Exploring Various Types of Schengen Visas
The Schengen area is made up of 26 European countries that have abolished the internal borders for the free and unrestricted movement of people, goods and services. For people wanting to travel to these countries, they need to obtain a Schengen visa. There are various types of Schengen visas for different purposes of traveling, which we will discuss in this article.
Types of Schengen Visas
Uniform Schengen Visas (USVs)
The Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) is the most common type of visa and allows its holder to transit or stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. There are three types of USV:
Type A: Airport Transit Visa (ATV)
The Airport Transit Visa allows the holder to transit through the international transit area of an airport in a Schengen country without actually entering the Schengen area. This visa is usually required by nationals of certain countries even if they do not need a visa to enter the Schengen area.
Type B: Transit Visa
The Transit Visa is for travelers who need to pass through one or more Schengen countries on their way to a non-Schengen destination for up to five days.
Type C: Short Stay Visa
The Short Stay Visa allows the holder to enter and stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period for tourism, business, or for visiting family or friends.
National Visas
National visas allow the holder to stay in a single Schengen country for longer than 90 days. There are two types of National Visas:
Type D: Long-Stay Visa
The Long-Stay Visa allows the holder to stay in one Schengen country for more than 90 days for various purposes, such as study, work, or family reunification.
Type D+C: Residence Permit
The Residence Permit, allows the holder not only to stay in one Schengen country for more than 90 days, but also to travel freely within the entire Schengen area. This type of visa is often granted for study, work, or family reunification purposes.
FAQs
1. Do I need a Schengen visa?
If you are a citizen or resident of a non-EU country, you will need a Schengen visa to visit any of the countries in the Schengen area. If you are a citizen or resident of an EU country, you do not need a Schengen visa.
2. How do I apply for a Schengen visa?
You must apply for a Schengen visa at the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit. You need to provide various documents, including a valid passport, a completed application form, travel insurance, and proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.
3. How long does it take to process a Schengen visa?
The processing time for a Schengen visa varies depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply. However, it usually takes between 15 and 30 days.
4. How long can I stay in the Schengen area with a short-stay visa?
You can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period with a short-stay visa.
5. Can I work in the Schengen area with a Schengen visa?
You cannot work in the Schengen area with a short-stay visa. However, you may be able to work with a long-stay visa or residence permit.
6. Can I travel to any Schengen country with a Schengen visa?
Yes, you can travel freely within the entire Schengen area with a Schengen visa.
Conclusion
There are various types of Schengen visas available for travelers interested in visiting the Schengen countries. Before applying for a visa, it’s important to know the purpose of your visit and the type of visa you require. It’s advisable to consult with the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit to determine the specific visa requirements and procedure.