Europe, with its rich historical heritage, captivating culture, and natural beauty, captivates millions of travelers every year. However, to travel freely across this magical continent, a special visa is often required. This is where the Schengen visa comes into play.

So, what exactly is a Schengen visa, which countries are eligible for it, and how does the application process work? In this article, you'll find everything you need to know about this visa type, which will allow you to easily explore Europe's stunning cities, tranquil villages, and stunning landscapes.

What is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen visa is a common visa system implemented by 27 European countries. This visa allows for free movement within these countries, known as the Schengen Area. A Schengen visa can be valid for both short-term and long-term visits and allows holders to enter Europe either multiple times within a specific period or only once.

In what cases can I get a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is generally needed in the following cases:
  • Tourist Visits : This visa type is typically applied for by people who want to vacation within Europe's Schengen Area for short-term visits (90 days or less). Tourist trips include city tours and visits to historical and cultural sites.
  • Business Travel : Used for visits for business meetings, conferences, seminars, and commercial events. Includes work-related activities such as job interviews, trade fairs, and professional networking events.
  • Visiting Family and Friends : This visa is applied for by people who want to visit family or friends living in Europe. It's used for purposes such as family reunions, special occasions (like weddings and birthdays), and visiting friends.
  • Education and Cultural Exchange : This program is taken for short-term training programs, language courses, or cultural exchange programs. It includes short-term training, internships, and similar cultural or educational activities.
  • Medical Treatment : This visa type is available to individuals seeking medical treatment in European countries. It covers visits for health care and medical services.

Visa Types

Various Schengen visa types are available for short-term visits, business trips, family visits, long-term stays, and transit. A Schengen visa greatly facilitates both individual and business travel and grants entry to a wide range of European territories. The Schengen visa types vary depending on your travel duration and purpose, and are as follows:
  • Short-Term Schengen Visa (Type C) : This visa type allows for stays in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days. It can generally be single-entry or multiple-entry. It is suitable for tourist visits, business trips, family visits, and short-term study programs.
  • Long-Term Schengen Visa (Type D): This visa is issued to individuals who wish to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days. This type of visa is typically valid for one year or longer. It is used for long-term study, work, or long-term family reunification.
  • Multiple Entry Schengen Visa : A multiple entry visa allows you to enter the country an unlimited number of times within a specific period. This period typically ranges from one to five years. It's suitable for those who travel to Europe regularly. It's ideal for situations like business trips or frequent family visits.
  • Transit Visa (Type A) : This visa is issued to individuals who wish to transit a country within the Schengen Area. This visa is typically valid for a few hours to a few days. It is used for the duration of an airport stay when traveling from a European country to a third country.

In Which Countries Is the Schengen Visa Valid?

The Schengen visa allows free movement across a wide area of Europe. Both EU and non-EU Schengen countries are covered by this visa. With a single visa, you can travel freely between these countries, undertaking business, leisure, or cultural visits. In this section, we will examine in detail the countries within the Schengen Area and the countries to which the visa is valid.

List of countries that are members of the European Union and can be visited with a Schengen Visa:
  • Germany
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Holland
  • Spain
  • Swedish
  • Italy
  • Hungary
  • Latvia
  • Lithuanian
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Greece
Countries that are not members of the European Union and are subject to the Schengen visa:
  • Switzerland
  • Iceland
  • Norway
  • Liechtenstein
You can also visit the Greek Islands, which have become quite popular among summer destinations, with a Schengen visa. This visa is valid for all Greek Islands.

Traveling to the Greek Islands with a Schengen Visa

The Greek Islands, with their diverse offerings ranging from impressive historical ruins to stunning natural beauty, continue to be a popular destination for vacationers. You can also visit the Greek Islands, which have recently become increasingly popular summer holiday destinations, with a Schengen visa. With a Schengen visa, valid for all Greek Islands, you can plan enjoyable summer travel plans with Greek Island ferry tickets purchased from Bilet.com.

If you want to travel to the Greek Islands but don't know which one to go to or where to go from, here are the most preferred routes by tourists among these islands:
  • Kos - Leros
  • Kos - Rhodes
  • Patmos - Kos
  • Leros - Patmos
  • Kos - Kalymnos
  • Kalymnos - Leros
  • Lesbos - Chios
  • Karlovassi - Mykonos
  • Rhodes – Symi
If your Schengen visa is ready and you have decided on your route, a safe and comfortable journey awaits you with Dodekanisos Seaways and Blue Star Ferries, important companies operating between the Greek Islands.

2025 Schengen Visa Fees

Schengen visa application fees can vary depending on the visa type and the applicant's age group. As of 2025, the current Schengen visa fees are important information for those planning their visa application process. In this section, we'll examine the 2025 Schengen visa application fees, the circumstances under which fees change, and the fee differences between countries.

Current Visa Application Fees for 2025

Short-Term Schengen Visa (Type C)
  • Adults (12 years and older) : Usually 90 Euros
  • Children (6-11 years old) : Approximately 45 Euros
  • Children (ages 5 and under) : Free in most cases (However, a small fee may apply in some countries)
Long-Term Schengen Visa (Type D)
It varies by country; for direct applications it usually starts around €75, but can reach an average of €120–150 when intermediary services and additional costs are included.

Multiple Entry Schengen Visa
  • Multiple-entry visa applications are typically slightly higher than the short-stay visa fee, but the fee can vary. The fee for multiple-entry visas can typically exceed €90 and can vary depending on the applicant's visa application history.
Transit Visa
  • Transit visas are subject to a short-term visa fee, which is typically around €90. However, different fees may apply in some countries.

In Which Situations Do Fees Change?

Schengen visa application fees are updated from time to time and are subject to change based on various factors. These changes significantly impact the visa application process, so they're important to consider when making your travel plans. Here are some of the key reasons and impacts of changes in Schengen visa fees:

Age Groups and Exceptions

  • Children and Teenagers : A discounted fee (approximately €45) is usually applied to children ages 6-11. Children ages 5 and under often get a visa free, but some countries have different policies.
  • Seniors and Disabled Persons : In some countries, free or reduced visa fees may be applied for seniors and disabled individuals.

Diplomatic and Official Passports

  • Diplomatic Visa Fees : Visa fees are often reduced or free for diplomatic or official passport holders. This can vary depending on the country and visa type.

Country of Visa Application

  • Country-by-Country Differences : Application fees may vary slightly across countries within the Schengen Area. Application center fees, service charges, and additional fees charged by visa application centers can affect the overall cost.

Extra Services and Expedited Processing Fees

  • Expedited Visa Fees : Urgent or expedited visa applications may incur additional fees. These services may cost more than the standard visa fee.
  • Service Fees : Additional services offered by visa application centers and intermediaries (e.g., document delivery, consultancy services) may incur additional fees.

How to Get a Schengen Visa?

Obtaining a Schengen visa opens the door to travel to many countries in Europe. This allows you to travel freely between countries within the region for a limited period with a single visa. However, it's important to follow certain steps to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here's the step-by-step Schengen visa application process:

Gather the Required Documents

Before preparing your application, you must collect the following documents:
  • Passport : Must be valid for at least three months after your trip and issued within the last 10 years. Must have at least two blank pages for visa applications.
  • Visa Application Form : You must fill out the application form completely and accurately for a Schengen visa. The form can be obtained from official consulates or visa application centers of countries within the Schengen area.
  • Photo : Photos taken within the last 6 months, 35x45 mm in size, with a light background and your face clearly visible.
  • Travel Insurance : Travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros, valid in all countries in the Schengen Area.
  • Travel Plan and Accommodation Documents : Copies of round-trip flight tickets. Accommodation reservations or invitation letter.
  • Documents Proving Financial Status : Bank statements for the last 3-6 months. Pay slips or other income documents from your employer.
  • Return Guarantee : A permit letter from your workplace or documents showing your educational status.

Contact Visa Application Centre or Consulate

  • Appointment Procedures : To apply for your visa, make an appointment with a consulate or authorized visa application center in a Schengen area. Appointment schedules may vary by country, so check the website of the relevant consulate or application center.
  • Pay the Application Fee : Pay the required visa fee at the time of application. Fees can be paid at the application center or online.

Submit Application Form and Documents

  • Submission : Submit the visa application form along with the documents you've collected to the application center or consulate. Ensure your documents are complete and accurate.
  • Fingerprints and Interview : Fingerprints may be taken at your initial application. In some cases, you may also be required to have a brief interview with a consular officer.

Wait for the Application to be Completed

  • Processing Time : It typically takes 15 business days to process your visa application. However, this time may be longer if additional documentation is required or if the application is subject to a longer processing time.
  • Result : You will be notified of the outcome of your application. If your visa is approved, it will be stamped in your passport. In the event of a rejection, you will be provided with an explanation of the reason for the rejection.

Visa Approval and Travel

  • Obtaining a Visa : Collect your passport and approved visa from the application center or consulate.
  • Travel Preparations : Plan your travel with your visa. Pay attention to your visa duration and conditions during your trip.

Tips for Applying for a Schengen Visa

When applying for a Schengen visa, it's helpful to follow some important tips to avoid rejection and increase your chances of being accepted. Here are some key points to consider for a successful application:

Provide Complete and Accurate Documentation

  • Prepare all required documents for your visa application completely and accurately. Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, application form, photograph, travel insurance, and flight and accommodation reservations.
  • Make sure your documents are up to date and accurate. Outdated or incorrect documents may result in your application being rejected.
  • Present your documents neatly and clearly. Mixed or disorganized documents can make it difficult to review your application.

Show Your Financial Situation Well

  • Provide regular bank statements for the last 3-6 months. Proof of sufficient funds in your account demonstrates your financial standing.
  • Provide a current pay stub or proof of income from your employer. This demonstrates your financial ability to support yourself during the trip.
  • Document any additional income sources you have (such as property rental income, investment income, etc.). This can help you better demonstrate your financial strength.

Present Your Travel Plan in Detail

  • Provide a detailed itinerary. Show your flight and accommodation reservations aligned with your travel dates.
  • Clearly state your intention to return to your home country after your trip. Provide evidence of your reasons for returning, such as work, family ties, or education.
  • Clearly explain the purpose of your trip. Provide supporting documentation, such as tourism, business, or family visit.

Fill Out the Application Form Carefully

  • Please fill out the application form completely and accurately. Incorrect or incomplete information may result in your application being rejected.
  • Be sure to sign and date the form correctly. A missing signature or date can cause problems.
  • If you are invited for an interview, answer the questions clearly and honestly. Any suspicious inconsistencies may result in your application being rejected.

Travel Health Insurance and Other Requirements

  • Make sure your travel health insurance is valid in the Schengen Area and provides coverage of at least €30,000. Clarify the policy details and validity period.
  • Present your travel insurance policy among your application documents in a complete and clear manner.

Pay Application Fees Correctly

  • The application fee is usually paid at the time of application. Please ensure that the fee is paid in full and that payment is made correctly.
  • Keep any proof of payment or receipts and submit them with your application documents.

Pre-Visa Application Research and Preparation

  • Check the visa application requirements and special requirements for the Schengen country you'll be traveling to. Familiarize yourself with the documents and procedures, which can vary from country to country.
  • Follow the instructions of the application center or consulate carefully. Complete all steps outlined in the instructions.