Everything You Need to Know About EU VAP’s Biometric Requirements

Applying for a Schengen visa can feel complex, but don’t worry. Understanding the biometric requirements for your application can help you navigate everything smoothly, especially when applying for your visa through the EU Visa Application Portal (as soon as it’s ready!) 

Let’s explore everything you need to know about biometrics for your Schengen visa with the anticipated launch of EU VAP, from what they are to how to schedule and prepare.

What is EU VAP?

The EU Visa Application Portal (EU VAP) is an online platform designed to streamline the process of applying for a Schengen visa. Until the conception of this innovative online platform, Schengen visas (to France, Spain, and the other countries in the Schengen area) could only be applied for in person at a pre-scheduled appointment. 

While it isn’t ready to launch yet, EU VAP will centralize visa applications for countries in the Schengen zone, allowing applicants to complete their forms, upload their documents, pay their fees, and book their biometric appointments all in one place.

EU VAP is mostly online

While EU VAP makes much of the Schengen visa process quick and easy to handle online, the biometric appointment itself has to be completed in person – at a visa application center or consulate/embassy near you.

This means that applicants can complete most steps, such as filling out the visa form, uploading documents, and even paying the fee(s) through EU VAP, but biometric data – your fingerprints – will still need to be collected physically.

When it comes to things like flight itineraries and insurance that meets Schengen visa insurance requirements, you'll be able to upload these, digitally, to the EU Visa Application Platform!

What a biometric appointment is

A biometric appointment for a visa involves collecting an applicant's physical data, which includes fingerprints. This appointment typically takes place at a visa application center, or a consulate/embassy if there isn't a VAC (visa application center) in your country of residence.

This data helps Schengen authorities verify your identity and ensures security and safety in border control within the EU. 

Biometric requirements with EU VAP

When applying for a Schengen visa with the EU VAP, certain biometric data is required to submit your visa application and complete the process. These requirements generally include:

• Fingerprints: Your fingerprints will be scanned and processed during the biometric appointment.

Additionally, you may need to submit:

• Digital photograph: A digital photograph of you.
• Signature: A digital signature may also be captured.

What you need to know about Schengen visa fingerprint requirements

Fingerprints are required for every Schengen visa application, except for applicants under the age of 12 or those who have already provided their biometrics in the past 59 months. 

If you're reapplying for a Schengen visa and have given your fingerprints within this time frame, you may not need to provide them again, and may not need a biometric appointment at this time. Always check with the official EU VAP site.

Biometrics are mandatory

Once the EU VAP is up and running, the biometric appointment is a crucial part of the Schengen visa application process and is mandatory for most applicants. Even if you've submitted all the necessary paperwork online, you must attend this in-person appointment to complete your application. 

Without biometrics, your Schengen visa cannot be processed.

Can I do my visa biometrics online?

While many parts of the Schengen visa application process will be completed online when EU VAP is up and running, biometric data collection cannot be done virtually. 

You’ll need to visit a designated visa application center or consulate/embassy to submit your fingerprints.

You’ll be prompted to book your appointment once you’ve completed the online visa application form, submitted the required documents, and paid the visa fee online. 

Scheduling your appointment

Booking your biometric appointment through EU VAP will be a straightforward process. You’ll be able to see available time slots and locations, and then select the one that works best for your schedule. 

How to prepare

Preparation is key, especially in the visa application process. Here are a few tips for the process.

Here’s a checklist to help you get ready for your biometric appointment:

Ensure your hands are clean and free of band-aids or cuts.

Arrive at your appointment on time.

Follow the directions provided by the visa officer: An attendant will likely assist you in capturing your biometric data. Typically, you’ll enter a room with biometric documentation technology, and the attendant will advise you on how to get the best fingerprints.

Double-check your documents: Bring your appointment confirmation and all required documents for verification, even if they’ve already been uploaded online – just in case.

What to bring to your Schengen visa biometric appointment

To avoid any delays or issues during your appointment, bring the following, even after submitting your application through EU VAP. 

• Your passport: Typically, it must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay, but always check the official requirements through EU VAP.
• Biometric appointment confirmation: Print or have a digital copy of your appointment confirmation.
• Visa fee receipt: Bring proof of payment, just in case.
• Any additional documents: These could include a letter of invitation, proof of accommodation, or travel insurance. It never hurts to over-prepare and bring copies of each of the required documents for your specific visa application, just in case. 
• Bring anything that EU VAP says you need to bring.

How long will your Schengen visa biometric appointment take?

A biometric appointment is usually fairly quick and efficient. However, waiting times might take longer before you're called up for your turn.

The actual time varies based on the volume of applicants at the center, seasonality, any technical difficulties with biometric technologies, and other unforeseen factors.

Can I bring anyone with me to my Schengen visa biometric appointment?

In most cases, only the applicant is allowed to attend the biometric appointment. However, minors or those needing additional assistance due to mobility, visual impairment, or something else may be allowed to bring a guardian or support person with them. 

Be sure to check with your specific visa center for their policies.

FAQs: EU VAP biometric appointment

Navigating the biometric requirements for your Schengen visa may sound a bit overwhelming, but with EU VAP, the process is quick, easy, and secure. Keep in mind that EU VAP isn’t available just yet. 

Are biometrics mandatory with EU VAP?

Can biometrics be taken online?

What happens at a EU VAP biometric appointment?

Can anyone come to my EU VAP biometric appointment with me?

Why do I need to submit my biometrics for EU VAP?

I already submitted my biometrics for EU VAP. Do I need to do it again?