Wajez TravelGood planning saves you time and worry. Here's everything you need to apply for a Schengen visa with confidence, plus the latest updates for 2026.
Core documents every applicant needs
Before booking your appointment, make sure you have these ready — they apply to most applicants regardless of which Schengen country you're visiting.
- A completed, printed and signed visa application form (VIDEX)
- A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your return date, with at least 2 blank pages
- Two recent passport photos (within 3 months), 35×45mm, white background
- Travel insurance covering at least €30,000, valid for your full trip and the entire Schengen area
- A round-trip flight reservation — a real, verifiable booking; you don't need to buy the ticket outright
- A detailed day-by-day travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation for every night of the trip (hotel booking or a host's invitation letter)
- Bank statements from the last 3–6 months showing regular income and sufficient balance
- A cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip
Details worth paying attention to
The number one cause of visa refusals is a missing or incorrect document. A few details worth double-checking:
- Passport: check validity and blank pages right before booking
- Insurance: must cover the whole Schengen area, not just one country
- Flights: full payment isn't required, but the booking must be under your name and verifiable with the airline
- Accommodation: must cover every night of your trip with no gaps
- Requirements can vary slightly by embassy — always check the official checklist for the specific embassy you're applying through
Important 2026 updates
The Entry/Exit System (EES) went live in April 2026, replacing manual passport stamping at most external Schengen border points. ETIAS, for visa-exempt travellers, is expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026. Follow us for the latest updates before your trip.
Tips from the Wajez team
- Apply early — ideally 4–6 weeks before your travel date
- Make sure all your documents match exactly (name, dates, address)
- Keep extra copies of every document
- Talk to us before booking — we help you prepare a complete file and avoid common refusal mistakes
Note: This is general guidance — requirements can vary by nationality and embassy. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the relevant embassy or consulate before applying.
Ready to start your visa file?