Schengen Visa: Clear & Simple – with Document Service & Reservations
Everything you need for short stays across 29 Schengen countries (max. 90 days in 180) – including checklist, authority, the 90/180 rule, and current changes (EES & ETIAS).
Note: The EU EES will be introduced gradually from 12 October 2025. ETIAS is expected by late 2026.
- Short stays: up to 90 days within 180 days
- One visa – travel within 29 Schengen countries
- Purpose: visit, tourism, business, transit (no long‑term stay/work)
- Competent mission: main destination (otherwise first entry)
- Mandatory: travel medical insurance ≥ €30,000
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short‑stay permit for non‑EU nationals for trips of up to 90 days in any 180‑day period within the Schengen Area. With one visa you may move within all Schengen countries during its validity.
There are currently 29 Schengen countries
25 EU Member States plus the 4 EFTA states Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland. EU states in Schengen include: Germany, Austria, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, Malta, Croatia, and since 2025 Romania and Bulgaria.
EFTA in brief
The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental economic bloc of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. It is not the EU and unrelated to “fair‑trade importers”.
New: EES & ETIAS
- EES (Entry/Exit System) rolls out from 12 Oct 2025, replacing passport stamps with biometric entry/exit records.
- ETIAS – electronic travel authorisation for visa‑exempt nationals – expected by late 2026.
Where should I apply?
As a rule, apply at the embassy/consulate of your main destination. If there is no clear main destination, apply at the mission of the first country of entry. The decision depends on purpose, itinerary and length of stay.
Examples
- 2 weeks in France + 3 days in Spain → France
- 5 days each in Germany/Austria, entering via Munich → Germany
Border check
Border guards may verify that your visa was issued by the competent mission and that your supporting documents are plausible.
Length of stay
Maximum 90 days per 180 days. Multiple entries are possible, provided the 90/180 rule is respected.
Single vs multiple‑entry
Single: one entry. Multiple: multiple entries during validity, still subject to the 90/180 rule.
Documents – Checklist
Depending on purpose and mission, additional documents may be required.
Application form
- Completed and signed
Biometric photos
- 1–2 recent passport photos per specs
Travel medical insurance
- Minimum coverage €30,000
- Valid for full stay and all Schengen states
Itinerary / reservations
- Return flight within 90 days
- Hotel bookings or invitation proof
Funds
- Own means (bank statements, employer letter) OR
- Formal letter of financial undertaking (per local law)
Other documents
- Proof of purpose (business/private/transit)
- Prior visas, stays, etc. where relevant
Note: A Schengen visa does not permit marriage or taking up employment. For stays > 90 days or for work, a national visa and, after entry, a residence permit are required.
Our service for your application
- Flight & hotel reservations that are visa‑suitable (no ticket purchase required)
- Document check including insurance and proof of funds
- Personal itinerary planning to determine the competent mission
- Appointment prep (forms, biometrics tips)
Response within one business day.
Frequently asked questions
How does EFTA differ from the EU?
EFTA is an independent economic bloc (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland). The EU is a political and economic union of 27 Member States. Four EFTA states participate in the Schengen Area.
How long can I stay (90/180 rule)?
You may remain in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a rolling 180‑day period—regardless of the number of entries. Overstays may lead to refusal of entry, fines or bans.
Single‑entry vs multiple‑entry?
Single: one entry. Multiple: several entries while the visa is valid. Both are subject to the 90/180 rule.
Which nationalities are visa‑exempt for short stays?
Many third‑country nationals (e.g., from the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and others) are visa‑exempt for short stays. ETIAS will additionally be required from late 2026.
Processing time & fees?
Short‑stay visas typically take a few days to two weeks; peak seasons can be longer. Fees and appointment availability vary by mission.
National visa (long‑stay)?
For stays over 90 days (e.g., study, work, family reunification) a national visa is required. After arrival, apply for a residence permit with the local authority.
Legal note: This page summarises official rules in user‑friendly terms and is not exhaustive. The binding sources are the competent embassies/consulates and the EU Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009).