What is the Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a visa issued under the terms of the Schengen treaty.
The Area is named after the village of Schengen in Luxembourg where the Schengen Agreement was signed in June 1985. There have been several modifications to the original treaty with more countries joining the area. At present there are 26 countries in the Schengen Area. The countries in the Area have abolished internal border controls and have adopted a common visa policy.
Part of the Schengen treaty covers co-operation between the police in the treaty nations and also a computer system whereby your passport is checked against a database of offenders wanted in the Schengen zone when you enter the zone.
Where should one apply for Schengen Visa?
The following are the main guidelines for applying for Schengen Visa
- If you intend to visit only one particular Schengen country, you must apply at the Embassy of that particular country.
- If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply at the Embassy of your main destination.
- If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, but you do not have a main destination, you should apply at the Embassy of your first port of entry.
What are the requirements while applying for the Schengen Visa?
- 2 application forms (completely filled in) with photograph.
- valid passport (validity must extend until at least 3 months after the end of the planned journey).
- copy of itinerary with confirmed reservation, airline ticket to be presented prior to issuance of visa.
- proof of sufficient means of support e.g. bank statements, proof of income or an invitation letter and sponsorship declaration from your relatives / friends in a Schengen country.
- Letter from your company giving details about your business trip.
- proof of health insurance cover for your stay in the Schengen area to be presented prior to issuance of visa.
- visa fees (please contact the Embassy or Consulate where the application is to be lodged).
- Minors traveling by themselves or with only one custodian need to contact the respective Embassy or Consulate for further requirements.
