How To Apply Schengen Visa In Dubai: A Step-By-Step Guide

Have you ever dreamed of visiting beautiful countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Germany?
Good news! These and many more are part of the Schengen Area – a group of European countries that you can explore with just one visa.

If you’re in Dubai and want to experience Europe easily, it’s time to apply for a Schengen visa.
In this article, you’ll learn about the requirements, fees, and step-by-step process to apply.

Let’s dive into the world of Schengen travel!

Want To Apply For a Schengen Visa In Dubai:

How To Apply Schengen Visa In Dubai? A Step-By-Step Guide

1️⃣ . Choose Your Main Destination

If you are living in Dubai and want to apply for a Schengen visa, first decide which Schengen country you will apply through.

You should apply to the country where:

• You will stay the longest, or
  
• If your stay is equal in several countries, apply to the country where your trip will start.
  

Example:
If you plan to stay 5 days in Italy and 3 days in France, apply through the Italy visa center in Dubai.
If you will spend 4 days each in Italy and France, and your trip starts from France, apply through the France visa center in Dubai.

2️⃣ . Identify Your Visa Type

Select your visa type wisely, which means that you must decide your travel purpose, then apply for a visa like:

• Tourist visa
• Business visa
• Transit visa
• Student visa
• Medical visa (for treatment)

Or more……….

3️⃣ . Book an Appointment

Go to the official visa center website (like VFS Global) of the country you’re applying to and:

• Create an account
• Fill out the application form
• Book an appointment online
  

Some embassies allow walk-ins, but appointments are usually required. Remember that you must appear in person to submit a visa application & fee, even if you’re under 18.

4️⃣ . Collect Required Documents

Prepare all the necessary documents. Usually, you’ll need:

• Valid passport (with at least 3 months’ validity after travel)
  
• Valid UAE residence visa
  
• Flight reservation
  
• Hotel booking
  
• Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  
• Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
  
• No Objection Letter from your employer
  
• Passport-size photos (as per Schengen guidelines)
  
• Completed visa application form
• Proof of visa fee payment (after paying)

Additional DOCs

• If you’re married and travel as a couple, then a copy of your marriage certificate with English translation is required.
• If your children are traveling with you less than 12 years, then a copy of their birth certificate with English translation is required.   

All documents must be clear and up to date.

5️⃣ . Attend the Appointment

Visit the visa center on your appointment day. You will:

• Submit your documents
  
• Give fingerprints (biometrics)
  
• Pay the visa fees
  
• Answer basic questions if needed

6️⃣ Pay the Visa Fees (2025)

When you visit the visa application center in Dubai, you will need to pay the Schengen visa fees and the service charges:

• Adults: €80 (approximately AED 320)
  
• Children aged 6 to 12: €40 (approximately AED 160)
  
• Children under 6 years: Free of charge
  
• Service fee: AED 100 to AED 150 (varies by visa center)
  

🛑 Important: These fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.

7️⃣ . Wait for Processing

Visa processing usually takes around 15 working days, but can be faster or longer depending on the country.
You can track your application online or via SMS/email.

8️⃣ . Collect Your Passport

Once your visa is approved, you can:

• Pick up your passport from the center, or
  
• Get it delivered (if you chose delivery)
  

Check the visa sticker in your passport for:

• Visa type
  
• Validity dates
  
• Number of entries allowed

Remember that if there’s an error in the visa, you can’t use it. In this case, contact the Dutch consulate-general in Dubai ASAP!

FAQs About: How To Apply Schengen Visa In Dubai

Do UAE residents need a Schengen visa?

Yes! In very simple words, you need a Schengen visa if you want to visit Schengen countries unless you have a passport from a country that doesn’t require a visa.

I.e……..

If you are living in the UAE but your passport is from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Egypt, etc., then you must apply for a Schengen visa.

But if you have a passport from the USA, UK, Canada, etc., then you don’t need a visa to visit Schengen countries for short trips.

How much is a Schengen visa valid?

This visa is valid for 90 days within 180 days tour – after 90 days, you will have to renew it!

How to extend a Schengen visa while in Europe?

You can’t extend your visa — but if you want to stay further in Schengen countries, you’ll have to apply for a new visa.

Which countries are included in Schengen?

The Schengen Zone includes 27 European countries that have no border checks between them, allowing travelers to move freely once they enter any one of them with a Schengen visa. These countries are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Do kids need a Schengen visa?

Yes, kids also need a Schengen visa if they travel to Europe and from a country that requires a visa (like Pakistan, India, the Philippines, etc.).

Will I receive a hard copy of the visa?

No! They will email it to the email address provided in the application form.