Last Updated: March 2026
As of March 2026, citizens of approximately 100 countries need a Schengen visa to visit Europe. Select your passport below for a complete guide covering requirements, costs, application centres, and step-by-step instructions specific to your nationality.
⚡ Europe Visa by Nationality: Quick Facts
| Who needs a Schengen visa? | Citizens of ~100 countries including India, China, Nigeria, Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Egypt, Thailand, Turkey, and South Africa |
| How much does a Schengen visa cost? | €90 for adults · €45 for children aged 6–11 · free under 6 · plus ~€20–40 service fee via VFS/TLScontact |
| How long does processing take? | 15 calendar days standard · up to 45 days in complex cases · apply at least 6–8 weeks before travel |
| Is travel insurance required? | Yes — mandatory €30,000 minimum medical coverage valid across the entire Schengen Area |
| How long can I stay? | Up to 90 days in any 180-day rolling period across all 29 Schengen countries combined |
| Does ETIAS apply to visa-required nationalities? | No — ETIAS is only for visa-exempt countries. If you need a Schengen visa, ETIAS does not apply to you |
🛡️ Travel Insurance Is Required for Your Visa Application
Schengen embassies require proof of travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage. SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance meets the requirement and covers the entire Schengen Area.
Get Schengen-Compliant Insurance →Europe Visa Guides by Passport
Each guide below covers the Schengen visa process specific to your nationality — local fees in your currency, application centres in your country, dual nationality rules, and any country-specific requirements or exemptions.
Ready to Apply? Start Your Application Now
Select your nationality and destination to begin your Schengen visa application in minutes — with iVisa’s guided service.
How the Schengen Visa Works
A Schengen visa (Type C short-stay) allows you to visit any of the 29 Schengen member states for up to 90 days in any 180-day rolling period. One visa covers all 29 countries — you don’t need a separate visa for each country you visit.
You apply through the embassy or visa application centre of your main destination country. The standard documents required across all nationalities include a valid passport, completed application form, passport photos, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, bank statements, and mandatory travel insurance with €30,000 minimum medical coverage.
For the full step-by-step process, see our Complete Schengen Visa Application Guide →
Visa Sorted? Plan the Rest of Your Trip
Beyond the visa, the Europe Travel Planner maps the practical stuff — plug adapters, local currency, driving requirements, and exactly how long you can stay — tailored to your passport and every country on your route.
Plan the Practical Details →Frequently Asked Questions
Which nationalities need a Schengen visa for Europe?
As of March 2026, citizens of approximately 100 countries require a Schengen visa to visit Europe, including nationals of India, China, Nigeria, Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Egypt, Thailand, Turkey, and South Africa. Citizens of visa-exempt countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia do not need a Schengen visa — they will need ETIAS instead from late 2026.
How much does a Schengen visa cost?
The standard Schengen visa fee is €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6–11, and free for children under 6. An additional service fee of €20–40 applies if applying through VFS Global or TLScontact. All fees are non-refundable.
Is travel insurance required for a Schengen visa?
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen visa applications. Your policy must provide minimum €30,000 in emergency medical coverage, including repatriation, and must be valid across the entire Schengen Area for the full duration of your stay. Embassies will reject applications without adequate coverage.
Does ETIAS apply to visa-required nationalities?
No. ETIAS launching in late 2026 is only for visa-exempt nationalities. If your country requires a Schengen visa, ETIAS does not apply to you and is not an alternative to the full visa application.
How long does Schengen visa processing take?
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days. In complex cases it can take up to 45 days. Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your planned travel date to allow sufficient processing time.
📚 Related Articles
- How to Apply for a Schengen Visa — Complete step-by-step guide
- Schengen Visa vs. ETIAS — Which one applies to you?
- Schengen 90/180 Day Rule Explained
- Free Schengen Calculator
- Europe’s Entry/Exit System (EES)
- Best Travel Insurance for Europe in 2026 — Required for all visa applications
- ETIAS by Nationality — For visa-exempt passport holders
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements and fees can change. Always verify with the specific embassy before applying.