Required documents — Schengen Visa C

Identity & passport

• Original passport: at least 3 months valid beyond your return; with at least 2 blank pages; issued in the last 10 years.
• Photocopy of all used pages + biographical page.
• Previous Schengen / UK / US visas — copy any in your current or recent passport. A clean travel history helps a lot.

Application form & photos

• Schengen visa application form: completed in English or in the official language of the country. Each adult applies separately. Minors' forms are signed by both parents.
• Two recent biometric photos: 35 × 45 mm, white background, ICAO compliant, taken within the last 6 months.

Travel medical insurance

• Coverage of medical expenses + repatriation of remains, minimum €30,000, valid in all Schengen states for the entire stay. The policy must mention Schengen explicitly.
• Many EU insurers offer dedicated "Schengen visa" policies (Allianz, AXA, Europ Assistance, MAPFRE, Mondial Assistance, etc.). Check that exclusions don't void the €30,000.

Trip details

• Round-trip flight reservation (refundable or held — don't issue ticket before approval).
• Accommodation proof: hotel bookings (any cancellable platform), Airbnb receipts, lease agreement for short rental, or a formal invitation letter for family/friend stays:
  • France — attestation d'accueil from the mairie;
  • Germany — Verpflichtungserklärung from the Ausländerbehörde;
  • Italy — invito + ID copy of the host;
  • Spain — carta de invitación from the police.
• Detailed travel itinerary if visiting multiple countries.

Financial means

• Bank statements for the last 3 months — original or signed/stamped by the bank.
• Recent payslips (3 months) or tax return.
• If self-funded by another person: their bank statements + a letter accepting financial responsibility, plus their passport copy.
• Each country requires a daily minimum (rough guide: €40–€100/day depending on the destination).

Proof of activity in your home country

• Employment letter: position, salary, leave authorisation for the trip dates.
• Or company registration (self-employed/business owner).
• Or student certificate + university ID + leave authorisation.
• Or retirement / pension statement.

Cover letter

A short letter (1 page) addressed to the consulate, with: your details, trip dates, purpose, places to be visited, accommodation, who pays, and your guarantee to return on time. Date and sign it.

Special cases — extra documents

• Family / friend visit: invitation letter + host's ID/residence permit + host's accommodation proof.
• Business: invitation from the host company + your employer's business letter.
• Medical: appointment confirmation from the Schengen clinic + payment proof or coverage letter.
• Conference/event: registration confirmation, programme.
• Minor travelling alone or with one parent: birth certificate, parental authorisation (notarised), copy of the other parent's ID.

Translation & legalisation

Most consulates accept documents in English. Some require sworn translations into their language (Italy, Spain). Documents from outside the Hague Apostille Convention may need additional legalisation.