What documents and money do I need?
A common core file for all 29 countries — passport, form, photograph, insurance — plus the evidence that proves your purpose, your means, your accommodation and your return.
What is the full document list?
The universal core, ticked off item by item. Read the documents checklist
Is insurance really compulsory?
Yes — Article 15: at least €30,000 of cover, Schengen-wide, for the whole stay. Read the €30,000 insurance rule
How much money must I show?
There is no single EU figure — sufficiency is judged per destination and trip. Read means of subsistence, explained
What proves my purpose?
Itinerary, invitation or conference evidence — the strand refusals most often cite. Read the supporting documents section
Someone else is paying for my trip
Sponsorship is part of the means assessment — evidenced, not asserted. Read how means are assessed
Where does my consulate's own list fit?
Local lists finish the universal file — and they govern it. Read where the local list takes over
Fresh in this section
NEW Schengen Visa Documents Checklist
The Schengen visa documents checklist: passport, form, ICAO photograph, €30,000 insurance, and evidence of purpose, means, accommodation and your return.
NEW Means of Subsistence: How Much Money, Judged How?
Schengen means of subsistence explained: Article 14 requires means for the stay and the return, sets no EU-wide figure, and judges sufficiency per trip.
NEW Travel Medical Insurance: The €30,000 Rule
Schengen travel medical insurance: Article 15 requires at least €30,000 of cover, valid across the whole area for the entire stay. Check any policy here.