Schengen Visa – Application, Requirements, Fees & Processing Time

Travelling to Europe is a dream for many, and the Schengen visa makes it possible to explore multiple countries with just one visa.

Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or study, understanding the Schengen visa requirements, application process, and fees will help you prepare with confidence.

What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows non-EU nationals to travel across Schengen visa countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. With just one visa, you can explore cities like Paris, Rome, Berlin, and Amsterdam without separate border checks.

Schengen Area Countries 2025

The Schengen Area covers 27 European countries. These include:

Types of Schengen Visa

Schengen Visa Requirements

To apply, you’ll need:

Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in the Schengen Area.

It should also have at least two blank pages for the visa sticker and entry/exit stamps. Passports issued more than 10 years ago are generally not accepted.

Completed Schengen Visa Application Form

The Schengen visa application form must be filled out accurately, either online or in paper format, depending on the embassy/consulate. Errors or missing information can delay processing.

Recent Passport-Size Photos

Provide two biometric photos taken within the last 6 months. They must meet EU photo requirements (35mm x 45mm, white/light background, no shadows, neutral expression).

Proof of Accommodation

You must show where you’ll be staying during your trip. This can be a hotel booking confirmation, Airbnb reservation, rental contract, or an invitation letter if staying with family/friends.

The document should cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area.

Flight Reservation or Travel Itinerary

Provide proof of a round-trip booking or itinerary showing your entry and exit dates.

You do not need to purchase the actual tickets before visa approval, but embassies often request confirmed flight reservations.

Schengen Visa Insurance

Mandatory travel insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospitalisation, and repatriation.

The insurance must be valid across all Schengen visa countries for the entire duration of your stay.

Proof of Financial Means

You must demonstrate that you can support yourself during your trip. Acceptable documents include:

• Recent bank statements (3–6 months)
• Salary slips or employment letter
• Sponsorship letter (if someone else is funding your trip)
• Proof of assets (savings, investments, property ownership)

Visa Fee Payment Receipt

Proof that you have paid the Schengen visa fee (€90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6–12, free for children under 6). Keep the official receipt, as it must be shown during your application and interview.

Cover Letter (Optional but Recommended)

A short letter explaining your travel purpose, planned itinerary, and how you will finance your stay. This adds credibility to your application.

Supporting Documents (if applicable)

Depending on your visa type, you may also need:

• Business invitation letter (for business visas)
• School acceptance letter (for student visas)
• Employment contract (for work visas)
• Marriage/birth certificates (for family visits)

Schengen Visa Application Process

Schengen Visa Application Singapore

For Singapore citizens, a Schengen visa is not required for short visits (up to 90 days). However, non-Singapore residents living in Singapore must apply through the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country they plan to visit.

Many embassies in Singapore accept online bookings for visa applications.

Schengen Visa Fee 2025

Schengen Visa Insurance

One of the most important Schengen visa requirements is valid travel insurance. You must have coverage of at least €30,000 for:

• Medical emergencies
• Hospitalisation
• Repatriation (in case of serious illness or death)

Schengen Visa Processing Time

The standard Schengen visa processing time is 15 calendar days from the date of your appointment.

However, during peak travel seasons or if additional checks are required, it may take up to 45 days. Apply early to avoid delays.

Tips for a Smooth Schengen Visa Application

Apply at least 3–6 weeks before your travel date

Schengen visa processing time is usually 15 days, but during peak seasons it can take up to 45 days. Applying early avoids last-minute stress.

Ensure your Schengen visa insurance covers the entire stay

Your travel insurance must be valid for all Schengen visa countries and provide at least €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation.

Keep your travel itinerary consistent with your bookings

Embassy officers check that your hotel reservations, flight bookings, and cover letter match. Any inconsistency can raise doubts about your application.

Bring both originals and photocopies of your documents

Having copies makes the process smoother and avoids delays if the embassy keeps certain originals for verification.

Show strong ties to your home country (job, family, property)

Demonstrating that you have reasons to return home (employment, studies, family commitments, or property ownership) strengthens your case and reduces the risk of refusal.

Final Thoughts

The Schengen visa is the key to exploring Europe with one document. By understanding the Schengen visa requirements, filling out the Schengen visa application form carefully, preparing for your interview, and knowing the Schengen visa fee and processing time, you can make your journey stress-free.

Whether applying from Singapore or anywhere else, planning ahead ensures a smooth and successful application.