Schengen Visa from Pakistan: Time, Fees and Documents

A short answer first: under the EU Visa Code a Schengen visa decision should normally come within 15 calendar days of an admissible application, and it can take up to 45 days in some cases. The standard visa fee is set by the EU. Both can change and each consulate adds its own appointment system, so read this as a planning guide and confirm everything on the official website of the country you apply through.

How long does a Schengen visa take?

The legal target is 15 calendar days from the date the application is accepted. The consulate can extend this to 30 days if it needs more checks and to 45 days in exceptional cases. In practice the total time also includes the wait for an appointment at the visa application centre, which depends on the season and the country. Plan to start 4 to 8 weeks before travel, and earlier for summer. Applications are generally accepted up to six months before your trip and, at the latest, 15 calendar days before it.

What does it cost?

The standard Schengen visa fee for adults is 90 euros, and 45 euros for children aged 6 to 11, with younger children exempt. Visa application centres charge an additional service fee, and travel medical insurance is a separate cost. Fees are not refunded if the visa is refused, and the amounts can change, so check the current figure with the consulate.

Which country do I apply through?

Apply through the country where you will spend the most nights. If your nights are split equally, apply through the country you enter first. Choosing the wrong country is a common reason applications are returned, so decide before booking anything non-refundable.

Documents Pakistani applicants usually prepare

A valid passport, issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen area, with enough blank pages. The completed and signed application form. Recent photographs that match the official specification. Travel medical insurance covering the whole stay with at least 30,000 euros of cover. A clear itinerary with accommodation and transport. Proof of employment or business and recent bank statements that match your income and your travel budget. Proof of ties to Pakistan such as a job, business, family or property. Some consulates ask for more, so use their own checklist as the final word.

After you apply

Track your application with the reference you are given and keep your passport available if the consulate asks for it. If the visa is approved, check the dates and the number of entries on the sticker. In general a short stay is limited to 90 days in any 180-day period across the whole Schengen area. If it is refused, read the refusal form carefully before you reapply.

Ali Baba Travel Advisor reviews documents and itineraries before you submit, but visa decisions are made only by the consulate and approval is never guaranteed. For the country-by-country checklist, see our Schengen and country visa pages.