Immigration News & Updates

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide Before Big Changes

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in 2025: A Guide Before Major Changes

If you’re planning to visit the Schengen Area in 2025, it’s essential to understand the current visa application process and prepare for upcoming changes. While the European Union is introducing an online platform for Schengen visa applications, travelers still need to follow the current system until these updates are fully implemented.

In 2023, 10.3 million travelers applied for Schengen visas, reflecting the booming international tourism market. If you hold a passport from the US, UK, or another visa-exempt country, short trips to the Schengen Zone don’t require a visa. However, travelers from other nations, including China, India, and more, will need a Schengen visa for their visit.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for a Schengen visa in 2025, including all the necessary steps and documents.

Key Changes to the Schengen Visa Process

The EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP) is set to revolutionize the Schengen visa process by digitizing the entire application procedure. This platform will allow travelers to:

• Apply online for a Schengen visa
• Upload supporting documents digitally
• Track their application progress via a unified portal

While the system is currently in development, it is expected to be fully operational by 2030. One important update: Schengen visas will be issued digitally, meaning travelers will no longer receive physical stamps in their passports.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in 2025

Although the new system won’t be available until later, here’s what you need to do to apply for a Schengen visa in 2025:

1. Make a Plan

To start, decide on the specific country you plan to visit in the Schengen Zone. For example, if you’re traveling to France, you must apply for your visa through the French consulate or embassy.

2. Find Your Local Visa Application Center

Many embassies outsource visa processing to companies like TLScontact or VFS Global. Visit their websites to find the nearest application center and review their specific requirements.

3. Prepare Your Application

Gather all required documents, including:

• A completed Schengen visa application form
• A valid passport (at least two blank pages, with three months’ validity after your trip)
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Proof of Schengen-compliant travel insurance (covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies)
• Flight and accommodation bookings
• Financial proof to show you can support yourself during your stay

Check with your visa center or consulate, as additional documents may be requested.

4. Book an Appointment

In 2025, you will need to attend an in-person appointment to submit your application. As appointments fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons, book your appointment as early as possible.

5. Attend Your Appointment and Submit Your Application

During your appointment, submit your physical documents and undergo biometric screening (fingerprints, unless you’ve already submitted them in the last 59 months). Your application will be processed after the officer reviews your files.

6. Track Your Application and Wait for a Decision

Processing times vary, but you can typically expect a decision within 15 business days. For long-stay visas, processing may take up to a month or more.

The Schengen visa process is evolving, and although the online platform isn’t expected to be fully operational until 2030, it’s important to understand how to apply for a visa now. By following the current application procedure, preparing all necessary documents, and scheduling an in-person appointment, you can easily navigate the process and be ready for your European adventure.