If you’re planning a trip to Europe, you’ve probably stumbled across the word “Schengen” at some point during your research. But what is the Schengen Area, exactly? When do you need a Schengen visa to visit Europe and how do you apply? And what, for that matter, is valid Schengen visa insurance?
What Is a Schengen Visa and How Does It Work?
A Schengen visa, also known as a Europe visa, allows eligible individuals to travel freely within the 26 participating Schengen Area countries. This means Europe travelers will not be subject to border checks at internal Schengen borders.
The Following Individuals Are Eligible for Unrestricted Travel in the Schengen Area:
- Schengen-country citizens
- Holders of a residence permit issued by a Schengen country
- EU/EEA citizens
- Non-EU individuals from eligible countries who are not required to obtain a visa for travel of 90 days or less
- Non-EU individuals with a valid visa
Additional Facts to Keep in Mind:
- While you may not need a Europe visa, you will need a valid passport to enter any and all Schengen countries.
- If you reside in a non-EU country, you will be required to obtain a stamp on your passport no matter what country you are entering. If you don’t have the stamps on your passport when you try to leave the Schengen Area, you may be required to prove how long you’ve been in Europe.
Types of Schengen Visas
- Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
- Transit Visa (Type B)
- Short-Stay or Travel Visa (Type C)
Other Short-Stay Europe Visas
- Limited Territorial Validity (LTV)
- Group Visa
3 Types of Entry
1. Single Entry
2. Double Entry
3. Multi-Entry
Citizens and Residents of the Schengen Area/EU/EEA
- You do need a visa for up to 90 days in the Schengen Area if you are: An individual with a residence permit issued by a non-Schengen EU state.
- You do not need a visa for up to 90 days in the Schengen Area if you are: A Schengen-country citizen, EU/EEA citizen, or individual with a residence permit issued by a Schengen country.
Diplomatic, Official, or Service Passport Holders
Check with the embassy or consulate serving your main Schengen destination to determine whether or not you are required to hold a visa.
When to Apply
You must submit your visa application at least 15 days prior to the start date of your trip. However, the consulate may request additional documentation or need more time to examine your application. That’s why you should plan to apply 30-60 days before the start of your trip. You cannot submit your application any earlier than 3 months prior to the date you intend to start your trip.
Where to Apply
You should apply for your visa in the country in which you permanently reside.
Visa Application Fee
In general, application fees for all types of transit and short-stay visas are as follows:
- Individuals 13 Years and Older: EUR 80 (about USD $84)
- Children 6-12 Years Old: EUR 40 (about USD $42)
- Children 5 Years and Younger: No Fee
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