What is a Schengen Visa?
Traveling abroad causes some inconveniences, namely paperwork. Before visiting a new country, an identity check is carried out. Pre-arranging the required papers or having a special permit will allow one to forget about possible troubles.
Foreigners who have had their application approved enjoy the following:
- the ability to get through customs quickly;
- exemption from entry paperwork;
- trouble-free travel.
Those who live in countries outside the Zone need to apply for a Schengen Visa. The rule also applies to those states that are not part of the Union. Selecting the type of entry permit, paying fees, and other procedures will not be inconvenient. Use the recommendations of My Schengen expert Polly Johnson, which are based on practical experience.
What is the Schengen area?
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Twenty-seven countries have signed the Schengen Agreement. According to the current regulation, residents of the partner states can cross the border without a visa. Citizens of countries not among the 27 signatories must obtain an entry permit.
Periods of stay in the countries of the Zone are limited.
Depending on the visa type definition, the amount of time during which travel within the country is legal. When the document expires, the permit will need to be reissued.
The cost of a Schengen visa is the same in all countries. Adults pay a $90 processing fee. The permit cost for children over the age of 6 is $45. This is part of the agreement. So the country of residence (stay) does not affect the processing fee but changes with the current exchange rate. Payment of fees is due before the application is submitted.
The Benefits of a Schengen Visa
Travel planning, which starts with permit issuing, will not be time-consuming, thanks to the benefits. This is due to the fact that the holder of the document can freely cross the borders of EU and Zone countries without the requirement to draw up additional papers. The same applies to the transportation of goods.
Reasons for obtaining a permit include medical treatment, business trips, tourist excursions, and visiting relatives. In some cases, an invitation from the host country is required. To find out more, it is worth contacting a consultant.
In other words, a temporary stay in a Schengen country does not require visiting a consulate or embassy. The holder has the right to stay on the state’s territory for a certain period (specified in the documents). Thus, traveling becomes more accessible, and there are fewer requirements for the tourist.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
Traveling to Europe interests many tourists, but not everyone must undergo the visa registration process. This requirement is fulfilled by residents of those countries that have not signed additional agreements with the EU and other unions. Thus, citizens of the following countries need to apply for visa documents:
- India;
- Africa;
- Asia (e.g., China).
Holders of passports of those states that are not included in the Schengen Agreement, but are European, often do not need to apply for an EU visa. A simplified procedure is provided for them. The maximum period of stay is 90 days.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa
The application can be submitted after the required documents have been prepared. The list does not depend on the validity period of the permit, so the applicants need to submit the following:
- a completed questionnaire;
- recent photos;
- a statement of funds;
- an explanation of the reasons for the trip;
- return ticket information;
- accommodation booking details.
The application package must be handed over to the consulate in person. The application is reviewed, and one can find out about eligibility at the representative office of the competent authorities.
Overcoming Potential Challenges in Obtaining a Schengen Visa
Failure to comply with the conditions and rules will result in the denial of the application. Expert advice will help to eliminate the risks and complete the documents within the required timeframe. The professionals have experience overcoming various problems, including lack of accommodation and writing a letter explaining the reasons for traveling.
Cases when an applicant is denied, are often related to the absence of certain documents. Also, the unreliability of the applicant may raise additional questions. The application processing time depends on the chosen representation. Thus, it is possible to obtain a permit within a short period of time in Latvia and Estonia.
Medical insurance is a condition that must be complied with. The insurance contract must cover accidents, first aid, and treatment of illnesses. In addition, it is necessary to take out insurance in case of death. The minimum amount of insurance is 35 thousand dollars.
Conclusion
The application can be made at the consulate of your country or abroad. If the state is not included in the list of parties to the agreement, the requirement to apply is mandatory. It is also recommended to consider the processing time of the application form depending on the selected country.
It is not difficult to get help in applying for a European visa. Licensed agencies provide all the assistance you need, including preparing mandatory documents. Since having a visa can save you a lot of time, it is worth including permits application in your travel plans.
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