Schengen Visa Application Form: A Comprehensive Guide (2025)
Accessing the Schengen visa application is free! The form consists of 37 fields and 3 declarations, with online options available via Videx.
Edit, sign, and share the sample Schengen visa application form PDF online – no software installation needed, and over 25 million forms are accessible.
Embarking on a journey to Europe’s Schengen Area requires a meticulously completed application form. This document, freely accessible, serves as the foundational step in obtaining permission for short-term stays – up to 90 days – within the zone.
The harmonized application form, consisting of 37 entry fields and three declarations, is designed for uniformity across Schengen states; You can access it as a downloadable PDF or conveniently complete it online through Videx, available in multiple languages.
Whether you choose the PDF or online route, accuracy is paramount. Remember, the right-hand column is reserved for official processing and should remain untouched by the applicant. Successfully navigating this initial stage significantly increases your chances of a smooth visa approval process.
Understanding the Harmonized Application Form
The Schengen visa application form is meticulously structured for clarity and consistency. It’s a single document accepted across all 27 Schengen countries, streamlining the application process. The form is divided into sections, requesting details ranging from personal information to travel purpose and passport validity.
Crucially, the form features 37 fields for applicant input and 3 declarations that require your affirmation. A dedicated column on the right side is strictly for consular use; applicants should not complete this section.
Completing the form accurately is vital. Incorrect or missing information can lead to delays or rejection. Utilizing the online Videx platform can offer guidance and reduce errors, while the PDF version requires careful attention to detail.
Where to Obtain the Schengen Visa Application Form (PDF)
The official Schengen visa application form in PDF format is readily accessible through various channels. You can download it directly from the website of the consulate or embassy of the Schengen country you plan to visit.
Alternatively, the German Federal Foreign Office provides a downloadable PDF and an online application option via Videx at https://videx.diplo.de. This platform supports multiple languages, including English, ensuring accessibility for a wider audience.
Numerous websites also host the form, but always verify the source to ensure you are using the most current and official version. Downloading from official sources guarantees the form’s authenticity and compliance with Schengen requirements.
Completing the Application Form: General Instructions
The Schengen visa application form comprises 37 fields and 3 declarations; the right-hand column is reserved for processing and should remain blank. Ensure all information provided is accurate and consistent with supporting documents like your passport.
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory and require completion. Family members of EU, EEA, or CH citizens exercising their right to free movement should not fill these fields.
Use black ink if completing the form by hand, and write legibly. If using the online Videx platform, carefully review each section before submission. Remember to sign and date the form upon completion, confirming the accuracy of the information provided.
Section 1: Personal Data
Section 1 of the Schengen visa application focuses on your personal details. Field 1 requires your Surname (Family Name), accurately as it appears in your passport. Field 2 is for your Given Name(s) – provide all names as they are officially recorded.
Field 3 demands your Date of Birth in the DD/MM/YYYY format. Field 4 asks for your Place of Birth – specify the city and country. Field 5 requires your Nationality; select your country of citizenship.
Accuracy is crucial in this section as discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection. Double-check all entries against your passport and other official documents before submitting the application.
Surname (Family Name) ⎼ Field 1
Field 1 of the Schengen visa application is dedicated to your Surname, or Family Name. This is the first piece of personal information requested and must precisely match the spelling as it appears on your official passport or national ID card.
Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations; provide your legal surname in its entirety. Any inconsistencies between this field and your passport could result in application processing delays or even rejection.
Pay close attention to capitalization and special characters, ensuring they are entered correctly. This seemingly small detail is vital for accurate identification and a smooth application process. Double-check before submission!
Given Name(s) ⎻ Field 2
Field 2 on the Schengen visa application requires your Given Name(s), encompassing all your first and middle names as they appear on your passport or official identification. Like the surname, accuracy is paramount.
Enter your names in the order they are presented in your travel document. Avoid transposing or abbreviating names unless they are consistently shortened on your official ID.
If you have multiple given names, include them all, separated by spaces. Ensure the spelling and capitalization precisely match your passport to prevent potential issues during processing. Careful attention to detail here streamlines your application.
Date of Birth ⎼ Field 3
Field 3 of the Schengen visa application requires your Date of Birth, and it’s crucial to enter this information precisely as it appears on your passport or official identification document. The accepted format is DD/MM/YYYY (Day/Month/Year).
Incorrect formatting or inaccurate dates can lead to delays or even rejection of your application. Double-check the day, month, and year to ensure they match your official records exactly.
Consistency is key; any discrepancies between the application form and your passport will raise concerns. Pay close attention to avoid errors in this vital section of the form.
Place of Birth ⎼ Field 4
Field 4 on the Schengen visa application form requests your Place of Birth. This refers to the city and country where you were born, as officially recorded on your birth certificate or passport. Ensure accuracy, as inconsistencies can cause application issues.
Provide the name of the city and the corresponding country in which you first saw the light of day. Spelling should precisely match your official documentation. Avoid abbreviations or nicknames.
This information is vital for verification purposes and helps authorities confirm your identity; Double-check your entry to prevent delays or potential rejection due to inaccuracies.
Nationality ⎼ Field 5
Field 5 of the Schengen visa application requires you to state your Nationality. This refers to your legal citizenship, not your country of residence. Input the name of the country that issued your passport or travel document.
Ensure the nationality you provide matches the one listed in your passport; discrepancies can lead to application refusal. Use the official, internationally recognized name of the country.
This information is crucial for determining visa eligibility and processing requirements. It helps the consulate assess your application based on your country’s specific agreements with the Schengen area;
Section 2: Passport Information
Section 2 of the Schengen visa application focuses on your Passport Information. This is a critical section requiring precise details to ensure smooth processing. You’ll need to accurately complete fields 6, 7, and 8.
Field 6 requires your Passport Number, found on the data page of your passport. Fields 7 and 8 ask for the Date of Issue and Date of Expiry, respectively. Ensure these dates match your passport exactly.
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in the Schengen area. It should also have at least two blank pages. Providing incorrect passport details can cause significant delays or rejection.
Passport Number ⎼ Field 6
Field 6 on the Schengen visa application form is dedicated to your Passport Number. This is a unique identifier for your travel document and is crucial for accurate processing of your application. Locate your passport number on the data page of your passport – it’s typically a combination of letters and numbers.
Enter the number exactly as it appears in your passport, paying close attention to capitalization and any special characters. Any discrepancies between the number on your application and your passport could lead to delays or even rejection of your visa.
Double-check this entry before submitting the form to avoid errors. Accurate information is paramount for a successful visa application.
Date of Issue ⎻ Field 7
Field 7 of the Schengen visa application requires the Date of Issue of your passport. This refers to the date your passport was originally issued by the issuing authority – not the date of your last renewal. You’ll find this date printed on the data page of your passport, usually near the passport number.
Enter the date in the format DD/MM/YYYY (Day/Month/Year). Ensure accuracy, as incorrect dates can cause processing issues. For example, if your passport was issued on January 15, 2020, you would enter 15/01/2020.
Verify the date carefully against your passport before submitting the application. Precise details are essential for a smooth visa application process.
Date of Expiry ⎻ Field 8
Field 8 on the Schengen visa application form requests the Date of Expiry of your current passport. This is a crucial detail, as your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in the Schengen area. Locate this date on the data page of your passport.
Input the date in the DD/MM/YYYY format (Day/Month/Year). For instance, if your passport expires on July 20, 2026, enter 20/07/2026.
Ensure your passport’s expiry date meets the Schengen requirements to avoid application rejection. A passport expiring soon may lead to delays or denial of your visa.
Section 3: Purpose of Travel
Section 3 of the Schengen visa application focuses on the reason for your travel. This section requires precise information regarding your intended activities within the Schengen area. You’ll need to specify the Number of Entries Requested (single, double, or multiple) in Field 9.
Fields 10, 11, and 12 ask for the Duration of Stay, Intended Date of Arrival, and Intended Date of Departure, respectively. Ensure these dates align with your travel itinerary and planned activities.
Be truthful and consistent with the information provided, as discrepancies can lead to visa refusal. Clearly state whether your trip is for tourism, business, visiting family, or other purposes.
Number of Entries Requested ⎼ Field 9
Field 9 on the Schengen visa application form requires you to indicate the number of entries you request. You have three options: single entry, double entry, or multiple entries.
A “single entry” means you can enter the Schengen area only once during the visa’s validity. “Double entry” allows two entries, and “multiple entries” permits unlimited entries within the visa’s duration.
Choose carefully based on your travel plans. If you plan to leave and re-enter the Schengen area, select double or multiple entries. Incorrect selection may cause issues at the border.
Consider your itinerary and select the option that best reflects your intended travel pattern.
Duration of Stay ⎻ Field 10
Field 10 of the Schengen visa application form asks for the “Duration of Stay,” expressed in days. This refers to the total number of days you intend to spend within the Schengen area during your trip.
Calculate this carefully, counting each day you’ll be present, including your arrival and departure days. The maximum stay allowed on a Schengen visa is 90 days within any 180-day period.
Ensure the duration aligns with your travel itinerary and the purpose of your visit. Providing an inaccurate duration can lead to visa refusal or issues at immigration.
Be realistic and honest when filling out this field to avoid complications.
Intended Date of Arrival ⎼ Field 11
Field 11 on the Schengen visa application requires your “Intended Date of Arrival” in the Schengen area. This is the date you plan to first enter any of the Schengen countries.
Provide a specific date in DD/MM/YYYY format. Avoid vague responses like “around June” or “next month.” Accuracy is crucial for processing your application.
This date should correspond with your confirmed travel arrangements, such as flight or train bookings. While not always mandatory to have bookings at the time of application, it’s advisable.
Ensure the date is consistent with the “Duration of Stay” you specified in Field 10. Any discrepancies may raise concerns with the visa authorities.
Intended Date of Departure ⎼ Field 12
Field 12 of the Schengen visa application requests your “Intended Date of Departure” from the Schengen area. This signifies the date you plan to leave for your home country or another destination outside Schengen.
Enter a precise date using the DD/MM/YYYY format. Avoid ambiguous phrasing like “end of July” or “sometime in August.” Clarity is essential for a smooth application process.
This date must align with the “Duration of Stay” indicated in Field 10. The total length of your stay within the Schengen area should be accurately reflected.
Consistency between arrival and departure dates is vital. Discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection of your visa application, so double-check your entries.
Section 4: Address Information
Section 4 of the Schengen visa application form focuses on your current residential address. Accurate and complete address details are crucial for processing your application and potential communication.
Field 13 requires your “Current Home Address.” Provide your full address, including street number, street name, postal code, city, and country. Ensure the information matches official documentation.
This address should be your primary residence – the place where you usually live. If you’ve recently moved, use your new address.
Accuracy is paramount. Any discrepancies between the address on your application and supporting documents could raise concerns and potentially delay your visa approval.
Current Home Address ⎻ Field 13
Field 13, “Current Home Address,” is a vital component of the Schengen visa application. This section demands a precise and complete record of your primary residence.
You must provide your full address details: street number and name, postal code, city, and country. Ensure consistency with supporting documents like utility bills or official correspondence.
The address provided should be your usual place of residence – where you typically live. Temporary addresses or PO boxes are generally not accepted.
Double-check for accuracy! Errors or inconsistencies can lead to delays or even rejection of your visa application. A clear and verifiable address is essential for successful processing.
Section 5: Details Regarding Travel
Section 5 of the Schengen visa application focuses on comprehensive travel details. Accurate information is crucial for assessing your travel intentions and ensuring a smooth visa process.
This section requires you to specify your ‘Main Destination’ (Field 14). This is the Schengen country you intend to visit first or spend the most time in. It dictates which consulate processes your application.
You’ll also detail the number of entries requested (single, double, or multiple) and the duration of your intended stay within the Schengen area. Precise dates of arrival and departure are essential (Fields 11 & 12).
Ensure consistency between your travel itinerary and the information provided in this section. Any discrepancies may raise concerns and potentially lead to application refusal.
Main Destination ⎼ Field 14
Field 14, ‘Main Destination,’ is a critical component of the Schengen visa application. This designates the first Schengen country you’ll enter or the one where you plan to spend the longest duration.
Selecting the correct main destination determines which consulate handles your application. It’s vital to choose accurately, as submitting to the wrong consulate will cause delays or rejection.
If your intended stay is equal across multiple Schengen countries, the first point of entry becomes your main destination. Provide the city and country name clearly.
This information must align with your travel itinerary and supporting documents. Inconsistencies can raise red flags and jeopardize your visa approval. Double-check for accuracy before submission!
Section 6: Data Protection Declaration
Section 6 of the Schengen visa application form concerns data protection, outlining how your personal information will be processed. It’s a legally required declaration ensuring transparency and safeguarding your rights.
Applicants acknowledge that their data will be used for visa processing, border control, and potentially, to prevent, detect, and investigate immigration offenses. This includes sharing data between Schengen states.
The declaration states your right to access, rectify, and erase your data, according to national laws. You can request information on how your data is handled and seek corrections if needed.
By signing the form, you consent to this data processing. Understanding this clause is crucial; it confirms your awareness of how your information will be utilized throughout the visa procedure.
Understanding the Data Protection Clause
The data protection clause within the Schengen visa application form is paramount. It details how your personal information is handled by authorities, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
This clause confirms that your data will be processed for visa evaluation, border management, and potentially, to address or prevent illegal immigration activities. Data sharing occurs amongst Schengen Area nations.
Crucially, it grants you the right to inquire about your data’s usage and request corrections or deletion, adhering to the national laws of the examining state. This empowers applicants with control.
Expressing your request to the examining authority activates these rights. Understanding this clause is vital; it’s a legal safeguard ensuring your data privacy is respected throughout the process.
Exercising Your Rights Regarding Personal Data
The Schengen visa application form explicitly outlines your rights concerning personal data. Upon request, the authority processing your application must inform you how to access, verify, and rectify your information.
This includes understanding the procedures for correcting inaccuracies or requesting data deletion, all within the framework of the relevant national laws of the Schengen state handling your case.
To initiate this process, a formal request to the examining authority is essential. They are legally obligated to respond and provide details on exercising these rights.
This transparency ensures accountability and empowers applicants to maintain control over their personal information throughout the visa application journey, safeguarding their privacy.
Online Application Options (Videx)
For a streamlined experience, consider completing your German Schengen visa application online through Videx. This platform, accessible at https://videx.diplo;de, offers a convenient alternative to the PDF format.
Videx supports multiple languages, including Deutsch, English, العربية, , Français, Bahasa Indonesia, فارسی, Português, Русский, Español, Türkçe, and Tiếng Việt, catering to a diverse range of applicants.
The online form mirrors the PDF version, ensuring a consistent application process. Simply create an account, fill in the required fields, and submit your application electronically.
Videx simplifies the process, allowing for easy editing and submission, ultimately enhancing the overall Schengen visa application experience.
Available Languages on Videx
Videx, the online platform for Schengen visa applications, prioritizes accessibility by offering the application form in a multitude of languages. This ensures applicants can complete the form in their preferred language, minimizing errors and promoting clarity.
Currently, Videx supports the following languages: Deutsch, English, العربية, , Français, Bahasa Indonesia, فارسی, Português, Русский, Español, Türkçe, and Tiếng Việt. This extensive list caters to a broad international audience.
Selecting your language is a straightforward process during the application setup on Videx.
This multilingual support demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and simplifies the application process for individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds, improving the overall user experience.
Country-Specific Versions of the Form
While the Schengen visa application form is harmonized across the Schengen Area, certain countries offer versions tailored to their specific requirements or translated into their official languages.
These country-specific versions often include additional information or instructions relevant to applying through that particular nation’s consulate or embassy.
Applicants are encouraged to check the website of the specific Schengen country they are applying to, to determine if a country-specific form is available.
Accessing these versions in both English and the local language can be beneficial for clarity and ensuring all necessary details are provided correctly, boosting approval chances.
Tips for Successful Application Submission
Ensure the Schengen visa application form is completed accurately and truthfully. Inconsistencies or false information can lead to rejection.
Double-check all fields before submission, paying close attention to dates, passport details, and the purpose of your travel.
Utilize the online Videx platform for a streamlined application process, selecting your preferred language from the available options.
Gather all required supporting documents as outlined by the specific Schengen country’s consulate or embassy, and submit a complete application package.
Remember, a well-prepared and thoroughly reviewed application significantly increases your chances of a successful visa outcome.
