The Schengen visa itself is rarely the hard part. Getting an appointment is. One application covers 29 European countries, the requirements are published and standardised, and the decision usually follows the evidence — but the consulate slot you need in order to submit that evidence can be weeks out, and in summer it can be the reason a trip doesn't happen.
Appointment booking is what we do most of. Between the visa applications themselves and securing appointment slots for people who have everything else ready, Schengen work is the single largest part of our caseload — and the part where knowing which consulate, which centre and which release pattern to watch genuinely changes the outcome.
If you are visa-exempt — British citizens included — you need no visa at all for short visits, but you do need to count your days correctly under the 90/180 rule, which catches out more travellers than any refusal ever does.
Who needs this
Eligibility overview
Nationals of countries not on the EU visa-exemption list need a Schengen visa for short stays. ETIAS (a separate travel authorisation) applies to visa-exempt nationals once live.
Documents required
What you'll need
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond departure
- Completed application form
- Photos to specification
- Travel medical insurance (min. €30,000 cover)
- Proof of accommodation and itinerary
- Proof of funds
Processing time
How long does it take?
Schengen visa decisions usually take up to 15 calendar days, sometimes longer in peak periods.
Common mistakes
Why applications are refused
- Insufficient travel insurance
- Unclear itinerary or accommodation
- Doubts over intent to return
- Insufficient funds
Common questions
FAQs
The one where you'll spend the most nights. If your nights are evenly split, apply to your first point of entry. Getting this wrong is a refusal ground in its own right — the consulate can decline on competence without ever assessing your case.