Dreaming of a grand tour across Europe? Well, the Schengen Visa is your golden ticket to seamless travel through the stunning landscapes of the continent. Europe, with its diverse destinations, offers a treasure trove of experiences, and the Schengen Visa, a treaty signed by 26 European countries, simplifies your journey by allowing you to explore multiple nations with a single visa.
1. Discovering the Schengen Zone: Where Can You Go?
LeSo opens the doors to 26 enchanting European countries through the Schengen Visa. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
It's crucial to note a few key points about Schengen countries:
- Non-EU Members in Schengen: Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland are part of the Schengen Area but not the European Union.
- Territories with Restrictions: Vatican City, Monaco, and San Marino have borders within the Schengen Area but do not accept Schengen Visas.
- Non-Schengen Countries: Six European countries—UK, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus—do not accept the Schengen Visa. While the UK and Ireland opted out, others are in the process of joining.
Before you embark on your European adventure, verify whether your destination country accepts the Schengen Visa.
2. Unveiling the Schengen Visa Types
To explore Schengen countries with LeSo, you'll need a short-term Schengen tourist visa, typically available in two types: Type A and Type C. The visa type determines whether you have single or multiple entries, with the latter being valid for up to three months.
3. The Essential Schengen Visa Requirements
Embarking on a journey requires careful preparation. Ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Duly filled Schengen Visa Application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages, extending three months beyond the visa expiry
- Comprehensive itinerary, including onward and return flights with specific dates and flight numbers
- Travel Health Insurance Policy covering expenses of at least 30,000 Euro
- Proof of hotel booking or accommodation for the entire stay
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses, varying by country
Always check specific requirements for your destination Schengen country.
4. Navigating Schengen Travel Insurance with LeSo
LeSo prioritizes your safety. For a hassle-free Schengen Visa application, acquiring travel insurance is mandatory. Covering emergency medical situations, the insurance should be at least 50,000 USD or 30,000 EURO. Submit the insurance certificate with your visa application. In case of visa rejection, request a proof of refusal to cancel your travel insurance(T&C applied).
5. Timing Your Schengen Visa Application
With LeSo, timing is crucial. The Schengen Visa processing time is approximately 5–15 working days, varying by country. To ensure a stress-free experience, complete all visa formalities 14 to 21 days before your departure.
Unlock the wonders of Europe with LeSo and the Schengen Visa, creating a lifetime of memories across 26 captivating countries.