Escape the city life of Dubai and explore the beauty of Europe this year. With different cultures, languages, stories, and scenic views, you will be captivated by visiting this continent. On a Schengen visa, you can visit countries like France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Belgium, and Croatia. Even though the chances of getting your visa approved are comparatively higher, the process might prove to be very excruciating for you.
In this comprehensive guide, you will get to know about some of the quick and easy steps to apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa from Dubai. Other than that, you will get to know about what a Schengen Visa is, and what are the things to know before applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa from Dubai.
What is a Schengen Visa?
Before we dive into the process of a Schengen visa, it is important to know what a Schengen visa actually is. A Schengen visa is a permit which is required for non-EU nationals to enter any European country. This is usually great for a short time period.
There are three types of Schengen visa:
- Single-entry visa: This single-entry visa lets you enter the Schengen area once
- Multiple-entry visa: This kind of visa lets you enter the Schengen area but only till the time the visa is valid.
- Airport transit visa: This kind of visa comes into play when you are in any of the European countries for a layover or a stopover. This is also required when you have to leave the transit area to change your flight.
Things to Know Before Applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa from Dubai
Now that we know what Schengen Visa actually is, let’s look at what are some of the things that you should or have before applying for the visa:
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Documents Required
Documents are the first and foremost things that you should gather when you are applying for a visa. Here is the whole checklist that you need when you are gathering your documents:
- Recent Passport-sized Photos
- Proof of Accommodation
- Flight itinerary
- Travel Itinerary
- Travel Insurance
- Proof of Financial Means
- Employment or Study Proof
- Visa Fee
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Passport Requirements
Similar to a Dubai visit visa, before applying for a visa, you must make sure that you check that your visa is valid for at least three months from your planned arrival in the country. Also, check if you have at least two blank pages for the visa stamps. The issue date of the passport must not be more than 10 years.
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Travel Insurance
Check if your travel insurance covers the medical costs of up to €30,000 or the equivalent in your home country’s currency (AED in the case of Dubai).
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Application Form
Remember to fill up the visa application form in Capital letters. Don’t forget to sign the form at the end of the day. And if the applicant is under 15 years of age, they must get their form signed by the legal guardian.
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Photographs
Make sure that the pictures that you submit are taken with a light-coloured background. DO NOT wear sunglasses, or any garment which would cover your face.
Easy Steps To Get Your Schengen Visa From Dubai
Now that we have looked over the introduction, and things to know before applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa from Dubai, let’s dive into the process of visa application:
Step 1: Determine the Type of Schengen Visa You Need
The first and foremost thing that you need to determine is the type of visa that you need. Whether you want to apply for a Dubai visit visa or a Schengen visa, you need to know about the type of visa you want. This can be decided by looking at the travel purposes. Make sure that you refer to the list of required documents mentioned above, and gather those documents before applying for the Schengen visa.
Step 2: Choose the Schengen Country to Apply
If you are planning a trip to one country, make sure that you choose the country from the list of Schengen Countries. However, if you have multiple stops, then make sure that you apply at the embassy or consulate of the country you will be entering first.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
There are a few consulates which require an advance appointment. So first of all check if the appointment is required. If it is needed in the process, then check out the official website, and book it in advance. Sometimes there are a few people who have a problem with booking an appointment online. If you are one of them, then you can go in person, and set your appointment.
Step 4. Complete the Visa Application Form
Fill out an application form completely and accurately. You can fill the form online, or you can print out the application form, fill it up and submit it offline at the Schengen visa agency in Dubai. Ensure that each and every detail is accurate and corroborative, as even a minor incorrect detail can get you rejected.
However, if you don’t want to take on such a big responsibility, then make sure that you hire a travel agency in Dubai like Travel Saga Tourism. These agencies would help you out in filling out the application without any mistakes.
Step 5: Gather All Of Your Documents and Attend the Visa Interview
After the visa application, gather your documents, and attend your interview at the consulate office. There are a few things that you might be asked about the purpose of your trip, your financial situation, and your travel plans. Make sure that you are confident and honest.
Step 6: Provide Biometrics
After the interview, you will be called to provide your biometric data, like photographs, and fingerprints, as a part of the process. If you are 12 years of age or older than that, then you have to provide all of these details. This step will be done at the visa application centre.
Step 7: Pay the Visa Fee
To complete the process of the visa application process, then make sure that you pay the non-refundable visa fee. After the payment, ensure that you receive the receipt. The prices might vary according to the place, and the embassy you choose to visit. After this, you will have to wait for the processing of your visa. The minimum timing of the processing fee is between 15 to 30 days.
Step 9: Collect Your Visa
After getting your visa approved, you will be notified to collect your passport. Once you get your visa, check the details mentioned on the sticker.
The End Note
Applying for a Schengen visa from Dubai can be a very tough task if you are not familiar with the process. However, if you are facing a problem, then make sure that you apply for your visa from a travel agency in Dubai.
These travel agencies will not only help you in providing you the exact information according to your situation, but also help you in filling the visa application forms for you. All you have to do is submit your documents and leave everything on them. And if you decide to apply to do it by yourself, then make sure that you do it correctly, and get ready to enjoy your vacation in Europe.
