Planning to Travel to Europe? What You Need to Know About Schengen Visas
If you are planning to travel to Europe, it is important to understand what a Schengen visa is, where and when to apply, and what documents you need to prepare. Tapa has compiled the key information you need to know before applying for a Schengen visa.
What is a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows citizens of non-EU countries to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The Schengen Area consists of 29 European countries, including France, Germany, Italy and Spain.
There are three main types of Schengen visas:
Single-entry visa – allows one entry into the Schengen Area.
Multiple-entry visa – allows multiple entries and exits during the validity period of the visa.
Airport transit visa – allows travellers to transit through the international transit area of an airport without entering the Schengen Area.
Travellers can use the European Commission’s Short-stay calculator to check how long they are permitted to stay in the Schengen Area.
Who needs a Schengen visa?
Mongolia is among the countries whose citizens generally require a visa to enter the Schengen Area. Therefore, travellers holding Mongolian passports generally need to obtain a Schengen visa.
However, requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances. Applicants are advised to confirm the applicable requirements with the embassy or consulate of their destination country.
Where should you apply?
Applicants should submit their visa application to the consulate of the country that is their main destination.
If a trip includes several Schengen countries:
The application should generally be submitted to the consulate of the country where the applicant will spend the longest period of time.
If the applicant will spend an equal amount of time in several countries, the application should be submitted to the consulate of the country they will enter first.
In most cases, applicants are required to make an appointment in advance. It is therefore advisable to check the official website of the relevant embassy or consulate as early as possible.
When should you apply?
A Schengen visa application can be submitted up to six months before the planned trip and no later than 15 days before the intended date of travel.
What documents are required?
Applicants generally need to prepare the following documents:
A valid passport, which must remain valid for at least three months after the planned departure from the Schengen Area
A completed visa application form
An ICAO-compliant passport photograph
Travel medical insurance
Documents supporting the purpose of the trip
Proof of sufficient financial means
Proof of accommodation
Documents demonstrating the applicant’s intention to return
Fingerprints, where applicable
The consulate may request additional documents depending on the circumstances of the application.
How much is the visa fee?
The current standard visa fees are:
Adults: €90
Children aged 6 to under 12: €45
Citizens of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus: €35
Applicants submitting their applications through a visa application centre may also be required to pay an additional service fee.
How long does the application process take?
The standard processing time for a Schengen visa application is 15 days. In cases where additional examination is required, the processing period may be extended to up to 45 days.
Visa requirements, border regulations and fees may change over time. Travellers are therefore advised to check the latest information on the official website of the relevant embassy, consulate or visa authority before finalising their travel arrangements.