How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan?
If you’re planning to apply for a Schengen Visa in Pakistan, read this article to understand the complete process and requirements for obtaining a Schengen visa.
The Schengen visa is crucial for travelers as it grants access to the extensive Schengen area, covering 4.3 million square kilometers and including 26 countries in the European continent.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa?​
When applying for a Schengen visa from a country within the Schengen Area agreement, you can often submit your application through a 3rd party visa application center in your country (VFS Global / Gerry’s). The Schengen Area comprises Germany, Austria, France, Italy, The Netherlands, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Slovakia, Switzerland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Finland, Poland, Sweden, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Malta. You have the flexibility to apply to any of these countries for a Schengen visa, granting you access to all listed nations upon approval.
However, if you’re uncertain about which Schengen country to choose for your visa application, a simple rule can guide you. Apply to the country where you plan to spend the majority of your days during the Schengen trip. This is known as the main destination. In case the duration is equal across multiple countries, apply to the one where you’ll enter the Schengen Area first.
Required Documents for Schengen Visa in Pakistan​
For a Schengen visa application, it is essential to attach the exact list of documents, along with a clear explanation of the purpose of your visit. While these are general requirements, some embassies may have slightly different processes. For instance, Italy may request one original set of documents along with one copy of the entire document list. On the other hand, the Netherlands may not require a copy of the entire application.
It’s important to be aware of these variations and carefully follow the specific requirements of the embassy you are applying to. Ensure that all documents are accurately prepared and follow the guidelines outlined by the respective embassy for a smooth application process.
List of Documents Required by Most Embassies
1. Filled and printed application form
2. Two passport-sized photographs
3. Passport with 6 months validity
4. Six months’ bank statement
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7. Employment letter
8. Leave certificate from employer
9. Last three months’ salary slips
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11. Family Registration Certificate (FRC)
12. Passport copy along with copies of all past visas and stamps
13. CNIC photocopy
14. Covering letter detailing day-to-day activities of the trip
15. NTN certificate and last three years’ tax returns
After submitting your application, the processing time typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the country you have selected as your main destination. Ensure that all documents are accurately prepared and comply with the specific requirements for a smooth application process.Â
Please note: It’s essential to conduct your own research, as some embassies may require additional documents.
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Tips for Obtaining a Schengen Visa in Pakistan
Duration of Your Trip:
Obtaining a Schengen visa for the first time can be challenging. It is advisable to create a short, clear and understandable itinerary based on your financial situation and budget. For the initial application, consider planning a trip to only one or two Schengen countries. Once you have the visa, you can later modify your plans if you wish to visit more countries.
Time of the Year to Apply:
Apply well in advance, as legally you can submit a Schengen visa application up to three months before your travel date. Try to apply during the low season, allowing the embassy/consulate sufficient time to review your application. Avoid the busy months of May, June and July when European embassies worldwide experience a higher-than-average number of applications.
Build Travel History:
For tourism purposes, consider visiting popular tourist destinations such as Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Turkey, etc before applying for a Schengen visa. This establishes you as a genuine tourist with a history of international travel, especially from your home country. Visit visa-free countries with a Pakistani passport to create a budget-friendly travel history.
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Strengthen Financial & Professional Background:
Maintain clear and clean financial records. If you are employed, keep your salary slips and ensure that your salary is credited to your bank account through proper channels, such as a bank cheque from the company. If you have savings beyond your salary in your personal account, explain this in your cover letter to the embassy, providing a comprehensive detail of your financial situation.
Conclusion:
Getting rejected a few times happens, but don’t let that bring you down! Persistence is key. Try and try again and you’ll eventually make it to the visa. Strengthen your case with each attempt and if one country says no, don’t stress. Instead, try your luck with a different and maybe even a larger Schengen country. Keep improving, keep trying and success will come your way. Remember, it’s all part of the journey!Â
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FAQs
- Which Schengen Visa is Easier to Obtain in Pakistan?
Most Schengen countries have similar requirements for Pakistani passport holders and there isn’t a specific “easy” Schengen visa. However, countries like Spain, Italy and the Netherlands tend to have higher approval rates, as they are known to be tourist-friendly destinations within the Schengen area.
- How much does a Schengen visa cost in Pakistan?
For adults, the visa fee is 80 Euros (payable in PKR) and for children aged 6-12, it’s 40 Euros (payable in PKR). The visa fee is non-refundable even if the visa is refused, regardless of the reasons for the refusal.
- How long does it take to get a Schengen visa in Pakistan?
While the general processing time is 2 to 6 weeks, it might vary. This includes the time between the visa application center and the embassy/consulate.
- How much bank balance is required for a Schengen visa?
While there’s no exact requirement, it’s advisable to have sufficient funds in your account to cover your trip costs. Schengen has a uniform policy for the per-day cost in the area, which is $50 Euros a day.
- Is getting a Schengen visa difficult in Pakistan?
It varies case by case. If you have a strong case with a solid professional background, travel history and family ties to Pakistan, obtaining a Schengen visa shouldn’t be a problem.
- Where can I travel while getting a Schengen Visa?
Once you obtain a Schengen visa, you can explore most of Europe. The Schengen visa allows you to visit all 26 Schengen countries, as well as non-Schengen EU countries like Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus. Additionally, you can travel to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Albania, Georgia, North Macedonia, and Montenegro with a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa.
