Schengen Visa Family: How to Apply for a Group or Family Visa

Applying for a Schengen visa as a family can feel complicated, but the process is manageable if you understand the steps involved. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or attending a special event in Europe, you’ll need to ensure that each family member has the correct visa, even children. This article will guide you through the process of applying for a group or family Schengen visa and provide helpful tips to make it easier.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa in Your Family?

If you’re traveling to the Schengen Area with family members who are not citizens of Schengen member states, each person, regardless of age, must apply for a separate visa. This includes children and infants. Each visa application must be submitted individually, but you can group them together under a family application to streamline the process.

Documents Required for Each Family Member

While the application process is similar for all family members, certain documents are specific to children and dependents. Below are the key documents required for family visa applications:

a. For Adults:

• Valid passport (with at least two blank pages and valid for three months after your intended return).

• Completed visa application form.

• Proof of travel insurance with coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.

• Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreements, or invitation from a host).

• Flight or travel itinerary.

• Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship letter).

• Travel itinerary showing planned activities.

b. For Children (under 18 years):

• Birth certificate.

• Parental consent form (if one or both parents are not traveling with the child).

• Proof of parent(s)’ or legal guardian’s income (bank statements or salary slips).

• Proof of enrollment in school, if applicable, and school attendance certificate.

• Parent(s)’ or guardian(s)’ passport copies.

How to Apply for a Family Schengen Visa

The process of applying for a family Schengen visa is quite similar to the individual application process. However, there are a few additional steps to consider:

a. Submit Applications Together

You can submit all family members’ applications at the same time. Some consulates or visa centers may allow you to book a single group appointment for your family. It’s essential to make sure that each family member has completed their individual visa application form and that all required documents are ready.

b. Pay the Fees

Visa fees apply to each person, including children. However, in many cases, children under the age of 6 are exempt from visa fees, while minors between 6-12 years may have reduced fees. Always check with the consulate for the exact fee structure.

c. Attend the Visa Appointment

All family members over the age of 12 are typically required to attend the visa appointment in person to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs). For younger children, the application can often be submitted on their behalf by the parent or legal guardian.

Special Considerations for Family Travel

When traveling as a family, it’s important to ensure that all details across the applications match, including:

• Travel dates: Ensure that everyone’s visa application reflects the same travel dates.

• Accommodation and itinerary: List the same accommodation and travel plans for all family members.

• Financial support: Clearly show how the family will be supported financially during the trip. If one person is funding the trip, they may need to provide a sponsorship letter and financial documentation for the entire family.

Get Help with Freesa’s Hassle-Free Visa Appointment Booking!

Applying for a Schengen visa as a family can be time-consuming, but Freesa is here to simplify the process. We offer visa appointment booking and support to ensure you have all the required documents for every family member.

Book your appointment with Freesa today and let us make your family’s Schengen visa application smooth and stress-free!