from Lynnwood sentenced to jail for ‘thermal trespass’
• Kate Middleton's Trooping the Colour appearance took a ‘toll’: report
• Gleaming monolith pops up in Nevada desert, the latest in a series of quickly vanishing structures

Schengen visa fees are set to increase by 12%. Image: canva

Schengen visa price hike: Changes set to happen this June

Recent reports have revealed that Schengen visa application fees will increase by 12 percent this June. Here are the details…

Earlier this year, the Commission of the European Union (EU) had announced that they would in fact be revising the cost of Schengen visa application fees.

According to  Schengenvisa.info , the Commission had suggested that the fee for the visa application increase from €80 (R1 629,60) to €90 (R1 833,30) for adults and from €40 (R814,80) to €45 (R916,65) for children.

In latest news, the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs has already announced that third country nationals in need of a Schengen visa be aware that as of 11 June, they would need to fork out more money in order to apply for one.

According to  SchengenNews , the Slovenian Ministry stated that visa fees for adults filing a short-term visa application for Slovenia would now be €90, instead of the €80 as it has been so far, and €45, instead of €40, for children between six and 12 years old.

“The European Commission adopted a decision to increase short stay Schengen visa (visa type C) fees worldwide by 12 per cent. The increase will apply worldwide as of June 11, 2024. New Schengen visa fees will be €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6 to below 12 years of age.” the Slovenian Ministry said in their statement.

Although the European Union’s Commission has not actually made any announcements regarding when the increase would take effect throughout the Schengen region, it is expected to publish the change soon.

WHAT ARE SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION FEES AND WHO IS LIABLE TO PAY THEM?

According to  Schengenvisa.info , all visitors wishing to visit a Schengen area in Europe will need to pay a non-refundable administration fee when applying for their visa, in order for their visa application to be processed.

South African citizens have to pay the fee in South African rands when submitting the visa application at the embassy/consulate of the Schengen country for which they’re applying to visit within South Africa.

Moenie laat die 5 G's van winter gevare jou onkant vang nie. Kliek hier!!

Latest Posts

Daily Lotto: Here are Wednesday, 19 June’s numbers and results

Generations: The Legacy – Wednesday’s episode, 19 June 2024 [VIDEO]

Uzalo: Wednesday’s episode, 19 June 2024 [video]

Lotto draws: Here are Wednesday, 19 June’s numbers and results

Shocking! DA’s Renaldo Gouws drops K-word in racist rant [video]

‘The referees didn’t like us’ – AmaZulu boss

• Business Today
• India Today
• India Today Gaming
• Cosmopolitan
• Harper's Bazaar
• Brides Today
• Aajtak Campus

• Magazine Cover Story Editor's Note Deep Dive Interview The Buzz
• BT TV Market Today Easynomics Drive Today BT Explainer
• Market Today Trending Stocks Indices Stocks List Stocks News Share Market News IPO Corner
• Tech Today Unbox Today Authen Tech Tech Deck Tech Shorts
• Money Today Tax Investment Insurance Tools & Calculator
• Mutual Funds
• Industry Banking IT Auto Energy Commodities Pharma Real Estate Telecom
• Visual Stories

INDICES ANALYSIS

Mutual funds.

• Cover Story
• Editor's Note
• Market Today
• Drive Today
• BT Explainer
• Trending Stocks
• Stocks List
• Stocks News
• Share Market News
• Unbox Today
• Authen Tech
• Tech Shorts
• Tools & Calculator
• Commodities
• Real Estate
• Election with BT
• Economic Indicators
• BT-TR GCC Listing

Will a 12% fee hike in Schengen Visa impact travel patterns globally?

The fee for adults rises from 80 euros to 90 euros, while children aged 6 to 12 will now pay 45 euros, up from 40 euros. children under 6 remain exempt.

• Updated Jun 15, 2024, 2:33 PM IST

He pointed out that for most travellers, the cost of a trip to the Schengen area far exceeds the incremental visa fee increase. "A trip to Schengen overall will cost north of 2000 Euros. So in the grand scheme of things, the incremental cost is very marginal."

He further emphasised instead of a fee hike, other factors have a more substantial impact on travel decisions and destinations than visa fees. "What does affect the travel destination choice and has continued to plague travellers looking to visit Schengen are the high refusal rates, with often arbitrary and ambiguous reasons for rejection, and the lack of visa appointments making it very challenging for travellers to secure visas within their desired timelines."

Regarding recent reforms, Nahta noted some positive changes: "The new cascade system introduced by Schengen is a step in the right direction. The cascade system will make it possible for travelers to apply for visas less frequently and therefore make the process much cheaper and less arduous in the longer run for frequent travelers."

He however, pointed out that there will not be a decline in tourist numbers applying to visit the Schengen region.

The European Commission justified the fee hike citing inflation and rising civil worker wages, following a review mandated by the Schengen Visa Code every three years. The previous increase in visa fees occurred in February 2020, when fees rose from 60 euros to 80 euros.

TOP STORIES

• Advertise with us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Press Releases

Copyright©2024 Living Media India Limited. For reprint rights: Syndications Today

Add Business Today to Home Screen

UAE Schengen visa delays: Tearful residents sell Taylor Swift concert tickets, cancel travel plans

I n the wee hours of May 5, Liz Gonzales was frantically refreshing the VFS Global visa website, her heart pounding with anticipation. This was her last attempt in a series of relentless bids to secure a coveted Schengen visa appointment slot for the chance to attend Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in The Netherlands on June 6. But luck was not on her side.

"I don't remember crying this much after my breakup," said the 34-year-old Dubai resident, who eventually made the tough decision to sell her concert ticket after failing to get an appointment slot. "It would have been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch her perform. At least, my flight tickets were refundable," said the heartbroken fan.

Liz is not the only UAE-based 'Swiftie' (a moniker for Taylor Swift fans) who failed to get a Schengen visa appointment. Abu Dhabi resident Jam Tutanes, an operations manager in a private firm, tried to book a slot for three months. The 30-year-old Filipina said, "I wanted to watch Taylor Swift in Europe, but since I couldn't get a VFS appointment, I sold my ticket and will now just see her in London in August."

Disheartened Pam Daquinan also sold her tickets after "trying endlessly" to book an appointment. "I'd bought the show ticket for the July 2024 show in July last year and had been trying to get an appointment for several months," said the 26-year-old Dubai resident.

Why does securing the coveted visa appointment seem so impossible?

"Due to the UAE's close proximity and with Europe being an aspirational destination for travellers worldwide, demand for visas to Schengen countries remains high," explained Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head, VFS Global. "After the pandemic, we have seen a surge in demand extending beyond the traditional summer months, putting pressure on available appointments."

Industry experts have spoken of how the high demand affects travellers. "Twenty per cent of the clients who contact us are unable to secure visa appointments," said Mona Tavakoli, CEO, Souq Al Safar Tourism. Harpreet Singh, Consultant and Partner at EzVisas, said, "We receive several inquiries from tourists daily, asking us to help them with visa appointments. The summer rush has always been a factor that affects UAE residents."

Lisa Foley, travel counsellor from @luxurytravelbylisa, said, "Lack of appointments can cause a lot of stress and frustration among clients, as they cannot travel to their preferred destination. If they don't get appointments, they either have to book a last-minute trip to a visa-free destination (at much higher costs) or forfeit holiday plans altogether."

According to VFS, the UAE saw a 25 per cent growth in visa demand in 2023 compared to 2022, and an 18 per cent rise over 2019, indicating continued demand for travel to Europe. "Along with the demand, changes in the application systems and general backlogs also make it difficult to get appointments," said Victoria Baajour, managing director of a lifestyle management firm called VP The Service.

Last month, South African expat Farron (who did not wish to share his full name) missed a work conference in the Netherlands due to visa processing delays. "When slots opened up on February 29, I booked an appointment for March 26 and applied for a visa from May 19-26. The permit was issued on May 22, and I received it on the afternoon of May 23, which made me miss the conference. The entire process took 18 working days, when it usually takes '5-15 days'.

"I was frustrated that my passport was not with me for a month. I had other travel plans, and there wasn’t an easy way to cancel the request or retrieve my passport when it became clear I wouldn't make it," said the Abu Dhabi resident.

"We continuously urge travellers to apply for their visas well in advance to avoid any delays. Schengen countries accept documents up to six months before the date of travel," said Monaz from VFS.

According to the company, the time taken to process applications can differ significantly from one country to another. Much hinges on factors such as the applicant's nationality, the visa category they are applying for, and the documents submitted.

Often, travellers resort to agencies to help ease the hassle of applications. When Dubai resident Zahrah Noor wanted to travel to Europe in March, she started searching for slots from October last year. "For various reasons, I was constantly unsuccessful in finding suitable dates until January."

Knowing she didn't have much time left, the 35-year-old digital content creator started searching for agencies in Dubai that could assist her. "Many were charging ridiculously high prices just to book an appointment." Zahrah finally approached EzVisas, who helped her get an appointment, make the necessary bookings, and organise all the documentation required.

Explaining how agencies manage to get visa slots, Harpreet said, "As agencies have more people resources, we are constantly checking the portals to see if slots open up so we can allocate them to clients. The only thing one can do to get an early slot is to keep checking the website."

Visitors should check government websites for the latest visa processing timelines and visit VFS Global's website for the document checklists to ensure they have all the necessary paperwork for a seamless visa application process.

"The process often requires in-person interviews and hard copies of documents; these need processing time and anything missing will result in rejection. It requires meticulous preparation," said Victoria.

Monaz, however, reiterated that all "visa appointments, processing timelines and decisions on applications are the sole prerogative" of the respective embassy or consulate. "Appointments are released and reflected in real time on the VFS Global website and are available free of charge."

Cautioning travellers against scammers, she added that the company "does not work in conjunction with any external parties" to provide these appointments at a fee. "We urge travellers to beware of fraudulent entities posing as VFS Global staff and promising assured appointments or positive visa decisions at a cost."

The scarcity of visa appointments can disrupt tourists' travel arrangements. For Zahrah and her family, they were compelled to alter their itinerary for precisely this reason. "We originally planned to enter through Switzerland and exit through the Netherlands, but ended up reversing our entry and exit points due to appointment unavailability," she said.

Explaining how this works, Harpreet from EzVisas said it depends on how flexible applicants are when it comes to their plans. "For example, if someone wants to travel to the Czech Republic but the appointment slot from Austria is available, we recommend they take that and visit Austria first, then the Czech Republic. Some applicants appreciate it as it helps them explore more on the same trip.

If the cooler climes of Europe are not an option due to visa issues, agents say there are alternative destinations that offer similar experiences. If travellers want to experience Europe weather, Mona Tavakoli says there are several options, including Armenia, Georgia, Turkey, Cyprus, Bosnia, Serbia and Japan.

"For tropical weather lovers, I recommend Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. Living in the UAE offers the convenience of direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to many countries, so UAE residents can enjoy their holidays even if they cannot travel to Schengen countries."

"We try our best to get clients appointment slots and visas. However, if we are unable to accommodate their Europe trip, most clients now prefer to travel to one of the Central Asian countries, which offer UAE residents visa-free travel privileges," said Harpreet.

Victoria added, "Southeast Asia and Africa are hugely popular now with our clients, with many willing to try up-and-coming destinations like Madagascar and Mozambique."