Summer is the perfect time for exciting travels in Europe! Obtaining a Schengen visa is the first step on the way to fun and new experiences. Learn more about the most common mistakes to avoid when applying for a Schengen visa

Obtaining a Schengen visa is becoming more and more difficult every year. The application process requires collecting a large number of documents, passing an interview and paying a fee. Since June 11, 2024, the cost of a Schengen visa has increased from 80 to 90 euros. However, many people can make this process easier for themselves by avoiding common mistakes that often lead to visa rejection.

These mistakes often arise from a lack of awareness or misunderstanding of the importance of documents meeting the criteria set by the Schengen country you plan to visit.

We have prepared a list of the most common mistakes made by Schengen visa applicants. For example, filling out the application form incorrectly, not having enough financial documents, or not paying attention to details can lead to a refusal. Following our tips will help you increase your chances of obtaining a Schengen visa and avoid problems during the application process.

1. Collecting the necessary documents based on a random list

Many travelers, especially those applying for a Schengen visa for the first time, often make the mistake of following the advice of relatives or friends who have previously obtained such visas. They apply this advice without taking into account possible changes. However, the documents required to obtain a Schengen visa often differ from country to country and embassy to embassy. In addition, visa requirements are constantly being reviewed and updated by Schengen embassies around the world.

People who use an outdated list of documents often make mistakes, missing important and newly added requirements. Because of this, they may face a visa refusal. Therefore, all Schengen visa applicants are advised to collect documents according to the current list published by the embassy of the country to which they are applying.

2. Passport does not meet the requirements

The EU has strict requirements for the passports of those applying for a Schengen visa. In particular, the passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of the planned trip to the Schengen area. In addition, it must have been issued within the last 10 years on the date when the holder plans to leave the Schengen area.

The passport must also have at least two blank pages that cannot be added to the passport later. Those who do not meet these requirements risk being denied a visa.

Travelers seeking a three- or five-year multiple-entry visa should be aware that if their passport is shorter than the required visa, they will only be issued a visa for the period of validity of the passport. 

3. Filling in the application form with information that does not correspond to other documents

Every traveler applying for a Schengen visa must fill in the appropriate questionnaire, which can be downloaded from the SchengenVisaInfo page. This is the first and necessary document in the visa application process. One of the most common mistakes is entering information in the application form that does not correspond to other documents. 

For example, some applicants indicate in the application form that their passport is valid for longer than it actually is. Others make mistakes in the dates, indicating a visa validity period that does not coincide with the terms of travel insurance or booked accommodation. This can lead to a visa refusal.

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For safe relocation to any country in the world, obtaining citizenship and employment, use the advice of an international lawyer. We help to solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in any part of the world. 

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4. The applicant does not have adequate travel insurance

It is a big mistake to refuse travel insurance, hoping for luck. The embassy does not care how healthy or cautious you are. Schengen travel insurance worth 30,000 euros, which covers repatriation in case of death, is mandatory for everyone. 

People often take out insurance for a shorter period than they plan to stay in the EU or with less coverage than required. If the insurance does not cover repatriation in the event of death, even if it covers other accidents, it is considered a non-compliance.

5. Applying too early or too late

According to the Schengen Visa Code, the time for submitting an application is strictly defined: you can submit it no earlier than six months and no later than 15 working days before the trip. Submitting an application earlier or later than these deadlines may result in a refusal. 

For example, trying to apply a year before your trip or being late with the application can lead to significant problems with obtaining a visa. Therefore, it is important to plan the time of application so that it is sent in advance, but within the established deadlines.

6. Applying to the wrong embassy/consulate/visa center

One of the most common mistakes in planning a trip to the Schengen countries is choosing the wrong embassy to submit a visa application. This can significantly affect your visa application. If you plan to travel through several countries and stay in each country for the same amount of time, it is important to apply to the embassy of the first country of entry into the Schengen area. For example, if your itinerary includes five days in Austria, five in Germany, and five in France, start by applying to the Austrian embassy.

If you plan to spend different lengths of time in each country, you should apply to the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the most time. For example, if your plans include three days in Austria, five days in Germany, and seven days in France, it is better to apply to the French embassy. 

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Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

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