What Documents Does A Saudi National Need To Apply For A Schengen Visa?
The Schengen visa lets tourists visit any of the 26 Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days in 180 days. These countries have eliminated passport and other border controls, allowing unfettered travel between them. The Schengen Area comprises 22 European Union (EU) member states and four non-EU member states.
It is named after the Schengen Agreement that established the rules governing the free movement of people within the area. The Schengen visa symbolizes the EU’s open-border policy and allows tourists to visit many countries with one visa. Saudis visiting the Schengen area needs a visa.
To apply for a Schengen visa, you need to gather a number of documents like proof of accommodation, travel insurance, round-trip flight reservation etc. If you send in all the right paperwork as instructed by the embassy or visa center, you’re more likely to get your Schengen visa without any problems. So, please pay attention to the list of documents below and how to get your documents ready to apply for a Schengen visa in Saudi Arabia.
A List Of Required Documents For A Schengen Visa Application
You need to provide the following documents when applying for a Schengen visa:
Passport: Valid passports with at least two blank pages must be valid for at least three months after leaving the Schengen Area.
Cover letter: For your Schengen visa application in Saudi Arabia, you may also need to send a cover letter. In the cover letter, you must say why you want a visa, what you plan to do while there, how long you will be in the Schengen Area, etc.
Photos: You will need to provide two recent passport-size photos that meet the required specifications.
Copies of previous Schengen visas (if applicable): If you had a Schengen visa before you applied for a new one, you need to send copies of your old one.
Civil status certificate: Please show proof of your legal status, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, family certificate, or death certificate (if applicable).
Travel insurance: You must have medical and emergency hospital travel insurance for your Schengen stay.
Birth certificate and proof of parental consent (if applicable): When a minor applies for a Schengen visa, the application package must also include their birth certificate and parental permission to travel if they are traveling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian.
Proof of accommodation: You must show proof that you have booked a hotel room, made a flight reservation, or will stay with a family member or friend.
Proof of enough funds: You must show proof that you have enough money to pay for your trip, including where to stay, what to eat, and other costs.
Round-trip ticket reservation: You will need to show a confirmed Schengen flight reservation for a round-trip or a flight itinerary for your trip.
Application form: The Schengen visa application form, available from the embassy or consulate, must be filled out and submitted.
Fee: You will need to pay a visa processing fee, which varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
It’s wise to check with the embassy or consulate you’re applying for their specific requirements.
Tips For A Successful Schengen Visa Application
Here are some tips that may help you increase your chances of a successful Schengen visa application:
Begin the procedure early: Since getting a visa can take a few weeks; you should start the process at least three months before your trip.
Double-check the requirements: Make sure you meet all the requirements for a Schengen visa and have all the necessary documents.
Complete the application form: Be sure to complete the application form. Only complete or correct applications may be accepted.
Use a clear, readable font: When filling out the application form and sending in any other required documents, use a clear, readable font.
Make copies of all the documents: Make copies of all your application paperwork in case the embassy or consulate needs to check them.
Schedule an appointment: Most of the time you must make an appointment at the embassy or consulate where you want to send your application.
Be honest in your application and answer the embassy or consular inquiries.
Follow the embassy or consulate’s instructions. Do what the embassy or consulate says, including any requirements for submitting documents.
These recommendations can help you get a Schengen visa and start your vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schengen Visas For Saudi Nationals
Can Saudi nationals apply for a Schengen visa at any embassy or consulate?
Saudis can apply for a Schengen visa at the embassy or consulate of their leading destination. They should also make sure of the required documents: dummy ticket for visa, hotel reservation for visa, travel insurance, cover letter etc. If you plan to visit many Schengen countries but need a leading destination, apply at the embassy or consulate of the first country.
Can I extend a Schengen visa while in the Schengen Area?
It is generally not possible to extend a Schengen visa while in the Schengen Area. If you want to stay in the Schengen Area long, ask the country for a long-stay visa or house permit.
Can I work on a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa does not allow you to work in the Schengen Area. Schengen countries need work permits or long-stay visas to work.
How long does it take to process a Schengen visa application?
After submitting Schengen visa applications, they are generally processed within 15 days. In some cases, the processing time may be shorter or longer, depending on the specific circumstances of the application.
Can I travel to countries outside of the Schengen Area with a Schengen visa?
With a Schengen visa, you can travel within the Schengen Area but not outside. Each non-Schengen country requires a separate visa.
How Do I Keep My Schengen Visa Documents Organized?
There is no way to organize your documents for a Schengen visa; each embassy has its requirements. Some places may want you to put your documents in order, starting with your application form and ending with your passport. The rest of your documents don’t have to be in any particular order.
