Are you hoping to take a trip to one of the Schengen states and need to apply for a visa? If so, this article will provide all the tricks and advice you need to submit your documents and apply to get the visa. Please note, Canadian citizens will have to apply for an ETIAS visa prior to their travels in Europe. Otherwise, they will not be allowed to enter the territory.
To learn more about the Schengen visa and how to get it, make sure to read the full article and follow the advice that we provide. For example, using Smartphone iD to save money when taking your required ID photos.
Do Canadian Citizens Need a Schengen Visa from Canada?
A Schengen visa is a short visa that allows the holder to travel between the 26 European countries that make up the “Schengen States.” A Canadian does not require a visa to visit these states if they are staying no longer than 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa. Otherwise, you risked being fined or deported.
Here are the countries included in the Schengen area:
| Germany | Finland | Latvia | Norway | Sweden |
| Austria | France | Liechtenstein | Poland | Switzerland |
| Belgium | Greece | Lithuania | Portugal | |
| Czech Republic | Hungary | Luxembourg | Slovakia | |
| Denmark | Iceland | Malta | Slovenia | |
| Estonia | Italy | Netherlands | Spain |
With a Canadian Schengen visa, you will have the permission to visit any of these countries during the time period allocated.
At Which Schengen Country’s Embassy in Canada Should I Apply for a Schengen Visa?
The embassy you go to apply will depend on the purpose and length or your visit. There are several requirement and specifications to be considered. Here are a few tips to factors to consider:
- If you are only visiting one Schengen country – Apply at the Embassy or Consulate for that country.
- Visiting multiple Schengen countries – Apply at the Embassy or Consulate of the country where you will stay the longest
- Visiting multiple Schengen countries for similar durations – Apply at the Embassy for the country you visit first
- Staying in Schengen area for more than 90 days – Apply for a residence permit and not a Schengen visa.
When Should I Apply for the Schengen Visa?
The best time to apply is at least 15 days before the intended visit to Europe. If you can apply even earlier than that, make sure to do so! Although, they will not be able to process visa applications sent 3 months or earlier.
Please note- If you hold a multiple-entry visa, you may apply 6 months before the expiry date of the valid visa.
How to Apply for the Schengen Visa?
Canadian citizens using their Canadian passports are allowed to travel within the Schengen area and visit the countries for tourism or business stays that are 90 days or less. If you require a longer stay, you will need to apply for a visa. Here is a brief step-by-step guide on how that will go:
- Check the type of Schengen visa you will need for your trip.
- Gather any required documents for the required visa.
- Obtain a Schengen insurance policy.
- Create an appointment at the consulate in your country for the country you wish to visit.
- Pay the visa fee and officially apply
What Documents Are Required to Apply for a Schengen Visa?
It is important to verify the documents required on the official Schengen government site before booking an appointment. Nonetheless, here are some of the documents that will be required:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Canada permit or visa
- 1 passport format photo
- A cover letter explaining the visits purpose
- Proof of travel arrangements
- Travel health insurance
- Proof of accommodations in Europe
- Proof of financial subsistence
Your visa can only be submitted within three months of your planned trip, and it can take approximately 15 days to be processed. In some cases, processing can take up top 60 days, so it is recommended to submit your documents as soon as possible.
What is the Cost of Getting a Schengen Visa?
The cost of a Schengen visa will depend on a few factors. Firstly, the visa itself costs approximately $95, and then you will need to pay for a passport photo. Smartphone iD is a reputable and cheap online app that takes passport photos quickly and efficiently. Below is a chart on prices based on a few mitigating factors:
- Adult ($115)
- Children 6-12 ($57.50)
- Children under 6 (Free)
What is the Processing Time & Validity of the Schengen Visa?
Your visa can only be submitted within three months of your planned trip, and it can take approximately 15 days to be processed. In some cases, processing can take up top 60 days, so it is recommended to submit your documents as soon as possible.
How to Get an Approved Schengen Visa Photo? (Cheap & Quick)
Smartphone iD is the best choice for taking your passport photo at a low cost and from a reputable source. All photos taken using the app will be Ai verified by a team of experts to ensure that they meet the government requirements and will pass inspection. All you need to do is download the app on a mobile device, and let it do the rest!
summary
Getting your Schengen visa can be a challenging task without following all the correct steps and submitting the proper documents. Our main piece of advice is to apply early and spend time ensuing your documents and photos meet government requirements.
Smartphone iD is a reputable app that provides passport photos quickly and for an affordable cost. Don’t hesitate to download the app and have your passport photo ready today.
FAQs
Can I get a Schengen visa in Canada?
Yes, Canada can either use a 90-day visa without the need to apply, or apply with the embassy for a visa longer than 90 days.
How long does Schengen visa take to process in Canada?
A visa will take approximately 15 days to process in Canada. Using an app like Smartphone iD can speed up this proves through taking a photo accepted on the first attempt.
Can I go to Europe with a Canadian visa?
Yes, you can visit Europe with a Canadian visa for a 90-day period.
Can I apply for Schengen visa from another country?
Yes, you can apply for a Schengen visa from another country by visiting a Schengen embassy or consulate in your area.
Where is the easiest to get a Schengen visa?
It has been said that Lithuania is the easiest Schengen visa to obtain and have a nearly 100% acceptance rate.
Which country is the easiest country to get a Schengen tourist visa?
Lithuania is known to be the easiest Schengen tourist visa to obtain as they let nearly 100% of applicants into the country.
How to apply for Spain visa from Canada?
If you need a visa from Spain, you must fill in an online form and visit the Spanish embassy in Canada.
How to get Paris visa from Canada?
If you need to apply for a visa from Paris, you will need to fill in an online application, submit several documents, and visit the Embassy or Consulate in Canada.
