Schengen Visa: what to apply for

Traveling in Europe has never been so easy. Thanks to the Schengen Agreement (pronounced SHEN-then), a single visa gives access to the 25 Schengen members: Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Switzerland, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Austria, Greece, Denmark, Finland , Sweden, Iceland, Norway, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia (and by default include the micro-states of Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican City).

Not everyone needs a Schengen visa to travel in Europe (see this map of exception countries to know if you should). If you need a Schengen visa, apply for it at the embassy or consulate in the country where you spend most of your time) or at the point of entry of your visit. Here is a list of Schengen visa requirements that you will need:

• Two completed and signed Etias application forms with passport-size photographs (separate applications, photos and birth certificates required for children)
• A valid passport and a copy (validity must be extended up to at least 3 months after the end of the intended journey)
• Copy of the itinerary with the confirmed booking (flight ticket must be presented before the visa is issued) and, if applicable, a letter from your company with information about your business trip
• Proof of adequate financial support (eg bank statements, proof of income or invitation and a statement of sponsorship from family or friends in a Schengen country)
• Proof of medical insurance coverage for your stay in the Schengen area, which will be presented before the visa is issued
• Visa fees (contact the embassy or consulate where the application will be submitted)

Minors traveling alone should contact the respective embassy or consulate for additional requirements. Be sure to remember that you need proof of the compatible travel insurance. Schengen visa insurance requirements for multiple countries include (a) the insurer must have a representative office in Europe, (b) medical evacuation/repatriation coverage of at least $ 37,500, and (c) the insurance must be valid for the duration of your stay in the Schengen States. .

There are several insurance companies that offer the medical coverage you need. Most of them do not require a medical examination and when you buy it online, coverage is applied immediately. Its website also covers the requirements for Schengen visa insurance in more detail to make your application as smooth as possible. Always remember to give yourself enough time when applying for a Schengen visa, as it can take more than six weeks to process your application and return your visa. As a general rule, you must submit your application more than two months before your visit, and it may be convenient to schedule an appointment with the necessary consulate in advance.