A Schengen visa opens almost all of continental Europe on a single document — but you have to apply through the consulate of one specific country, and that choice decides whether your file is even accepted. Below is a calm walkthrough of the documents to prepare, the insurance to buy and where to lodge your application.
In short: a Schengen visa lets you travel across the whole zone, but you apply to the consulate of your main destination country. You will usually need a passport, an application form, a photo, medical insurance covering at least €30,000, proof of accommodation and funds, and flight reservations. Timelines and requirements vary and change over time — always check with the official visa centre. Flight bookings for your file are easy to keep in your order history.
01 / What it isWhat a Schengen visa is
Schengen is a group of European countries that share a common visa area. A short-stay type C visa generally lets you stay in the zone for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and move freely between member states with no further checks at internal borders. It is not a permit to work or settle — those require national visas and residence permits.
02 / Where to applyWhich country's consulate to choose
The main rule: apply to the country of your main destination — the one where you will spend the most nights. If the trip is split evenly between several countries, apply to the country of first entry. Applying to the wrong country is a common reason for a refusal or for paperwork being sent back.
03 / DocumentsThe basic set of documents
The exact list depends on the country and the purpose of the trip, but the items below appear in almost every package. Always confirm the final list on the official visa centre or consulate website — it is updated regularly.
- Passport — valid, as a rule, for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure, with blank pages.
- Application form — completed and signed.
- Photos — to visa standard (usually two recent ones).
- Medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for the whole trip.
- Proof of accommodation — a hotel booking or an invitation.
- Proof of funds — a bank statement and an employer's letter.
- Flight reservations — a round-trip itinerary.
04 / How to applyThe application process
Decide where to apply
Using the main-destination or first-entry rule, choose the consulate and its official visa centre.
Gather your documents
Check the centre's current checklist, arrange your insurance and reservations, and fill in the form.
Book an appointment
Through the visa centre or consulate; in high season slots fill up early, so plan ahead.
Submit biometrics and documents
Give your fingerprints and photo in person (if required) and pay the visa fee.
Wait for the decision
Processing times vary and can change — track your status on the centre's website.
05 / FAQFrequently asked questions
Can one Schengen visa be used for several countries in the zone?
Yes — a short-stay type C visa generally lets you travel across all Schengen countries within the permitted period. But you still applied to one specific country: your main destination.
What insurance cover do I need?
Usually medical insurance with cover of at least €30,000, valid for the whole trip and across the zone. Confirm the exact requirements with the chosen country's visa centre.
How long does processing take?
Times differ by country and season and can change, so we don't quote fixed dates. Apply early and check the official source.
Does Sales.Travel help with the visa?
We don't issue visas, but we do provide confirmed flight and stay reservations for your file. You'll find your bookings in your order history; for questions, call 8 800 1000-646 or use the @sales_travel_bot bot.