dubai tourist visa for schengen visa holders

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• Visit Dubai
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Visa information

Planning a trip to Dubai? Find out whether you need a visa and how to apply.

Do you need a visa?

Relocate to Dubai

Whether working remotely from Dubai, permanently moving your business, or coming for retirement, there are lots of options for you to enjoy the full benefits of being a Dubai resident.

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If you wish to open a business or invest in property in Dubai, you can apply for five and ten-year residency visas, with a possibility to also bring your business partners and family.

Residency for specialist talent

If you are a specialist in fields of science, medicine, sport, culture, or art, Dubai offers growing opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities to grow your talent. Apply for this ten-year visa and reach your potential.

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Start your next chapter and make the most of your freedom in one of the world’s most connected, dynamic, and safest cities with Dubai's Golden Retirement Visa.

Are visas affected by coronavirus/COVID-19?

Do I need a visa to enter Dubai?

How do I apply for a Dubai tourist visa?

How long can I stay in the UAE?

What is the validity period of my visa?

What nationalities are entitled to a visa on arrival in Dubai?

What should I check before travelling to Dubai?

Can I get visa on arrival in Dubai, or do I need to apply in advance?

Can I stay in Dubai without a visa?

Do I need a transit visa for 2-8 hours in Dubai?

Do Schengen visa holders require a visa for Dubai?

Fly with Emirates

Before you fly

UAE Visa Information

There may still be COVID-19 travel restrictions in some countries. Check our COVID-19 hub before you travel.

Do I need a visa for the UAE?

You’ll find information about visas below. Use our quick visa search tool to see if you need a visa and the passport requirements for visiting the UAE.

UAE visa on arrival

Preapproved uae visas, prearranged uae visas, sponsoring someone to visit the uae, contact information, 30-day visit eligibility.

If you are a passport holder of the below country or territory, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply disembark your flight at Dubai International and proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge.

90-day visit eligibility

If you are a passport holder of one of the below countries or territories, your passport will be stamped with a multiple entry 90-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens of the below European countries are also entitled to apply for a pre-arranged visit visa if their 90-day visa on arrival has been fully utilized.

180-day visit eligibility

If you hold a Mexican passport you’re eligible for a multiple entry 180-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Dubai immigration procedures

As an added security measure, Immigration Authorities at Dubai International are now conducting random eye screening for visitors to Dubai.

Visitors asked to proceed for eye screening are required to present a hard copy of their visa or a printed version of the visa number confirmation page at the screening counter. If you do not have a copy with you, a charge of AED 30 per copy applies - payable only in AED.

Important information

Before you travel to the UAE, please check your visa requirements and make sure you have a valid visa if needed, or if your passport needs to be valid for 6 months. Holders of non-standard passports and travel documents may also have different entry requirements: find out if you need to apply for a visa and other passport requirements.

As of 29 April 2016, GCC residence permit holders will need to apply for a UAE visa before arriving in Dubai.

New visit entry permit to the UAE for Indian nationals

From 7 January 2024, eligible Indian nationals with a normal passport valid for a minimum of six months can obtain a single entry, 14-day visa on arrival. A fee of USD 63 applies.

Eligibility

• Indian passport holder with USA visa valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with USA green card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with UK residence card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with EU residence card from the following countries valid for a minimum of six months

How and where to apply for a pre-approved UAE visa

Eligible Indian nationals can apply for their UAE entry permit on emirates.com through Manage your booking .

• For Extension, Original passport and ticket copy required.
• Extensions can be made at the airport office only.

Required applicant documents.

• Colour photograph of applicant
• Colour copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months
• You can download the application form (available at all Emirates Ticketing Offices) in  Arabic (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  or English (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  depending on the applicant’s nationality.
• A copy of your Emirates Airline ticket, or codeshare flight that starts with the code “EK”, and the ticket number should start with “176”.
• Proof of relationship if applying for family member - birth certificate, marriage certificate and family book
• All Documents to be submitted as hard copy
• Additional documents may be required by the authorities.

Additional documents are required for visitors of some countries

Additional documents may be required, depending on your country of residence. Please use our visa search tool above or visit our visa requirements page for more information.

Rules and conditions

• Sponsor or applicant will be responsible for a visitor overstay and overstay fines.
• A Refundable deposit of AED 1000 for friend. Sponsor must claim the deposit within a maximum of 2 years from the application submission date.
• Refund of visa fee before processing of an application, AED 50 will be deducted on refund process.
• Visa fees must be paid upon application.
• Additional visa processing fees may apply.
• Visa fees are non-refundable.
• The ticket is non-refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized.
• Visa processing time is approximately 3 to 4 working days.
• Entry into the UAE is subject to immigration approval.
• All visas are valid to enter Dubai for 60 days from the date of issue, except the 96-hour and 48-hour visas, which are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

How and where to apply for your prearranged UAE visa

• Apply online through Manage your booking
• 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are valid for travel with Emirates tickets outbound from Dubai. You can only apply for a transit visa online or at the Emirates Commercial Visa APT office at Dubai International airport Terminal 3.

Apply online

Nationals of countries requiring a prearranged UAE visa can now apply and pay for their visas online through emirates.com.

If you are travelling to or stopping over in Dubai with Emirates, you can submit an application and receive your UAE visa entirely online – without having to submit your passport for stamping. You can apply for your UAE visa through our Manage your booking after you book your Emirates flight. VFS processing fees apply. For more information please visit VFS Global.

The online visa application service is available for residents and nationals of many countries around the world. Find out if you can apply for a UAE visa. Applicants' passports must have at least six months' validity as of their date of travel to Dubai, and must be machine readable passports – handwritten passports are not accepted.

This service is only available to passengers with a confirmed Emirates booking where an Emirates ticket has already been issued and the flight itinerary already includes the desired time in Dubai. The itinerary into and out of Dubai should be on one ticket (PNR), and these flights must be Emirates flights. Note that any itineraries including any flights to or from Dubai on other carriers are not eligible for the online visa service.

A minimum of four international working days prior to arrival in Dubai is required, however Emirates does recommend that online applications are made as early as possible.

Apply in the UAE

If you have a family member or near relative who is a UAE resident, they can apply for a visa on your behalf at any of our ticketing offices in the UAE. Please note that this service is only available to residents of the UAE.

Download the prearranged visa application form

Get started on your prearranged visa application by downloading and filling out the form.

Required applicant documents:

• A colour passport photograph
• A colour copy of your passport (must be valid for six months)
• The visa application form

Required sponsor documents:

Minimum salary required, download the sponsorship application form.

Get started on your sponsorship application by downloading and filling out the form.

Visa and sponsorship applications can be submitted to:

Abu Dhabi Emirates Ticketing Office: Al Sawari Tower C, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Visa Services: Monday to Thursday (8:30am to 5pm) Friday (8:30am to 4:30pm) Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays.

Ajman Emirates Ticketing Office Escape Tower, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 8pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Al Ain Emirates Ticketing Office Commercial Complex, Sheikh Khalifa Street Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8:30am to 6pm) and Saturday (8:30am to 5:30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Dubai International: Terminal 3 Arrivals Phone: 04 504 7300 E-mail: [email protected] Visa Services: Monday to Friday (7am to 7pm) and Saturday (9am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Emirates Group Technology Centre, Ground Floor Entrance B, Al Ittihad Road, near Clock Tower, Deira Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (10am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Town Centre, Jumeirah Visa Services: Daily from (10am to 4pm)

VFS Global Services GCC VASCO Worldwide 2nd floor, WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE

Sharjah Emirates Ticketing Office: Crystal Plaza, Buhaira Corniche Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 7pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

• Before You Fly
• Visa and Passport
• UAE visa information

How to Apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa in Dubai

Planning to go on a trip to France to see the Eiffel Tower? Or maybe search and experience the best chocolates in Belgium? or drink a bottle of one of the finest port wine in Portugal? Aside from getting all your bags packed preparing to go, you will need one important thing: a Schengen visa.

First of all, what is a Schengen Visa?

The term Schengen is coined from the Schengen Agreement, which was a mutual agreement/treaty on abolishing internal border checks between 26 European countries. You will be granted to visit the Schengen countries once you have this visa stamped in your passport.

– It allows the holder transit through or an intended stay in the territory of the Schengen States of a duration of no more than 90 days in any 180 day period (“short stay visa”),

– Or, it allows the holder transit through the international transit areas of airports of the Schengen States (“airport transit visa”).

In short, if someone other than a European Union, European Economic Area (EEA) or Swiss citizen wishes to enter the Schengen Area, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus or Romania they must have a visa or be a national of a visa-exempt country.

The following are Schengen countries:

Schengen Visa Application Visa Fees:

Vfs global in wafi mall: where to process schengen visa application in dubai, google map location of vfs global in wafi mall, guide to processing a schengen tourist visa in dubai.

1st Step: So the first step to do is to make up your mind on the country you would want to visit. If you have your itinerary in mind, the better since this will guide your decision as to which embassy you will need to apply for your visa. Just an example, if you wanted to go and visit Paris (city), you need to apply for a Schengen visa for France (country).

2nd Step: Step two is to schedule an appointment. You can go to the VFS Global website and choose the country where you are planning to visit in order to schedule an online appointment. It is recommended that the appointments be set as early as possible (2-3 months ahead) depending on the season/time of the year. The earlier you book the appointment means you will have more time for the visa application process.

UPDATE: While VFS Global handles a lot of the visa for European countries, NOT all countries are being handled by them. Take for example, if you need a Schengen Visa in Dubai for Italy, you need to go to Cox & Kings, if you need to get a Schengen Visa for Spain, you need to go to BLS Intl. Please be guided accordingly. (Thank you to one of our readers Carl Tupas, for pointing this out!)

3rd Step:  After booking an appointment schedule, you may start preparing the necessary supporting documents for your visa application.

 Documents for Schengen Visa Application:

1. Filled out application form. You can get the application form online on the country where you are planning to travel. If you plan to go to France, then you need to need to choose France from the VFS Global website.

2. Original Passport. Please secure a couple photocopies of the passport as well. The passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the Schengen area. It must also be issued within the previous ten (10) years and should at least have two (2) consecutive blank pages.

3. Original residence visa. Photocopies must be secured as well for submission. The residence visa should still be valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the Schengen area.

Note: Hosts, sponsors, institutions, companies, employers and other third party supporting a visa application should be informed that visa applications can only be submitted and withdrawn by the visa applicant. Consequently, no information will be given or action taken without written consent with signature by the visa applicant.

Particular to applications for business and visit purposes, can be supported by you with an explicit invitation (e.g. covering costs of accommodation and transport) or Letter of No Objection sent to the applicant. Please send those letters directly to the visa applicant in order for him/her to present it when submitting his visa application.

4. One (most recent) passport photo with white background. The photo needs to display a full frontal view of the face showing neutral expression (no smiling). The size of the face from the bottom of your chin to the hairline must be between 32mm (1 ¼ inches) and 36mm (1 3/8 inches).

5. Medical insurance for travel. The policy should cover the entire period of intended stay and must be valid for all Schengen States. The policy should be able to cover any expense which might happen in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, emergency hospital admission/treatment or death during your stay (min. coverage €30000).

6. Confirmed (and VALID) flight tickets.

7. Financial capacity proof. (Bank statements and payslip)

8. Certificate of Employment that indicates your start date, current work position and monthly salary.

9. Accommodation reservation (confirmation email from hotel and or car rentals). You may book a hotel/hostel via Booking.com here .

4th Step: Submit the Documents to the VFS Global Office during your Appointment Date. VFS Global is the office that processes applications on Schengen countries. It is located in Wafi Mall in Oud Metha. You may proceed to the specific VFS office country of your destination (i.e. if you are planning to visit Switzerland, then you need to go to the Switzerland department in the VFS office). Depending on the season, wait time may be as long as an hour or two, so better be prepared.

The VFS Global staff will need to check if your requirements are all in order. After that, they will also get your biometrics (fingerprints and picture). Your passport will be surrendered to them for the visa stamp (once your application is approved). They will give you a receipt attached to one of your passport copies which you must keep with you, and it will be needed this when you claim your passport.

The application fees may vary.  You may check with the corresponding country from the VFS Global website for a more updated information.

Visa processing – AED 300-500 VFS Service fee – AED 100

5th Step: Wait for the approval stamp. Normally the turnaround time is up to 15 working days, on some cases (off-peak season) it usually arrives as early as 3-5 days. They will send you a message (SMS) when your visa is approved. Head back to the VFS office to get your passport!

Be advised that it is important that you push through with your travel after you’ve gotten an approved visa stamp. This ensures that you are clear of your intentions of travel (for holiday). This also helps (but does not guarantee) in getting easier approvals for tourist visas when you apply for other Schengen destinations in the future.

Disclaimer: The above mentioned information are accurate as of writing. It is still recommended that you contact the embassy directly for any updates on the Visa application process.

Just a note to everyone, VFS Global is the office that handle visa applications in the UAE. They have an application center which is located in WAFI Mall. This is the third-party that processes your request that’s why there is no need to go to the Consulate or embassy as this is the official center  to handle these types of

VFS Global Application Center Contact Information Address: 2nd floor, WAFI Mall Level 2, Falcon Phase 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Website: www.vfsglobal.com Phone Number: +971 4 205 5666

Below is a guide map to provide directions on how to get to VFS Global office in WAFI Mall. Good luck in the application!

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Dubai Travel Blog

Schengen Tourist Visa Application Process in Dubai

We recently applied for a Schengen tourist visa for our Paris and Rome trip at the France embassy VFS Global office in WAFI Mall, and it only took us 3 days for our visa to be approved. This post aims to share our experience to help those who are also planning to travel to European countries and need to know how to apply for a visa. VFS Global in Dubai handles the visa procedure of many Schengen countries.

Dubai is a really great place for expats who want to travel to other destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa and so on. Dubai has busy airports, you can basically choose among many countries to visit with the UAE as a starting point. We hope this guide will help you as we tackle our experience applying for Schengen visa so we could visit France and Italy during our 9-day Europe trip.

Step by Step Guide in Getting a Schengen Visa in UAE

Schengen visa fees, google map location of vfs global in wafi mall, how to process a schengen visa in dubai at vfs global in wafi mall.

Please be advised that the information here is based on our experience applying at the WAFI Mall for a France tourist visa. Other country offices (Italy, Greece, etc.) may have a different processing time of approval.

What is a Schengen Visa?  Before anything else, you might wonder what a Schengen visa is.

Certain European countries have made an agreement/treaty which eliminates border checks between Schengen states. The following are the countries part of the Schengen area:  Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

This makes it easier because of you are travelling to these countries for a holiday, you can apply for a Schengen visa and be granted to visit them using that visa.

1. Choose your main country of travel.  Choose the country or countries you want to visit. This will determine which VFS application center (or other assigned office/agency) you will need to go. In our case, we were travelling to 2 countries, France and Italy, but our first point of entry and main destination is France, hence we needed to apply at the France VFS Global center.

Note on Travelling to More than one Schengen country: In the event that you will travel to different countries in the Schengen area, the embassy that you need to apply for the visa will be based on the country where you will spend the most number of days. But if you will spend equal amount of days in 2 or more countries, you will need to apply for the embassy of the first point of entry.

Also, make sure you go to the office assigned to handle the country. While many countries are under VFS Global, there are some countries where the visa is handled by a different agency. If your main country of travel is Italy, the agency handling it is  Cox & Kings handles Italy, If your main country of travel is Spain, the office that handles it is BLS Intl . So make sure to decide which country so you can go to that specific office.

2.   Book an Appointment online.  After choosing the country, you should set an appointment where you will submit all your documents and your application. You should book an appointment based on your main country. For France, we scheduled an appointment via VFS Global France site  – you need to sign up for an account to log in.

Tip: Kindly make sure that you book an appointment early (maybe 2-3 months before your trip) as the processing for approval may take time and to save you worry. When we booked our schedule, we realized the next available schedule was already less than 2 weeks before our actual date of travel. This caused us a bit of stress and worry because we’re not sure if our visas would get approved on time. 

3. Prepare Your Documents. Now that you have a date of appointment for appearance, you need to  prepare your documents. Make sure they are correct and complete. Below are the documents we’ve gathered:

– Filled-out Application Form – download the Schengen visa application form here. – short-stay visa checklist – download the checklist here – 2 passport photos – please make sure the photo is taken in the last 6 months as this what they asked from us during our appointment. – passport – valid for at least 90 days – UAE residence visa – valid for at least 90 days – NOC from employer – stating purpose of travel, position, monthly salary and begin date of employment in the UAE. – copy of 3-months personal bank statement – copy of itinerary (if the trip is prepared by travel agency) – copy of medical insurance – we bought the cheapest travel insurance from AXA Gulf (around 62 AED for 10 days) – copy of airline tickets – confirmed hotel booking – we booked a hotel via BOOKING.COM 

It took some time for us to create our itinerary (as this is a DIY Europe trip for us). But we were able to complete everything as requested which was great.

4. Go to the Appointment at VFS Global Office.  On the date of our appointment, we went to WAFI Mall to the VFS office to submit all our documents. There’s a bit of queue even if you’ve already booked a specific time. We probably stayed about less than an hour while waiting for our turn. Your documents will be scanned by the rep and they will assess what else may be lacking from the checklist. Once everything is good, you will line up for the fingerprinting and snapping of photo (to be used in the visa stamp). You will then be given a receipt to claim your passport once you will

5. Wait for the status approval. The VFS Global process will send an SMS message on your registered phone about the status of your application for every update. So you will be updated when the application is received, when it’s sent to the Consulate, when it’s sent back to VFS, and when it’s ready for pick-up. This was a very nice touch so you stay posted on the procedure. It took only 3 business days overall (including the day of appearance) for us to get our passports with our visas which was really nice.

waiting for our turn at the VFS Global office – France

How much is the cost of the Schengen visa application? The fees for the application may vary per country. Based on our France Schengen visa fees, we paid the following:

92 AED – appointment schedule booking at the VFS Global site 245 AED – visa processing 30 AED – Courier Service (Optional) – the passport will be delivered to your office workplace instead of picking it up back at WAFI Mall. 250 AED – Premium Lounge Service (Optional) – The VFS office has a premium lounge which is basically a much better service area while you wait for your turn in submitting your documents, you will also be given priority while you submit your application. However, this will not guarantee that the approval of your application.

The required payments were just the appointment and the visa processing which totalled to about 337 AED .

Status Approved – 90-Day Multiple Entry Visa Overall, we were glad to have processed our application swiftly. We were very happy upon seeing our passports with stamped visas with Multiple-Entry valid for 90 days (even if we only applied for a Single-Entry).

This means that after our trip, our Schengen visas are still valid so we could travel to other Schengen countries.

Please be advised that this may differ from every applicant so it’s really helpful if you have all documents required and completed. Also, try to make sure you have enough ‘funds’ in your bank statement to pay for the trip.

Schengen visa stamp – approved – multiple entry for 90 days

We hope you find this guide helpful as you try your luck in processing a visa. To get a more updated list of requirements and procedure, visit the France visa application center in Dubai website: http://www.vfsglobal.com/France/UAE/

For inquiries in your France visa application, you can also contact this number – +971 4-2055999

VFS Global France Address: 2nd floor, WAFI Mall Level 2, Falcon Phase 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Website: www.vfsglobal.com Phone Number: +971 4 205 5666

Below is a map to provide directions on how to get to VFS Global office in WAFI Mall.

150 thoughts on “Schengen Tourist Visa Application Process in Dubai”

Hello. Me and my husband are planning for europe tour in december. Do we have to prepare separate papers for the visa application? or can we apply together? I’m just concern with the show money on both of our bank accounts. Thank you.

Hi Desiree, I applied with my wife, mother-in-law and I. We are under my wife’s sponsorship. The application/appointment is considered as one, so you can apply together. But in our case, we all presented separate documents/papers. So it’s good that you and your husband both present your bank statements…

Hey! Thanks for the detailed blog. My husband, daughter and I just submitted our France visa application. However, a fees of 60 euro/245 aed per person was not charged at the time of appt booking. VFS only charged their service fee. when will the visa fees be charged?

hi sonia, im not sure when the fees will be charged in your case. good luck in the application though!

HI ED i applied from frnace embassy in abu dhabi, I showed 56000 aed annual salary, 20 000 aed bank balance I received the message from vfs stating passport is ready for collection within 2 days, Is that means visa refusal???are they processed so faster? I will be collecting passport on sunday?? Anyone has experience visa approval within days of processing in abu dhabi???

Hi Milan, This is the process of the VFS (they will send a text message to update you on the situation, much like a lot of Dubai government processes – medical exam, UAE visa application, etc.) This just means they are processing it. i think the best option is for you to contact the VFS to follow up with them about this.. —

Is that means visa refusal?? — no, it just means that you can collect the passport in 2 days. we don’t know yet if it’s approved or not. Anyone has experience visa approval within days of processing in abu dhabi??? — maybe somebody can answer this, but in our case in VFS Dubai France embassy, we were lucky it was processed quickly, like 3-4 days.

this is good that you are receiving updates now, so i guess you can wait for the text message to collect when it’s ready or you can contact VFS to verify your text message 🙂 good luck!

Did you get your visa approved? I’m just wondering since I am in the same situation now. I’m really worried lol thanks!

Dear Team, I would like to travel Spain I am currently working in Dubai my basic salary is 2000Aed I can apply or no ?

best regards,

Hi Azat, it would be up to the embassy to approve it in terms of your basic salary. There are other financial documents (banks statements) that is also required, so it would depend on the situation. In my case, I don’t have a ‘monthly salary’ as I am a dependent of my wife. However, I still presented bank statements with funds, and also applied together with my wife. Would suggest you contact the embassy for further inquiries.

In my opinion only, it would be good that you show proof when you apply that you can ‘afford’ to travel to the destination through these documents. Good luck.

HI ED, IF YOU DONT MIND WHAT YOU THINK HOW MUCH BALANCE I SHOULD BE HAVING IN MY ACCOUNT WHILE APPLYING. THANKS REGARDS

Hi Umar, I think that the balance should be enough for you to cover your expenses when staying in the country based on the number of days there. I think I had about 6000 aed in my bank account at the time, and we already paid for everything. I travelled with my wife and mother-in-law. This is not a guarantee though, if you check the thread, somebody had around 16,000 aed in their bank, but they did not get approved. it’s really a case to case basis. good luck

Hello. Thank you for this blog. I hope you don’t mind me asking some questions. I applied for Schengen VISA via Italian Consulate and my application was refused. Now, I want to try my luck applying for Schengen via French Embassy. Thanks in advance and here are my questions:

1. Is there specific amount needed in the bank account? 2. Did you use dummy tickets for application? 3. May I have a copy of your DIY itinerary? 4. How many days were your travel plan?

THanks so much.

Hi Mark. Sorry to hear about the denied application. Hope my answers help.

1. Is there specific amount needed in the bank account? — i can’t answer that. they didn’t require any specific amount, but it would be good that your bank account shows that you have regular monthly income, and that you have funds enough to cover the costs of your trip. 2. Did you use dummy tickets for application? no, we used tickets that could still be cancelled the last minute should our application get denied. 3. May I have a copy of your DIY itinerary? trying to look for it. lol. my apologies, i think we lost it. it was a simple itinerary. like 2 columns – date – tourist attraction 4. How many days were your travel plan? i think it was 9 days. as we travelled also to Rome (we stayed 5 days in france, and 4 days in rome.

Thanks bro for your response. May God bless you.

Hi Ed, Your blog is so helpful. I want to ask some things, 1. From france to Italy you already booked a ticket? 2. Is your hotel confirmed or just reservations? 3. Your plane ticket is confirmed or just reservations? Which airline? What if i will take 3 countries like France – Italy – Germany, do I need to go back to France to return to Dubai or I can do France- Italy -Germany -Dubai? 4. Do you have other travel history before France?

Thank you and I really appreciate if you could help me with my questions

Hi, Thanks for the message. 1. Yes, we had flight tickets ready from France to Italy (we got it via RyanAir) 2. We had confirmed bookings via Agoda (would recommend you 3. We got confirmed tickets via Emirates. — you don’t have to go back to the same country where you applied for the visa. But make sure you apply for a visa in the country where you stay the longest (or if it’s equal number of days, the first entry point). in our case, we spent 5 days France and 4 days in Italy. Hence, we applied a visa in France. Yes you can go directly to Dubai after Germany. 4. Yes, but only through Asian countries and some countries in the Middle East. I have not visited USA and this was my first European country.

Hello Mr. Ed,

I applied this last Feb 18 on schengen visa to Netherlands, and I only received sms which is my visa application has been forwarded to The Kindom of Netherlands what does it means? and after that no more sms or emails.

Dear Mr. Ed,

I would like to ask you after submission of visa application in Schengen visa in Dubai Wafi mall, What kind of msg I will receive? Because I only received was ” Your visa application has been forwarded in The Kingdom Of Netherland.” what does it means?

Thank you Jasmine

Hi Ja, As what I understand, your application has been forwarded to Netherlands embassy, because basically, the office in WAFI mall will just screen your requirements and papers. It is still up to the embassy (in Netherlands, because I believe you are travelling to Netherlands), to approve it. It just simply means your application is now with the Netherlands office. Please try to wait for days/weeks and you should get another SMS or email that you application results are ready. So now, you just have to wait.

Thank you for your reply..

How many days did your visa in holland approved? This is not my first time applying in holland but yet this is my first time i waited too long.. previously i waited only 3 days….

Hi. Lucky to find your blog. Me and my husband is planning to travel to paris and rome also this end of march for 4 days. We are thinking of 2 ways to get to paris and rome 1. Diy 2. Package tours from agency. My question is can we Present a confirmed dummy booking for air and hotel booking just for the purpose of getting schengen visa and once we get the approval , we’ll proceed to package tours from agencies? Your thoughts please. Thanks

Hi Erika, not sure what you mean by ‘confirmed dummy booking’ — a dummy booking means it is not real, right? basically once you have the schengen visa approved, you can surely get a packaged tour from an agency (as it may seem more convenient), so long as you will still enter in the same country where you’re applying…

Hi Ed. What is a good amount of funds in the bank. Just a rought idea.It’s going to be three of us. Me, my husband and daughter. However, im the only one required to get a visa since they’re both britiah citizens. Would be grateful for your help

hi Sana. oh that sounds good. for me i think the good amount of funds is based on the ‘average’ daily spend in the country, that you have enough budget to spend in the place (for food/transport/etc.). since in our case, we already had ‘booked flights/hotels/tours’. maybe 100 usd per day? i’ve heard some who have above 5K AED (traveling solo) who had visas approved. so just make sure you can cover a daily expense. hope my answer can help.

Is it necessary to show train bookings if i am travelling to different cities. Germany requirement list asked us to show air ticket

I don’t think it’s necessary to show train bookings since you will be in one country only for the duration of your stay. i think it’s best if you show to them your itinerary and the bank account should have sufficient funds that you can afford your whole travel… good luck.

Well documented accurate process, thank you.

Thanks Mark! tried to write this as detailed as possible.

Hi, I’m planning to travel in Italy this coming July, but I don’t know how to do an online appointment, and except for the visa application fee, appointment fee, courier fee, is there other fee we need to pay there, like is there an amount to be paid aside from those, answers are highly appreciated.thanks

Hi Marie, the appointment is done via Cox and Kings Italy website. If you are having a hard time, I recommend you try to ask a travel agency for their service if you don’t want to process the requirements by yourself. So far these were the only fees we paid in terms of the visa application. good luck!

Hi Ed, your blog is very helpful. I have some questions and hope you can advise/answer as I am planning to go to France this year(preferably ber months) but my residence visa expires on 11th of February(I heard the validity should be 3/6months? Not really sure :((

1. What month should I need to apply my visa? And which month need to get an appointment? 2. Is it fine if I’m gonna apply with the help of travel agency? 3. How much money should my bank has if I travel for 5days?

Your response is highly appreciated.

Hi Jaz, please see answers below. this is based on my knowledge only… the Schengen visa, i think the visa should be valid for 3 months — it should be in the application form/requirements from VFS.

1. What month should I need to apply my visa? And which month need to get an appointment? — i think earliest is 3 months before the flight. so you can get an appointment the soonest by then. 2. Is it fine if I’m gonna apply with the help of travel agency? — yes, they can process the papers for you, you pay them for the service. 3. How much money should my bank has if I travel for 5days? — it should have sufficient funds based on a 5-day budget when you stay in France. like how much you’re going to spend for each day should be what’s in your bank account (that’s our educated guess only).

Hi Mr. Ed…your blog is very helpful. I’m planning to travel to France on June 14 to 18 this year. I want to ask some questions.

1) If do you think 8 thousand aed will be a good fund in my bank account after hotel bookings and ticket for 5 days travel there? based on your experienced how much should be the budget per day?

2) Do you think I still have the time to process my visa application for the date of my travel?

3) Do you think it is okay for me to deposit more amount now to my bank to show more as I have only 8 thousand?

4) you mention that you travel with your wife and mother in law, How much was your budget for 3 of you per day?

Hope to hear from you the soonest.. Thank you in advance. ?

1. i think the amount is fine for 5 days given that you already have hotels and tickets already. basically you just need to feed yourselves and do daily transport. imagine if you budget in Dubai (which is also an expensive city). how much you budget for food. 8K for 5 days is more than enough. cannot really say how much the budget per day, maybe 100 usd is more than enough?

2. i think so. earliest you can process is 3 months before the flight, then the latest is 2 weeks before the flight. you still have at least 6 weeks. they only need around 3 business days to approve it or not. Maybe a week even.

3. Yes, i believe that would look much better that you have more money to spend in their country.

4. apologies, but i don’t have this information, i think it was maybe 150 usd per day (think of it like a ‘meal’, let’s say 20 euros per person per meal x 3 meals a day x number of days you’re going to stay there). the point is to make sure that you don’t become ‘beggar’s in their country. that you can ‘afford’ to travel and stay there.

what a relief to hear your answers Ed.. Thank you so much.. So I think I’m gonna really do this since it’s my birthday on June.. big help,your answers are much appreciated. ?

you’re welcome. good luck in your trip! please do try to contact VFS Global in WAFI if you have any other specific questions as they can best answer for you 🙂

Hi, I just want to ask regarding visa processing. I have appoitment on May28. I’m a little confused on what will I submit. For the application form. I also fill out all the necessary question on VSF Global site. Should I just print it or i need to hand written it?

Hi, print the application form and then fill it out with your details.

hi Mr. Ed… I have some more questions regarding the flught ticket and hotel booking. So I book a hotel in booking.com.. But that is like a reservation only since they didn’t take an amount from my card yet is that okay with applying the visa? And also regarding the flight ticket did you and your family book and paid a flight ticket? what if i will not get the visa? any suggestions for flight ticket? I got an appointment to vfs on may 15. hope to hear from you again. thanks..

Hi Joana – im not sure what’s the status of that reservation, but is it a ‘confirmed’ reservation? so long as you have proof that you are already booked with the hotel (showing that you have accommodation during your stay), i think it’s fine. As for flight ticket, we booked confirmed flight tickets that we could still cancel in case we don’t make it. that would be the risk if you don’t book a flight ticket that cannot be cancelled, so try looking for a travel agency or airline that you can book but can still cancel.

ohw yeah it’s showing confirmed. only the flight ticket is my problem now. I didn’t try to go to travels yet to ask, i’m checking online but the tickets that are refundable are too expensive. hehe… thanks for your reply again..

no problem. good luck!

Hello can anybody please guide me how much bank statement require for schengen viza . Am only one person and i want visit for 3 days in france and 2 days in spain . i shall be thankful if someone tel me that how mininum much bank statement i required at the time to apply viza . Thankyou

Hi Faizan, it would be best that you contact the embassy or VFS where you’re going to apply for the visa for assistance. as what i understand, bank statement should show that you have enough funds (coming in regularly) and that you can ‘pay’ for your travel. just try to think of a budget per day based on the country where you’re going to stay multiplied by the number of days. again this is just an opinion and would be best to contact authorities.

I have an appointment on 17th May. Exit date is 30th June. My Sharjah visa expires on 15th Aug. I have processed my visa renewal today. I doubt my visa renewal will happen before 17th. Should i rebook an appointment once i get my visa renewed. As it states 90days from the date of exit from France visa shud be valid while applying.

Please advise..

hi jayesh, i don’t understand your question, but please try to contact VSF france for assistance regarding your inquiry.

hi mr Ed… do you have any idea how i will appeal for my visa application rejection? my visa application was denied i don’t know if it’s bcoz of my fund..but i am applying for 5 days only and i have 16 thou aed in my bank.. do you think isn’t it enough? my passport will expire on november and visa on october. my travel date june 14.. is it bcoz of it? but it says in the requirements that 90 days validity is fine. i’m sad about the rejection ?

Hi Joanna, sorry to hear about it. I don’t know what to do to appeal the rejection. it would be best you contact VSF for advice. that’s their rules when we also applied for it (re: 90 days), but i could not really tell why they rejected it. i hope you get advice from them so they can also share what you can do.

Hi Joana, it is possible that the reason of rejection sf because your visa will expire soon. I have the same problem before so i waited for my visa to be renewed then applied for Schengen Visa.

Hi Ed, We have an appointment for Schengen visa by end of this month. My husband is under my sponsorship but he is currently doesn’t have a job. Do you think this will affect our application? We have separate bank statements. Do you think we should provide additional documents for my husband?

Appreciate your response. Thanks,

Hi Liz, i really would not be able to answer for VSF if they will approve it or not. I think it’s good to provide additional bank account for your husband (providing that he has funds in it), but this is just my opinion. We also included our marriage certificate as an additional document. But best to really contact VSF.

My travel is quite different from yours. Planning to visit Prague – Vienna – Bratislava – Budapest for 15 days and my questions are

1. Is it ok if i will book 2 different Airlines? Like flydubai from DxB to Prague and different Airlines fron Budapest back to Dxb, so it 2 separate tickets

2. Upon checking I’ll be going by bus or trains going from country to country, do I need to book in advance the bus/trains tickets together with my documents when i submit it?

3. I am quite new to my company, 10 months upon applying for my visa and exactly one year of my intended travel dates, is there a concern with this matter?

I really appreciate if you could give me some advice base on your experience. Thank you very much

Hi HA, Please be advised that these are just my OPINIONS and for further consultation, it’s best to contact VSF directly.

1. It should be fine so long as you have flight tickets (they’re not picky on airlines so long as you really are coming back to Dubai) 2. i cannot answer for this as we didn’t ride any trains between countries (but i think if you book in advance, the better as this shows a clear plan for them to see, but again, this is still a case to case basis). 3. i don’t think it’s a big factor. so long as you fulfill the requirements needed and you have the capacity to pay for your trip.

Hello what about long stay visa processing time? Thanks

Hi Sajed, I would not be able to share my insights on that. Please contact VSF for further questions.

Your blog is really helpful. Please keep it going.

I’m planning to go to France, Rome and Norway. Do i have to apply for a separate Visa for each country? And do i really have to get a Medical Insurance? because base on what I have read in the internet it costs €3000 only for 9 days and that would be more or less 120K AED. Please advise.

Hi, Thanks for the message. No you don’t need to apply for each visa for each country (so long as these countries belong to one Schengen estate) — you only need to apply for a visa for the country where you’re going to spend the most number of days. — please verify this with VSF.

As for the other question — re: medical insurance — please double check with the company where you got that information. Try to say “Medical Insurance for TRAVEL Purpose” or just simply say “TRAVEL Insurance” — tell them it’s good for 90 days. we paid ours via AXA Insurance for less than 100 AED. or you can try asking other insurance providers. Please check with an insurance agent that offers “Travel Insurance” and also, please check with VSF

Thank you so much for your response Ed. Helps a lot. More power to you.

hi mark, would like to ask if what month you applied for the shengen visa in vfs france dubai? because we got our appointment at vfs abu dhabi and it is less than 2 weeks before our travel dates. Got really worried about it.

Were you able to get the visa before your travel dates even you applied less than 2 weeks? Having the same problem as yours. 🙁

Dear Mr. Mark Thanks in advance for your help.

I want to apply Schengen for Lithuania visa, Spain embassy is looking after Lithuania visa. May I know how to get appointment and what are the steps to apply.

also please suggest if this is a good idea as I heard they have the highest acceptance rate.

Regards Noman

Hi Ed, I want to know if am allowed to apply for France tourism visa,am working in UAE Since 2008, my position as a office assistant, and my salary is 3200dh please help me with my answer, thanks you

Hi Sumon, I think anybody is eligible to apply for a Schengen visa (France) so long as you are able to submit all necessary documents. It will be up to the embassy to approve your application or not. They did not say any ‘minimum’ amount of salary, but in a way, it should help that you are able to ‘afford’ your planned trip. Would suggest you contact VFS for more details.

Hi Ed, Do you have an idea if its possible for a German National to sponsor my trip to France? If he sends me an invitation letter, would that be sufficient and acceptable to the France Consul? Do you have an idea? Please advise.

Thanks in advance.

Hi, I would not be able to advise on this as it is best for VFS to answer this question. In terms of sponsoring, are you referring to accommodation? – I think if you are going to stay in a house/apartment of another person, it should be a resident of the place (France in this case). I think it’s good that your sponsor will definitely take responsibility for your stay and to provide a letter for that — this is what other people are doing if they have ‘friends/family’ who are residents of that country and will vouch to take care of your ‘accommodation’. But it’s still best to verify with VFS.

Hi Ed! I just wanna share my experience last year with the Austrian embassy. I was planning to visit my BF in Austria. My BF had to collect a few documents as well coz he sponsored me. He submitted his Bank Statement, payslip, electronic guarantee letter or EVE which has been approved by the Federal Ministry of Austria, title deed etc. On my appointment day I submitted all my docs in VFS. Everything went well after a few days they sent me a mail saying my application has been sent to the Austrian embassy in Abudabhi. After a day they sent me another mail saying my application is on process. After a few days a representative from the Austrian embassy sent me a mail. She sent me an attachement where it shows the checklist. My documents had all check mark except my Bank Statement. She asked me a stupid question where and how i took the 11k aed?! So I replied her. I told her that those were my savings from very long time ago and salary, I was depositing money every month. Then the next day she put a checkmark on Bank Statement list. BUT! he put a crossmark to my BF’s EVE! which was a checkmark before! and take note, it has been already approved by the F. Ministry of Austria. My BF got pissed, so he wrote back to the representative and asked what does she wants more if it has stamp by the ministry. The representative replied and told him to go back again to the office and ask for a letter of approval. My BF had no choice but to go back again. After a few days we sent it to her. Then after a day we got replied from her, the EVE has already checkmark BUT! She put a cross mark to my NOC! which has a checkmark before! She said the format should be like this blah blah blah. So I went to my company and asked the HR staff to change it, and I scanned it and Submitted to her the next day. And then you wont believe what happened next. She told us that all our documents should be translated all in german and whenever we write her it should be in German language only. So I freaked out! She should have told us at the beginning that it should be like that including my Bank Statement, NOC, etc. I dont know if thats really a requirement? I just speak a bit german and if she wants me to reply her in german and my docs all in german then i will really have a hard time! she really gave us a hard time and i think shes just playing with us and no intention of approving my application. Since my vacation was almost over and i ran out of time, my BF and I just decided to back out. We did everything but still the representative was being unreasonable.

so sorry to hear about your experience, hope that others reading this will get an idea about your situation.

Hi Ed, is the short stay visa checklist a mandatory document we need to carry when we go for the appointment? As this document was not listed on the vfs website.

Hi JM, i don’t remember anymore if this is mandatory. i think the guys at the desk have a copy/checklist as well and will confirm your presented documents anyway — but please don’t take my word for it and contact VFS offic to verify.

Hi, I just want to ask if its okay to have a show money only as I only have a saving accounts from my country of origin? I only have a current account here in Dubai which is basically used only for Salary Transfer. More or less I will carry around 35,000 AED as I am planning to visit France,Spain and Italy?

Sittie: the requirement from the VFS office doesn’t indicate a ‘show money’ so better to deposit your money in your Dubai bank account. I believe you can still deposit your 35K AED back to your current account. Please contact VFS for more details though.

Is it possible If we will apply together for Schengen Visa, I do have a 2-years visa here in UAE and my husband do have a 90 days UAE tourist visa. TIA.

Hi Wendy, I don’t think it’s possible for your husband to apply, because the requirement they need is a ‘UAE residence visa’ — and your husband only has a ‘tourist visa’. So it needs to be converted to a residence visa. Pls contact the VFS for clarification though.

I am planning to apply for a schengen through czech republic and got an appointment for 5th August the thing is that I am willing to travel in 21st August and after my appointment on 5th i am hardly getting 16 days for processing is that enough time to get it done ? How much time it normally takes for normal application roughly I mean …

Hi Uzair, I would not be able to advise on that. Please check with the Czech Republic consulate/embassy/VFS office. I think the latest is 2 weeks before (based on our experience with France VFS office). We got our visa in 3-4 business days after we applied. Again, the best people to answer that would be official reps handling these applications. We got lucky during our application. Good luck!

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Hi ,Ed Iam working in Dubai I want to tourist Portugal But my salary not come bank it’s come on exchange so don’t have account I have my salary slip I can apply for the tourist visa

Hi Pandi, I’m not sure if you can apply for Schengen visa using salary slips. I believe the embassies need a bank statement aside from making sure that you regularly get your salary, that you have official ‘savings’ stored in your account under your name. Why not try to open a UAE bank account and from there you can deposit your salary after getting it from the Exchange center? But please try to contact the office to clarify this info.

Just want to ask my husband and I are planning to on Europe tour FRANCE-ITALY-GREECE-UAE, however there is one problem his UAE visa is from Abu dhabi coz he’s working there and mine is here from Dubai. They said you should apply where your UAE visa is registered. Does it mean that we won’t be able to apply together, it would be separate? he will be applying in abu Dhabi and me here in dubai? so much hassle.

Hi , it does sound like a hassle if you have to apply in separate places just because of your visas. Would recommend that you try to contact VFS Dubai or Abu Dhabi because technically, I believe all applications will be forwarded to the same embassy. So better to contact VFS directly. Good luck!

I hope you’re doing great.

Upon reading your page, I had a bit of chances for expecting that our visa will be release soon. Same as what happened to yours. We applied visa last August 16 and our expected departure will be on the 30th. We never expect that it will be 3 weeks as what they are telling and with the VFS site as well. I was just somehow bothered and hoping we can get it despite of this EID breaks. 🙁

Hi Marie, Yes it is bothersome due to the time and the holidays. It really depends on them, good luck!

More power to you mate. Your response is a great help to many like me.

My concern: I have applied for me and my family’s Czech Republic tourist visa on 30th July 2018 at VFS Dubai.

Since 31st July it shows the same status as “Your application is under process at Embassy of Czech Republic, Abu Dhabi on 31st July 2018”.

My flight is on 31st August and I am very much worried now as it is more than 23 days and the status is still the same. Do you have any idea what best can I do in such situation? I have already sent email to VFS as well as to Consulate 3 days back and Consulate asked me to contact VFS. Waiting for response from VFS on this since it was holidays the next day after I sent the email.

Please advise the best step I should take to avail my visa asap.

Thanks, Mohsin!

Hi Mohsin, Yes I understand the feeling. Based on the timeline, it seems like you still have a few days before you get your result. I guess it’s due to the Eid holidays which adds to the delay. I cannot speak for VFS or the Consulate, so please try to wait for the holidays to be over and contact them the soonest for advice. Good luck!

hello! I applied already for the visa. we called the vfs and they said we should apply separately since our visas are registeres under diff emirates. however, I am a bit anxious because I put Paris instead of France in our 1st entry and the agent was insisting me to put 13 days when in fact our intended atay os only for 8 days. so i followed her. know I am anxious about my visa .

Hi, i see then we have to go through their process. good luck with it, hope you get it. 🙂

hello, I have uae visa but the validity is less than 90 days from my return ticket to Dubai, Is there a possibilites that my visa will approve?

Hi, i don’t think it’s possible because what they advised ‘last time i checked’ is that it should be more than 90 days. please try to contact VFS to clarify.

Hello, we applied last August 19 and got a refusal letter August 30th. We re applied again last sunday Sept 20, and still under process to france embassy. Last time, we did not submitted a cover letter, and we requested a bank statement 1 week before our appointment date to VFS. And right after we request for a bank statement, we made a withdrawal in our account. Is it possible that’s one of the reasons why we got refusal letter, saying insufficient means of subsistence.

it’s been 3 working days now since we re applied last sunday. I’m praying we will get it this time. We made a cover letter, we increase our money in our bank account and we are not withdrawing any amount right now in our atm.

Hi Rich, it is possible but please don’t take my word for it. it seems like that’s the reason, because they might feel that you are not capable of funding your vacation if the bank statement shows that you don’t have money in your account. yes, until you get the statement (with enough money in your account), don’t withdraw yet.

sorry, when you re-applied, did you request for a new bank statement with enough money in it?

Hi , my friend and I , applied together as a group in VFS dubai for france visa on last thursday but I got a message to day , 1 Oct that my passport is ready for collection, however my friend application is still in process as per the tracker? is this normal that i got earlier but we applied together. I am a bit worried.

hi, im not sure about this. can’t really share any feedback on this. we applied with my wife and my mother-in-law as one. and we received messages from our phones each.

Hi ed can you please advise me to prepare the travel itinerary? Can we prepare it by our self? Is it fine to prepare our self or we need to go to the agency for that?

Hi Umesha, we didn’t hire an agency for our trip. We prepared our own itinerary (but we didn’t include it as part of our submitted documents when the agent at WAFI mall checked). but still good to prepare one. Our itinerary was simple. it had 3 columns – DATE – LOCATION – ACTIVITIES/TOURIST SPOTS – which described the things we were planning to do within the day. hope this info helps 🙂

DO you have any idea what time is the passport collection time in France VFS in Abu Dhabi?

Hi, sorry, I don’t have that info.

Ed thanks for your urgent response your blog is really helpful who ever people going to apply for schenegen visa , you are doing great job really appreciate it keep it up??

I try my best! thanks Umesha!

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thanks for this blog kabayan 🙂 just want to ask what if i can’t provide NOC only employment certificate. is that okay? hoping for response. 🙂

Hi, I’m not sure how if it is okay or not. This is one of their requirements. and the NOC shows that your sponsor is aware of that you will be travelling to a different country because they are responsible for your visa stay. If you only have an employment certificate (because that is the format in certain government/public entities), I believe it also has your salary info and years in the company and position? — I don’t remember much but my wife didn’t present an NOC because of this situation. Best to contact the VFS in WAFI for much updated info.

Hi, Is it required to purchase also train or plane tickets when i will go from paris to venice to florence and finally to rome?

I am planning to show plane tickets dubai to paris rome to dubai

but not the train tickets

hi, i don’t think it is required. but best to contact VFS for this.

Hi, my basic salary is 5000aed. I have 6000aed in my salary account, hope it enough for a 5days trip to Lithuania??

hi emmanuel, good luck with the application. I think you just need to also show that you actually have enough money (savings) to show that you are able to afford your 5-day trip.

hi Mr. Ed , with due respect to your blog find it helpful i just want to ask is there somebody here lodge their application in VFS abu dhabi(visa for Netherlands ) last March 5 is there any update as it now 9 days since i lodge my application the waiting is nerve wracking please advise how many days usually the Netherland embassy reply thanks and good luck to all of us waiting to our visa its my first time to apply actually.

Hi Grace, apologies but I don’t have that information. best contact the VFS Abu Dhabi for Netherlands for this. good luck!

Hi Grace; did u get visa? I wanted to ask you how many days it took for you to get the Netherlands visa?

Hey Ed, your travel blog has cleared a lot of doubts. thank you so much! You are a ray of hopes for many! I have a few questions to ask (little confused)

1) I, along with my wife, am planning to visit UK, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy & Vatican City (12 Days tour) – what do you feel should be the reasonable amount in AED in our accounts each? (roughly)

2) We both will be applying together but don’t have internationally valid/recognized marriage certificate and also we don’t have each others name mentioned in “spouse name” on our passport. you think this will be an issue for getting rejected. does it make any difference if we apply individually or make a common application?

3) We will be applying for visas from Dubai but will be travelling from “Mumbai – to the countries of visit – Mumbai” during our annual leaves. what do you think ? is it possible?

Kind Regards, Many Thanks

Hi Brijesh, 1) Really cannot say for certain what is reasonable. But let’s try to make sure that you have an itinerary that can cover your accommodation/hotel plus food/transpo plus other expenses (tickets, souvenirs, etc.)

2) My passport doesn’t have the name of my wife, and when our passports were still in “SINGLE” status when we applied. It’s better to make a common application (as you will be going together), still better to show your marriage certificate as proof. the marriage cert can be attested in Ministry of Foreign Affairs though just to ensure that it can be accepted by UAE authorities (but the marriage certificate, I believe, is not a requirement — still we presented it for added proof).

3) The Schengen visa stamp is for your Entry to the Schengen country so I feel it’s alright and possible so long as the visa is valid.

Hey Ed, its really nice to see such a wonderful info about schengen visa. i m pakistani national living here since 20years. travelling is my passion. i had travelled on Schengen visa ( Italy- france- holland & swiss). last year travel Australia & NewZealand ..NZ is a beauti , people must visit that part of world . last just want so say ur artical awesome helps a lot for the people on process…:)

Hi Mohammad, thanks for the kind words. glad that my article has helped guide others looking to apply for a visa 🙂

hi Ed …..i got my second schengen visa july 26, 2019… invisibley y r helping lots of peope…..any artical for UK visa …..?

Hi Mohammed congrats on your visa! For UK we haven’t tried yet but will surely update this blog in case we do!

Anyone here applied for schengen visa in netherlands and received their visa before 15 days? I submitted my visa application 4-April-2019 till today still i have not receive it.

I wanted to ask you how many days it took for you to get the Netherlands visa? i submitted my visa application 4-April-2019 till today still i have not receive it.

Hi we processed it via France VFS. took us about a week.

Hello Ed, my name is Jiji. I submitted all my documents last Sunday and waiting until i get notification from my phone. I completed all my documents and my sponsor’s documents plus i submitted some proof of our relation (my boyfriend). I just want to ask, are they strict when it comes to relationships since this is a muslim country (Dubai). Hopefully they approve it.

hi jiji, i can’t really say if they are strict or not. it’s still up to them to decide even if you present all docs. good luck with your application!

Thank you for your blog kabayan.. My wife And I with our son are planning to toue also Paris and Italy..Is it ok if we have a joint account for the bank requirements?

hi jeffry, i think that should be fine, the bank account is (most likely) used to check if you have money sufficient to fund your trip. whoever is employed should present their bank statements. but if you have more than one bank account (with money saved) the better. good luck!

Very nice blog and i really like It.

Me and my fiance are travelling together to Italy this june for 7 days.

My fiance has 5k on her salary with good bank balance.

But to be honest on my side my salary is only 3000 aed with below 10k bank balance.

And we were advised by the agency who is faciltating our docs that I have to request an NOC which has 5000 aed as basic salary to have a better chance of approval.

Can you confirm if this is really necessary? Becauase the person is pushing us to request NOC and payslip that declares I have a 5000 aed basic salary.

To add she also told us that below 5k salary has a 50/50 chance of being approved.

hello john, i cannot say for sure if this is a ‘necessary’ process. but the guys at the travel agency may have a more experience and insights especially when applying for visas.. good luck on that!

Me and my wife (house wife under my sponsorship in uae) had applied swiss tourist visa for 7days (14th june to 21st june) on 29th April 2019. We paid for the sms charges but did not received a single sms yet for successful submission of our application and biometrics. As per the lady at the counter of vfs abu dhabi. She told us that we are applying for the visa with the 11 days of time period to our planned flight (confirmed flight) but basically, we applied 16 days before our arrival date.

Question is:

1. Which date is to be considered for swiss embassy for considering the application (29th april) or today as its a working day because 30th april was the day off for swiss embassy)?

2. We fulfilled all the correct/valid documents means for the application specially i attached 6months of salaried account bank statement along with the credit card and its statement as well – being noted i have more then 20k available in my account where my salary gets transfers and the CC (copy) attached along with its statement has also 40k limit without a single dirhams outstanding.

Kindly let us know your thoughts to decrease the level of our stress in order to the visa to be granted!

Thanks in advance Mr. ED.

Hello Essa. Just my thoughts on your questions. 1. As what I understand, government agencies/banks mention only ‘business days’ or ‘working days’ so weekends/holidays are not included in the counting. 2. If you’ve shared all the documents and information (seems like your bank profile has more than enough funds for your 7 days stay – actually our funds were lesser compared to yours) then there is a highly likely chance your visa will get approved. But we cannot really be 100% sure that it will be automatically approved as it’s still a case to case basis and ‘enough finances’ is just one of the factors they will check.

The processing time really depends on the embassy and the office. In our case, our Schengen Visa (via France VFS) we really got lucky as we got it earlier than expected. So I’m afraid that the waiting part is really part of the things we will worry about. Please note that these are just my opinions as a previous applicant of a Schengen visa, it’s still best to contact the official team processing it. But good luck on the application!

Hi Ed, This blog is really helpful! I am planning to go to France for 5 days and 2 days in Amsterdam. My question is, do I need to mention Amsterdam in my France visa application form? Would it impact my visa in case my application was approved? I mean, if I can go to Amsterdam and come back to Paris without any hassle? Could you please advise as I am a bit confused, and of course it would be easier for me if I will prepare only Paris necessary requirements for visa application. Many thanks and would appreciate all your insights.

Hi Gyombs, i actually forgot what to include in the form. It’s best to mention the places where you will be visiting. You will definitely need to apply at the France VFS since most of your time will be spent in France. In our case, we spent 4 days in France and 3 days in Italy. Although our flight was back from Italy to Dubai. Once you have a Schengen visa, you are free to travel to Schengen countries (France and Netherlands included) so answering your question, yes you can travel to Amsterdam from Paris and then back so long as you have the visa approved. good luck!

Anyone here try to apply for Austrian Schengen visa?

HI ED, I prepared all the documents for france schengen visa, unfortunately visa appointment not available even 45 days still there to onboard. i booked flight on 12 th aug but appointment date available on 2nd sep. I contact VFS, they told me keep monitor their website may be embassy can reopen the slot for july. I prepaid everything. You have any idea to overcome the situation. If i walk in VFS, they can help me to get appointment?

Hi Mohammed,

Thanks for the message. That doesn’t sound good that they don’t have available appointment. I am not sure what else to do but just keep checking the website for schedule availability (if somebody has cancelled their existing appointment) so you can take that slot. In terms of walking in, I do not think they will let you inside VFS unless you have a scheduled appointment. But I do remember that they have VIP areas for those who want to pay a premium but again, it’s only for those who already have schedules in the system. Maybe you can try calling VFS and ask them if there is a premium service that you can pay extra — I’m still not confident they have this option though.

Good luck and hoping there’s a vacant slot that will open up.

i applied for Neatherland visa 09july 2019 just today received its take more then 15 days ….but its good to have visa Thankd God… its my second Schengen visa… for pakistani national its hard to get Eurpoean visa…due to dubai resident its done…:)

Congratulations to you Faisal. Thanks as well for sharing your experience. Hope other readers will be able to read your comment for their reference 🙂

hi Ed….can u please advice i have recived my schgen visa from netherlands embassy valid up to 07/11/2019 , will go in september for 5 days… after that i have to go italy 25/11/2019 so its possible can apply in mid september for italy visa ? 1- if one schengen visa is valid can apply second as date is beyond first validity of visa?

Hi Mohammed. yes, if your visa expires by July 25 and you have another trip. you need to apply for another Schengen visa (for Italy) If you’re schengen visa will expire in a later date like let’s say December 2019, you don’t have to apply for other Schengen visas anymore as you already have existing valid one available. But as always, please clarify with VSF or the embassies.

hi Thanks Ed it will help …:)

Hi Ed, The earliest that I can book for an appointment is on the 11th of September, my flight is on the 29th and this seriously bothering me. I was wondering how long was the waiting time for you? Thanks!

Hi Kat, In our case, we only had a week before our flight. But our visas were approved in about 3-4 days. We were lucky but I think you have enough dates available. Still it’s dependent on the processing by the embassy. Good luck!

Me and my wife had applied 2 days ago a visa to italy after 28 days. In my judgment all our documents are fine except bank statement. Bank statement show literally 32 dirhams balance in my account. I explained in the cover letter that I don’t keep any money in my account as im cash person and my savings are already in cash which the reality. I have high salary more than 25k per month. I have good history visa to USA (2 times) I even have visa to italy 2 years ago but I didn’t use it as they rejected my friend’s visa at that time and I didn’t want to travel alone. I justified all those matters in the cover letter. I already have confirmed flights on snd hotels and trip plan. I have NOC crom my employer which is government btw. Im a bit nervous about bank statement issue. I hope they will grant me the visa. I will share update and results here for others to get benefit of my case.

Hi Asem, Thanks for sharing your story. If I were in your shoes, it would also be a concern for me but I think it’s good that you wrote a letter explaining that. Good luck in your application. Do let us know of the result!

As expected They sent me today that my application is on hold until i provide financial sufficiency approve ((

Do you think 18 thousand AED for 18 days trip are enough?

Hi Asem, I guess you should try to deposit the money back to your bank and request for another statement. As for the question on 18,000 AED. Are you planning to travel elsewhere and is your accommodation is already paid for? For me, I think that is enough. I’m not sure how much Euro per day they’ve assessed as an average pay per tourist. But let’s say you just stay in one country. I think 1000 aed per day is more than enough for two people (in case you still need to pay for hotel). This is just my own calculation. Like in Dubai, you can find 250 AED rooms per night for two people, let’s say you also eat twice per day for 300 AED for two people (150 AED for lunch and 150 AED for dinner). – That adds up to 550 AED per day x 18 day = 9900 AED for 18 days (in Dubai), I think costs in France is a bit higher. So yes, this shoul be enough given you have 18K AED — but again please do NOT take my word for it. good luck!

Hi ED The 18k is my budget for everything. I booked all my staying of 17 nights for around 8k. So i am left with 10K.

I found this from a website but its confusing I can’t understand it

“11-20 days – The overall amount is 51.64€ per person and 25.82€ per two and more persons, plus the daily amount is 36.67€ per person and 22.21€ per two and more persons”

Hi Asem, yes that looks really confusing. but just basing it off the ‘per person’ amount for the overall (51.64 euro or 210 AED) 18 day = 3780 AED x 2 persons total = 7560 AED — if we base it from this computation, you should be good to go. when you think about it, would you spend 210 AED for yourself per day in Dubai? let’s say you’re not working, and you just want to eat outside (in cheaper areas), i think 210 AED is more than enough. so equivalent to that in France, I think it’s okay as well.

also you may check i think the minimum wage per day for France workers as I read somewhere that this is their basis (??) anyway. still better to wait now after submitting what they asked. good luck!

Hi ED I received my passport with visa on it today ?

Hi Asem, congratulations and happy trip!

hi… myself Neeraj. I went to italy two times in 2018 on a business visa and again applied a visa in july 2019 but couldnt go as i became sick….same business visa…

This time i am applying a tourist visa of italy and my appointment date on 13th november 2019. so My question is that would it be a problem that i am applying a tourist visa after getting three business visa of the same country.. Will counsalte think that why am i going to italy again on a tourist visa…?

possible to get a tourist visa of italy after having three visa?

Hi Neeraj. I would not be able to speak on behalf of the Italian embassy/consulate. They might think that, but if you have proof that you are there to visit as a tourist, then for me, it should be fine. People who don’t have visas in a country usually apply for visas beforehand so it’s normal to always apply for a visa (3 times, 5 times, etc…) every time you visit a country that needs it. good luck!

Good evening Mr. Ed. Your travel guide is really helpful and inspiring. Just wondering if you can still see my concerns and appreciate if you could also advise me of the below:

I am a Filipino working here in Dubai and will submit my application single entry tourist Schengen visa in French Embassy for approx. 20 days tour. My concern is when doing the Itinerary, it is okay if I will mention that I will also visit Netherlands and Belgium via train and stay there for at least 4-5 days each as part of my trip? Will this affect the success rate of my visa approval in French Embassy? Or should I stick to indicate of my travel itinerary that I will just visit France only?

Thanks and appreciate your response on me 🙂

Hello Lorraine, I’m also a Filipino. 🙂 I think it’s okay to mention that you will be visiting other countries so long as the majority of your visit is in France (given you will apply in the French embassy). During our trip, we travelled to Paris (France) and Rome (Italy). Would suggest to include it but really it’s better to contact the VFS Global for updated information. Good luck!

Comments are closed.

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Fees and application process for Schengen Visa from Dubai

• ETIAS Requirements
• Eligibility Criteria
• Application Requirements
• Visa Process
• Where to apply for Schengen Visa

Dubai enjoys a strategic location on the world map that gives it quick access to other countries. Being in an international hub has its perks. Dubai’s denizens can visit Europe as most destinations require a 5 to 8-hour flight time which isn’t much compared with the US or other countries. This is why Europe is a popular travel destination. But to visit your dream holiday destination you may require a Schengen Visa from Dubai that allows you to enter some EU countries that fall in the zone. So before you start packing your bags and prep for your Europe trip, you need to know about the requirements of the Schengen visa from UAE.

How to Get a Schengen Visa from Dubai

Without a doubt, Europe is a popular travel destination for residents of the UAE. If you are planning a trip to one of the countries under the Schengen visa, it is essential to understand what this visa is and how to apply for Schengen visa from Dubai.

What is a Schengen Visa and what are Schengen Countries?

The term Schengen is derived from the Schengen Agreement where 26 European countries abolished internal border checks. This means you only need a single visa on your passport to visit these 26 cities in Europe.

A Schengen visa holder from Dubai is allowed to transit through or stay visa-free in any Schengen State territory for a duration of 90 days in any 180 days period. This visa is also known as a short-stay visa.

Similarly, airport transit visas allow the bearer to transit through any international transit areas of any territory located within the Schengen states. The list of Schengen countries includes :

• Belgium      
• Czech Republic
• Denmark    
• Latvia 
• Liechtenstein  
• Lithuania    
• Germany    
• Malta 
• Switzerland
• Netherlands

ETIAS REQUIREMENTS

From January 01 in 2023, travellers will be required to follow the new modifications to the visa-free entry to the Schengen zone and other EU countries.

Under the new regulations, European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be required to enter any of the Schengen nations. All visa-exempt citizens—including Emirati nationals—will need to register with ETIAS.

However, its important to note that the ETIA is not a visa but a visa waiver programme for visa-exempt non-EU citizens.

Valid for three years, the ETIAS short application form is available online. The applicant will be notified via email, and the approved visa waiver will be electronically connected to their passport.

Once the form is complete and verified, it will allow you to visit all Schengen states. However, it’s essential that passengers go through the country selected as the first point of entry in the Schengen zone. Make sure to apply for the form 96 hours prior to your journey.

Within this three-year time limit, UAE citizens can visit Schengen countries from Dubai multiple times for up to 90 days (each entry) for tourism, transit, business, family and medical treatment.

The ETIAS form will cost €7 (AED 25). Travellers under the age of 18 and over the age of 70 will be exempted from paying a fee.

Eligibility Criteria for Schengen Visa from Dubai

To be eligible to apply for a Schengen Visa from Dubai, the applicant must be a citizen or resident of Dubai and must fulfil the following criteria:

• The applicant must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.
• The applicant must have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in the Schengen Area.
• The applicant must have travel insurance that covers the entire period of their stay in the Schengen Area.
• The applicant must have a valid reason for their visit to the Schengen Area, such as tourism, business, or visiting family or friends.

Schengen Visa Application Requirements for UAE

The Schengen visa for Europe application from Dubai is not complex if you have all the required paperwork. The following list of mandatory documents for Schengen visa from Dubai needs to be submitted for processing the visa. 

• You will be required to submit the application form for a Schengen visa in Dubai, fully signed and completed to the best of your knowledge.
• Two recent photographs taken no less than 3 to 4 months ago which adhere to the visa photo requirements.
• A passport not older than 10 years with validity of at least three or more months, beyond the date you are planning to leave the Schengen states.
• Proof of Residency in the UAE, a document that proves you have the necessary residence permit that must be valid for at least 3 months after the intended departure date from Schengen country.
• When applying for a Schengen visa from Dubai you need to have the entire round trip reservation and itinerary with you that includes all flight and hotel bookings. The documents must specify crucial information such as flight numbers with entry and exit dates from any of the Schengen states.
• Cover letter that explains in detail why you wish to visit Europe. The more accurate information you provide, the easier it is to validate your visa and other details.
• Travel insurance policy to prove that you have the necessary health insurance for the entire Schengen territory. You should have a minimum coverage of 300,000 euros if any illness or an unfortunate accident should befall you during your visit.
• Proof of accommodation is another essential document that proves your proper accommodation throughout your stay. The accommodation can be a hotel/hostel, or an Airbnb, a letter of invitation will be required if you are staying with a host or on a rental agreement.
• Proof of financial means. You are required to submit complete financial information proving you have enough funds to support your travel, accommodation and other expenses.
• Sponsorship letter must be submitted if you have a sponsor in any Schengen country. The letter confirms that your sponsor has enough funds to support your stay in the country. To make the document valid, a bank statement must accompany it. Attach yours and the sponsor’s bank statement together with the letter of sponsorship if you have a sponsor.
• Proof of paid visa fee is one of the most important steps in the application process.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in Dubai?

UAE residents have to undergo the following steps to apply for their short-stay Schengen visa from Dubai:

CHECK WHICH CONSULATE OR EMBASSY YOU NEED TO APPLY FOR A VISA

To apply for a Schengen visa in UAE it’s important to know which country should issue your visa if you plan to visit more than one Schengen country during your intended stay. The country you will spend more time in should be the one selected. If you are planning to spend equal number of days in each country, you can select the one where you will travel first.

The second step is to be aware of the body that manages all visa applications.

You have to note whether or not the country you plan to visit has outsourced its visa submissions to a third party and you also have to ensure that you have submitted a complete Schengen visa from Dubai application form.

You can apply six months in advance from your planned date of travel, whereas minimum there should a gap of 15 days from the date of application and date of travel.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT AND ATTEND THE EUROPE VISA INTERVIEW

Schedule a VFS Dubai Schengen visa appointment for an interview. Your interview can be held with either the consulate, an embassy or a visa centre in the third step of the visa process.

Take all the required documents with you for the scheduled visa interview. Make sure to check all your documents to ensure you have all the documents included in the aforementioned document checklist.

WAIT FOR A RESPONSE FROM THE CONSULATE, EMBASSY OR VISA CENTRE

After your interview, all you need to do is to wait for a response from the embassy. The response time varies depending on the nature of your trip and the number of countries you wish to visit.

There is no rule of thumb to determine which country provides the fastest Schengen visa from Dubai. Your visa request accompanied by all the complete documentation will be processed thoroughly under the EU security systems such as the Schengen Information System and the Visa Information System.

The processing time for Schengen visa from Dubai is anywhere from 15 working days and it could take longer in some cases. If you are wondering about which Schengen visa is easy to get from Dubai – it all depends on the Schengen state you plan to visit and the nature of your stay among other things. 

  The cost of Schengen visa from Dubai

Note: Please note that the visa fee is in AED and is subject to fluctuation in the EUR exchange rate.

Where to apply for a Schengen visa from Dubai

The VFS Schengen visa application centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi handle Schengen visa applications from the UAE. The VFS Global in Wafi Mall is primarily used to process all Schengen visa applications. VFS is a third party that handles all visa proceedings for Schengen visas from Dubai. On the other hand, some countries including Spain rely on other services. Here’s a breakdown of all the centres from where you can apply for a visa.

VSF Global offers visa services for the following countries

However, you will be required to pay a visit to the embassies in Abu Dhabi for your visa processing if you wish to visit the following countries:

You’ll need to visit the BLS Centre in Dubai if you wish to apply for visa to these countries:

Here are the details of the various visa processing centres in Dubai.

• The VFS Global Application Centre Address in Dubai: Joint Visa Application Centre, Wafi Mall, Level 2, Falcon, Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2
• Phone Number: +971-4-205-5666
• BLS Centre in Dubai: Unit no 118 -119, Mezzanine floor Al Khaleej Center, Opposite Al Ain Center, Mankhool Road, Bur Dubai 
• Phone number: +971-4-387-5660 |+971-52-509-8736
• Cox & Kings Global Services (for Italy): 48 Burjigate, Office 1102, Downtown Burji Area, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Adjacent to Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station
• Phone number: 800 (800 48259)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the schengen visa fee in dubai.

The visa fee is AED 340 for adults however, the prices may fluctuate as the fees are charged in Euros. Visit the official VFS website, ETIAS website and other official sources for fee price changes before applying for a visa.

What is the visa processing time?

It takes anywhere from 10 to 15 days or more for the Schengen visa to process.

We hope that our guide to applying for a Schengen visa from Dubai helped you in understanding the visa process, document requirements and eligibility for Schengen visa. There are several locations that UAE residents can visit without a visa . The geographical location of Dubai makes it the perfect tourist destination for European tourists. 

There are different tourist visas for Dubai that allow you to visit Dubai or the UAE. Similarly, UAE long term stay visas are essential for a long-term stay and work in Dubai. These visas allow you to work and stay in Dubai if you possess a particular skill or talent needed to find a suitable job.  

*Please note that the visa rules and regulations are subject to change without prior notice.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Hi, I am willing to apply for Europe or work visa in Europe.

Hi Sanjay, Thank you for reaching out,

Please reach out to The VFS Global Application Centre in Dubai for more information on how to apply for a European work visa. Here’s the address and contact information for VFS Global Application Centre:

VFS Application Centre Address in Dubai: 2nd Floor Wafi Mall, Falcon Phase 2 Dubai, UAE. Phone Number: +971-4-205-5666

Hi, Good evening sir/madam. I would like to inform you that I need 40 day Visite Visa. Can give me any advice. Thanks you sir/madam.

Hi Dipesh, Thank you for reaching out.

As far as your query is concerned you can reach out to The VFS Global Application Centre in Dubai for more information on how to apply for a tourist visa. Here’s the address and contact information for VFS Global Application Centre:

Ih sir good afternoon I would like information about visa from Spain

Hi, Thank you for reaching out. Please reach out to The VFS Global Application Centre in Dubai or reach out to the Spanish Embassy or consulate for more information on how to apply for a visa. Here’s the address and contact information for VFS Global Application Centre:

Hi, Good morning sir/madam. I would like to inform you that I need 40 day Visite Visa. Can give me any advice. Thanks you sir/madam.

Hi Joginder Paul, Thank you for reaching out. Please reach out to The VFS Global Application Centre in Dubai for more information on how to apply for a visit/tourist visa. Here’s the address and contact information for VFS Global Application Centre:

What date of reopenig sengen visa

Hi Abdul Wahid, thank you for reaching out. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic The European Heads of State and Government decided on 17 March 2020 to temporarily close the external borders for non-essential trips by third-country nationals. Unfortunately, new dates have not been announced as yet.

Please I want to ask if I can apply for lithuania student visa here in Dubai (Abu Dhabi ) . I’m currently in Dubai and I gained admission to a school In lithuania. Thank you

Hi Olapeju, Thank you for reaching out. Please reach out to the university’s international admissions for further information if you are successfully enrolled in a university/college in Lithuania. Good luck!

Best rigag in Dubai

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Multiple entry 5-year tourist visa

The multiple entry 5-year tourist visa enables tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the country for 90 days on each visit, and can be extended for further 90 days. This type of tourist visa can be issued for all nationalities.

To obtain this visa, the applicant must have:

• a bank balance of 4,000 USD or its equivalent in foreign currencies during the last six months
• a valid health insurance policy applicable in the UAE
• a ticket to and from the UAE

Documents required

To apply for the multiple entry tourist visa, the applicant must provide the following:

• a colored photo
• a copy of the passport
• medical Insurance
• bank statement for the last 6 months with a balance 4,000 USD or its equivalent in foreign currencies
• tour programme
• a ticket for onward journey.

Read related news coverage on  WAM .

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Schengen visa - tourism.

This information leaflet has been generated by the German Consulate in Dubai. It is valid for visa applications in the United Arab Emirates if Germany is your main destination . This leaflet stipulates the legal requirements and is carried out in cooperation with VFS Global to facilitate visa applications. It can be downloaded free of charge. Applicants are requested to read it carefully and observe the regulations as stated below – see I. till IV.

I. DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED

NOTE: Special rules might apply for some nationals which passports are not recognized by the German authorities. You might be requested to come personally to the Visa Section of the Consulate. The Visa processing time in such cases varies.

II. INFORMATION FOR THE APPLICANT ON TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE VISA PROCESS

· Applications can be filled using the online VIDEX application www.videx.diplo.de Applicants are requested to thoroughly check all entries in their written application (paper and/or the electronic “VIDEX”) prior to submission.

·Responsibility for all given information lies within the applicant himself.

·Only complete applications can be accepted; non-submission of necessary documentation may lead to refusal of visa application.

·All visa fees must be paid upon submission of the above in cash (AED) only. The application, passport and visa fee will be forwarded to the German Consulate within one working day after submission. The service fee remains with VFS Global.

·The processing time at the Consulate due to necessary and obligatory legal requirements takes up to 15 days . Applicants are requested to apply well in advance, but – due to legal requirements - not more than 180 days prior to the intended date of journey. Applicants are also kindly requested to refrain from status inquiries.

·During the whole processing time the passport has to remain with the German Consulate. Passports can only be withdrawn if a written request by the applicant himself is presented to the Consulate. Consequently, the application will be cancelled / withdrawn and the passport returned via VFS Global within 2 working days.

·False or falsified documents, incl. fake bookings, will lead to the refusal of visa and /or further consequences.

· The German Consulate Dubai reserves the right to ask for additional documents and /or call applicant for an interview.

III. REMARKS to be filled out VFS staff (please tick, what is relevant):

• Applicant has □ NO Schengen Visa □ previous Schengen Visa (please attach copies)
• Applicant travels □ alone

□ with family member/s

□ with a group as …………………..(please specify e.g. colleague, escort, sponsor)

• Applicants documents are

□ NOT complete Due to incomplete docs,

□ Applicant has been informed of option to withdraw Application to complement the same to avoid refusal.

□ Applicant wishes to submit application.

Other Remarks: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

IV. SIGNATURES and AGREEMENT

a) For Visa Applicant:

I HAVE READ AND AGREED TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS VALID FOR THE VISA APPLICATION AS PER ABOVE.

b) For VFS staff:

APPLICANT HAS BEEN INFORMED OF THE ABOVE. THE REMARKS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED TOGETHER WITH APPLICANT.

…………………………………… …………………………………….…………………..

City and Date (signature of applicant)

City and Date (signature VFS staff)

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What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that permits a person to travel to any member of the Schengen Area for tourist or business for stays of up to 90 days. At the moment, there are 26 countries on the Schengen list. These countries are all situated in Europe. The 26 Schengen countries are as follows:

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Switzerland

Who can apply for a Schengen Visa in UAE?

UAE passport holders do not require a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen Area. All residents of the UAE’s seven emirates who do not have a UAE passport and do not belong into one of the Schengen visa-exempt categories must get a visa.

UAE nationals can only apply for a Schengen Visa if they belong into one of the following categories:

1. UAE passport holders who have previously been refused visa-free travel to the Schengen area

2. Foreigners with a permanent or temporary residency permit in the UAE who:

• are nationals of a country that has a visa-free agreement with Schengen but has been refused visa-free travel to Europe.
• are nationals of any of the countries with which the Schengen countries do not have a visa-free regime.

Price in UAE Dirhams

Schengen Tourist Visa

Inside Country Visa Change Requirements & Procedure

• Each Applicant’s Clear Scanned Passport Copy (6 months validity).
• Each applicant must submit a scanned color passport-size photo or a 2×2 photo.
• Send a copy of the kid’s birth certificate if the person is under the age of 18 and is traveling with a parent on a tourist visa.
• Your travel date.
• Destination Country.
• Filled out application form.
• A copy of your UAE Residence Visa.
• Complete the Payment Process.

Learn More About Schengen Visa

The Schengen area includes the most of Europe and allows visitors to have firsthand knowledge of the European way of life. The region’s rich history spanning centuries, as well as its presence in international literature and pop culture, has added to its attractiveness. It’s no surprise that several European sites are on almost every tourist’s bucket list.

Easiest Way To Get Schengen Visit Visa Through Dubaitouristvisa.com

Why 'dubaitouristvisa.com' for schengen visit visa.

• Highly Qualified Visa Specialists: Our visa experts have comprehensive understanding of the essential UAE immigration rules, regulations, and visa procedures and can help you effortlessly acquire a Schengen Visit Visa.
• Large Customer Base: We have a proven track record of reliably meeting the visa needs of all sorts of clientele, ranging from individuals, families, and tourists to high-profile businessmen.
• Dedicated Customer Support Team: One of our company’s unique features is its dedication to client happiness. From Us, we offer both live and on-call customer support to ensure that you always have access to the assistance you require. If you have any questions or want information such as Dubai visa costs for Schengen Visit Visa , our customer service staff is available to assist you.
• Best Pricing: We provide a Schengen Visit Visa at a very low price with no hidden fees.

It will be mentioned in the embassy’s rejection paper.

Tourist & Business visa

A Schengen Visa usually costs EUR 60 per person. It varies based on the Schengen Consular Office.

Provide us with the necessary papers, and we will complete the documentation procedure so that you can submit your application to the embassy or VFS.

Visa processing will take at least 14 working days and up to 21 days from the date of appointment.

Depending on nationality

Most likely not

We can give you visit visas, transit visas, tourist visas, 2 years freelance visas & also visit visas to go to all countries in the world.

Please keep in mind that all of the above-mentioned visa changing services are subject to certain limits and conditions. Please review all terms and conditions before applying for them, or contact us immediately at +971 4 447 3839

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How To Get A Schengen Visa in UAE (For Filipino Residents in UAE)

A Schengen Visa is the key to travel 26 plus 3 European Countries; if it’s multiple, it could be much more. Core Requirements in applying for a Schengen Visa are the same in every country; however, there might be small additions or deviations in the others. Here’s a guide on How to Get A Schengen Visa in UAE (United Arab Emirates).

This guide is mostly for Filipino and Other nationals that are residents of United Arab Emirates. Emiratis are luckily visa-free in the Schengen Zone and in most European Countries. Read our guide in how you can get a Schengen Visa for your future European travels.

Please note that this topic will be mostly for a Short Stay – Tourist Visa to the Schengen zone.

• How to Get a Five Year Multiple Entry Schengen Visa for Filipino Citizens
• What Will Happen If You Overstay On Your Schengen Visa?
• DENIED Schengen Visa – How to File and Write an Appeal for a Rejected Schengen Visa (With a Sample Letter Template)
• How To Provide Proof of Onward Travel – Rent a Flight Ticket
• Denied Schengen Visa – Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection [And What You Should Do About It]

Table of Contents

Quick Facts About The Schengen Visa

Validity : short stay for up to 90 days in every 180 days Number of Entries : Single, Double, Multiple Entry

Processing Time: 15 days

Schengen Visa in UAE Requirements (Short Stay – Tourist Visa)

These are the usual requirements for a Schengen Visa. There may be some variations in every country so you may double-check it.

1. Schengen Visa Application Form –it must be duly completed and signed, some countries may let you apply or fill-up the application form online

2. Two Passport-sized photo – the picture must not be older than 6 months with a white background and has a size of 3.5 x 4.5 cm

3. Passport(s) – Valid must be valid 3 months from the expiry of visa, with at least 2 blank pages and your Old Passport(s) if there are any

4. UAE Residence Permit – your iqama must be valid at least 3 months from the expiry of the visa

5. Photocopy of the following (1 each):

• Bio-page of the passport
• Signature Page signed by the passport holder
• UAE Residence Permit or Visa
• Previous Schengen Visas
• Emirates ID for those GCC Nationals

6. Overseas Medical Insurance – It should be applicable for all Schengen States and cover the entire stay or transit period of the person. The minimum is EUR 30,000 / USD 50,000. I highly recommend AXA Schengen for this!

7. Travel itinerary

• Flight Reservation – It is not required to pay or buy the ticket until visa is granted.
• Valid Accommodation Booking or Reservation – must have the full address (Number, Street, City, Zip Code), Contact Information and Booking Reference Number
• No Objection Letter from Local Employer or Sponsor (NOL) – must include name, postal address, the telephone of Sponsor Company with complete details of the applicant (position, start date, salary, date of leave), and purpose of travel. Include also a copy of valid trade license for investor or partner of the company.

8. Proof of Financial means of applicant – e.g., Bank Statements for the last 3 months, Assets, etc.

9. Visa Fee – EURO 80 is the usual visa fee for adults and EURO 40 for children 4 – 11. There may be additional service fees from the application center. It is usually paid in local currency, and each country may have different exchange rates.

Step-By-Step Guide Can Get a Schengen Visa in UAE

STEP 1: Select a country where you will apply at. This can be the place where you will be spending most days at or if it’s of equal duration the first place you will arrive at.

STEP 2: Gather all the documents needed for your application.

STEP 3: Book an appointment at the Visa Application Center or the Embassy. You may be asked to secure payment first or not.

STEP 4: Go to your appointment date at the VAC or Embassy. Submit your documents, pay the fees (maybe the visa fee or service fee), and have your photo and fingerprint taken.

STEP 5: Track your application.

STEP 6 : Claim your passport at the VAC or Embassy; you may need to bring the receipt and a valid I.D. You can also receive your passport through courier for an additional fee.

Where to Apply for a Schengen Visa in UAE (United Arab Emirates)

For the stated countries you can see where you can apply below:.

• Czech Republic
• Denmark (represents Luxembourg)
• Germany (represents Slovenia)
• Italy (for Abu Dhabi Applicants Only)
• Netherlands
• Switzerland (represents Liechtenstein)

Visa Application Center – Abu Dhabi

For Residents of:

Level B2 (Lower Ground) The Mall, World Trade Centre Khalifa Bin Zayed The 1st Street (Airport Road) Abu Dhabi, UAE

Office Hours :

Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday Passport Collection: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday

Visa Application Center – Dubai

• Ras Al Khaimah
• Umm Al-Quwain

Visa Application Centre Wafi Mall 2nd Floor, Falcon, Phase 2 Umm Hurair 2 Dubai UAE

For Non-Abu Dhabi Residents for Italy

CKGS Italy Visa Application Center in Dubai Office 1102, 48 Burjgate Downtown Burj Area Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai, UAE (Next to Sofitel Hotel Downtown and Adjacent to Burj Khalifa)

Application Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday Passport Collection: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, Sunday to Thursday

Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Abu Dhabi Corner of Delma and Karamah Str. (13th and 14th) P.O. Box 2334 Abu Dhabi, UAE

Spain and Lithuania

Spain Visa Application Center – Abu dhabi

1311, Tamouh Tower; 13th Floor, Marina Square Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Application Hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday Passport Collection: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday

Spain Visa Application Center – Dubai

I Rise Tower; 27th Floor, Office # C-13 Barsha Heights (Tecom), Dubai, UAE.

FAQs On A Schengen Visa

1. Is the visa fee refundable?

No, once it has already been paid, you can’t get a refund.

2. How long can I travel with my Short Stay Visa?

You can travel for 90 days maximum in a 180-day period. However, most first-timers are given 15 days on their first Schengen Visa.

3. How long does a visa application usually take?

A visa application usually takes up to 15 days. However, in some cases, the Embassy may take 30 days of processing time and ask for additional documentation and further verifications.

4. How many days before my flight should I apply?

You can apply a month or two before your scheduled departure. However, you can submit your application up to 3 months before your planned departure.

5. Do I need to apply personally?

Yes, except when the applicant is below 12 years old, biometrics are taken, so you are required to visit the application center.

6. Can someone else get my passport?

Yes, you can have someone else can get it for you. They need to bring the original official receipt, copy of your passport’s bio-page, an authorization letter, and a photocopy of your ID.

7. Can I get my visa via courier?

Yes, you can. You need to coordinate with VFS Global.

8. Is there an interview?

Not necessarily, but you may be called for an interview at the Embassy in case they see something wrong with your documents, or they want some clarification with the purpose of your stay.

9. Do I need a Paid Flight Booking ?

No. Only a CONFIRMED BOOKING is required. Our Rent-A-Flight Service is the best for this. For just 1,500 Pesos, you can get a LEGITIMATE and CONFIRMABLE booking.

10. What company do you recommend for the insurance ?

AXA Schengen ! The best thing about them is they will completely refund your payment in case your visa doesn’t get approved.

11. My visa is rejected! What remedy do I have?

You can either file a Remonstrance Letter or submit another application from another E.U. Embassy.

Schengen Visa is perhaps the trickiest visa to apply for, but it’s not impossible if you get everything right. Hope you find this Schengen Visa in UAE guide helpful. If you need further help in your application, I can assist you with your documents. You can check out our Visa Application Bundle Service !

About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and fell in love with the journey since. I’m aiming to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, photography, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my  Instagram .

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One thought on “ How To Get A Schengen Visa in UAE (For Filipino Residents in UAE) ”

Hi Lyza, thanks for this helpful article. Would you know if there is an agency who assists on Schengen visa processing in Dubai? It seems difficult to get appointments at the moment and we need some help with documentation. Thanks!!

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How to Apply for Schengen Visa from Dubai?

Last Updated: June 19, 2019

Schengen visa from Dubai.

List of Schengen Countries

The following European Union countries are considered part of the Schengen area. If you know about Schengen Visa , you might be aware that this single visa is quite sufficient to travel to any of these countries and back:

Schengen Visa Types

1. schengen tourist visa, 2. schengen business visa.

If you’re visiting the Schengen area for business and not for pleasure, you might want to travel to more than one Schengen State (mention each state in your planned travel itinerary) to scope out business potentialities.

3. Limited Territorial Validity Visa

This visa allows you to travel only to one Schengen nation. You cannot enter any others. If you’re a business person with business only in one Schengen country, this is the visa you’ll need. You don’t want to be bothered with providing documents and itineraries for multiple entries. You want to visit one country and be done with it – so opt for the Limited Territorial Validity Visa.

4. Schengen Multiple-Entry Visa

• This visa is mainly for tourists who want to exit and enter the Schengen area multiple times within the visa validity period. Even with multiple entries, it is not possible to stay for more than 90 days in any Schengen territory. What you can do, however, is an exit and enter multiple times within a six month period, making sure your total time in the Schengen area is no more than 90 days.
• If you’re planning to visit not just one, but multiple Schengen countries, you’ll need to apply for your Schengen visa at the embassy or consulate of either:
• The main Schengen country you plan on visiting, where you’ll be spending most of your visa duration.
• Or, your first point of entry. If you plan on visiting several Schengen countries, make sure that you spend most of your visa duration in the main country of your choice, or spend your days equally among all the countries you visit.
• What you need to do is to decide where you want to go and which countries you want to visit, in order to be able to apply to the correct embassy in your application for a Schengen visa.

Schengen Visa Process from Dubai

Once you’ve determined which Schengen country or countries to visit, it’s time to execute the following steps to obtain the Schengen visa from Dubai:

• Visit any Rayna Tours office and fill out an application form for your Schengen visa.
• Rayna Tours will represent you at the right embassy, whether it’s in Dubai or in Abu Dhabi, and do all the needful.
• You’ll have to answer several personal questions that Rayna will ask you in lieu of the embassy. These questions will pertain to your background, whereabouts, and presence of criminal history, medical history, and purpose of your intended trip and so on. Provide firm and correct answers.
• The administration fee that you pay for your visa is the same amount, no matter for which Schengen nation’s visa you’re applying. At the same time, the visa fee is non-refundable, so get your application right the first time.
• You might need to visit the embassy with your Rayna Tours representative for your biometrics scan – fingerprints, digital photo and so on. Your job ends there. Rayna will collect the passport on your behalf and have it delivered to you. You can also keep a tab on your application by the visa status check Dubai .

Schengen Visa Requirements for UAE Residents

1. Completed application form, without errors or overwriting, and the visa fee. If you’re downloading your application form online, you can pay the visa fee online as well. Alternatively, you can pay it in cash at the application counter at the embassy.

2. Make sure your passport is valid for at least three to six months after your departure from the Schengen area.

3. Include both the original and photocopy of your passport in your documents. Your passport must have been issued, renewed or visa stamped within the last ten years to show continuity. Make sure that at least two consecutive blank pages are present.

4. Enclose both the original and copy of your Dubai residence visa. Make sure that your Dubai residence visa is valid for at least 3 months from your intended date of departure from the Schengen area.

5. Photocopies of previous Schengen visas, if you’ve traveled there before.

6. Single recent passport photo with white background, with your full face captured against the light background, as per international passport photo regulations

7. Return the ticket or copy of it for proof that you’ll be back home when you say you’ll be back. Book your flight in advance so you can show your proposed itinerary to the visa authorities. However, don’t actually pay for the tickets till your visa is in your hands.

8. Make sure you obtain relevant travel medical insurance that covers the entire period of your stay. The insurance must be valid for all Schengen States and should cover any medical expenses that might come up during your trip including emergency hospital treatment, or sudden death.

9. Also, enclose the travel visa insurance policy insurance of your travel back to the home country.

10. Enclose your confirmed flight tickets along with a detailed flight itinerary.

11. Also, attach your monthly payslips and bank statements for 6 months to show your financial capability. Your 6 monthly’ bank statement should show a sufficient current balance to cover all your travel expenses. In case your statements don’t indicate the presence of enough funds, you must show that you have the support of well-to-do friends within the Schengen zone via an “official affidavit of support”. Be sure to enclose this document along with your other docs if your funds are low.

12. Submit your income tax returns for 3 years along with your bank statements and payslips.

13. Obtain a letter from your employer stating your date of joining, current position and current cost to a company.

14. Provide a letter that clearly states the purpose of your travel, the amount of time you wish to spend traveling in the Schengen zone, and other relevant personal details.

15. Provide details of reserved accommodation at your proposed destination.

If you’re applying for the first time, make sure all your documents are in order. You want to make the right impression, which will ensure that subsequent visa applications from you will go smoothly. Also note that if the embassy informs Rayna Tours of a need for additional documents from your side, you need to be prepared to submit them, even if this delays your visa a little bit.

1. Is it easy to get a Schengen Visa from Dubai?

Applying for a Schengen visa from Dubai is a hassle-free process if you are well-prepared with the right documents, application form and fees beforehand. Visa application might seem lengthy, but it can be done in the simplest steps through the right guidance. You can reach out to Rayna Tours who will contact the Embassy to apply and submit your form.

2. Which places can I travel with Schengen Visa?

Schengen Visa allows you to travel to the entire Schengen region. As per Schengen country list , there are 27 members that have signed the agreement.

3. How long does it take to get Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Visa processing time takes around 15 days. Depending on the type of visa and the kinds of documents that you have submitted, the period may extend up to 3 months.

4. What are the steps to get Schengen Visa from Dubai?

You have to fill out your application form, affix the supporting documents, pay a fee, and submit the form. Later, you will be invited to attend an interview at a consulate, embassy, or visa application center.

5. Can I visit Italy and Spain with the same Schengen Visa?

Yes, holders of Schengen visa can check out all the member countries in the Schengen area, including Italy, Spain, and Germany, within the validity of the visa. Make your trip more secure with the guide on the best places to visit in Spain .

6. What are the eligibility criteria for Schengen Visa from Dubai?

To get Schengen Visa from Dubai, the applicant must have a valid passport, sufficient financial funds, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance.

7. What is the Schengen Visa fee in Dubai?

The Schengen Visa costs AED 350 per adult.

The Schengen countries are the perfect escape destinations to escape to during the hot summer months in Dubai. The summer months are much cooler in Schengen countries. The land opens up to the skies and everything is green and verdant in Europe during summer. Apply for your Schengen visa from Dubai in an easy way and enjoy a three month holiday in any Schengen country of your choice, enjoying the summer as summer should be enjoyed!

How to Apply For Canada Tourist Visa from Dubai

How to Apply for Thailand Visa from Dubai?

Aanchal Iyer

Aanchal is a writer by profession and an avid foodie. She loves travelling, exploring and adding cherished experiences to the book of life.

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Global Law Dubai

+971 50 912 4028

Schengen visa, expert schengen visa consultants.

Our experienced Schengen visa Consultants assists anyone that requires Immigration advice when dealing with complex Immigration matters.

Highly Rated & Trusted Schengen Visa Consultants with 5* Google Reviews.

International Firm offering sound Immigration Advice

Takes care of your matters from start to finish in a timely manner

Are you planning to apply for a Schengen Visa from Dubai?

Europe is one of the hot destinations which is popular among the citizens and residents of UAE. Are you a UAE passport holder or a UAE resident who is intending to travel to Europe for any reason; you may be required to go through a visa/document regime for Schengen Visa. To apply for a Schengen visa, contact our Immigration lawyers at Global law. We are Schengen visa consultants in Dubai, who can help you ease your Schengen Visa Application process from Dubai. Holding a 5-star rating, Global law has 17 years of expertise in Schengen Visas and being the winners of the SME’s Most Trusted Immigration Consultancy award in 2021; we ensure that we can provide best Schengen visa services in Dubai and save you of your precious time and money.

What is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen visa is the most popular visa for Europe. It allows free movement to its holders within the whole Schengen Zone regarding the European Union Schengen members as well as the EFTA Schengen members. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes and there shall be no identity checks at the border of the member countries. Different restrictions apply to different types of Schengen Visa, in accordance to the nature of travelling and other relevant circumstances.  Global Law  is a leading Schengen Visa consultants in Dubai and UK who provides hassle free Schengen visa services.  also for your reference you can visit our Schengen  visa page  in our UK website 

Who all need a Schengen Visa to travel from Dubai to Europe?

UAE passport holders do not require a Schengen Visa to enter Schengen countries. However they need to submit the necessary documents at the port of entry. UAE passport holders who were refused visa-free entry previously to the Schengen area should apply for a Schengen Visa.

Note: Beginning of January 2023, before travelling to any Schengen country UAE nationals will need to apply for an ETIAS visa.

Residents of the seven emirates of the UAE including Dubai, who does not belong to any of the Schengen visa-exempt country categories will need to obtain a visa before entering Schengen countries.

Global Law has an excellent team in Dubai, who will assist you in your Schengen Visa application from Dubai ensuring that your application is not rejected.

For immediate assistance to answer any queries you may have about Schengen Visa, please call us on +971 50 912 4028  or simply fill in our Free Consultation Form and we will be happy to assist you.

What are the Schengen visa requirements for Dubai residents?

Below are the requirements for a valid Schengen Visa application from Dubai:

• A fully completed Schengen Visa application form from Dubai with information that is correct to best of your knowledge.
• A Valid Passport with a validity of at least three more months beyond the date the applicant plans to travel.
• Two photos as per the standards set by the Schengen states you are applying with.
• UAE residence permit/Emirates ID with a validity of at least three more months beyond the applicant plans to travel.
• Round trip Travel Flight Itinerary
• Cover letter: Explaining why you wish to visit Europe, specifying the countries you want to visit, the time you will remain there, and other details.
• Accommodation Proof, which will show where you will be accommodated throughout your stay in Schengen. It can be a hotel booking, a rent agreement, or a letter of invitation by a host at whose house you will be staying.
• Evidence that you have enough money to support yourself and your dependents (if any) financially throughout your stay in the Schengen. It can be a Bank account statement or a Sponsorship Letter or a combination of both.
• Cover Letter with a detailed description of your visit to Europe. .

Global Law Dubai is committed to give a detailed assessment of your personal circumstances and ensure that you have the correct documentation to strengthen your case when applying for a Schengen Visa, to avoid rejection. We will go through all the requirements with you to ensure that you are successful in getting a Schengen Visa.

For immediate assistance to answer any questions you may have about Schengen Visa, please call us on +971 50 912 4028  or simply fill in our Free Consultation Form and we will be happy to assist you.

What are the documents required by U.A.E citizens to travel from Dubai to Europe?

• Your passport which is valid for at least three more months beyond your intention to travel to Europe.
• Proof for purpose of visit.
• Financial Proof that you can support yourself throughout your stay in Schengen.
• Other documentation that specific states may demand from time to time.

Are you a UAE citizen travelling to UK? Call us on +971 50 912 4028  or simply fill in our Free Consultation Form to answer any questions you may have about Schengen Visa.

How to apply for a Schengen Visa from Dubai, UAE?

When applying for a short-stay Schengen visa in the United Arab Emirates, there are a few basic steps to follow:

Step 1: Determine which embassy or consulate you must apply to: If you are planning to visit more than one Schengen state, then to file your application correctly, you must first determine which country should issue you a visa. Then you must determine which body in that country handles visa applications and whether it has outsourced visa submission to another party. Simplify the process of Visa Application by choosing Global Law; we have experts who can guide you in applying for Schengen visa from Dubai.

Step 2: Make an appointment at the embassy/consulate/visa application centre.

Step 3: Attend the visa interview : Bring all of the required documents, in the order mentioned.

Step 4: Be patient and wait for a response : Meanwhile, the embassy will process your visa, which will be processed through EU security systems such as the Visa Information System and the Schengen Information System.  

What is Schengen visa processing time from Dubai?

Your application may take up to 15 days to be processed. You will receive a response to your case after that time period has passed. All applications are handled only by embassies. Apply with Global law and avoid rejection of your Schengen visa.

How much is Schengen visa fee from Dubai?

To know the current Schengen visa rates or for immediate assistance to answer any questions you may have about Schengen visa, please call us on +971 50 912 4028  or simply fill in our Free Consultation Form in and we will be happy to assist you.

How can we help you?

• Advising the client on requirements
• Preparing the correct documentation for submission
• Completion of application form
• Preparation of covering letters
• Booking the appointment for biometrics.

What to do next?

Please call us on +971 50 912 4028 or simply fill in our Free Consultation Form and one of our professionals will contact you as soon as possible. 

We will treat your enquiry as important and confidential, and we will not pass your personal details to any third parties for marketing purposes. Global Law is authorized Schengen visa consultancy in Dubai regulated by the OISC: F202100278 for Schengen Visa activities.

Book Your Free Consultation

Our experienced UK Immigration Consultants are here to help anyone that needs UK Immigration advice.

Meet Our Team

Tomas Hassan

With over 17 years in Immigration, Tomas brings a wealth of experience to Global Law. He began his Immigration career as an Immigration Officer for the Home Office, UK. He then joined a Solicitors firm where he developed his skills in Immigration Law and qualified as an Immigration Consultant

Working as a finance manager for the DWP for 15 years, Jan acquired knowledge of the benefits and social security rules. The UK benefits system can be complicated at the best of times and Jan has dedicated herself to keeping up to date with the ever changing rules, including Universal Credit and helping our clients.

Ozlem Satti

''We got indefinite leave to remain with Global Law. I was satisfied with them.. I decided to apply for British with my own Global law.. Ms. Özlem uploaded all my documents to the system within 1 day.. British citizen was approved in just 3 weeks.. Ms. Özlem is excellent. "

"Global Law is an amazing Law firm that offers visa assistance for family, residence, or work. It has been an easy experience for me obtaining an employer and visa thru the help of their team. Highly recommended if you are looking assistance in regards with your visa and other concerns. Kuddos to the team Mr. Paul Piros and Joe Blount for your assistance and to the boss Mr. Tomas Hassan"

Anas Pelassery

“Meet Anas Pelassery, our Head of Digital Marketing at Global Law. With 4 years of expertise, Anas spearheads our digital strategies, focusing on strategic SEO and crafting engaging content. He ensures Global Law stands out in the competitive immigration services landscape, translating our commitment to excellence into a compelling online presence.”

"We used Global Law for British Citizenship. They were very professional and helpful explaining every step of the process to clearly. Application was approved within 12 weeks. A massive thanks to Tom and his team"

“Ahaan is helpful and give kind advised, keeping in touch with us and updating is what I want as an applicant. I am sure that Global Law stands out along with professionalism they can show some compassion as well. I trust them, theyre highly recommended.”

What Others Are Saying

Frequently Asked Questions

We work on a fixed fee basis, meaning that any fee quoted is the final fee you will pay regardless of how complicated a case becomes. Our fee scale has been authorised by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner.

Our offices are located Dubai, UAE and in London, United Kingdom. We are happy to meet clients either face-to-face or remotely for consultations. We highly recommend that clients book their consultations before their visit to avoid any delays in seeing you.

Preparation of your application for submission to the Home Office may take between a few days and a number of weeks depending on your circumstances. Most applications submitted inside the UK, are reviewed by the Home Office within 8 weeks, whilst most applications submitted outside the UK are reviewed within 3 weeks, apart from family applications which can take 12 weeks. Exceptions apply.

We are qualified to represent clients in all categories of immigration, including:

• – UK Visit Visa • – UK Spouse Visa • – UK Student Visas • – UK Skilled Workers • – UK Business Visit Applications • – UK Start Up and UK Innovator Visas • – Schengen Visas • – UAE Freezone Business Set Up • – UAE Mainland Business Set Up • – UAE Freelance Visa • – UAE Remote Working Visa • – UAE Golden Visas We offer consultations to support our clients with selecting the most appropriate UK & UAE immigration route. We also offer full assistance with the preparation and submission of immigration applications for our clients, as well as legal advice and representation when challenging refusals through Administrative Review and the Immigration Tribunal Appeal processes

Applying for UK Visit Visa can be a complex matter and will depend on your personal circumstances. By having a Free Consultation with us, we will give you professional and honest advice about the possible outcome of your application

When applying for a UK Spouse Visa, there are many ways a person may meet the requirements. When assessing your circumstances, we will give you a full and comprehensive document list which we must submit when making your application.

In most instances you should find a job through a recruitment agency in the UK, Once you have secured a job, Global Law will process your visa application. If you are Healthcare worker, we can put you in touch with Care Homes that offer sponsorship.

Global Law has one of the best PRO officers on their team. Our PRO officer has 13 years of experience dealing with all the services you may need in Dubai and the UAE.

Book Your Free Phone Consultation

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No more appointments: uae residents could soon apply for schengen visas online, travelling to 27 eu countries likely to get hassle-free, and residents will not have to submit passports to agencies, by web desk.

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UAE residents wishing to travel to Schengen countries would not have to wait for appointments, stand in a queue or submit their passports to process their visas as the EU moves a step closer to digitalise the permit procedure.

The EU member states' ambassadors on Wednesday agreed the Council's negotiating mandate for a proposal to digitalise the visa procedure. It introduces the possibility to apply for a visa online and replaces the current visa sticker with a digital visa. It aims to make the visa application procedure more efficient and to improve the security of the Schengen area.

Maria Malmer Stenergard, Swedish Minister for Migration, said, "A digital Schengen visa will make it easier for legitimate travellers to apply and will at the same time help make the Schengen area safer. Online applications will reduce the number of trips to the consulate for travellers and make the process smoother for national administrations. At the same time, the digital visa will put an end to the risk of falsification and theft of the visa sticker."

In a previous Khaleej Times report , VFS Global said, “We are fully aware that the EU plans to digitise the visa application process, and as an external service provider to virtually all EU and Schengen governments, VFS Global looks forward to work with these governments to support them on their transformation journey.”

Tour operators were also optimistic about the digital move and said it would be a great step towards promoting Europe as a destination here.

For tourists, travelling to the 27 EU countries will be hassle-free as it’s sometimes not easy to get an appointment for the visa application. Submitting the passport to agencies and waiting for the visa stamp is also an inconvenience.

Residents welcomed digitisation and said they would be more inclined to travel to the EU. With summer around the corner, applying for visas online will be a great step, as digitisation and a simple online checklist, could save a lot of time.

According to Maria Malmer Stenergard, the proposed new rules will create a visa application platform. All applications for Schengen visas will be made through this platform, a single website, which will forward them to the relevant national visa systems.

On this platform, visa applicants will be able to introduce all relevant data, upload electronic copies of their travel- and supporting documents, and pay their visa fees. They will also be notified of the decisions concerning their visa.

In-person appearance at the consulate will only be necessary for first-time applicants, persons whose biometric data are no longer valid and those with a new travel document.

When a person intends to visit several Schengen countries, the platform will automatically determine which one of them is responsible for examining the application based on the duration of stay. However, the applicant will also have the possibility to indicate whether the application needs to be processed by a specific member state according to the purpose of travel.

Under the proposed new rules, visas will be issued in digital format, as a 2D barcode, cryptographically signed. This will reduce security risks related to counterfeit and stolen visa stickers.

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• UAE holidays: Schengen visa application likely to be digitised; residents welcome hassle-free travel to EU
• Eid Al Fitr break in UAE: Flight fares, packages to soar for popular destinations
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What does EU visa relaxation for Saudi, Bahraini, Omani citizens mean?

This week, the European Union (EU) announced a relaxation of Schengen visa rules for the citizens of Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia , making it much easier for nationals of the Gulf countries to visit Europe. 

Background: At the EU- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) High Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation in Luxembourg on Monday, the European Commission adopted three implementing decisions to update the Schengen rules for issuing multiday visas for the three Gulf states. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud headed a delegation from the kingdom in the European country, which also included Ambassador to the EU Haifa Al-Jedea and the Foreign Ministry’s adviser, Manal Radwan.

Announcing the visa rule change during the opening session of the forum, the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said, “I welcome a decision adopted by the European Commission this morning to harmonize the rules for granting multiple-entry visas for the citizens of the GCC countries.”

The GCC includes Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.

At the forum, officials discussed security and strategic cooperation between the GCC and the EU, as well as the conflict in the Gaza Strip and the wider region. 

What are the new visa rules? 

Under the new rules, Bahraini, Omani and Saudi Arabian nationals will be eligible for multiple-entry visas, allowing them to visit the Schengen area (the EU’s 27 member states as well as Bulgaria and Romania) and move freely between them. The area expanded in February 2022 to include the two non-EU states, removing all air and maritime border controls. A decision on whether to remove land border controls will be made at a later date. 

Those who have the visa will be able to visit Schengen area countries multiple times over five years with the same visa. The visa will also apply to first-time travelers to Europe from the three Middle Eastern countries.

Holders of the visas will enjoy the same travel rights as visa-free nationals. 

Other members of the GCC, including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar, have different rules regarding getting a Schengen visa. UAE citizens do not need a visa to travel to the Schengen area, but Qataris must apply for one. 

In 2022, the EU said it planned to offer visa-free travel to Kuwait and Qatari nationals. A new visa “cascade scheme” was unveiled for Kuwaitis last September, allowing for all eligible applicants, including those travelling for the first time, to obtain five-year permits.

Know more: The move by the EU comes after the UK government announced in February that nationals from the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, could apply for Electronic Travel Authorization visas , making it easier for them to come to the UK, even on very short notice. The EU decision will allow the 27-nation bloc to remain competitive in providing access to their countries to Saudi nationals, as European countries vie for new investment from wealthy Gulf countries.

On the Gulf side, the Riyadh-headquartered GCC in November announced plans for a unified tourist visa similar to the Schengen visa.

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New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

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Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels