What is a Schengen visa and why you may need it
The Schengen Area comprises 29 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing free movement for travelers with a valid Schengen visa. This includes popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
A Schengen visa is mandatory for UAE residents who do not hold a passport from a visa-exempt country. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, family visits, or medical reasons, a visa is needed to enter any Schengen country if your nationality requires one.
You can apply for a short-stay visa (Type C) for purposes such as:
- Tourism and leisure
- Business meetings or conferences
- Visiting family or friends
- Attending events or medical appointments
Who needs a Schengen visa in 2025
UAE residents with passports from countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Nigeria, and others must apply for a Schengen visa. Your UAE residency doesn’t exempt you unless your nationality is on the visa-free list.
There are, however, some special cases, including dual citizenship and Emirates ID holders with different passports, to which other conditions may apply:
- Dual citizens holding a passport from a visa-exempt country (e.g., EU/US/UK) do not need a visa.
- Emirates ID holders with passports that require a visa must still apply, regardless of their UAE residency status.
Also important to note is that as of 2025, Emirati passport holders can travel visa-free to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, provided the purpose is short-term (e.g., tourism or business).
Documents required for a Schengen visa in 2025
Visa requirements are rarely set in stone, and the Schengen Area is hardly an exception. Rules change, and sometimes outdated information can cost you a visa and a lot of your valuable time.
Luckily, by choosing Smart System Holidays, you will never find yourself in such a situation, as we always make sure to keep you up-to-date on the paperwork and all other important aspects.
Currently, in 2025 the documents you will need to apply for a Schengen visa are the following:
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond return date)
- Recent passport-sized photos (as per Schengen photo requirements)
- UAE residency visa valid for at least 3 months after return
- Flight reservation and travel itinerary
- Hotel reservations or invitation letters from hosts
- Proof of return (flight booking or onward travel)
- Bank statements for the last 3–6 months
- Salary slips or employment letter
- Trade license (for business owners)
- No Objection Letter (NOC) from employer or sponsor
Moreover, travel insurance covering medical emergencies with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is mandatory. It must be valid in all Schengen states for the entire duration of stay.
In 2025, applicants must provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) unless already recorded within the past 59 months. Some countries are starting to use the EU Digital Visa Platform for smoother digital processing.
Application process step-by-step
1. Where and how to apply
Most Schengen visa applications from the UAE are processed through VFS Global or BLS International, depending on the country. You must apply to the country of your main destination (or first entry if stays are equal).
2. Visa fee and processing time in 2025
The standard fee comes to €80 (approx. AED 315). However, children aged 6-12 years can enjoy it at half price (€40).
Processing time is around 15 working days, but may extend up to 45 days during peak seasons.
3. Booking appointments online
Appointments must be booked in advance through the official website of VFS/BLS or the embassy/consulate. Walk-in applications are not accepted. We can help you with that.
4. Common mistakes to avoid
When you are thinking about how to apply for a Schengen visa from the UAE, it’s important that you also keep in mind some common mistakes:
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Applying too late (less than 15 days before travel)
- Not showing ties to the UAE (e.g., employment, family)
- Providing unverifiable financial or travel details
Schengen visa tips for UAE residents
- Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your trip, especially during summer and holiday seasons when slots fill up fast.
- Apply to the country where you will spend the most days. If your trip includes multiple countries with equal stay, apply to the one of first entry.
- Submit genuine, complete documents. Smart System Holidays will help you ensure that.
- Maintain a clear financial and travel history.
- Avoid fake reservations or forged documents (leads to bans).
There are also cases when the person applying has been previously rejected. If you find yourself in this situation, you should follow some additional advice:
- Address the reason in a cover letter.
- Update your documents accordingly.
- Wait before reapplying, if necessary.
If you plan to travel multiple times within a year, consider applying for a multi-entry visa. It increases flexibility but may require a stronger travel history.
Schengen visa in 2025: what’s new?
The process of travelling to Europe from Dubai has stayed largely the same so far this year. Despite that, there have been some developments you will find useful to be informed about.
The EU is gradually rolling out an online system allowing full electronic visa application. It may be adopted fully by some countries in 2025, but as of July, this is yet to happen.
The EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP) has been greenlit and is expected to be implemented by 2028, allowing for digitalisation of paperwork.
In-person interviews remain required only in certain cases. Biometrics must be given in person unless previously submitted within the past 5 years.
FAQ
Can I visit multiple countries with one Schengen visa?
Yes, you can! A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within all 29 Schengen countries, provided it’s within the allowed duration.
How long can I stay?
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period for short-stay visas.
Do I need a visa for transiting through Europe?
Yes, if you're from a non-exempt country and are leaving the international transit area or have long layovers. Some Schengen airports require a visa even for transit passengers.
Need help with your application?
Smart System Holidays offers expert support with your Schengen visa from Dubai or anywhere in the UAE. From document checks to appointment booking, our consultants ensure a smooth and successful application process!
Just call us +971 4 224 23 30 or send us an email to arabesqi@eim.ae.
WhatsApp
