Are you planning a trip to Europe and wondering about the Schengen Visa Fee? Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you understand the fee structure, payment methods, and other related aspects of the Schengen Visa Fee.
In summary, the Schengen Visa Fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa, as well as the applicant’s nationality. It is usually payable in the currency of the country where you submit your visa application, and can be paid by various means, such as online, in cash or by credit card. Certain categories of applicants may be eligible for a reduced or waived visa fee, such as children, students, or family members of EU citizens.
To learn more about the Schengen visa process and other important aspects of travel to Europe, we recommend referring to our visa process guide and ultimate travel guide.
Let’s start by exploring some common questions about Schengen visa fees.
What is the standard visa fee for a Schengen visa application?
The standard visa fee for a Schengen visa application is €80. However, this fee may vary depending on your age, the purpose of your trip, and the duration of your stay.
Are there any exemptions to the Schengen visa fee?
There are certain categories of people who are exempt from paying the Schengen visa fee. This includes children under the age of 6, students and researchers who are traveling for study purposes, family members of EU citizens, and some diplomatic missions.
Do children need to pay the same visa fee as adults?
No, children between the ages of 6 and 12 years old pay a reduced visa fee of €40.
How can I pay the Schengen visa fee?
The Schengen visa fee can be paid in a number of ways, including online payment, bank transfer, or at the embassy or consulate where you submit your application. It’s important to check with the embassy or consulate to see what payment methods they accept.
Can I get a refund if my Schengen visa application is rejected?
No, the visa fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. This is because the fee covers the cost of processing your application, regardless of the outcome.
How much is the visa fee for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
The visa fee for a multiple-entry Schengen visa is the same as for a single-entry visa, which is €80 for most applicants. However, in some cases, such as for seafarers, the visa fee may be lower.
What is the visa fee for a long-stay Schengen visa?
The visa fee for a long-stay Schengen visa, also known as a national visa, may vary depending on the country you are applying to. It is typically higher than the fee for a short-stay visa, and can range from €50 to €200.
Is the Schengen visa fee the same for all Schengen countries?
The Schengen visa fee is the same for all Schengen countries, regardless of which country you are applying to. However, there may be additional fees for certain services, such as expedited processing or document delivery.
Can I pay the Schengen visa fee in my local currency?
Yes, you can pay the Schengen visa fee in your local currency. However, the exchange rate used by the consulate or embassy where you submit your application will depend on their policies. It is recommended to check the current exchange rate and the embassy’s policies beforehand to avoid any confusion.
How long is the Schengen visa fee valid for?
The Schengen visa fee is valid only for the current application, and it is non-refundable. If your application is rejected, you will need to pay the fee again for a new application. The visa fee also cannot be transferred to another person, visa type, or country.
Do I need to pay the visa fee if I am a family member of an EU citizen?
No, family members of EU citizens are exempt from paying the Schengen visa fee when traveling with or joining their EU citizen family member in another Schengen country. However, they will still need to meet the requirements for the visa application process.
Can I pay the visa fee by credit card?
Yes, many consulates and embassies accept payment by credit card for the Schengen visa fee. However, it is always recommended to check the specific payment methods accepted by the embassy or consulate where you plan to submit your application.
Do I need to pay a separate visa fee for each Schengen country I plan to visit?
No, you do not need to pay a separate visa fee for each Schengen country you plan to visit. A single visa fee is sufficient for the entire Schengen area. However, you should apply for the visa from the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to spend the most time.
Are there any additional fees I need to pay when applying for a Schengen visa?
Depending on the embassy or consulate where you submit your application, you may need to pay additional fees, such as service fees or courier fees. These fees are typically separate from the visa fee and should be verified with the embassy or consulate in advance.
How much is the visa fee for a Schengen visa for medical treatment?
The visa fee for a Schengen visa for medical treatment is the same as the standard visa fee for a short-term Schengen visa. The fee may vary based on the exchange rate and the embassy or consulate where you submit your application.
What is the visa fee for a Schengen visa for business travel?
The visa fee for a Schengen visa for business travel is the same as the standard visa fee for a short-term Schengen visa. The fee may vary based on the exchange rate and the embassy or consulate where you submit your application.
How much does it cost to expedite a Schengen visa application?
The cost of expediting a Schengen visa application varies depending on the embassy or consulate where you submit your application. Some countries charge an additional fee for expedited processing, while others do not. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa to determine if expedited processing is available and if there are any additional fees associated with this service.
Can I apply for a waiver of the Schengen visa fee if I am in a difficult financial situation?
If you are in a difficult financial situation and unable to pay the Schengen visa fee, you may be eligible to apply for a waiver. The requirements and procedures for applying for a fee waiver vary by country, so it is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa for specific information on how to apply for a fee waiver.
Is the visa fee the same for all types of Schengen visas?
No, the visa fee is not the same for all types of Schengen visas. The fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa. For example, a short-term Schengen visa for a single entry costs €80, while a long-term visa for multiple entries costs €200. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa for the specific fee schedule for the type of visa you need.
How much does it cost to renew a Schengen visa?
Renewing a Schengen visa typically costs the same as applying for a new visa. The fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa. For example, a short-term Schengen visa for a single entry costs €80, while a long-term visa for multiple entries costs €200. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa for the specific fee schedule for the type of visa you need.
How can I pay the Schengen visa fees?
The payment methods for Schengen visa fees vary by embassy or consulate. Many countries accept payment by credit card, while others require payment by cash or bank transfer. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa for specific information on accepted payment methods.
Can I get a refund of the Schengen visa fees if my application is rejected?
In most cases, the Schengen visa fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. However, some countries may offer a partial refund of the fee if the visa application is denied due to reasons beyond the applicant’s control. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa for specific information on their refund policies.
Are there any additional fees for expedited processing of Schengen visa applications?
Some countries charge an additional fee for expedited processing of Schengen visa applications. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for a Schengen visa for specific information on expedited processing fees.
Do the Schengen visa fees vary based on my nationality?
No, the Schengen visa fees are the same for all nationalities. The fee varies only based on the type and duration of the visa.
Is there any fee waiver or reduction for certain categories of applicants, such as students or family members of EU citizens?
There are certain categories of applicants who may be eligible for a fee waiver or reduction when applying for a Schengen visa. These include children under the age of six, students and researchers travelling for study purposes, and family members of EU citizens who are travelling with or joining their EU citizen family member in another EU country. However, it is important to note that these fee waivers and reductions are not guaranteed and are subject to the individual policies of each Schengen country.
What is the fee for a Schengen visa extension?
The fee for a Schengen visa extension varies depending on the individual policies of each Schengen country. In general, the fee is typically lower than the fee for a new visa application. It is important to note that not all Schengen countries allow for visa extensions, and those that do may have specific eligibility requirements and procedures for applying.
Are there any hidden fees associated with applying for a Schengen visa?
No, there are no hidden fees associated with applying for a Schengen visa. All fees are clearly outlined on the official websites of the Schengen embassies and consulates, and applicants should be aware of the exact amount they are required to pay before submitting their application.
What happens if I don’t pay the Schengen visa fees on time?
If you do not pay the Schengen visa fees on time, your application will not be processed and may be rejected. It is important to make the payment in full and on time to ensure that your application is considered. Some Schengen countries may also charge additional fees or penalties for late payments, so it is best to check with the individual embassy or consulate for their policies.
Is there any fee for changing the purpose or duration of my Schengen visa after it has been issued?
If you wish to change the purpose or duration of your Schengen visa after it has been issued, you may be required to apply for a new visa and pay the appropriate fee. However, this depends on the individual policies of each Schengen country and the specifics of your situation. It is best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for their policies and procedures.
What is the fees for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
The fee for a multiple-entry Schengen visa varies depending on the individual policies of each Schengen country. In general, the fee is higher than that of a single-entry visa, as it allows for multiple entries into the Schengen area. Applicants should check with the relevant embassy or consulate for their specific fee structure.
Is there any discount on Schengen Visa Fees for children and minors?
Yes, there are typically fee reductions for children and minors when applying for a Schengen visa. The exact discount may vary depending on the individual policies of each Schengen country, but in general, children under the age of six are exempt from paying any fees, while those between the ages of six and twelve may receive a reduced fee.
Are there any additional fees for visa applications submitted through a visa agency or visa center?
Yes, there may be additional fees for visa applications submitted through a visa agency or visa center. These fees are typically charged by the agency or center for their services in assisting with the application process. Applicants should check with the individual agency or center for their specific fee structure.
Are Schengen Visa Fees refundable if my visa application is rejected?
In general, Schengen visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your visa application. This means that if your visa is denied or rejected, you will not be able to get a refund of the fee you paid. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if your visa application was not processed within the designated time frame, or if the consulate made a mistake in processing your application, you may be eligible for a refund. It is important to note that the refund process can be time-consuming and may require additional documentation.
What payment methods are accepted for Schengen Visa Fees?
The payment methods for Schengen visa fees may vary depending on the consulate or embassy you are applying to. However, in general, payment can be made in cash, by credit or debit card, or by bank transfer. It is important to note that some consulates may only accept payment in local currency, while others may accept payment in other currencies as well. It is recommended to check with the consulate or embassy beforehand to confirm the accepted payment methods.
How do I know if I am required to pay the reduced Schengen Visa Fee or the regular one?
The reduced Schengen visa fee is typically available for certain categories of applicants, such as children under the age of 12, students, researchers, and family members of EU citizens. If you fall into one of these categories, you may be eligible for a reduced visa fee. However, it is important to note that the eligibility criteria for reduced fees may vary depending on the consulate or embassy you are applying to. It is recommended to check with the consulate or embassy beforehand to confirm the eligibility criteria for reduced fees.
Are there any situations where I may be exempted from paying Schengen Visa Fees?
There are certain situations where applicants may be exempted from paying Schengen visa fees. For example, if you are a family member of an EU citizen, or if you are a diplomat or official of an international organization, you may be exempted from paying the visa fee. Additionally, there are certain situations where the consulate or embassy may waive the visa fee, such as if you are attending a conference or meeting that is organized by a governmental or international organization. However, it is important to note that the criteria for fee exemption may vary depending on the consulate or embassy you are applying to.
How do I calculate the Schengen Visa Fees in my local currency?
The Schengen visa fee is typically calculated in euros. However, the consulate or embassy may accept payment in local currency as well. To calculate the visa fee in your local currency, you can use an online currency converter or check with your bank for the current exchange rate. It is important to note that the exchange rate may fluctuate, so it is recommended to check the exchange rate closer to the date of payment.
Can I pay the Schengen Visa Fees in installments?
In general, Schengen visa fees must be paid in full at the time of application. It is not possible to pay the fee in installments or in advance. If you are unable to pay the fee in full at the time of application, your application may be rejected or delayed. It is important to ensure that you have the necessary funds available before applying for a Schengen visa.
How long is the Schengen Visa Fees valid for?
The Schengen Visa Fee is valid for a single application only. If your visa application is rejected, you will need to pay the fee again for a new application. If your visa is granted, the visa fee is valid for the duration of your stay in the Schengen area.
Are Schengen Visa Fees the same for all countries within the Schengen Area?
Yes, the Schengen Visa Fees are the same for all countries within the Schengen Area. However, some countries may charge additional fees for processing the visa application.
Can I request a waiver of the Schengen Visa Fees in case of financial hardship?
In certain circumstances, applicants may be eligible for a reduction or waiver of the Schengen Visa Fee. However, this is decided on a case-by-case basis and applicants will need to provide evidence of their financial situation.
Is there a different Schengen Visa Fee for long-term visas?
Yes, the Schengen Visa Fee for long-term visas is higher than for short-term visas. As of 2021, the fee for a long-stay visa is €80.
Can I pay the Schengen Visa Fees in cash?
No, you cannot pay the Schengen Visa Fee in cash. Most countries require payment by credit card or bank transfer.
Is there a deadline for paying the Schengen Visa Fee?
Yes, there is a deadline for paying the Schengen Visa Fee. The fee must be paid before submitting the visa application.
Can I get a receipt for the Schengen Visa Fees I paid?
Yes, you can request a receipt for the Schengen Visa Fee you paid. The receipt will be provided by the embassy or consulate where you submitted your visa application.