SCHENGEN VISA REQUIREMENTS AND WHO NEEDS A SCHENGEN VISA

There are different types of Schengen Visa. The idea is that a Schengen Visa permits free movement by an individual throughout the Schengen Area subject to the limitations imposed on that Visa by the issuing Embassy, the type of Visa and the permitted time period.

Different types of Schengen Visa may give rise to specific restrictions or limitations and these will centre on the individual circumstances of the applicant and the nature of their travel. Additionally, different Embassies and Consulates may require slightly different supporting documentation as part of the application although the idea is that the process is largely identical for that class of Visa irrespective of the country in which an application is made. Requests for additional documentation usually centre on verification of identity and the purpose of the application.

The most common and popular types of Schengen Visa are listed below. There are different types of Schengen Visa tailored to the circumstances of the applicant and the purpose of their travel. Each Schengen Visa will by definition, have its own restrictions and limitations so it is important that you understand the categories and apply for the Visa most appropriate to your circumstances.

SCHENGEN TOURIST VISA

This type of Visa is suitable for Students who have already secured a place to study at an educational establishment within a country in the Schengen Area. Citizenship of the country in which a student intends to study, is not a prerequisite in order to pursue studies there via a Schengen Visa. It should be noted that a Schengen Student Visa does not confer any sort of immigration status on the student.

SCHENGEN STUDENT VISA

This type of Visa is suitable for Students who have already secured a place to study at an educational establishment within a country in the Schengen Area. Citizenship of the country in which a student intends to study, is not a prerequisite in order to pursue studies there via a Schengen Visa. It should be noted that a Schengen Student Visa does not confer any sort of immigration status on the student.

SCHENGEN BUSINESS VISA

A Visa designed for those traveling within the Schengen Area for purposes of business, this may be to one country within the area or more than one. The Schengen Business Visa only supports travel for business related purposes and may not be suitable for those who wish to combine business travel with social visits or a holiday. Again, citizenship of the country or countries of destination for those business purposes, is not required.

SCHENGEN WORKING VISA

A Visa for those who wish to work in one or more member countries of the Schengen Area. This will include residing in that country of destination and may also include the applicant’s family who may wish to reside with them.

SCHENGEN TRANSIT VISA

Certain categories of traveler may be required to apply for a Schengen Transit Visa which is essentially an authority to pass through a country within the Schengen Area in order to reach a final destination that is outside the Schengen Area. This type of Visa would be distinct from the Schengen Tourist Visa and applies to a different set of circumstances.