What Documents Are Required for a Schengen Visa Application?

If you're planning to visit one or more of the 29 countries within the Schengen Area, you'll need a Schengen visa for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. The Schengen Area allows free movement between its member countries, including popular destinations like Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. However, before embarking on your European adventure, it’s crucial to understand the documentation required to apply for your Schengen visa from the United States (U.S.) AXA is here to help you navigate the process with ease.

What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to move freely between the Schengen member states for tourism, business, or family visits. The Schengen Area comprises most European Union countries and a few non-EU states, such as Norway and Switzerland. However, countries like Ireland and Cyprus are not part of the Schengen Area, and the UK has its own visa requirements.

Documents You Need for a Schengen Visa

When applying for a Schengen visa, you'll need to gather specific documents. While the requirements are generally the same for all Schengen countries, it's important to double-check with the consulate of the country where you're applying. Below is a list of the primary documents you’ll need for a Schengen visa application:

1. Complete Schengen Visa Application Form

• Fill out and sign the official Schengen visa application form.
• Make sure the information matches your supporting documents.

2. Passport Photos

• Two recent passport-sized photos (taken within the last 6 months).
• Photos should meet specific guidelines for size and background.

3. Valid Passport

• Your passport must be:
  • Issued within the last 10 years.
  • Valid for at least three months after your planned exit from the Schengen Area.
  • Have at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
• If available, submit previous passports with past visas.

4. Travel Itinerary

• Include details of your round-trip flight reservations, showing entry and exit dates for your Schengen trip.
• Some embassies allow you to submit an itinerary instead of a booked ticket, but you may need to present the final flight confirmation when collecting your visa.

5. Proof of Accommodation

• Submit confirmed hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host if staying with friends or family.
• Ensure the accommodation information is detailed, with specific dates and addresses.

6. Visa Application Fee Payment

• The standard fee for a Schengen visa is €90 (approx. $95) for adults and €45 for children between 6-12 years old.
• Keep the payment receipt, as you’ll need to present it when submitting your application.

7. Proof of Schengen travel insurance

• Travel insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa. Your travel insurance must:
  • Cover at least €30,000 (approx. $33,000) for medical expenses, including hospitalization, accidents, and repatriation.
  • Be valid in all Schengen Area countries and for the entire duration of your stay.
• AXA offers Schengen travel insurance starting at $50,000 coverage, exceeding the minimum requirement. Our travel insurance plans are designed to help protect you during your trip and meet the visa standards required by Schengen embassies.

8. Proof of Financial Means

• You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your trip by providing:
  • Bank statements from the last three months, showing sufficient funds (requirements vary by country).
  • If applicable, a sponsorship letter from a third party, along with the sponsor’s bank statements, confirming they will cover your expenses.

Additional Documents Depending on the Nature of Your Visit:

• Business Travelers: Provide a letter of invitation from the company you're visiting, your employment contract, and recent bank statements.
• Students: Submit a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, details of your course, and proof of financial support.
• Retirees: Show pension statements from the last six months to confirm you can cover your expenses.
• Minors: If traveling with minors, additional documentation such as the child’s birth certificate, a letter of consent from both parents, and copies of their passports will be required.

9. Proof of Employment

• If employed, provide a letter from your employer confirming your job, salary, and approval of leave for the trip.
• Self-employed individuals may submit business registration documents and recent tax returns.

10. No Objection Letter

• This may be required to confirm that you have no pending legal issues or reasons to be denied travel rights.

11. Invitation Letters for Family/Friends Visits

• If you’re visiting family or friends, include an invitation letter detailing the purpose, duration of your stay, and the relationship with your host.
• Attach documents proving your relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates).

12. Event Participation

• If traveling for a specific event (conference, sports, etc.), provide the event invitation, itinerary, and details from the organizing entity.

Final Steps

After gathering your documents, you’ll need to schedule an in-person interview at your nearest Schengen embassy or consulate. During the interview, biometric data (fingerprints, photos) will be collected. Be sure to bring original copies of all required documents and keep extra photocopies on hand.

AXA Schengen travel insurance

As part of your Schengen visa application, it's critical to have Schengen travel insurance that meets the required coverage of €30,000 (about $33,000) for medical emergencies. AXA go beyond the basic requirements, offering:

• $50,000 to $100,000 in medical coverage
• Up to $500 for dental emergencies
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• 24/7 assistance while traveling

Our travel insurance certificates are accepted by all Schengen embassies and consulates, making it easy for you to meet this visa requirement. Purchase online and receive your certificate instantly, ensuring you're covered for your entire trip.

Ready to Apply?

Make sure your Schengen visa application is complete and meets all requirements with the right documentation and AXA Schengen travel insurance. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, work, or study, AXA has your back with flexible travel coverage designed for the Schengen Area.