The Schengen visa, which allows you to travel within the Schengen Area, comes with specific fees depending on various factors. Understanding the Schengen visa fees is crucial when planning your travel. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Standard Schengen Visa Fees
- Adults (aged 12 and above): €80
- Children aged 6 to 12: €40
- Children under 6: Exempt from payment
It’s essential to note that you must pay the visa fee when submitting your Schengen visa application at the embassy/consulate or a visa application center. Failure to do so will result in the rejection of your application.
Special Considerations for Nationals from Certain Countries for Schengen Visa Fees
- Nationals from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Kosovo: €35
- Nationals from the Gambia (as of December 8, 2022): €120
The applicable visa fee in USD may vary based on the current exchange rate (as of August 2023).
Exemptions from Paying the Fee: Apart from children under the age of six, the following categories of visa applicants are also exempt from paying the Schengen visa fees:
- Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports traveling for official purposes.
- Family members of EU/EEA nationals.
- Pupils, students, and accompanying teachers during a school trip.
- Researchers traveling for scientific research.
- Participants aged 25 years or less in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural, or educational events organized by non-profit organizations (waived on a case-by-case basis).
How to Pay the Schengen Visa Fee?
Accepted payment methods include cash, debit or credit card, check, or bank order. The payment is typically made when you submit your application, and you should attach the receipt to your other required documents. The specific payment method may vary depending on the embassy or consulate processing your application.
Potential Extra Charges
If you choose to apply through a private visa application agency (such as VFS Global or TLS), you may incur additional fees. These agencies facilitate the application process and charge for their services, which can amount to an extra €30 – €40 per application. In many cases, embassies or consulate offices only accept applications through such appointed agencies, making it challenging to avoid these extra charges.
Schengen Visa Fee Refund Policy
Please note that the Schengen visa fees is non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa application is approved or denied. Any additional service fees incurred through visa application agencies are also non-refundable.
Currency of Payment When Paying Schengen Visa Fee
You should pay the Schengen visa fees in the currency of the country from which you are applying. For example, if you apply for Schengen Visa from India, you will pay the fee in Indian rupees at the applicable currency exchange rate.
Uniform Cost for Single and Multiple Entry Visas
Regardless of whether you receive a single-entry or multiple-entry Schengen visa, the cost remains the same. The duration of your visa is determined by the Schengen embassy or consulate, so even if different applicants receive varying visa durations, they will all pay the same fee.
Conclusion
Understanding the intricacies of Schengen visa fees is essential for anyone planning to travel within the Schengen Area. This blog has provided a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with Schengen visas, from the standard fees for adults and children to exemptions for specific categories of applicants. Traveling within the Schengen Area offers incredible opportunities for exploration and adventure, and with the right preparation, you can embark on your journey seamlessly and hassle-free. Safe travels!
