How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?

 How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?

When applying for a Schengen visa, there is a fee that must be paid to cover the processing costs. Below are the details regarding these costs as of January 2020.

Standard Visa Fees

• Adults: The fee for a standard Schengen Visa increased from €60 to €80 ($90).
• Children aged 6-12: The fee increased from €35 to €40 ($45).
• Children under 6: No fee; they can apply for free.
• Nationals from Russia: The fee is €40.

These fees ensure that Schengen Area member countries can adequately cover the costs of processing visa applications. The visa fees are subject to review every three years.

Special Circumstances

Visa fees may be waived for certain applicants under specific conditions:

• Participants under 24: Fees may be waived if you are attending a conference, sporting event, cultural event, or a trip organized by a non-profit organization.
• Students and Researchers: Pupils, students, and accompanying teachers on school trips, as well as researchers traveling to perform scientific studies (especially those supported by the EU or Schengen Member States), may also have their fees waived.
• Diplomatic Passports: Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports traveling for official purposes are exempt from the fee.

No Refund Policy

It is important to note that if your visa application is denied, the visa fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.

Fee Breakdown

• Adult: $88 (€80)
• Children aged 6-12: $45 (€40)
• Children under 6: Free

These costs are standardized across all Schengen countries, meaning the fee remains the same regardless of whether you are traveling to France, Italy, Spain, Germany, or any of the other 23 Schengen States.

Additional Costs

Applying through an external service provider, such as a visa agency or center (e.g., VFS Global), may incur additional fees. Moreover, applicants are required to have travel and medical insurance covering emergency expenses up to €30,000. AXA offers low-cost Schengen insurance starting at €22 per week, with multi-trip insurance available for €328 per year for frequent travelers.

Applicants may also need to provide documentation of a flight booking or itinerary for the visa application interview. This documentation can usually be held for free or for a small fee by many airlines and travel agents, minimizing the risk of losing money if the visa application is refused.

Student Visa Fees

For example, the cost of a French Student Visa ranges from €55 to €99, depending on the type of visa and duration of stay.

Multiple-Entry Visa Fees

The cost for a multiple-entry Schengen Visa is the same as a single-entry short-stay visa (€80 or $90). This visa allows multiple trips lasting fewer than 90 days within a specified period, typically one, three, or five years.

Understanding these costs and requirements will help ensure you are prepared for the Schengen visa application process, making your journey smoother and more efficient. Safe travels!