Schengen Visa
Schengen Area Tourist Visa
The Schengen visa for visiting relatives or friends allows the holder to travel within the Schengen Area without needing citizenship of the country they are visiting. However, this visa comes with certain limitations. Tourists are typically allowed to stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period, unless stated otherwise in the visa. Additionally, the visa does not permit the holder to work unless specified by the visa conditions.
Things to Know
A Schengen visa allows its holder to travel within the Schengen Area, which includes 27 European countries, for tourism, business, or family visits. It grants access to all Schengen countries with a single visa, typically for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
With a short-stay Schengen visa, you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The exact duration depends on your visa type, but most visas are issued for short-term visits (tourism, family visits, or business).
No, a standard Schengen tourist or business visa does not allow you to work. If you wish to work in the Schengen Area, you must apply for a work visa or permit for the specific country where you intend to work.
The Schengen Area consists of 27 European countries, including popular destinations such as France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. However, some countries like the UK and Ireland are not part of the Schengen Area.
Required Documentation for a Schengen Tourist Visa:
Proof of Financial Stability:
- Bank statement from the last 6 months (preferred).
- If you don’t have a bank account, a relative or friend can provide an affidavit of support, which must be signed at the relevant office in their place of residence. The original document should be submitted when applying.
Trip Details:
- A personal letter detailing the purpose of your trip, dates, and other personal information.
- A detailed itinerary of your travel within the Schengen Zone.
Income Verification:
- Income tax returns for the last three years.
Work or Business Documents:
- For employed applicants: A reference letter from your employer.
- For business owners: Provide proof of the business’s legal entity, business registration, tax returns, and the most recent bank statement.
Travel Documentation:
- Plane ticket reservation. Note: It is advised to purchase the ticket only after your visa has been approved.
Additional Documents:
- Any documents specific to the type of visa you are applying for, such as documents for visiting relatives or friends.
Special Requirements for Visiting Relatives or Friends
Financial Support: If your friend or relative is sponsoring your trip, they must provide a formal invitation letter issued by the authorities in the Schengen country where they reside. If you are covering the costs yourself, proof of your own financial means (e.g., bank statement) is required.
Invitation Letter: The invitation must include the host’s name, address, and a copy of their passport or residency permit if they are not a citizen of the Schengen country.
Tourist Travel (No Visit to Relatives or Friends)
If you’re traveling to the Schengen Zone for tourism purposes (without visiting family or friends), the following documents are required:
Proof of Financial Stability:
- Bank statement from the last 6 months (preferred).
Travel Details:
- A detailed itinerary of your trip, including hotel reservations or a formal invitation letter from a resident of a Schengen country.
Additional Requirements:
- Depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply, you may be asked to provide a certificate confirming that you have no pending legal issues or criminal record.
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