The Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985, and today the Schengen Area includes countries that are members of the European Union, as well as Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland, which are part of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Switzerland, for instance, became part of the Schengen Area on December 12, 2008. Two EU countries— the United Kingdom and Ireland—decided not to fully participate in the Schengen system and have their own visa requirements. This agreement has facilitated an increase in participants and simplified border control among member countries.
Part 1
Step 1. Determine which country or countries you plan to visit.
First, find out which country or countries you are heading to. If your trip includes multiple countries, you should apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate of the country you plan to visit first. For example, if you are planning to visit Portugal and then Greece and Italy, you need to apply for your visa at the Portuguese consulate, as this will be your first point of entry. However, keep in mind that for short trips, the number of nights spent in each Schengen country is an important factor that may influence your choice of consulate.
Step 2. Ensure you know the duration of your intended stay.
It’s crucial to be clear about how long you plan to be abroad. A Schengen visa can be single-entry or multiple-entry and can be valid for 3 to 12 months. However, each country has its own criteria for issuing visas, so be honest and clear in describing the purpose of your trip.
Step 3. Prepare proof of financial means.
Don’t forget to prepare proof of sufficient funds. When applying for a visa, you will need to provide bank statements. Try not to rely on overdrafts.
Step 4. Book accommodation and flights.
Book your accommodation and flights in advance. Check with the consulate regarding the specific documents required for obtaining a visa. For example, Spain requires that your flight is booked and paid for, and accommodation is reserved, while Italy, France, and Portugal may only ask for flight and accommodation details. Verify these details multiple times.
Step 5. Obtain travel medical insurance.
Make sure to obtain travel medical insurance for the duration of your trip. This is a mandatory requirement when applying for a Schengen visa.
Step 6. Apply for your visa in advance.
Ensure that you submit your visa application well in advance. Processing your application can take anywhere from a week to 15 business days. This is important to consider when planning your trip. Also, keep in mind that scheduling an appointment to submit your application can take up to 3 weeks, so factor this into your vacation bookings.
Step 7. Check the validity of your passport.
Make sure your passport is not expiring soon. Most countries require your passport to be valid for 6-12 months after your entry date. Additionally, ensure there is at least one blank page (sometimes two) for the visa stamp.
