Sep 7, 2024

How Long Does It Take to Get a Schengen Visa? Processing Times Explained


Schengen Visa Processing Times


Applying for a Schengen visa can feel like navigating a maze, especially if it’s your first time. I’ve been through the process myself, and it can be nerve-wracking trying to align your travel plans with visa approval timelines. In this guide, I'll walk you through how long it typically takes to get a Schengen visa in UK, factors that might affect the processing time, and my personal tips to make the journey smoother. Let's dive in!

How Long Does It Take to Get a Schengen Visa?

The average processing time for a Schengen visa is typically 15 calendar days from the date of your appointment. However, this can vary depending on the country you’re applying to, the time of year, and how busy the consulate is. During peak travel seasons, such as summer or the Christmas period, processing times can extend up to 30 days or even 60 days in rare cases.

Pro Tip: Start your application process at least three months before your planned travel date to avoid any last-minute rush or delays.


Factors That Affect Schengen Visa Processing Time

  1. Destination Country’s Consulate Workload: Popular tourist destinations like France, Spain, and Italy often have higher application volumes, which can delay processing. Consider applying through less popular Schengen countries like Slovenia, Denmark, Lithuania, Estonia, Greece, or Malta, where appointments are usually more available.

  2. Completeness of Your Application: Ensuring all your documents are in order can significantly speed up the process. A missing or incomplete document will not only delay the application but could also lead to rejection.

  3. Your Travel History: A good track record of previous Schengen visas can work in your favor. If you’ve traveled to Schengen countries before and adhered to their visa rules, you’re more likely to get a quicker and potentially longer-duration visa.


Tips based on personal experience of frequent travellers  for a Smooth Schengen Visa Application

1. Explore Lesser-Known Destinations for Easier Appointments

Booking appointments at popular embassies can be a nightmare due to high demand. Instead, consider applying through embassies of less popular destinations. Countries like Slovenia, Denmark, Lithuania, Estonia, Greece, and Malta often have shorter waiting times for appointments, increasing your chances of getting a visa appointment sooner.

Useful Links to Embassy Websites for Appointment Booking:

  1. Slovenia: Slovenian Consulate in the UK
  2. Denmark: Danish Consulate in the UK
  3. Lithuania: Lithuanian Consulate in the UK
  4. Estonia: Estonian Consulate in the UK
  5. Greece: Greek Consulate in the UK
  6. Malta: Maltese Consulate in the UK


2. Prepare a Detailed Itinerary

A detailed itinerary strengthens your application and helps the consulate understand your travel plans. Make sure to include flight reservations, hotel bookings, and valid travel insurance. Don’t skip on the travel insurance part—it’s mandatory! I personally recommend using Coverwise Travel Insurance, which is economical and accepted for Schengen visas. You can get insurance for as low as £11. Check out Coverwise here.


3. Book Your Flight Reservations in Advance

You don’t need to buy actual flight tickets before getting your visa; instead, reserve them. This is a safer and more cost-effective approach. I usually use Schengen Flight Reservation Visa for flight bookings—it’s reliable and accepted by most embassies.


4. Apply to the Same Country for Future Visas

Consistency matters. Applying to the same Schengen country multiple times increases your chances of getting a longer-duration visa. Many consulates tend to offer longer validity visas to repeat visitors, and a clean travel record helps in building trust with the authorities.


Schengen Visa Processing Times by Country

Top countries for Schengen Visa

Here are some of the Schengen countries with details on their average processing times and official visa application websites for more information.

1. France Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 15-20 days
  • Details: Typically processed within 15 days, but can extend to 30 days during peak seasons.
  • Website: France-Visas

2. Germany Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 10-15 days
  • Details: Fast processing, but can take up to 30 days in busy periods.
  • Website: German Missions Abroad

3. Spain Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 15-20 days
  • Details: Processing times vary based on the applicant’s nationality and season.
  • Website: Spanish Consulate

4. Italy Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 15 days
  • Details: Usually processed within 15 days, but could extend to 30-60 days in special cases.
  • Website: VFS Global for Italy

5. Netherlands Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 15 days
  • Details: Generally processed within 15 days, with occasional extensions up to 30 days.
  • Website: Netherlands Worldwide

6. Switzerland Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 15-20 days
  • Details: Normal processing time is 15 days, but could take longer during high demand.
  • Website: Switzerland Visa

7. Greece Schengen Visa Processing Time

  • Average Time: 15 days
  • Details: Standard processing within 15 days, possible extensions during busy times.
  • Website: Greece Visa


FAQs: Schengen Visa Processing Times

1. Can I speed up my Schengen visa processing?
Unfortunately, there is no express service for Schengen visas. However, applying early, submitting a complete application, and choosing a less popular embassy can help.

2. Which Schengen country is the easiest to get a visa from?
Smaller, less popular destinations like Slovenia, Lithuania, and Estonia tend to have quicker processing times and more available appointments compared to busier countries like France and Spain.

3. Is travel insurance mandatory for Schengen visas?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory, covering medical emergencies up to €30,000. Economical options like Coverwise are both affordable and widely accepted.

4. Can I apply for a Schengen visa if my passport is about to expire?
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen area and have at least two blank pages.

5. What if my Schengen visa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, you can appeal the decision or reapply with improved documentation. It's essential to understand the reasons for rejection before reapplying.

6. How long does it take to get a Schengen visa?
 It usually takes 15-30 calendar days, but processing times can vary depending on the country and season.

7. Can I speed up my Schengen visa application?
Yes, applying early, submitting a complete application, and using priority services can help speed up the process.

8. What happens if my Schengen visa is delayed?
You can contact the visa center or consulate for updates. Delays often occur due to missing documents or high application volumes.

9. How can I track my Schengen visa application?
Use the tracking links provided by the respective country’s visa application center or consulate website.

10. When should I apply for a Schengen visa?
Apply at least 3 months before your planned travel date to allow enough time for processing.


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