Who this service is for
Tourists and people visiting family or friends in one or more Schengen countries. If you are planning to study, see our study abroad service instead.
General application considerations
- The visa allows stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- Apply to the consulate of the country you will visit. If visiting several, apply to the country where you will spend the longest time; if stays are equal, apply to the first country you will enter.
- You can apply no earlier than 6 months before your trip, and should apply at least 15 days before travel. You may need to book an appointment first.
- Decisions are normally made within 15 days, which can be extended to 45 days in individual cases.
- Fingerprints are collected when you apply (with some exemptions), and your photo must meet ICAO standards.
Common documentation categories
The exact documents depend on your circumstances and the official checklist at the time you apply. Applications commonly involve:
- A completed application form and a valid passport
- A photo meeting ICAO standards
- Travel medical insurance covering emergency medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation
- Evidence of the purpose of your trip and your accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
- Evidence of your intention to return, such as employment or family ties
How Consult Cell assists
- An eligibility discussion based on the official requirements for Schengen Area
- A personalised document checklist for your situation
- Guidance on presenting your travel purpose, funds and ties clearly and truthfully
- Itinerary and travel-planning guidance
- A full review of your application before submission
- Interview preparation, where an interview applies
Important limitations
Who decides: visa decisions are made solely by the relevant embassy or immigration authority. We provide guidance and application support; we do not guarantee outcomes.
- We do not book or guarantee appointment slots, and we cannot speed up government processing.
- Government fees are paid to the relevant authority or its appointed service provider and are separate from any consultancy fee.
- Every statement and document in your application must be genuine. We will not prepare or submit false information.
Frequently asked questions
Which country should I apply to for a Schengen visa?
The country where you will spend the most time. If your stays are equal, apply to the country you will enter first.
How early can I apply for a Schengen visa?
No earlier than 6 months before your trip, and at least 15 days before you travel.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes. It must cover emergency medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation. Each consulate may specify further details.
Official sources
Rules change. Always confirm requirements on the official pages below before you pay any fee or submit an application.
Information on this page was last checked against these sources on by the Consult Cell team.