Step-by-step guide on obtaining a tourist Schengen visa

A Schengen tourist visa allows non-EU citizens to visit all of the Schengen member states for leisure and tourism for a limited period. It simplifies travel across these countries by eliminating internal border controls. 

In this article, discover the requirements, application process, common mistakes, and the Schengen tourist visa extension procedure.

What is a Schengen tourist visa

The Schengen tourist visa is a short-stay visa allowing non-Schengen nationals to travel freely within the 27 states. With this visa, foreign citizens can spend up to 90 days travelling in the Schengen area every six months. 

A Schengen tourist visa is issued for tourism purposes, including sightseeing, cultural events, and other leisure activities. If you plan to work or study in a Schengen country or stay for an extended period, you would typically need to apply for a different type of visa, for example, a business Schengen visa.

Schengen business visa enables its holders, e.g. entrepreneurs and executives, to engage in business-related activities such as meetings or conferences within the Schengen area, which is its main difference from a tourist visa.

Schengen tourist visa requirements

The following is a list of documents required for your tourist Schengen visa application:

• completed Schengen tourist visa application form;
• valid passport;
• copies of the passport’s first page;
• copies of previous visas, if applicable;
• two recent passport-type photos;
• proof of financial stability, such as bank statements;
• travel itinerary;
• proof of accommodation;
• travel medical insurance coverage of at least €30,000;
• proof of visa fee payment;
• proof of enrollment or employment, if applicable;
• a no-objection letter from university or employer, if applicable.

The list of documents for a Schengen tourist visa can vary depending on the country you plan to visit, so check the exact requirements with the embassy or consulate you are applying to. Some additional documents, e.g. birth certificate and parental authorisation letter, will also be required for minor applicants.

Where to apply for a Schengen tourist visa

Suppose you plan to visit only one Schengen country. In that case, you can submit your Schengen tourist visa application at the consulate, embassy or visa centre of said country in your country of residence.

If you plan to explore several Schengen states, follow these rules when choosing where to apply: 

• when spending more time in one of the member states, apply at the consulate, embassy or visa centre of the country you will stay in the longest;
• when spending equal periods in each, apply at the country’s consulate, embassy or visa centre you will enter first.

How long does it take to obtain a Schengen tourist visa

Generally, the wait period can range from two weeks to a month. The processing period for a Schengen tourist visa is not fixed. 

Waiting time may be extended up to two months during peak travel seasons or due to unforeseen circumstances at consulates and embassies handling applications. Applying well ahead of your intended departure date is heavily recommended.

Common mistakes during a Schengen tourist visa application

The process of obtaining a Schengen visa does not always go smoothly. Several common mistakes applicants make can delay or even derail the process entirely.

Incomplete forms. Filling out forms accurately and completely is important when applying for a Schengen tourist visa. An incomplete visa application form could delay processing or outright rejection by Schengen states’ consulates.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of the form, don’t hesitate to seek clarification directly from consulate officials or through reliable online resources like MySchengen.

Inaccurate documentation. A second frequent mistake is providing incorrect documentation during your Schengen visa application procedure. For example, submitting falsified documents such as bank statements or travel itineraries is considered a serious offence under European Union law.

Lack of proof of sufficient funds. Many applications falter because they fail to adequately prove financial stability for their stay duration inside the Schengen territory. Provide recent records showing stable income over the past few months plus balances in savings accounts, if applicable, as proof of meeting the requirement.

The extension of a Schengen tourist visa

You might consider extending your stay if you need to stay longer than the initially granted visa duration. To be eligible for an extension, you should provide valid reasons for needing additional time in the Schengen Area. These reasons can include:

• late entry;
• medical treatment;
• unforeseen circumstances;
• serious personal reasons;
• humanitarian reasons.

It is important to apply for an extension well in advance of the expiry of your current visa. Overstaying a visa without proper authorisation can lead to serious consequences, such as fines, deportation, and future entry bans.

Major points about tourist Schengen visa

1. The Schengen tourist visa allows non-EU citizens to visit the Schengen area for leisure and tourism for up to 90 days within six months.
2. To obtain a tourist Schengen visa, set up an appointment, submit the required documents, pay the visa fee, and await processing. Processing time ranges from 15 to 60 days.
3. Apply at the consulate, embassy, or visa centre of the Schengen country you plan to visit. Choose the relevant location based on your travel plans.
4. Avoid incomplete forms, inaccurate documentation, and insufficient proof of funds to prevent any delay.
5. If needed, apply for an extension with valid reasons. Apply well before the current visa’s expiration to avoid overstaying and its consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions