europe tourist visa from pakistan

How to apply for a Schengen visa from Pakistan

If you are from Pakistan and thinking about visiting Europe, you will very likely need a visa in order to travel to the continent. If you want to visit France, Germany, Spain, or any of the top countries in Europe, you should probably apply for a Schengen visa from Pakistan. A Schengen visa gives you access to the entire Schengen area—all 26 European states. Keep reading for all the essential information about Schengen visa for Pakistani citizens and Pakistan residents, including where and how to apply, and the various Schengen visa types for Pakistani passport holders and Pakistan residents. 

About Schengen visa for Pakistani citizens and Pakistan residents

• If you are a Pakistani citizen, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa in order to enter the Schengen area. 
• If you are a Pakistani resident, depending on where you have citizenship, you may have to apply for a Schengen visa in order to enter the Schengen area. ( For list of countries with visa-free access to the Schengen area, click here ).
• With a Schengen visa, Pakistani citizens and residents can spend up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen area. 

Where do you apply for Schengen visa?

• No matter where they are applying from, all applicants must apply for a Schengen visa through a specific Schengen country. 
• Where you apply to depends on where in the Schengen area you will be spending the most time on your trip.  
• For example, if you are going to the Schengen area and you plan on visiting both Germany and France, but you will spend the majority of your time in France, you should apply for a Schengen visa from France. 
• If you are spending an equal amount of time in multiple countries, you should apply for a Schengen visa from the country of your first entry to the Schengen area. For example, if you are flying directly from Islamabad to Berlin, but then spending an equal amount of time in both Germany, and France, you should apply for a Schengen visa for Germany. 

Where do you apply for Schengen visa in Pakistan?

• If you are applying for a Schengen visa from Pakistan, you will apply via the embassy, consulate, or visa application center associated with the Schengen country you are applying through.
• All the major Schengen countries have embassies in Islamabad, and many also have consulate missions in major Pakistani cities, such as Karachi. 
• For example, if you are applying for a Schengen visa for Germany in Pakistan, you can apply at either the Germany Embassy in Islamabad or the German Consulate in Karachi. 
• Please note, if you are trying to apply for a Schengen visa from one of the many  honorary consuls in Lahore, check to make sure that it provides Schengen visa services. For example, while there is a German Honorary Consul in Lahore, it does not process Schengen visa applications.  
• Ultimately, different countries have different application procedures: contact the consulate or embassy of the country you want to apply to for specific information on where, how, and when to apply. 

Do I have to apply in person for Schengen visa from Pakistan?

• If you are applying for Schengen visa from Pakistan, you will likely have to apply in person, regardless of where you are applying. 
• Most countries require applicants to schedule an in-person appointment online in order to apply. 
• When you attend your in-person appointment, you will bring with you a print-out of your application and all other required documents/materials, including your passport, photos, and money to pay any visa fees. 
• When you hand in your complete application, you will submit your biometric information (fingerprints and photos), and likely submit to a short interview. 
• Certain kinds of applicants—children and all those who recently submitted biometric information—are exempt from the biometric requirement. ( For more info on biometric information submission, click here ). 

Schengen visa types for Pakistani passport holders and Pakistan residents

• There are different types of Schengen visas; the type you apply for depends on your purpose for travel. 
• Visiting family/friends
• Official visit
• Airport transit

Schengen visa requirements for Pakistani citizens and Pakistan residents

• Schengen visa requirements for Pakistani citizens and Pakistan residents will vary depending on the type of Schengen visa they apply for. For example, if you are applying for a Schengen Business Visa, you must provide an invitation letter, whereas if you seek a Schengen Medical Visa, you will need to include a recent medical report.  
• Passport (valid, and with two blank pages)
• Photos of applicant (two, passport sized)
• Schengen visa fee (typically €80)
• Proof of travel medical insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of return (flight reservation, etc)
• For a complete list of required documents and supplemental materials, click here .

How do I access the Schengen application?

• The universal Schengen visa application is available online, here .
• Most countries will allow you to apply using the above form, which you can simply download, fill out, print, and sign. You will submit this form in person at your Schengen visa appointment. 
• Alternatively, certain countries will require you to apply online, via their own visa application portal. For example, all applicants for German Schengen visas must apply online, through this link . Print out this form and bring it to the German Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate in Karachi. The form contains a barcode, which will be scanned at the German Embassy/Consulate you apply through.

How much does a Schengen visa cost from Pakistan?

• Schengen visas cost €80 for most applicants.
• Children, holders of special passports, and other categories of persons may be subject to reduced rates (or even exempt from payment). ( For more information on Schengen visa fees, click here ).

When should I apply?

• Applicant seeking a Schengen visa from Pakistan should apply no earlier than 6 months before their intended date of travel, and no later than 2-weeks before their departure. 

What is my application processing time?

• You should receive a decision on your application within 15-30 days (in rare cases, it can take up to 60 days). 

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Schengen Visa for Pakistani Citizens

The schengen visa – what is it.

Anyone planning a visit to Europe from Pakistan should be aware of the Schengen Visa. This is an important consideration for Pakistani nationals as the visa has great benefits. The visa is currently valid in a total of 26 member countries across the European continent (known collectively as the Schengen Area ). This article provides comprehensive information on the Schengen Visa for Pakistani Citizens.

The Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows the holder to travel freely within the Schengen Area, without the need for additional paperwork. For example, if you begin your travel in France and wish to move on to Germany or Spain (or any other of the 26 member states) you can do so without the need to obtain additional visas. There are no internal borders to negotiate across the Schengen Area, making it simple move from one country to another.

Schengen Visa types for Pakistani Citizens

Before applying, you need to determine the type of visa you require. The following criteria will help you decide which visa is suitable for you:

A  Uniform Schengen Visa  permits the holder to stay in, or travel within, any country in the Schengen Area, for up to a maximum of 90 days at a time within a six-month period from the date of issue. These can be issued as:

• a single entry visa, meaning the holder can only enter/exit the Schengen Area once • a double entry visa allowing a second entry within the time period • a multiple entry visa which can be used multiple times (within the permitted time limits of the visa)

A  Limited Territorial Validity Visa  is available for travel only in the particular Schengen country that originally issued the visa. Holders of this type of visa are not permitted to enter any other Schengen member state. These visas are most often used in emergency/humanitarian situations where travel documents are not normally available.

Thirdly, there is a  National Visa . This particular visa is suitable for those who wish to study or work in any one of the Schengen countries and again is available as either a single or multiple entry.

Applying for a visa

Pakistani citizens wishing to apply for a visa must begin the process by arranging an appointment at an embassy. The embassy you choose for this should be either the one relating to the country you will begin your trip (first point of entry within the Schengen Area) or to the country in which you be spending the majority of your time. You can schedule your appointment online on the VFS website or, if you prefer, in person at a local VFS centre.

You should be aware that it may take up to 2 weeks to complete the process and you will probably wait up to another 10 days for the embassy to contact you; we would therefore recommend that you apply for your visa at least one full month prior to the date you wish to travel.

The following fees currently apply: Adult visa: 60 EUROS Long stay visa (>90 days): 99 EUROS Child visa (6-12 years): 35 EUROS

There will be no fee payable under certain conditions, such as for: children under the age of 6; diplomatic passport holders, students and accompanying teachers; researchers from third world countries and participants aged 25 and under at educational non-profit conferences or other events.

You will need to obtain an application form which can be downloaded from the embassy website or you may collect a hard copy from the embassy office. Along with the completed form, you will also be required to produce the following documentary evidence:

• two passport sized photographs adhering to the official standard (full-frontal head image between 32-36mm in height with a plain background; no red-eye, reflections or shadows) • a valid passport with at least two available blank pages • a sponsorship letter explaining the reason/objective of the visit and stating the duration • evidence of travel insurance purchased showing a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUROS • copies of all relevant travel tickets and a full itinerary for the trip, including accommodation bookings and any tourist packages • proof of applicant’s status, such as birth/marriage certificates and any national identity documents or cards • employment details, such as contracts, proof of income for the past six months, leave entitlement consent from your employer and any other documentation as requested • business credentials and licenses for self-employed persons along with IT returns and proof of financial means • for retirees, pension payment documents/evidence for past six months • for students, proof of enrolment and verification from school or college

The information and documentation provided by you will be scrutinised carefully by the embassy for authenticity. Once this process has been completed, you will be invited to attend an interview with an embassy official.

The interview

This is a very important part of the visa application process and it’s useful to know what to expect before you attend. The interviewer will ask you a series of questions to ascertain the reason for your travel. You will be asked to confirm all dates and your intended itinerary. Them, you will also be expected to confirm your financial status and may be asked to provide further evidence or documentation in support of this. Lastly, you will need to be able to prove that all necessary arrangements are in place and that you understand your obligations regarding the laws of the country/countries you are intending to visit, and confirm that you will return to Pakistan at the end of the visit as planned.

Biometric testing will take place at the end of the interview and the results of this will be electronically associated with your identity documentation.

The outcome

You can expect to hear from the embassy within 10-15 days. If accepted, your visa will be posted out to you in due course. If, however, your application is not successful you will receive a letter stating the reasons why. Possible reasons for rejection could be:

• providing insufficient or incorrect personal information • the necessary travel documentation and/or a fully completed itinerary was not provided • no sponsorship letter was submitted with the application (this is essential where the travel is being sponsored) • the discovery of criminal convictions or any previous history of criminal activity • insufficient financial means or proof of income for travel • passport expiry date – the Pakistani government requires that passports need a minimum of three year’s validity • any evidence of forged documentation or incorrect information supplied • insufficient travel insurance coverage (less than 30,000 EUROS) or insurance that does not meet the required terms and conditions for the country/countries being visited • a lack of evidence relating to booked accommodation and any travel/tourist tickets (if a sponsor is organising this on applicant’s behalf, they must send the necessary documents to the embassy) • possible damage or any evidence of tampering with the applicant’s passport • any other form of non-compliance with the procedural requirements of obtaining a visa

Tips for a successful application

There are steps you can take to ensure that your application is successful. First, you should take care to read all the guidance and application forms thoroughly before you begin your application. You should also gather together all the necessary personal information and documentation you will need during the process. The important things to remember are:

• to check that your current passport has at least three year’s validity; if it doesn’t, you must renew it immediately – also ensure there is no damage to the passport • ensure that you explain fully your reasons for travel to the Schengen Area • make sure that all of your personal details are correct and that supporting documents are available and in the correct format • include all relevant educational/professional qualifications and evidence • organise and purchase the required amount of travel insurance • obtain sponsorship letters (where required) and collate all travel/accommodation documentation • do not, under any circumstances, provide incorrect or misleading information or attempt to forge signatures • check and double check that you have followed the correct procedures all the way through the process

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Applying for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands in Pakistan

If you will be visiting the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days – for a holiday, to do business or to see family, for example – you can apply for a Schengen visa. Follow the steps below to apply in Pakistan.

Step 1: Check before applying

Before starting your application, check whether you need a visa for the Netherlands and, if so, where you can apply for it .

Do I need a visa?

Not everyone needs a visa to visit the Netherlands. If you’re unsure what applies to you, check whether you need a visa to visit the Netherlands .

If you plan on applying for a Schengen visa for Finland, check with the embassy of Finland what visa requirements apply to you.

Don’t need a visa?

If you don’t need a visa for the Netherlands, see what documents you do need to travel to the Netherlands.

Check what you need to travel to the Netherlands

Where can I apply for a visa?

To apply for a Schengen visa in Pakistan go to the VFS Global application centre in Islamabad, Karachi or Lahore. You can submit an application there if you live in one of the following places:

• Afghanistan

If you live somewhere else, go to the page Applying for a Schengen visa and select the country where you live to find out where to submit your application. If you still want to submit your application in Pakistan, first check if that’s possible.

Check whether you can apply for a visa outside your country of residence

I want to visit more than one Schengen country

If you want to visit another Schengen country besides the Netherlands, check whether you should apply for a visa for the Netherlands or the other country.

Find out which Schengen country you should apply for a visa for

Step 2: Gather the documents you need

You need several documents to apply for a Schengen visa. Which ones you need depends on your purpose of travel.

Which documents do I need?

On the VFS Global website you’ll find a checklist with the documents you need based on your purpose of travel.

Find out which documents you need

Family member of an EU/EEA national or Swiss national?

If you are travelling with a family member who is a national of an EU/EEA member state or Switzerland, or you’re travelling to visit that family member, you may be eligible for free Schengen visa facilitation.

Find out whether you are eligible for visa facilitation

Step 3: Make an appointment

Once you have all the documents you need for your Schengen visa application, make an appointment at VFS Global. You can apply for your visa up to 6 months ahead of your trip. Apply no later than 45 days before your trip.

How do I make an appointment?

Make an appointment online at VFS Global in Pakistan

• Making an appointment is free of charge. Do not make an appointment with an intermediary because they will charge you money.
• If you are applying for visas for multiple people, make a separate appointment for each person.

Can someone else submit my application for me?

You must appear in person at your appointment to submit your application, even if you’re under 18.

You don’t need to appear in person to submit your application if:

• you have applied in person for a Schengen visa within the past 5 years (59 months), and:
• you submitted a photo with that application, and:
• your fingerprints were taken for that application (only applies if you are 12 or older).

If you meet all 3 conditions, you can have someone else submit your application for you. The appointment must be under the name of the person submitting your application.

If you are not certain whether VFS Global has your fingerprints on record, you should submit your application in person. VFS Global cannot check this for you.

How can I change or cancel my appointment?

To change or cancel your appointment, contact VFS Global in Pakistan .

Step 4: Go to your appointment

Go to your appointment at VFS Global, and bring all the documents on your checklist from step 2 with you, plus the checklist itself.

See the address of VFS Global in Pakistan

What happens at my appointment?

At your appointment you:

• submit the documents that are on your checklist, together with your passport
• provide your fingerprints (only if you are 12 or older)
• answer questions about your trip
• pay the visa fees
• indicate whether you want to collect your passport (with visa affixed) or have it sent to you
• receive a reference number to track the status of your application

How much does a visa cost?

See the overview of consular fees in Pakistan to find out how much a visa costs and what forms of payment are accepted. In some situations you are not required to pay.

Find out in which situations you do not need to pay the visa fee

You will always need to pay service costs to VFS Global.

How long will it take for my application to be processed?

You’ll usually find out within 15 calendar days whether your application was successful. Sometimes it can take longer and may take up to 45 calendar days.

Find out more about processing times for a visa application

How can I track the status of my application?

When you submit your application you’ll receive a reference number from VFS Global that you can use to track the status of your application online .

Step 5: Collect your passport or have it sent to you

You will receive an email once your application has been processed. The email won’t say whether your application was successful. You can collect your passport or have it sent to you. If your application was approved, the visa will be affixed to a page in your passport.

Having your passport sent to you

If you choose to have your passport sent to you, you’ll discuss at your appointment how to arrange this.

Collecting your passport

If you choose to collect your passport, you’ll discuss at your appointment when you can collect it. You can also have someone else collect your passport for you.

If you collect your passport yourself, bring the following with you:

• a valid form of ID
• the proof of payment provided by VFS Global

If someone else collects your passport for you, they must bring the following with them:

• a signed letter from you authorising them to collect your passport

Check the information on your visa

Check whether the information on your visa is correct. Your name and the visa’s validity period, for example.

Find out more about the information on your visa

If any of the information is incorrect or you can’t use the visa, for example because the period of validity is later than the dates of the plane tickets in your application, contact the Netherlands embassy in Islamabad.

Email the Netherlands embassy

What if my application was refused?

If your application wasn’t approved, you’ll receive a letter stating why. If you disagree with this decision, you have several options.

Find out what you can do if your visa application was refused

Step 6: Prepare for your trip

With your Schengen visa you can travel to the Netherlands or another Schengen country. You must show the visa upon departure and arrival.

Border control may also ask you for other documents. Find out what other documents you need in the checklist for travelling to the Netherlands.

Check what you need for travel to the Netherlands

Do you have a question about making an appointment at VFS Global or about the status of your application?

Contact VFS Global in Pakistan

Do you have a question about something else?

Contact NetherlandsWorldwide

TRAVEL & STUDY

Travel & study.

Information about travelling and studying in the EU from Pakistan

The European Union considers the freedom of movement a fundamental right of its citizens. The border-free Schengen Area provides free movement to more than 400 million EU citizens, as well as to many non-EU nationals, businessmen, tourists or other persons legally present on the EU territory.

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Consular missions.

The EU Delegation to Pakistan does not issue passports or visas. Passports and visas are issued by the Embassy and/or Consulate of each individual EU Member State. Citizens of Pakistan require a Schengen visa for travelling in the Schengen area counties and a National visa for travelling to the EU Member States outside the Schengen zone. At present, the Schengen Area comprises of most of the EU Member States, except for Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania. However, Bulgaria and Romania are currently in the process of joining the Schengen Area. Of non-EU States, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland have joined the Schengen Area and Liechtenstein is expected to join soon. The Schengen visa entitles the visitor to enter one country and travel freely throughout the Schengen zone. Pakistani nationals should contact the EU Member State's Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan for obtaining the required Schengen or National Visa of their travel destination in Europe.

WARNING: The Delegation of the European Union does not facilitate nor is involved in any migration, including employment migration, a scheme in/to Europe. If you receive mails that suggest the same, kindly inform the Delegation of the European Union through the mailbox DELEGATION PAKISTAN at [email protected] . The Delegation advises not to share any personal data nor send money to individuals or organisations that fraudulently use the name of the Delegation. Affected individuals are invited to report such schemes to national law enforcement authorities for inquiry and remedy.

Schengen – Harmonised List of Supporting Documents

On 24 October, the European Commission adopted an implementing decision that establishes the list of supporting documents to be submitted by Pakistan-based applicants (Pakistani nationals or long-term residents) for short-stay visas to the Schengen zone.

The list ("Annex III") defines the type of supporting documentation that Pakistan-based "Schengen" visa applicants must submit as well as specific documents depending on the nature of the stay when placing their request to the appropriate Schengen mission in Pakistan. These required documents come besides submitting passport, application form, photos and travel medical insurance.

• Factsheet on New Visa Rules
• General information on EU visa policy can be retrieved at   https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/schengen_en
• The list as annex III.pdf

Travel at the time of COVID -19 Pandemic:

• EU Member States Diplomatic and Consular Presence in Pakistan
• Coronavirus: Consular Support to EU Citizens in Third Countries
• Commission recommends partial and gradual lifting of travel restrictions to the EU after 30 June
• Operational guidelines for the management of passengers and aviation personnel

Erasmus+ is the European Union’s programme for education, training, youth and sport. Between 2014 and 2020, it will provide opportunities for four million people to study, train and gain life experience abroad.

Erasmus+ replaces a number of older programmes, including an international exchange programme called Erasmus Mundus.

See the Erasmus+ web portal’s Resources section for information about linguistic support, documents for applicants and the management of proposals. Please click here to find the factsheet for Pakistan .

• Study in Europe
• General information on EU visa policy
• Coronavirus: Commission invites Member States to extend restriction on non-essential travel to the EU until 15 June
• Questions and answers: Tourism and Transport Package
• EASA/ECDC issue joint guidelines to assure health safety in air travel despite COVID-19 pandemic
• Coronavirus: Commission recommends partial and gradual lifting of travel restrictions to the EU after 30 June, based on…

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Everything You Need to Know About Applying for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan

Home » Tourism » Everything You Need to Know About Applying for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan

In This Post – What is a Schengen Visa? – List of Schengen countries – Schengen entry requirements – Who needs a Schengen Visa? – Types of Schengen Visa – Visa application requirement – How to apply for a Schengen Visa? – General FAQs

Update (Feb 17, 2020): As per the updated Schengen Visa Code, the EU will now issue multiple-entry visas with the validity of one, three and five years. Those holding the multiple-entry visa can travel to the Schengen Zone as many times as they want. However, they can only stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day time period.

The new rules suggest that 1-year multiple-entry visa will only be issued to those applicants who have lawfully obtained and used three Schengen visas during the last two years. Meanwhile, in order to obtain the 2-year multiple-entry visa, the applicant must have used a 1-year multiple-entry visa within the last two years.

According to the updated Visa Code, the 5-year multiple-entry Schengen Visa will only be issued to the applicants who have used their 3-year multiple-entry visa within the last three years.

Planning to spend your vacations skiing in the Swiss Alps, sipping coffee on Champs-Élysées Avenue in Paris, or visiting medieval landmarks and historic locations in Rome? If so, you’ll need a valid Schengen Visa stamped on your passport in order to travel to Switzerland, France, Italy, or almost any other European country for that matter. For green passport holders, applying for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan may seem a bit daunting, but contrary to popular belief, the process is quite straightforward, as long as you fulfil all the requirements and keep your documents in order.

There is a good chance that you first stumbled across the word ‘Schengen’ during your preliminary research on travelling to Europe from Pakistan, or maybe you heard your travel agent talk about it and are now wondering what it actually means. Well, this comprehensive guide on how to apply for a Schengen visa from Pakistan will explain all about the Schengen Area, the countries included in the Schengen visa-free travel list, visa application requirements, the application process, the Schengen travel regulations and much more.

What is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Visa is the most common type of visa required for travelling to European countries. Schengen is essentially a passport-free zone that covers most of the countries in the European Union (EU), as well as a few that are not a part of it. 

Thus, a Schengen Visa can be defined as a short-stay visa that allows people to travel and spend time in any of the member countries listed further below. Moreover, there are no border controls between the Schengen countries. Therefore, having a Schengen Visa enables an individual to liberally move within the territory without facing any restrictions on the border – though you might still need to show your passport, visa and other documentation to the border control officers.

This visa usually allows a short stay of up to 90 days in the Schengen territory within a 180-day period. 

However, it is important to note that while Schengen Visa is ideal for tourists and those travelling for business purposes, individuals planning to study, work or live in one of the countries in the Schengen Area need to apply for a different visa.

What is the Schengen Area?

Also referred to as the Schengen Zone, the Schengen Area is the largest free-travel area in the world. It comprises 26 countries that have abolished their internal borders to allow unrestricted and free movement of residents as well as foreign nationals holding the Schengen Visa.

The Schengen Area covers most of the countries in the European Union – except the United Kingdom, Ireland, Bulgaria, Croatia and Cyprus. While the residents of these countries can visit the Schengen Area visa-free for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period, they would still require their valid passports to travel through the borders.

Meanwhile, four non-EU countries, including Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein are also included in the Schengen Area. So, don’t confuse the EU with the Schengen Area, as they are both quite different.

In case you were wondering how vast the Schengen Zone actually is, it boasts an area of about 4,312,099 square kilometer with its external borders reaching the distance of approximately 50,000 kilometer. Overall, the Schengen territory houses hundreds of ports and airports along with land-crossing points.

List of countries you can visit with a Schengen visa

Obtaining a Schengen visa from Pakistan permits you to enter and travel within these 26 countries in Europe.

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Switzerland
• Netherlands

List of non-Schengen Area countries you can visit with a Schengen visa

Here are the countries that are not a part of the Schengen Area, but allow visa-free travel for Schengen visa-holders. 

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Sao Tome and Principe

It is important to note that some of these countries have their own requirements, apart from the visa, that need to be fulfilled for travelling. 

The Schengen Area Entry Requirements

Before we discuss the types of visa, required documents and how to apply for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan, here is a brief overview of the entry requirements one must fulfil to enter the Schengen territory.

• Have a passport that is valid for at least 3 more months after your trip ends
• A Schengen visa that is valid for a stay of maximum 90 days within a 180-day period
• Travel insurance in accordance with the Schengen visa requirements
• Return tickets or enough funds to prove that you can purchase one
• Documents proving your purpose of travel and the dates you will be staying there

Who needs a Schengen Visa?

All Pakistani citizens need to apply for a Schengen Visa in order to travel to most of the holiday destinations in Europe. However, in case you have dual nationality, you may or may not be allowed visa-free entry into the Schengen Area, depending on the passport you choose to travel with.

For instance, as of right now, U.S.-passport holders can travel to any of the 26 member countries for up to 90 days (for tourism or business) without having to obtain a Schengen Visa.

Schengen Visa Types

There are different types of Schengen visa one can apply for, depending on the purpose of travel, which is something that needs to be selected while filling the Schengen Visa application form. They can be categorized as short-stay, long-stay, airport transit or transit visa. However, since long-term visas are only granted to the individuals who are studying, working or residing in one of the Schengen countries, we’ll be focusing on short-stay and other similar visas. 

It is important to clarify that apart from a multiple-entry visa, which generally allows you to stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180 days period, the duration of stay for your single-entry visa or double-entry visa depends on the embassy or consulate you’ve applied at.

Here are the types of Schengen Visa according to the purpose of entry.

• Airport transit 

Transit 

Visiting family or friends , business trip, official visit, medical purpose, study purpose .

• Cultural/sports/religious event and film crews

Let’s discuss these visa types and entry purposes briefly. 

If you are planning to travel to any of the countries included in the Schengen Zone for sightseeing and experiencing the culture, you need to select this purpose of travelling in your Schengen Visa application form.

The tourist visa is the most common type of Schengen Visa that people from Pakistan apply for. At the earliest, you can apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa from Pakistan three months before your intended date of travel. At the very least, it is advised to apply for this short-stay visa at least 15 working days before your trip. Tourist visas are valid for a stay up to 90 days within a 180-day time frame.

Airport Transit

People travelling through the international zone of a Schengen country airport need to possess Airport Transit Visa. However, they can’t use this to enter a Schengen member country. 

Pakistani citizens need to obtain an airport transit visa if they fall under this category.

This purpose of travel is only selected if you will be stopping over in a Schengen country for a very short period. These visas are usually obtained by seafarers or those travelling on a cruise ship, as they stop at certain ports for a very limited amount of time.

People who have relatives or friends legally residing in one of the Schengen countries may be eligible to apply for this type of visa. Generally referred to as a Schengen Visit Visa, selecting this purpose of travel would require the applicant to submit a letter of invitation along with other specific documents at the time of visa application submission. 

This is also a short-stay visa meant for people who have to travel to and from the Schengen countries for business purposes. 

You can only select “Official Visit” as your purpose of entry while applying for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan if you are travelling to a country in the Schengen Zone on official duty. Government officials travelling with delegations with identical travel dates have to apply for this type of visa. 

This type of visa enables patients seeking medical treatment to travel to any of the Schengen countries. If you select ‘Medical Reasons’ as your purpose of travel, you’ll be required to submit your medical records as well as some other specific documents. Generally, patients looking to undergo treatment in any of the member countries are allowed to stay at a clinic or a hospital for up to three months within a certain time frame. This can vary on a case-to-case basis.

Students who plan on attending courses at any educational institution in the Schengen Area for a period shorter than three months or have to take an entrance exam for school or university in the territory need to apply for a Schengen Study Visa.

However, this visa has short-term validity. Most students who have to continue their studies for a longer period of time are granted long-term National Visa, which enables them to study as well as work in their country of stay for a period of up to 12 months.

Cultural, Sports, Religious Events and Film Crews

This is yet another short-stay visa for those who want to travel to Europe to participate in a religious, cultural, entertainment or sports event. Film and production crews also select this option as their purpose of travel while applying for a Schengen Visa.

Schengen Visa Application Requirements

These are the standard documents that are usually required by the embassies and consulates for granting Schengen Visa. However, the requirements might vary as per the purpose of travel and other specifications. 

List of required documents 

• Two sets of duly filled and signed Common Schengen Application Form (Original + photocopy)
• Three recent passport size photos that are taken within the past three months. Make sure the pictures aren’t doctored in any way. Side pose, hats and veils are also not allowed. The photos must be coloured.
• A passport that’s valid for at least three more months beyond the date you plan to exit the Schengen Zone. Moreover, it must have two blank pages to stamp the visa.
• Older stamped passports and copies of all previous visas (if any)
• Copy of Smart National Identity Card (CNIC) 
• Two copies of marriage certificate/nikahnama along with its English translation (if any)
• NADRA-issued Family Registration Certificate (FRC) attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Round trip ticket reservation or itinerary. This must include specifications such as flight numbers and dates of travel as well as entry and exit points. Please note that you don’t need to book your tickets or make any payments before obtaining the visa. Simply reserving the return flights is enough as long as you have documentation to prove it.
• Travel health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros.
• Proof of accommodation. This shows where you will be staying throughout your stay in the Schengen Zone. You can submit your hotel or hostel reservation. In case you will be staying with a friend or a relative, their address along with a letter of invitation will be required.
• Proof of funds. This document proves you have the financial means to support yourself throughout your stay in the Schengen Area. You can do so through your bank account statement of the past six months, a sponsorship letter confirming that someone else will finance your trip along with the sponsor’s bank statement for Schengen Visa, or a combination of both

Along with the aforementioned documents, embassies also require some additional documents from the individual applying for a Schengen visa from Pakistan as well as other countries. These specific requirements are usually based on the visa applicant’s marital status, employment status and age, among other factors.

For employed individuals

• The Contract of Employment of Confirmation of Employment letter that states the position the applicant holds within the company as well as their starting date.
• Bank statement of the past 6 months
• Leave permission for a certain number of days on the company letterhead signed by the employer
• Salary slips for the past 3 months
• Tax documentation. This can be either the Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source provided by the company.

For self-employed visa applicants

• A copy of license proving that your business is registered with the concerned authorities 
• A 6-month bank statement of the company
• Income Tax Return

For attending conferences 

• Invitation to attend a conference in the Schengen territory sent directly to the embassy.
• Proof of registration to attend the event
• Receipt of payment (if any)
• Bank statement of the past six months

For student candidates

• Proof of enrolment in a school, college or university
• No-objection certificate from the educational institute

For retired individuals 

• The pension statement of the past 6 months

If a visa applicant is married to an EU citizen

• A Confirmation of Employment letter from the spouse’s employer in Europe
• Spouse’s valid passport
• An official marriage certificate

For minors/underage Schengen visa applicants

If a minor is travelling with parents or legal guardian(s):

• Birth certificate along with translated copies
• A visa application form signed by both parents or legal guardian(s)
• In case of a custody issue, a family court order will be required 
• Copies of CNIC or passports of both parents

If the minor is travelling alone:

• A notarized parental authorization letter that is signed by both of the parents or the legal guardian(s), along with the above-mentioned documents

Minimum Bank Balance Requirements

This is one of the requirements that most people struggle with while applying for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan.

One thing you need to understand is that your bank statement serves as proof that you have enough funds to pay for your travel and accommodation expenses during your trip to Europe. While applicants are usually asked to submit a 6-month statement of their bank transactions and available balance, they are sometimes required to produce a statement dating back a year. In some cases, the company’s bank statement might also be required.

Ideally, your bank statement for the past 6 months needs to show a balance of at least 3000 Euros.

Schengen Travel Insurance Requirements

Buying travel insurance is one of the most important requirements for applying for a Schengen visa from Pakistan.

However, you need to make sure the plan you select fulfils all of the following requirements: 

• Provides a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros
• Covers all of the Schengen countries
• Cover any emergency medical expenses that might arise during the trip

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan

Where to apply for a Schengen visa in Pakistan?

In order to apply for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan, you first need to determine your purpose of travel and which country you would be travelling to. In case you are visiting more than countries in the Schengen Area, you must apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you’ll be spending most of your time. However, in case it is hard to determine which country you’ll be staying for the longest duration in, you must select the mission of the country that will be your point of entry into the Schengen Zone.

The Schengen Visa fee from Pakistan

• The Schengen Visa fee for adults is 60 Euros.
• Visa fee for children between 6 to 12 years of age is 35 Euros
• Children younger than the age of, diplomatic and official passport holders, students accompanying teachers on a school trip and those with an EU-national family member don’t have to pay a visa fee.

Please note that starting from the first Monday of February 2020, the Schengen Visa fee for adults and children will be increased to 80 and 40 Euros, respectively.

Application process

For the sake of convenience, let’s break down the process of visa application for the Schengen areas:

Step 1: Determine your purpose of travel to identify the Schengen Visa type you have to apply for

Step 2: Figure out where you’re supposed to lodge your application. In Pakistan, the missions of most European countries are situated in Islamabad.

Step 3: Schedule a visa appointment at the embassy or consulate of your chosen Schengen country. You will need to check the official website of the respective mission to find out if an appointment can be booked online or if you have to do it in person. 

Step 4: Download the Schengen Visa online application form and fill it correctly. No matter which country you’re travelling to, the form is going to be the same. You will be required to fill in your personal details, some information about your background, the purpose of travelling and other details about your planned trip.

Make sure the form is properly filled and there are no blank columns. If you think a certain question has no relation to your case, mark it as N/A. Moreover, print the duly filled form twice and sign both copies.

Step 5: Collect all of the required documents. This includes the standard required documents that are mentioned above as well as your case-specific documents that may vary with each visa type and your chosen mission.

Step 6: You’ll shortly receive a call for an interview. This interview will be held in person, usually the embassy or consulate of your chosen country. You will hand over your documents along with the visa application form to the visa consular you meet there.

You will also have to attend a short interview, usually ranging between 10 to 15 minutes, where you’ll be asked questions about where you live, where you work and your travel details, among others. 

Take a look at some of the most common questions asked during these interviews: 

• Which Schengen country/countries are you visiting and your purpose of visit?
• Who is going to pay for your trip?
• Do you have any relatives or friends residing legally in Europe?
• Are you married? If so, how long have you been married for and what does your spouse do?
• Do you have any kids? If yes, how old are they?
• What are your educational qualifications?
• Where do you work?
• How long are you planning to stay in the Schengen territory and where are you going to stay?

Step 7 : Pay the non-refundable visa fee

Step 8: Wait for your application to be processed

Generally, it takes at most 15 days for a Schengen visa to be processed. However, in some cases, the period may be extended up to 30 days.

Step 9: Receive your passport

If your Schengen Visa is approved, carefully read the information written on the visa stickers and check the validity of your visa. In the instance of your Schengen visa getting rejected, read the reasoning behind their decision and make sure to fulfil it the next time you apply. Also, you can appeal your visa rejection, if needed.

General FAQs

What is the difference between visa validity and duration of stay?

The terms ‘Duration of Stay’ and Visa Validity’ are not interchangeable.

While the duration of stay refers to the maximum number of days you are allowed to stay in the Schengen territory, visa validity is the period of time during which you can use your visa to travel to your desired location.

Is the United Kingdom part of the Schengen Area?

No, the United Kingdom is not a part of the Schengen Area. You will have to apply for a separate visa if you wish to travel to the UK.

Can I travel to more than one member country with the same Schengen visa?

Yes, you can travel to more than one member country after applying for a Schengen visa from Pakistan. Just make sure to stay within the permitted time frame mentioned on your visa.

In case of rejection, is the visa processing fees reimbursable?

No, the Schengen Visa is not reimbursable. 

Please note that following the aforementioned instructions does not guarantee your visa approval. Moreover, you are advised to visit the official websites of the countries you are planning to visit to learn more about their individual Schengen visa requirements for Pakistanis.

Anyhow, that was everything you needed to know about applying for a Schengen visa from Pakistan. In case you have any queries or want to share your feedback, feel free to get in touch with us by emailing at [email protected] . 

Meanwhile, you can also take a look at our detailed guide on how to travel to Turkey from Pakistan to learn about its visa requirements, visa application process as well as places to visit in one of the most historically rich countries in the Muslim world. Similarly, you can also check out our guide on taking a trip to Azerbaijan , which happens to be an emerging tourist destination. 

Not to mention, since Pakistan topped the list of the best holiday destinations for 2020 by Conde Nast Traveller, you can even consider visiting the popular holiday destinations in the country this year.

For more information on where to travel within and outside the country, stay connected to Zameen Blog, the top lifestyle blog in Pakistan . You can also subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest updates about tourism, home décor, construction and real estate trends in Pakistan. 

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Visa: short-term / schengen.

Visa for stays up to 90 days

Please first read the Embassy´s Important note to our visitors and Visa : General Information .

• For visiting the so-called “Schengen States” for a period up to 90 days, Pakistani citizens have to obtain a visa category “Schengen” . Germany along with Austria, Belgium, the Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland have all acceded to the Schengen Agreement and are thus “Schengen States”.
• Pakistani citizens should apply for a Schengen visa at the mission of the country which is their main destination . The country of entry and departure is not the determining factor. Holders of Schengen visas (text on the visa reads “valid for Schengen states” in the language of the issuing country) may spend up to 90 days in a given 180 days period in the Schengen area, provided their visa is valid at the time.
• In order to apply for a visa you need an appointment (one per applicant; no reservation of multiple appointment dates for the same person allowed).
• The Embassy has changed the procedure for booking appointments for Schengen visas. Due to the constant high demand, we have decided to set up a waiting list in order to efficiently adapt the appointment allocation to the capacities of our visa office. To ensure that appointments are allocated fairly and smoothly, we ask all applicants to register on the waiting list. For this purpose, we need additional data to better understand your travel purpose. Therefore, please complete the waiting list registration carefully with the requested information. We recommend that you enter all the required data correctly and completely in order to avoid delays in the allocation of your appointment. You do not need to use an agency to register on the waiting list!
• Valid for Embassy in Islamabad only: If the biometrics of an applicant have been taken for a Schengen visa application during the last 59 months, he/she can book an appointment in the category “Booking of appointments for short-term/Schengen visas (Biometrics already taken for a Schengen visa application during the last 59 months)”.
• Apart from the online appointment for your visit at the Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate General in Karachi, we kindly ask you to use the online visa-application form in order to make your personal appearance in the German Missions as efficient and convenient as possible. The print-out of the online application form includes a barcode on the last page, which you should bring along. The barcode can be used to automatically enter your application details in the Mission's computer system and will therefore significantly speed up the application process at the counter. Application forms are also available at the visa section - free of charge.
• Persons outside the visa section offering their services for the visa procedure neither work for nor work with the consent of the visa section . In case these persons do promise any favour regarding the issuance of a visa, please report to the visa officer at the Counter.
• The processing time for issuing short-term visa will take about fourteen days since handing-in the application. Especially during summer, there might be a considerable waiting period of more than four weeks for an appointment. Therefore, please book an appointment as soon as you know when you want to travel and compile the necessary documents before your interview. It is possible to apply for Schengen visa up to six months in advance of the journey.

Although the information on this website has been prepared with utmost care, we can not accept any responsibility for inaccuracies contained herein.

Additional content

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SCHENGEN VISITOR VISA

Tourist Visa

Tourist Schengen Visa – Traveling to Europe for Tourism

A Tourist Schengen Visa permits third-country nationals to enter into the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 6-month period, under the purpose of traveling or visiting Europe for pleasure.

Who needs a Tourist Schengen Visa When Traveling to Europe for Tourism?

Non-European citizens willing to travel to Europe for tourism purposes might be required to apply for a short-term Schengen visa under “tourist” specification.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

In order to meet the eligibility criteria for a tourist visa, you will need to prove to the immigration authorities the following things:

•    You have a valid passport •    You are in good health •    You have the financial resources means required to pay for your expenses  •    You have a residence outside intended visiting country and other binding ties that will ensure your return home after your visit to the intended country. •    You plan to remain in the intended country for a specific and limited period of time •    You intend to leave the intended country at the end of your visit •    You have no intention to seek or undertake employment while staying in the intended country. •    You have no criminal record •    You do not pose a security risk •    You agree to abide by the laws of the land

COVID-19 ALERT: Many European Countries starting tourist visas, Effective June 15. Learn More: (Click here)

HOW SUPERIOR CONSULTING WILL HELP YOU:

Superior Consulting will give you professional advice on the criteria and methodology of an application process.

With our expertise and superior unmatched services, we will be delighted to prepare your application by minimizing processing time. 

Attaining visitor visa involves careful consideration and preparation of a faultless application. Having 17+ Years Experience, Our consultants will provide proper attention to your visa application and assist you throughout the application process for a successful outcome & to avoid rejection.

appointment booking for visitor or family settelment visa

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• Europe Holidays Package 2019
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Best Europe Documentation Visa Consultant in Lahore:

Famous for their architecture, night life, restaurants and museums, the cities of European counties are vibrant. Babaaz Travels and tours is serving as Europe visa consultants in Lahore. We provide you Visa Assistance for Europe Visit Visa from Pakistan.

In the North, Artic Sea, in the West, Atlantic Ocean, in the South Mediterranean and Black sea, surrounds the Europe. Europe is the second last smallest continent. The area of Europe is 10,355,000 Sq km. According to modern Geographers, the main boundaries between Asia and Europe are being formed by the Caucasus Mountains, part of the Caspian Sea, the Ural River, and the Ural Mountains. The name of this continent is derived from the word “Europa”. It means sunset.

Most of the Europe is in northern latitudes, as the seas bordering the continent are warm so the western and central part of Europe is having moderate climate. Winters are cool and summers are mild. The summers of Greece, Italy, Spain are usually dry and hot. Rainfalls occur in winters. People who live in cool places prefer food that is hot and vice versa. Languages in Europe: A variety of languages is being spoken in Europe. The major groups of linguistics are Slavic that includes Serbo-Croatian, Macedonian, Slovenian, Polish, Bulgarian, Slovak, Czech, Belarusian, Ukrainian and Russian. Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Dutch, German and English included in Germanic. Romanian, Portuguese, Spanish, French and Italian are included in the Romance.

Religion in Europe:

Christianity was the major religion in Europe in early 2000s. In Poland, southern Germany, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and France Roman Catholics are in majority. Protestant faiths are another large group. They are mostly living in northern Germany, Scotland, England, Scandinavian nations and Netherland. Jewish communities are also found in a lot of European countries. Muslims are found in Turkey and Albania.

As a large number of countries make Europe, the European cuisine is very diversified and have a lot of variety. Meat is considered the most important ingredients in many dishes. Wheat, seasonings and sauces are also very important in the cuisine of Europe. There are many differences and similarities between the cuisines of different countries. These differences and similarities are associated with climates and locations of the countries.

The famous dish of Poland is bigos and flaki. Kielbasa and Pierogies are also very famous in European countries. Blini, beef stroganoff, chicken Kiev, and vodka are the specialties of Russia. Bryndzove halusky is very common in Slovakia. The National dish of Greece is Moussaka. Horse meat is very common in Slovenia.

The national dish of Germany is sauerbraten. Belgium is popular for mussels with pommes frites, waffles and chocolates. Belgium and Germany are famous for best beers. Weiner is gifted by Austria. Tafelspitz is famous in Vienna. Tapas are famous in Spain. The European cuisine is loved by the citizens and by the visitors as well.

Interesting customs in Europe:

There are a lot of interesting customs in European countries. Some of them are given below:

The Danube Cross Swimming: Romania: Orthodox Church supports this event. Danube Race for the Cross is celebrated by Romanians by swimming in winter.

The Tomatina Festival: Spain: This is a tomato fighting event. In this event people throw tomatoes at each other and enjoy.

Wife-carrying Championship: Finland: This is a race in which female partners are carried by their men.

Whipping Monday: Czech Republic: This tradition is celebrated in Easter. Women are whipped with willow branches. Then these women give gifts to the men who whip them.

Blackening of the bride: Scotland: In this tradition brides are covered with sauces, muds, spoiled milk. They say that if the new couple can bear this type of humiliation. They will bear every hardship in their married life.

Best places for tourist:

• The Albanian coast
• Bansko, Bulgaria
• Sarajevo, Bosniaherzegovina
• The Czech Republic
• Leipzig, Germany
• Estonia’s Baltic Coast
• London, England
• Budapest, Hungary
• The Peloponnese, Greece
• Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
• Palermo, Sicily, Italy
• Gdansk, Poland
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Transylvania, Romania
• Porto, Portugal
• The High Tatras, Slovakia
• Novi Sad, Serbia
• Andalucia, Spain
• Northwest, Slovenia
• Lviv, Ukraine

Babaaz Travels Working as Europe Visa Agent in Lahore:

Babaaz Travels and Tours is not working as Europe visa agent in Lahore or anywhere else. We will just do file preparation for you!

Visas are totally dependable on your profile and Embassy.

Babaaz Travels and Tours provide you Visa Assistance for Europe Visit Visa. We provide professional services to obtain visas of Europe and Schengen area. With our services there are higher chances of getting visa.

Explore the Europe with your friends and family!

Required Documents:

• Bank statement 6 months (400K balance).
• Business OR Job documents.
• Travel History (Optional)
• Passport/CNIC/Pics
• Police Character Certificate
• Property Docs (if any).
• Processing time: 15 – 20 days

Contact us for more details.

Call: 042-35912628

Or fill the following form we will contact you.