The application to get a Schengen visa in UK is just a couple of steps that must be done and with the necessary documents submitted on time. With more than 3 million UK residents applying for a Schengen visa every year, this reflects the clear demand from European-bound travellers. The first step in the process of getting a visa is to identify which Schengen visa you need: tourism, business or family visit. There are specific requirements and documentation needed for different types of visas.
Filling out the Schengen visa application form this takes around 15-20 minutes. It requires you to have lots of personal details, travel plans and evidence that shows no financial instability. Maybe more importantly, applicants also have to show adequate travel insurance to meet at least €30,000 covering any medical related expenses during their stay in the Schengen region.
It is important that you schedule an appointment at the concerned consulate or visa application center. Most available appointments will be 2-4 weeks out but this is ofcourse specific to the consulate and time of year. Especially during the peak travel seasons:Summer and winter holidays, appointment slots may fill up quickly so it is advisable to book early.
One of the crucial requirements is that you have to provide copy of valid UK residence permit (the validity has to last at least three months beyond your intended departure from Schengen area). You also need a valid passport (means: has to be issued within the last ten years, no matter who old you are) with at least two blank pages. The passport must have validity to at least three months beyond the date of desired exit from the Schengen Area.
Evidence of financial stability must be provided by showing bank statements over the last 3 months to ensure there is enough money for the duration of their trip. Applicants must demonstrate that they retain at least €60 —€100 per day as average (per the destination country) What is more, for example Germany demands approximately €45 per day and France around roughly above €120 per day.
Another thing that matters is employment verification. Working applicants have to provide a no-objection letter from their employer specifying their duty and wage of the applicant, in addition to journey specifications. Self-Employed: Business license, Tax Return Copies.
So it is impossible to get away without knowing Proof of Accommodation. Applicants are required to submit their verified hotel booking or an invitation letter from a host in Schengen area. This letter attests to the fact that a host is willing and able to receive you as their guest during your visit.
Visa processing times are 15–30 days after the appointment, depending on how busy consulates is and complexity of application. It costs €80 for an adult to acquire a visa and children 6-12 years old will have to pay only half of that amount at €40 as the charge is waived altogether those under six. By using visa application centers (as applicable), additional service fees may be charged.
So, to summarize here is the step-by-step guide on how to can you apply for Schengen visa from UK. While there is no magic wand to navigate the maze of securing immigration status in a foreign country, understanding exactly what your needs are and get all paperwork done right from scratch can increase your likelihood of success. Because travel regulations differ throughout the world, it is important to keep up to date via trusted sources of information if you wish for assistance in applying and avoid complications.