As the travel season approaches, experts are advising those planning to visit the Schengen Area to apply for their visas well ahead of time.

The Schengen visa grants travelers the freedom to move within 27 European countries, including popular destinations like France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, for up to three months within 180 days, for tourism and other purposes.

Best Time to Apply for Schengen Visa

Visa processing experts recommend submitting your Schengen visa application at least three to four weeks before your intended departure.

This ensures there is ample time for processing and helps avoid any last-minute rush. However, if your destination country has a high volume of applications, such as Germany or France, it is advised to apply even earlier to account for potential delays.

Travelers should also be aware of peak periods, including summer holidays and major international events when visa applications tend to surge.

During these busy times, applying well in advance is crucial, as processing times can be longer.

Typically, visa processing takes a minimum of 15 days, but in some cases, it can extend up to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and other factors. Therefore, early submission is key to ensuring there are no travel disruptions.

Visa Fees

As of January 2024, the cost for a Type C Schengen visa for adult applicants in Pakistan is 90 euros. For minors between the ages of 6 and 12, the fee is reduced to 45 euros.

The Schengen visa allows travel to 27 countries, including Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, and more, offering seamless travel across the region for short stays.

How to Apply

To apply, experts recommend visiting the consulate, embassy, or visa application centers of the relevant Schengen country.

Applicants should complete the necessary forms and schedule an appointment well in advance to ensure timely processing.