Schengen Area visa requirements
Apply at the consulate of your main destination. Biometrics and comprehensive travel insurance are mandatory.
Appointment waiting times peak between April and August, so book 8 to 10 weeks ahead.
- Visa type
- Type C short-stay Schengen visa
- Processing time
- 15–30 calendar days
- Visa fees
- EUR 90 + VFS service fee
- Validity
- Up to 5 years (as granted)
- Length of stay
- 90 days in any 180-day period
- Passport validity
- Minimum 6 months beyond intended date of departure, with 2 blank pages.
- Biometrics
- Required at the visa application centre.
- Interview
- Not usually required for tourism.
- Photo requirements
- Recent colour photograph, white background, 80% face coverage, no glasses or headwear.
- Financial proof
- Last 3–6 months of bank statements showing stable balance, plus income tax returns or salary slips.
- Flights
- Round-trip flight itinerary (booking, not always ticketed) required with the application.
- Accommodation
- Confirmed accommodation for the full duration, or an invitation letter with host ID.
- Insurance
- Mandatory: EUR 30,000 medical cover valid across the Schengen Area.
Application steps
- 1
Run the Mirai eligibility check for your nationality, purpose and travel dates.
- 2
Receive a personalised document checklist and cover letter template.
- 3
Book the appointment and submit documents in person.
- 4
Pay government fees and, where applicable, give biometrics.
- 5
Track the decision in your Mirai dashboard and collect the approved visa.
Required documents
- PassportOriginal plus copies of first and last pages
- Visa application formSigned and dated
- PhotographsAs per specification above
- Financial documentsBank statements, ITR or salary slips
- Travel itineraryFlights and accommodation
- Employment or business proofNOC, leave letter or company registration
- Travel insuranceWhere mandatory or recommended
Common reasons for rejection
- Insufficient or inconsistent financial evidence
- Weak ties to the country of residence
- Incomplete or mismatched documents
- Previous overstay or visa refusal not disclosed
- Itinerary that does not match the stated purpose
Frequently asked questions
How early should I apply for a Schengen Area visa?
We recommend starting at least 6 weeks before departure. Current processing is 15–30 calendar days.
Can Mirai apply on my behalf?
Yes. A dedicated visa expert reviews your documents, files the application and tracks it through to decision.
What happens if my visa is refused?
We analyse the refusal grounds and prepare a strengthened re-application. Government fees are non-refundable.