Planning a trip to Europe involves understanding the costs associated with obtaining a Schengen tourist visa. Whether you are travelling for a holiday, visiting family, or exploring multiple European destinations, knowing the complete visa expenses can help you budget effectively.
What Is the Official Schengen Tourist Visa Fee?
The standard Schengen visa fee for adults is currently €90. This fee is paid to the embassy or visa application centre when submitting your application.
Children between the ages of 6 and 12 typically pay a reduced fee of €45, while children under six years old are generally exempt from visa charges.
Please note that visa fees are subject to change based on European Union regulations, so applicants should always verify the latest requirements before applying.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the official embassy fee, several other expenses may be involved in preparing a complete Schengen tourist visa application.
1. Travel Insurance
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for all applicants. The policy must provide at least €30,000 in medical coverage and remain valid throughout the entire trip.
Depending on the duration of travel and the applicant’s age, insurance costs can typically range from £10 to £50.
2. Flight Reservations
Many applicants provide flight reservations as part of their supporting documents. The cost varies depending on whether refundable tickets or reservation services are used.
3. Hotel Reservations
Applicants must demonstrate accommodation arrangements during their stay. Hotel bookings or invitation letters may be required depending on the purpose of travel.
4. Professional Visa Assistance
Some travellers choose professional visa support services to assist with appointment bookings, application forms, travel itineraries, cover letters, and document preparation.
Service fees vary depending on the provider and the level of assistance offered.
Schengen Tourist Visa Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Official Schengen Visa Fee (Adults) | €90 |
| Children (6–12 Years) | €45 |
| Children Under 6 | Free |
| Travel Insurance | £10–£50 |
| Flight Reservations | Varies |
| Hotel Reservations | Varies |
| Professional Assistance Services | Depends on Provider |
Are Schengen Visa Fees Refundable?
No. The official Schengen visa application fee is generally non-refundable, even if your visa application is refused or withdrawn.
Applicants should ensure that all supporting documents are complete and accurate before submitting their applications to minimize the risk of rejection.
Do All Schengen Countries Charge the Same Visa Fee?
Yes. The official Schengen visa fee is standardized across all member states. Whether you apply through France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, or another Schengen country, the embassy fee remains the same.
However, additional service charges imposed by external visa application centres may vary depending on the location and country of application.
How to Budget for Your Schengen Trip
Proper financial planning can make your visa application process much smoother. Consider the following tips when preparing your budget:
- Apply well in advance to avoid expensive last-minute arrangements.
- Compare travel insurance providers for the best value.
- Choose flexible hotel and flight reservations where possible.
- Maintain sufficient funds in your bank account to meet embassy requirements.
- Keep additional savings for unexpected travel expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Schengen tourist visa cost from the UK?
The official embassy fee for adult applicants is €90, although additional expenses such as travel insurance and supporting documentation should also be considered.
Is travel insurance included in the visa fee?
No. Travel insurance is a separate requirement and must be purchased independently before submitting your application.
Do I get a refund if my Schengen visa is rejected?
No. The official visa application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of your application.
Can visa service providers charge additional fees?
Yes. Professional visa assistance companies may charge separate service fees for appointment bookings, application preparation, travel itineraries, and other support services.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much a Schengen tourist visa costs helps travellers prepare financially and avoid unexpected expenses during the application process. While the official visa fee is standardized across the Schengen Area, additional costs such as insurance, accommodation, and supporting documents should also be considered.
Careful planning and professional preparation can make the visa process smoother and increase confidence when applying for your European journey.