How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in Dubai?
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Are you a UAE resident planning a trip to Europe?
If yes, you might need to apply for a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to travel within the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
UAE citizens can enter these countries without a Schengen visa. However, if you're a resident of the UAE but not a citizen, or if you're a UAE citizen who has been refused visa-free entry before, you'll need to apply for a visa.
The process involves gathering certain documents, attending a visa interview, and paying a fee. The visa allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Applying for a Schengen visa in Dubai is a straightforward process — you can simply go through the VFS Global application centre in Dubai. With that said, the application process requires careful planning and preparation as well.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the entire process —
Step 1: Choose Your Main Country of Travel
Decide on the country or countries that you wish to visit in the Schengen Area. This decision will determine which VFS application centre or other assigned office you need to go to.
If you plan to visit multiple Schengen countries, apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most days. If the duration is equal in multiple countries, apply at the embassy of your first point of entry.
Step 2: Book an Appointment Online
Once you've decided on your main country of visit, schedule an appointment online with the respective embassy or consulate. For instance, for France, you would book through the VFS Global France site.
Note: As the visa processing may take time, it's advisable to book your appointment well in advance of your trip.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all the necessary documents for your visa application —
- A filled-out application form
- Two recent passport photos
- Your passport (valid for at least 90 days)
- UAE residence visa, also valid for at least 90 days
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer
- A copy of a 3-month personal bank statement
- Travel itinerary
- medical insurance for your travel
- Confirmed hotel booking
Step 4: Visit the VFS Global Office
On your appointment date, visit the VFS Global Office with all your documents. There might be a queue, so make sure you arrive on time.
During the appointment, your documents will be reviewed, and you may be required to provide fingerprints and photos.
Step 5: Wait for the Status Approval
After your appointment, you will receive updates via SMS about the status of your application. This includes notifications when your application is received and processed, and when your passport is ready for pick-up.
Additional Tips While Applying for Schengen Visa
- Check the specific requirements for the type of Schengen visa you are applying for, such as tourist, business, or transit visas.
- Make sure that your documents such as bank statements and travel insurance meet the requirements set by the Schengen states.
- The processing time for your application may take up to 15 days, so plan accordingly.
Fees for Schengen Visa in Dubai
The fees for a Schengen Visa application from Dubai are as follows —
- Adult: AED 340 (approximately 80 EUR)
- Children between 6-12 years of age: AED 170 (approx.40 EUR)
- Children younger than 6 years of age: Free of charge
- A family member of an EU/EEA national: Free of charge
- Holders of diplomatic and service passports: Free of charge
These fees are part of the standard process for applying for a Schengen Visa in the UAE. It's important to note that these fees are subject to change based on the current exchange rate and the policies of the respective embassies or consulates.
FAQ's
Ans: The first step is to determine your main country of travel within the Schengen Area. This will decide which embassy or consulate you need to apply at, or whether you need to visit a VFS Global application centre in Dubai.
Ans: You can book an appointment online through the website of the respective embassy, consulate, or VFS Global, depending on which country you plan to visit. Make sure you book early as slots fill up quickly.
Ans: You will need a completed application form, a valid passport, two recent passport photos, proof of UAE residence permit, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, a cover letter, proof of financial means, and travel insurance.
Ans: The processing of a Schengen visa application can take up to 15 days. Nevertheless, it's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
