What Is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa lets you move freely between 29 European countries in the Schengen Area without passport checks at internal borders. With a single Schengen visa you can visit several European countries in one trip.
The 29 Schengen Countries
EU Schengen: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania.
Non-EU Schengen: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland.
Schengen Visa Photo Requirements
Schengen visa photos must follow strict biometric standards that apply uniformly across all 29 countries. A non-compliant photo is rejected even if the rest of the application is perfect.
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 x 45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm) |
| Face ratio | 70–80% of photo height |
| Head height | 32–36 mm from chin to crown |
| Background | White or light grey, no patterns |
| Format | Color photo, high quality |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, looking straight ahead |
| Validity | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Glasses | Allowed (no reflection) |
| Quantity | 2 identical photos |
About the Background
Schengen accepts both white and light grey. Light grey is recommended for better contrast with the face and hair, especially for fair-skinned applicants or those with light hair. Never use coloured, gradient, or patterned backgrounds.
Choosing Where to Apply
If your trip covers multiple Schengen countries, apply at the embassy or consulate of the country chosen by these priority rules:
- Country of longest stay: apply at the country where you will spend the most days
- Country of first entry: if you spend equal time in each country
Schengen Tourist Visa Documents
Core Documents
- Visa application form: the standard Schengen form, fully completed and signed
- Original passport: at least 3 months remaining after you leave the Schengen Area, with 2 blank pages
- Passport copy: bio page and any previous visa stamps
- Visa photos: 2 photos, 35x45 mm, light grey background, taken within 6 months
- CCCD copy: front and back
Schengen Travel Insurance
Mandatory travel insurance with these conditions:
- Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
- Coverage area: all 29 Schengen countries
- Validity: covers the entire stay plus a few days of buffer
- Includes: medical costs and emergency repatriation
Proof of Finances
- Bank statement: last 3–6 months
- Recommended balance: EUR 70–100 per day of stay
- Balance certificate: issued by your bank
Proof of Trip Purpose
- Flight booking: round-trip booking (a tentative reservation is OK)
- Hotel reservation: for the entire stay
- Detailed itinerary: day by day with sights/locations
- Invitation letter (if any): if staying with relatives or friends in Europe
Proof of Ties to Vietnam
This shows that you intend to return to Vietnam after the trip:
- Employment contract: proving stable employment
- Leave-of-absence letter: from your employer
- Property documents: proof of assets in Vietnam
- Marriage / birth certificates: proof of family in Vietnam
Where to Submit in Vietnam
Important: most Schengen countries do not accept applications directly at the embassy. You must submit through an authorised visa application centre:
- VFS Global: Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, and others
- TLS Contact: France, Belgium
- BLS International: Spain
Important Notes
You must book an appointment in advance on the relevant centre's website. Walk-ins are not accepted. First-time Schengen applicants must attend in person to submit fingerprints (biometrics).
Schengen Visa Fees
| Applicant | Visa fee |
|---|---|
| Adult (12+) | EUR 90 |
| Child (6–11) | EUR 45 |
| Child under 6 | Free |
Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied. Service fees at the visa centre (VFS/TLS) are charged separately.
Processing Time
- Standard: 15 business days
- Peak season (summer, Christmas): can stretch to 30–45 days
- Recommendation: apply 1–3 months before your trip
Schengen Visa Validity
A Schengen tourist visa typically allows up to 90 days of stay within a 180-day period. First-time visas are usually Single Entry; after several successful applications you may qualify for a Multiple Entry visa.
Create Your Schengen Visa Photo Now
35x45 mm size — EU-standard light grey background — meets biometric requirements
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Does a Schengen visa require an interview?
Yes — most Schengen countries require an in-person interview at the embassy or visa centre. Some, like France, may waive the interview for applicants with a strong Schengen visa history.
I'm visiting France and Italy — where do I apply?
If you spend 5 days in France and 3 days in Italy, apply at the French Embassy (longest stay). If your stays are equal (e.g. 4 days each), apply at the country you enter first.
Can I reapply if my Schengen visa is denied?
Yes. You can reapply as soon as you receive the rejection. Add supporting documents and address the weak points before resubmitting to improve your chances.
Where do I buy travel insurance?
You can buy Schengen travel insurance from Vietnamese providers (Bảo Việt, PVI, Bảo Minh) or international ones (AXA, Allianz). Make sure coverage is at least EUR 30,000 and applies to the entire Schengen Area.