What you need to know about the Schengen Visa

29 February 2020

Schengen visa

For anyone with a thirst for adventure or expanding their educational or occupational horizons, the Schengen visa is one of the most coveted visas out there. 

Unfortunately, it also has a reputation for being one of the toughest visas to get. So much so, that many people are deterred from applying for it.

Have you ever wanted to see the Notre Dame? Explore the Spanish Steps in Italy or the Trevi Fountain? Study in German universities that provide FREE education?

If you do, we don’t blame you. That’s why we’re providing you with a few useful insights on what you need to do to get the Schengen visa.

If you plan on studying in the EU, get the right IELTS scores first

Proving your English language competency is a crucial part of getting your student visa to any European country.

For this purpose, you need to score a 6 on each band of the IELTS – reading, writing, listening and speaking. If you need any study support to nail the test, our partner institute, Unitech, is the perfect place for all your IELTS needs. They’re even a British Council registration centre for the test.

Call them up on 0777 633 933 or email them on admin@unitech.lk for further details.

If you want a Schengen visa minus the hassle, go through an experienced visa consultant

If you want to do away with all the second-guessing during the application process, seeking support from a visa consultant can be immensely useful. Since experienced and qualified consultants will have in-depth experience with specific visa requirements and knowledge of changing regulations, they will help you put your best foot forward when you submit your visa application.

The key, here, is to choose a visa consultant with demonstrable experience dealing with these types of visas. At The Visa Centre, we have over 21 years of experience helping people go abroad, including to the EU.

If you’re dreaming of exploring, studying or working in any European country, give us a call on 0777 633 933 (English), 0771 066 388 (Sinhala) or 0777 633 955 (Tamil)  to find out how we can support you during the visa application stage. 

Get all your documents in order

As with any other visa, you need to submit plenty of supporting documents to support your eligibility for a Schengen visa

To work towards a successful visa, you will need to submit:

  • Duly completed visa application form
  • Recent photos of you
  • A valid passport
  • Roundtrip reservation and itinerary
  • Travel health insurance
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of financial means
  • Bank account statement
  • Proof of sponsorship (if applicable)
  • Evidence of employment
  • Travel itinerary

Do your research on the latest rules and regulations governing the Schengen visa

Given how fast travel-related rules and regulations change, it pays to keep up with the latest developments before you apply for a Schengen visa.

Did you know, for instance, that the European Commission adopted a proposal on the revision of Regulation No 810/2009 in May 2018 in light of migration and security concerns? 

What this means is that going forward, visa procedures will be easier for frequent travellers to the Schengen zone and countries that have collaborated with EU officials and agencies in terms of the readmission of illegal migrants will be rewarded with easier visa procedures.

If this seems a little confusing or if you’d like to know what this means for you and your visa application, speak to our Schengen visa consultants at The Visa Centre. 

By knowing what has changed in terms of EU rules and regulations, you can ensure that you’re fully prepared for the visa process and won’t end up spending more money dealing with a rejected visa.

Rejected visa? It doesn’t have to be the end of the road

Unfortunately, rejected visas are handed out from time to time. While it’s easy to lose all hope and feel like you’ve reached the end of the road, it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way.

With the support of the right visa consultant, you can get back on your feet and resume planning your travel to Europe. Just make sure that you take action immediately after you find yourself with a rejected visa.

At The Visa Centre, we deal with plenty of rejected visas and help people continue their journeys abroad without too much hassle or delay. If you’re dealing with a rejected visa, yourself, speak to our consultants today to find out how we can help.

Begin your journey to Europe with The Visa Centre

Don’t let the tough demands of the Schengen visa scare you away. With the right guidance and support, heading to Europe, whether for an incredible vacation, to begin your studies or to continue your career, is easier than you imagine.

For all the support you need, reach out to us today.