Visiting Europe on a Schengen Visa-V: More About Insurance

As with many rules, some of those who apply for the Schengen visa are unfortunately looking for ways to circumvent the rules regarding the travel insurance policy imposed by the Schengen countries. However, not only is it a bad idea, it is also illegal, and could lead to very serious consequences. Some applicants purchase insurance for Europe travel just for the visa application, and then proceed to cancel it. However, this is a very dangerous practice, especially for those with passports from countries which have a history of emigration. Consider the fictitious case of 22-year-old Arjun Shah, who traveled to […]

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Visiting Europe on a Schengen Visa-IV: Insurance Requirements

Travel to Europe can be fascinating, and is easier with the introduction of the Schengen visa. When applying for the visa, one of the requirements is to show the existence of travel medical insurance that fulfils the prerequisites imposed by the visa consulates. The international travel medical insurance purchased must provide coverage of at least �30,000 ($45,000) per person. It is important to buy insurance that will cover minor fluctuations in exchange rates. Coverage must also include emergency repatriation to the home country for medical emergencies. Any insurance claim must be recoverable in the Schengen area, which means that the […]

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Visiting Europe on a Schengen Visa-III: Documents Needed

After looking at Visiting Europe on a Schengen Visa-I: Valid Countries and Where To Apply, let us now figure out what documents are required (yes, travel insurance is among them) to apply for a Schengen visa. First, after you have decided the embassy at which you must apply for the Schengen visa, you must apply for the visa at least six weeks in advance of your proposed departure. Some of the common documents required for the Schengen visa are: Two passport size photographs. Please check the size and other specifications on the Schengen visa application form. Valid passport, and one […]

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Visiting Europe on a Schengen Visa-II: Where to Apply

Continuing on our series on the Schengen visa and the requisite travel insurance, when 25 countries are involved, the natural question that is asked is: Where do I apply for a Schengen visa? If you indeed require a visa (U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Schengen countries), you need to figure out your travel plans in more detail, including your first port of entry and your �base� or main destination. You must apply for the Schengen visa at the consulate of the country that you will visit for the longest duration; and if there is no main […]

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Visiting Europe on a Schengen Visa-I: Valid Countries

The rates of international travel and travel insurance are dropping due to the economy, but those with wanderlust have a bonanza in the form of the Schengen visa. The Schengen visa, or Europe travel insurance, has made travel across most of Europe easier and simpler, covering 25 countries in the European region. Remember, however, that not all European countries are part of the Schengen agreement to require a common visa. The United Kingdom, for example, has chosen not to participate in it, and so, if you want to visit that country, you will need a separate visa. The 25 countries […]

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Common information for Schengen Visa Applicants

If you intend to transit through or visit several Schengen states (Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway) for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes you have to obtain your Schengen visa from the Consulate of the country of your main destination. If your main destination cannot be ascertained, the country you first enter is responsible for granting your visa.Schengen visas for stays over 90 days are not available. It must be noted that the border authorities are entitled to examine whether, at the time of entry, the […]

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What are the documents required while applying for the Schengen visa?

2 application forms (completely filled in) with photograph. Valid passport (validity must extend until at least 3 months after the end of the planned journey). Copy of itinerary with confirmed reservation, airline ticket to be presented prior to issuance of visa. Proof of sufficient means of support e.g. bank statements, proof of income or an invitation letter and sponsorship declaration from your relatives / friends in a Schengen country. Letter from your company giving details about your business trip. Proof of health insurance cover for your stay in the Schengen area to be presented prior to issuance of visa. Visa […]

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What are the different types of Schengen visa?

Transit visa: This visa allows you to pass through one or more Schengen member states on your way to a country outside the Schengen space. This visa can be valid for up to 5 days.Validity: 1 to 5 days Number of entries authorized: 1 or 2 Airport transit visa: This visa allows you to transit through the international zone of a French airport with no access to the Schengen space, before flying on to your final destination. Short stay Schengen visa: This visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Space, including France, and spend a maximum of 90 […]

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