How To Apply For Schengen Visa From Canada
Imagine walking in the streets of Paris, looking at the Colosseum in Rome, or sipping coffee in a cosy Amsterdam cafe. If you're still in Canada and dreaming of exploring the many wonders of Europe, then you would need to get a Schengen visa to make that happen. This visa is your ticket to freely travel within most European countries, from the romantic cities of France to the scenic landscapes of Switzerland. In this article, we will discuss the entire process so you can start planning your European journey from Canada.
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What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a special type of visa that now allows travellers to move freely between 27 European countries. These countries make up what is referred to as the Schengen Area, where one can roam across borders without having to check his or her passport every time one reaches a new place. With a Schengen visa, one can live in these countries for up to 90 days in 180 days for tourism, business, or family visits. It becomes easy to travel because you do not need many visas for different countries within this zone.
Documents Needed for Application
The eligibility to apply for a Schengen visa from Canada can only be established by specific documents. Here's the list of the documents you will most likely need for your application:
Valid Passport: It must have been issued less than 10 years ago, have at least two blank pages, and be valid for at least three months after your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area.
Canadian Resident Status: Valid Canadian permanent resident card or visa that allows you to re-enter Canada at least three months after your date of return.
Visa Application Form: For every country in the Schengen, there is a specific application. Just visit the consulate website of the country that you are applying through.
Passport Photograph: One recent passport-sized photograph following specific conditions and requirements of the visa.
Travel proof: You are required to have a return ticket flight reservation or itineraries of travel within the Schengen zone.
Accommodation: This includes any form of hotel reservation, invitation letter from a host, or rent agreement.
Travel Health Insurance: One must have insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies in the Schengen Area.
Proof of finances: Bank statements, etc. showing that you have the financial capability to sustain yourself while abroad.
Cover letter: Explain the purpose and plan for your trip.
Getting all these documents takes some time. So, plan in advance. If you are not certain about some requirements, contact the embassy or consulate you're applying with.
Steps to Apply for Schengen Visa from Canada
Applying for a Schengen visa doesn't have to be that hard. After all, it is very clear and straightforward if broken down into steps. Here's how you can apply:
Identify the Right Embassy/Consulate: You will apply for your visa from the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country where you will spend most of your time. In case you have multiple countries to visit with no specific destination, you apply via the embassy of the country you will first enter.
Schedule an Appointment: Most consulates require you to book an appointment to submit your application. Please check the official website of the embassy or consulate for scheduling purposes.
Prepare Your Documents: You should collect all the documents required, such as your passport, photos, financial proof, and other necessary paperwork, to be prepared so that everything is correct and complete to avoid delays.
Submit your application and appear for an interview: On the day of your appointment, carry all your documents and report early. Consulate officials will review your application and might ask you some questions regarding your journey and personal details. Be honest and be clear.
Application Fee: All application fee is charged, depending on the country you apply from but for Canada generally costs about 90 CAD for adults, however, sometimes the consulates only accept certain types of payment; thus, this must be checked in advance.
Application process/Procedure: Once submitted, your application will proceed to processing. Here again, you should be available since you would be contacted for any additional documents or verification required.
Once your application is accepted, the consulate will contact you with directions on how to retrieve your passport, which contains the visa, or directly mail it to your home, depending on which services the consulate may also provide.
How long does it take to process the application?
While it takes a processing time of 15 days for a Schengen visa from Canada, the processing period can be extended depending on peak travelling seasons or delays and may reach up to 30 to 60 days. It is therefore advisable to apply at least a month before intending to leave.
Some of the applicants may even be granted their visa well in advance; in fact, people who have previously visited the Schengen Area stand a good chance. If you are out of time, you can contact the consulate to find out whether there is an expedited facility for processing a visa (though this seems to be mostly true for most Schengen visas).
Conclusion
Applying for a Schengen visa in Canada can be quite doable if you are prepared for everything. Beginning from when you collect your documents, and make your way to the consulate, every step leads you closer to your desired European adventure. Start your application early, cross-check all the requirements, and very cautiously follow the instructions of your chosen consulate. Before you know it, you'll get ready to explore Europe's fabulous views, its histories, and vibrant cultures!
