Getting the Lowdown on Schengen Visas

What's the Deal with Schengen Evaluation?

So, you wanna know about the Schengen Evaluation? It's like a big test for countries that want to join the Schengen Area. This test checks if a country can handle the Schengen rules, which cover stuff like border control, giving out visas, keeping data safe, and working with the police. If a country passes, all the current Schengen countries have to give a thumbs-up for them to join the no-border club.

Take Bulgaria and Romania, for instance. They aced the Schengen test as per their Treaties of Accession. They did everything needed to follow the Schengen rules. On December 30, 2023, the Council gave them the green light to join the Schengen Area. Starting March 31, 2024, you won't need to show your passport when flying or sailing between Bulgaria, Romania, and other Schengen countries.

Joining the Schengen Area is a big win. It makes life easier for people and businesses by making travel and trade a breeze. This area is a key part of the European Union and its single market.

Who's in the Schengen Club?

The Schengen Area is like a big European party where countries have ditched internal border checks so folks can move around freely. As of January 1, 2023, Croatia became the 27th member of this club. And soon, Bulgaria and Romania will join the no-border fun on March 31, 2024.

Here's the current lineup of Schengen Member States:

Wanna know more about the Schengen countries? Check out our page on Schengen visa countries.

Knowing why the Schengen Evaluation matters and who's in the club helps travelers get a grip on the Schengen Visa's perks and requirements. Need more info on how to apply? 

Schengen Visa Requirements

Planning a trip to Europe? Let's break down the essentials of the Schengen visa. There are two main types: the Short-Stay Schengen Visa and the National Category D Visa.

Short-Stay Schengen Visa

The Short-Stay Schengen Visa, or type C visa, is for those who want to stay in the Schengen Area for less than 90 days within a 180-day period. Perfect for tourists, business trips, or visiting family and friends.

Types of Short-Stay Schengen Visas:

• Single-Entry Visa: One entry into the Schengen Area. Leave once, and it's done.
• Double-Entry Visa: Two entries. After the second exit, it's over.
• Multiple-Entry Visa: Come and go as you please within the visa's validity.

National Category D Visas

The National Category D Visa, or long-stay visa, is for those planning to stay in a Schengen country for more than 90 days, up to a year. This is usually for work, study, or family reunification.

Types of National Category D Visas:

• Work Visa: For those with a job in a Schengen country.
• Student Visa: For students enrolled in schools within the Schengen Area.
• Family Reunion Visa: For joining family members living in the Schengen zone.

With a National Category D Visa, you can also travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, as long as your visa is valid (Federal Foreign Office).

Requirements vary based on why you're staying. Students need an acceptance letter, employees need a letter from their employer, and minors need extra documents like a birth certificate and parental authorization (AXA Schengen).

For more details on the application process and timelines, check out our section on the Schengen visa application process and timeline.

Getting a Schengen Visa

Applying for a Schengen Visa might seem like a maze, but breaking it down makes it a breeze. Here's how to get started and what to expect.

Steps and Timing

First things first, you need to know when to apply. Submit your application at least 15 days before your trip and no more than 6 months ahead (European Commission - Home Affairs). Usually, it takes up to 15 days to process, but sometimes it can stretch to 45 days.

1. Fill Out the Form: Grab the Schengen Visa application form online and fill it out carefully. Need help? Check out our guide.
2. Collect Your Documents: You'll need a valid passport, recent photos, your travel plans, proof of where you'll stay, financial proof, and travel insurance.
3. Book an Appointment: Set up a time to visit the consulate or a visa service center.
4. Show Up: At your appointment, you'll hand in your application, give biometric data, and maybe have an interview.
5. Wait for Approval: After you submit everything, just wait for the processing to finish. 

Fees and Service Centers

As of February 3rd, 2020, the fees for a type C Schengen Visa went up. The cost depends on your age and situation. If you use a visa service center, expect to pay extra.

• Fee Waivers: Some folks, like family members of EU or EEA citizens, might not have to pay.
• Service Centers: These centers might charge extra for their help. Find one near you on our service centers page.

Travel and Medical Insurance

You'll need insurance that covers the whole Schengen Area with at least €30,000 (about $35,000) for accidents, illnesses, emergency treatments, and repatriation if needed. AXA has plans starting at €22 per week.

Personal Touch

When I applied for my Schengen Visa, I was overwhelmed at first. But breaking it down step-by-step made it manageable. I remember stressing over the insurance part but finding a good plan was easier than I thought. Just make sure you have everything ready, and you'll be exploring Europe in no time!

Extra Schengen Visa Info

Getting the hang of Schengen visa rules can make your travel plans a breeze. Here's the lowdown on the types of visas, entry rules, money matters, and insurance needs.

Visa Types and Entry Rules

Schengen visas come in a few flavors, each for different trips and entry levels. The short-stay Schengen visa, or type C visa, lets you hang out or roam around the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day stretch. You can get this visa as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry, depending on your trip's purpose.

If you're planning to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need the national visa, or type D long-stay Schengen visa. This one's for folks looking to study, work, or live in a Schengen country for up to a year.

Remember, Schengen visa holders can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period, as long as the visa is valid. But, you might need separate visas for non-Schengen EU countries.

Money Matters and Insurance Needs

When applying for a Schengen visa, you gotta show you can support yourself during your stay. Each Schengen country has its own rules, but generally, you should have around €50 per day, not counting accommodation.

Besides financial proof, you need travel and medical insurance that ticks certain boxes. The insurance should cover the whole Schengen Area and include accidents, illnesses, emergency treatments, and repatriation if you kick the bucket. The minimum coverage is €30,000 (about $35,000). AXA offers Schengen Visa-compliant insurance policies starting from €22 per week of the trip.

For more details on the application process and timeline, check out our guide on the Schengen visa application form. Knowing these requirements will make your application smoother and your European trip more fun.