Summer is the perfect time for exciting trips around Europe! Obtaining a Schengen visa is the first step towards entertainment and new experiences. Learn more about the most common mistakes to avoid when applying for a Schengen visa
Obtaining a Schengen visa is becoming more difficult every year. The application process requires collecting a large number of documents, passing an interview and paying a fee. Since June 11, 2024, the cost of a Schengen visa has increased from 80 to 90 euros. However, many people can make this process easier for themselves by avoiding common mistakes that often cause visa refusal.
These errors often arise due to a lack of awareness or misunderstanding of the importance of documents meeting the criteria set by the country of the Schengen area that you plan to visit.
We have prepared a list of the most common mistakes that applicants for a Schengen visa make. For example, incorrect filling out of the questionnaire, insufficient number of financial documents or inattention to details can lead to rejection. Following our advice will help to increase the chances of obtaining a Schengen visa and avoid problems when applying.
1. Collecting the necessary documents based on a random list
Many travelers, especially those applying for a Schengen visa for the first time, often make mistakes following the advice of relatives or friends who previously received such visas. They apply these tips without considering possible changes. However, the documents required to obtain a Schengen visa often differ in different countries and embassies. In addition, visa requirements are constantly reviewed and updated by embassies of the Schengen countries around the world.
People who use an outdated list of documents often make mistakes by skipping important and recently added requirements. Because of this, they may face a refusal to issue a visa. Therefore, all applicants for a Schengen visa are advised to collect documents in accordance with the current list published by the embassy of the country to which they are applying.
2. The passport does not meet the requirements
The EU has strict passport requirements for those applying for a Schengen visa. In particular, the passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of the planned trip to the Schengen area. In addition, it must be issued within the last 10 years on the date when the owner plans to leave the country of the Schengen area.
The passport must also have at least two blank pages, which cannot be added to the passport later. Those who do not meet these requirements risk being refused a visa.
Travelers who seek to obtain a multiple-entry visa for a period of three or five years should be aware that if the validity period of their passport is shorter than the validity period of the required visa, they will be issued a visa only for the period of validity of the passport.
3. Filling out a questionnaire with information that does not correspond to other documents
Every traveler applying for a Schengen visa must fill out an appropriate application form, which can be downloaded on the Shengenvisainfo page. This is the first and necessary document in the process of obtaining a visa. One of the most common mistakes is entering information into the questionnaire that does not correspond to other documents.
For example, some applicants indicate in the application form that their passport is valid for longer than actually indicated. Others make mistakes in the dates, indicating the validity period of the visa, which does not coincide with the terms of travel insurance or booked accommodation. This may lead to a refusal to issue a visa.
To safely move to any country in the world, obtain citizenship and employment, use the advice of an international lawyer. We help you solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in any corner of the world.
4. The applicant does not have proper travel insurance
Giving up travel insurance hoping for luck is a big mistake. The embassy doesn’t care how healthy or careful you are. The Schengen travel insurance in the amount of 30,000 euros, which covers repatriation in case of death, is mandatory for everyone.
People often take out insurance for a shorter period than they plan to stay in the EU, or with less coverage than required. If the insurance does not cover repatriation in case of death, even if it covers other accidents, this is considered non-compliance.
5. Submitting an application too early or too late
According to the Schengen Visa Code, the time for submitting an application is strictly defined: you can submit it at least six months in advance and no later than 15 working days before your trip. Submitting an application earlier or later than the specified deadlines may result in refusal.
For example, trying to apply a year before your trip or being late in applying can lead to significant problems with obtaining a visa. Therefore, it is important to plan the time for submitting an application so that it is sent in advance, but within the established deadlines.
6. Contacting the wrong Embassy/Consulate/visa application center
One of the common mistakes in planning a trip to the countries of the Schengen area is the wrong choice of the embassy for submitting a visa application. This can have a significant impact on obtaining a visa. If you plan to travel through several countries and stay in each for the same amount of time, it is important to apply to the embassy of the first country of entry into the Schengen area. For example, if your itinerary includes five days in Austria, five in Germany and five in France, start by applying to the Austrian Embassy.
If you plan a different length of stay in each country, the application should be submitted to the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the most time. For example, if your plans include three days in Austria, five days in Germany and seven days in France, then it is better to apply to the French Embassy.
Igor Usyk – Head of Migration Department at VisitWorld
To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to contact specialists. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
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