Schengen Tourist Visa Guide

Introduction to the Schengen Area

Europe is home to some of the world’s most iconic destinations — Paris, Rome, Venice, Amsterdam, and beyond. But travelling across multiple European countries can feel complicated if you need separate visas for each. That’s where the Schengen visa makes a difference.

The Schengen Area is a group of 29 countries that have removed internal borders, allowing visitors to travel freely within the region using a single visa. This means once your Schengen Tourist Visa is approved, you can enjoy smooth travel between countries without multiple immigration checks.

At Trav-TM, we specialize in guiding travellers through the entire Schengen visa application process — from preparing documents to submitting your application — ensuring you meet all requirements for a stress-free journey.

Eligibility & Requirements for a Schengen Tourist Visa

To apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa, you need to fulfil certain eligibility criteria and prepare the necessary documents. Here’s what’s typically required:

• Purpose of Travel – Tourism, leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends/family
• Valid Passport – Minimum validity of 3 months beyond your planned return date
• Travel Itinerary – Confirmed flight bookings, hotel reservations, or invitation letters
• Financial Stability – Recent bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship proof to show sufficient funds
• Travel Insurance – Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, valid across the Schengen Area
• Good Immigration Record – No current travel bans or overstay history

Tip: Requirements can vary slightly depending on the country to which you are applying, so always confirm with the relevant embassy or your Schengen Tourist Visa Consultant before submitting your application.

Step-by-Step Schengen Visa Application Process

Step 1 – Identify the correct embassy or consulate

You must apply at the embassy/consulate of the country you will visit first or where you will spend the most days.

Step 2 – Gather your documents

Include passport, photographs (as per Schengen specifications), itinerary, travel insurance, and financial proofs.

Step 3 – Book an appointment

Most embassies require advance online appointment booking through their official visa centres.

Step 4 – Submit your application

Attend your appointment with all original and photocopied documents, and pay the visa fee.

Step 5 – Biometrics (if applicable)

First-time applicants usually need to provide fingerprints and a digital photograph.

Step 6 – Wait for processing

The processing time typically ranges from 15 to 30 working days, depending on the season and the embassy's workload.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete Forms – Leaving blank sections or providing incorrect details
• Date Mismatches – Different travel dates on tickets, hotel bookings, and forms
• No Travel Insurance – Not meeting the minimum coverage requirements
• Applying through the Wrong Embassy - Can lead to application rejection or delays
• Last-Minute Applications – Submitting too close to your travel date risks delays

Benefits of Using a Schengen Tourist Visa Consultant

While you can apply on your own, many travellers face delays or rejections due to minor errors. This is where Trav-TM adds value:

• Personalised Guidance – Step-by-step advice tailored to your travel plan
• Document Verification – Ensuring all documents meet embassy standards
• Latest Updates – Keeping you informed about changing Schengen travel requirements
• Time-Saving Assistance – Avoiding repeated visits or resubmissions
• Professional Support – Answering queries and providing solutions for complex cases

Travelling Within Schengen Countries



Once you receive your Schengen Tourist Visa, you can visit multiple countries without needing additional visas. Popular routes include:

• France → Italy → Spain (Romantic & cultural tour)
• Germany → Austria → Switzerland (Scenic landscapes)
• Netherlands → Belgium → France (Short city-hopping trip)

Your visa is typically valid for up to 90 days within 180 days, but exact validity depends on your approval.

Applying for a Schengen visa can be straightforward — if you have the right guidance. At Trav-TM, we ensure your application is accurate, complete, and aligned with embassy requirements.

Start your Schengen visa application with Trav-TM today — expert guidance, faster results.