One of the perks of living and working in Dubai is the proximity to Europe and the opportunity to travel the world. However, for some nationalities, you need to obtain a Schengen visa from UAE travel agencies in order to travel to Europe. A Schengen visa entitles the holder to unrestricted travel in European Union (EU) countries that have signed up to the Schengen agreement. Not all EU countries have signed up to the Schengen Visa, and the Schengen Zone includes European countries which are not part of the EU. This means you can’t enter the Schengen area without a valid visa.

Table of Contents

• What are the Schengen Visa Requirements? (Checklist)
• What are the Schengen Visa Fees?
• Schengen Visa Application Tips
• Schengen Visa FAQs

The UAE Schengen visa application process may sound difficult, but with all the complete requirements and some tips, traveling to Europe and securing a Schengen visa or short-stay visa in Dubai can be an easy process.

What are the Schengen Visa Requirements? (Checklist)

• Completed visa application form
• Itinerary details (tickets, hotel bookings)
• Passport valid for at least 3-6 months
• Residence Permit
• Photocopy of Visa Page
• Recent Photograph (refer to photo dimensions as required)
• Travel medical insurance
• Proof of Financial means (bank statements, salary payslips or certificate for the last 3 months)
• No Objection Letter (NOC) from Sponsor

Note that all applicants will be required to submit their biometrics (fingerprints, digital photo) at the time of application. In some cases, the applicant may be requested to appear in the Embassy for an interview. Moreover, requirements may vary from one embassy to another. Submitting an application without the complete set of documentation according to the above checklist may result in the rejection of the short term visa application.

Applicants may apply through VFS Global branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Location Map – Dubai:

Location Map – Abu Dhabi:

What are the Schengen Visa Fees?

Generally, Dubai Schengen visa fees differ depending on the embassy you are applying to. The table below may be applicable to certain countries only and may vary according to the agency.

Source

According to Schengen.news As of June 11, 2024, the cost of a Schengen visa increased from €80 to €90 for adults and from €40 to €45 for children aged 6 to 12.

Schengen Visa Application Tips

Keep in mind that applying for a tourist visa does not guarantee approval. Here are some tips to avoid rejection or delays in your visa application:

1. If possible, apply for your visa 90 days before your scheduled date of arrival in the Schengen state.

2. Always arrive on time for your appointment at the agency or embassy on time.

3. Make sure all requirements are complete before you submit your application. Follow the specifications indicated in the requirements.

4. If unsure or if you need any clarification with matters pertaining to the visa application, visit or call the respective embassy or agency responsible for visa application.

5. Make sure that your flight(s) and accommodation details are confirmed.

SEE ALSO: UK Visa Application Guide (UAE)

Schengen Visa FAQs

1. Which countries belong to the Schengen area?

The Schengen Area is an area comprising of 26 European states that have officially abolished passports and all other types of border control at their mutual borders. Member states include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

2. What is the rule for Emiratis traveling to the Schengen area?

Schengen visas no longer required for UAE nationals. They get a 90-day visa on arrival in a Schengen zone country.

3. How long is the processing time of the visa?

Processing time takes up to a week or two, depending on the date which you have applied for. Some take only 3-5 business days. Apply for your visa as early as 3 months before your departure to avoid any delays.

4. What’s the best way to apply for a visa, through an agency or directly to the consulate?

Here’s a guide to help you determine where to apply:

• VFS Schengen visa applications (Austria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland)
• CKGS Schengen visa application (Italy)
• TLSContact Schengen visa application (Denmark and Iceland)
• Respective embassy/consulate for Belgium (Abu Dhabi), Poland (Abu Dhabi), Estonia (represented by Finland embassy in Abu Dhabi), Finland (Abu Dhabi), Latvia (Abu Dhabi), Liechtenstein (Abu Dhabi), Lithuania (Abu Dhabi), Luxembourg (Abu Dhabi), Slovakia (Abu Dhabi), Slovenia (Abu Dhabi)

5. Where can I get travel insurance and how much does it cost?

There are many travel insurance providers in the UAE for as low as AED 60. You can try AXA or Dnata. You need to mention that the purpose is for traveling.

6. Who needs a Schengen Visa?

Anyone who wants to visit the Schengen area will need a Schengen visa, except US and UK nationals. This visa excludes the United Kingdom, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Ireland soon to be part of the agreement.

7. What type of Schengen visa do I need?

The designated embassy/consulate will issue you a visa based on the nature and the purpose of your travel. For Tourists, a tourist Schengen Visa is required.

You can be issued either a single entry or multiple entry visa. You cannot stay longer than 3 months 90 days per year in between the period of 6 months.

8. How does multiple entry Schengen visa policy work?

A multiple entry Schengen policy will allow you to go in and out of a Schengen country, as per your choice.

9. After rejection of Schengen visa, can I apply again?

There is no restricted number of times as to the times you can apply for a Schengen visa.

10. In which occasion am I allowed to apply for a Schengen visa?

Every person is allowed to apply for a Schengen visa as long as they can get all the required documentation in order and possess the financial means to support themselves during their stay.

11. Do I have to apply for an airport transit visa while I’m in the Schengen area?

It’s important to note that an airport transit visa (ATV) lets you pass through the international transit zone at an airport located on the territory of the Schengen State while waiting for a connecting flight to a non-Schengen country. This type of visa will not allow you to enter the Schengen area.

Thus, it is not considered an airport transit when traveling to a Schengen country using another Schengen airport. All flights between two or more Schengen countries are considered domestic flights. Sometimes, a short stay visa is needed once you enter the Schengen area even if you will only stay for a few hours and remain in the airport.

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