Schengen Visa: Everything You Need to Know for 2024
In 2024, a total of 29 European countries are part of the Schengen Area and issue Schengen visas. Among these countries are 25 of the 27 European Union member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. This zone allows for the free movement of people between member states without internal border controls.
It's worth remembering that a Schengen visa is a residence permit that allows you to visit all Schengen countries, subject to the conditions provided. This means that once a visa is issued by one of the Schengen countries, you can travel to all other countries in the zone without needing additional visas.
Application Procedure Details
Each member country of the Schengen Area, although part of a common zone, may have its own specificities regarding visa applications. If you wish to obtain a visa for one of the Schengen countries, it is essential to follow these steps:
- Choose the main destination country: You must submit your visa application to the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most time during your stay. If your stay is equal in several countries, you must choose the one where you will enter first.
- Fill out a visa application: You can submit your application online or in person, depending on the country. The application form may vary, but it generally requires personal information and travel details.
- Required documents: You will typically need to provide supporting documents such as a recent identity photo, a valid passport, proof of flight reservation, travel insurance, proof of financial means, and sometimes proof of accommodation.
- Processing time: The application processing time can take from a few days to several weeks. It is therefore recommended to apply well in advance.
Countries Issuing Schengen Visas
The countries that are part of the Schengen Area in 2024 are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
