Your Guide to Getting a European Tourist Visa

Dreaming of relaxing under the Eiffel Tower, eating pizza in Venice, wandering through Madrid, or playing in the snow in Iceland? These are just a few of the unforgettable experiences that draw travelers to Europe.
If a European adventure is on your bucket list, there are a few things you’ll need to sort out before you go. At the top of the list are your travel documents, especially your passport and visa.
Getting a visa isn’t quite as simple as renewing your passport, but there’s no need to worry. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to apply for a visa to travel across Europe. First, let’s talk about the type of visa most people use for European holidays.
What Is a Schengen Visa and Why Do You Need One?
If you’re planning to explore several countries in Europe, you’ll probably need a Schengen visa. This visa covers most European countries and lets you travel freely between them. It’s typically valid for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, and it works for tourism, business, visiting friends or family, attending events, and more.
If you’re planning a longer trip or want more flexibility, it’s important to choose the right kind of Schengen visa. Understanding the different types will make the application process smoother and help you travel without unnecessary hassle. Here are the two main options:
Single Entry Visa
This type of visa lets you enter the Schengen Area once. After you leave, even if it’s just for a day, you can’t re-enter on the same visa.
Multiple Entry Visa
This one gives you more freedom. You can come and go as needed, visiting different countries both inside and outside the Schengen Zone as long as your total stay doesn’t go over 90 days in a 180-day period.
Once you’ve figured out which visa suits your trip best, the next step is gathering all the required documents. Knowing what you need ahead of time can make the process a whole lot easier and help you kick off your European getaway with less stress.
A Step by Step Guide to Getting a Schengen Visa
Here are five easy steps to help you apply for a Schengen visa and get ready for your European adventure.
1. Choose Where to Apply
You can apply for a Schengen visa through an embassy, TLS Contact, or VFS Global. Make sure to check the official website of the embassy of your destination country for the latest and most accurate requirements.
2. Schedule an Appointment
Once you know where to apply, book your appointment with the embassy or visa application center as soon as possible. It is recommended to apply up to 6 months in advance and no later than 15 days before your planned departure.
3. Prepare Your Documents
When it is time for your appointment, make sure to bring all the necessary documents. These documents may vary depending on your destination and travel purpose, but the general list includes the following:
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- A passport that is valid for at least three more months
- A recent passport-sized photo with a light grey background
- Proof of round-trip flight reservations
- Proof of hotel or accommodation bookings
- Bank statements from the past three months
- A valid travel insurance policy
- A financial sponsorship letter if applicable
Make sure that all your documents are complete and clearly presented to avoid any delays.
4. Attend the Interview and Make Your Payment
You will be invited to attend an interview where you will also submit your biometric data including a photo and fingerprints. Be prepared to explain your travel plans clearly. During this stage, you will also pay the visa fee.
According to Schengen Visa Info, the fee for adult applicants is about €80 (around IDR 1,300,000). For children between the ages of 6 and 12 the fee is about €40 (around IDR 600,000), while children under 6 can apply for free.
Payment is made in rupiah at the visa application center and will be forwarded to the embassy. There may also be additional service fees depending on the services you use such as biometric data collection or SMS tracking, although not all of these are mandatory.
5. Wait for Processing
Once your application has been submitted, you will need to wait for the embassy or visa center to review it. The processing time usually takes about 15 calendar days. To ensure everything goes smoothly, double-check that your documents are complete and properly arranged.
Tips to Help Your Visa Application Go Smoothly
Apply Through the Country You’ll Stay in the Longest
Your visa should be issued by the country where you'll spend the most time during your trip. For example, if you plan to visit France for 4 days, Germany for 3, and Italy for 3, you should apply through the French embassy or visa center. If your stay is split evenly across countries, apply through the one you'll visit first.
Apply at Least Three Months in Advance
Securing an appointment with the embassy or visa center can take time. It's best to apply as early as possible, ideally six months before your departure, and no later than 15 days before your travel date.
Provide Proof of Financial Means
One key document is your bank statement from the last three months. Each country has its own minimum daily requirement. For instance, the Netherlands requires at least €30 (around IDR 511,000) per day. If you plan to stay 15 days, you should show a balance of at least €450 (around IDR 7,500,000).
Make Sure You Have Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover a minimum of €30,000 (around IDR 511,000,000), including COVID-19 coverage. The insurance should be valid for the entire duration of your trip across the Schengen Area. You’ll need to submit a copy of the policy with your application and bring the original to your interview.
What You Need to Know About the Latest Visa Updates in 2024
If you are planning a trip to Europe, keeping up with the latest visa regulations is just as important as booking your tickets and accommodations. This year, there are several important updates that travelers need to be aware of.
The European Commission has proposed an increase in the base fees for Schengen visas. If approved, this would raise the cost by around 12 percent. For short stays of up to 90 days, the fee may go up from 120 euros to 135 euros. For stays longer than 90 days, the cost could increase from 160 euros to 180 euros. In addition, the standard visa fee for adults is expected to rise from 80 euros to 90 euros, and for children from 40 euros to 45 euros.
This proposal is currently under public consultation until March 1, 2024, giving EU citizens a chance to share their views. According to the Commission, the increase is being considered due to rising inflation in the European Union. Visa fees are reviewed every three years to stay in line with economic conditions.
Alongside the potential fee changes, the European Commission is also working on a plan to launch a digital Schengen visa. This new system would allow travelers to apply for their visa online, replacing the current passport sticker system. If all goes well, the digital visa system is expected to be introduced by 2028.
These updates are important to consider while preparing for your trip to Europe in 2024. If you are applying for a visa for the first time, the tips shared earlier can help you navigate the process more smoothly. Make sure to stay organized and pay close attention to the requirements to avoid delays.
Once you have completed your visa application and gathered all the required documents, you can begin planning your travel itinerary. Consider the destinations you want to visit, how many days you will spend in each city, and the local climate during your stay. Choosing the right clothes, shoes, and travel essentials is key to a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
To make your trip easier and more comfortable, be sure to choose the right luggage for your travel needs. A 20 inch suitcase is a great option for short getaways and meets most airline cabin size limits. For longer holidays that last about one to two weeks, a 24 inch suitcase provides extra space without being too heavy or hard to carry. You can find stylish and reliable options that match your travel style on Baller Luggage Collection.