Tips for a Schengen Visa Successful Application

For applicants from African and Asian countries, the process of applying and getting a visa can be quite stressful. In the last couple of years, I have been through pretty much every type of visa process for Europe. I’ve applied for a Schengen student visa, two Schengen tourist visas, a national long-term visa and a working permit. I’ve also spent considerable time hosting friends and family and hence these tips might be of use to you, particularly if your citizenship requires a visa to travel to the Schengen region.

•           Apply to the embassy of the country where you will be spending maximum time in. Not the country where you think you would like to apply.

•           Give yourself enough time between your visa appointment and the date of departure. Keep at least six weeks, so that in case you do not hear a response or get rejected, you have enough time to repeal the decision.

•           Make sure all your documents are as detailed as possible. Assuming that a half formal looking document will work is not advisable. Get a stamp, a signature, an affidavit, whatever it may need to complete your formal documents, especially related to your job or university.

•           The cover letter you submit shouldbe more than just listing your itinerary. Think of your cover letter as a job cover letter. You need to explain how your background; your current status and your “purpose” of visiting Europe is only travel. It doesn’t need to be formal and can be written in a person manner.

•           Be sure to provide a strong reason for you to return to your home country. More often than not, this is a reason for immediate rejection. If you are unemployed or in-between jobs, you should clearly outline your future plan and how you plan to fund your travels. The reason could also be that you reside with your family and they rely on you for moral support.

•           If you are required to have a visa interview prepare a thorough list of questions and supporting documents that you may be asked. Needless to say, do not lie.

It isbest to prepare for the visa process well in advance and have a significanttime to re-apply if things really don’t work around the first time, although if you are thorough with the above-mentioned tips, there is no reason why you shouldn’t get your visa easily.