How to Apply for a Schengen Visa with EU VAP: The Ultimate Guide

With the European Union’s digitization efforts, applying for a Schengen visa is about to become easier, faster, and more convenient than ever.

The introduction of the EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP) marks a huge step toward simplifying the process for travelers worldwide.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to apply for a Schengen visa online using EU VAP, as well as answer frequently asked questions and ensure you’re fully prepared for your trip to the beautiful Schengen area!

💡EU VAP hasn't launched yet, but is currently in the works

What Is the EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP)?

The EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP) is a new online system designed to streamline the process of applying for a Schengen visa. To date, the Schengen visa application process (meaning visas to France, Italy, Spain, and the other countries in the Schengen area) has been in person and on paper.

EU VAP is set to replace this manual method of application, offering a user-friendly, fully digital solution for Schengen visa applicants. In the coming months/years, once the platform is ready for launch, travelers will complete their visa requests, submit their documents, and pay fees entirely online.

In fact, this move towards a digital system is part of a larger European Union initiative to modernize its visa processes, which makes traveling to the Schengen area more efficient, secure, and accessible.

According to the European Commission, the new online Schengen visa system will be fully implemented across all EU member states by 2028 and fully operational by 2030.

How to apply for a Schengen visa with EU VAP

Applying for a Schengen visa through EU VAP will be a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with your Schengen visa application on EU VAP.

Keep in mind: there will be some prep work before you submit your application on EU VAP, such as gathering all of the required documents, obtaining Schengen travel insurance, and having your travel itinerary ready.

You’ll also need to know which specific visa you’re applying for, so make sure you have all of this information decided on, prepared, and ready before you start the official application process online with EU VAP.

Step 1. Understand which visa you need to apply for

To apply for a Schengen visa online through EU VAP, you will first need to know which visa you're applying for: this means country and visa-type.

Once you know, follow the steps on the official EU VAP website to move onto the next step of the process.

Step 2. Prepare your documents for submission

Following EU VAP's prompts, you'll need to prepare and upload the necessary documents required for your visa application. You will be provided with a list of which documents will be required of you (standard documents include, but aren't limited to: a valid passport, recent photographs, Schengen travel insurance, proof of funds, and more).

You'll also need to fill out the Schengen visa application form itself.

Step 3. Upload the required documents

Each country and each visa type requires specific documents, so make sure you’ve read the list of requirements in detail so you know which documents are required for the visa you’re applying for.

You’ll also need to upload your files in the appropriate formats and sizes, noted by EU VAP.

For most Schengen visa applications, required documents include:

• A valid passport with validity beyond your planned stay (typically 3 months, but always be sure to check)
• Recent passport-sized photos (with a neutral expression and white background)
• Proof of Schengen travel insurance for the entire duration of your stay
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host, for example)
• Financial proof (such as bank statements or proof of sponsorship)
• Flight itinerary or transportation bookings

Additional requested documents could be birth certificates, proof of enrollment at educational institutes, work contracts, marriage certificates, or other relevant documents that help prove your need for the type of visa you’re applying for.

Step 4. Pay the visa application fee

In addition to submitting your application and documents, you’ll need to pay your visa application fee. The EU VAP platform allows you to make this payment securely online via debit or credit card. Once payment is completed, your application will be officially ready for review!

If you’re wondering how much it will cost, unfortunately, there isn’t a standard answer. Visa fees depend on which visa you’re applying for, and the country you’ll be spending the majority of your time in.

With that being said, the standard Schengen visa application fee is 90 euros for adults, 45 euros for children ages 6-12, and free for children under the age of 6.

Also, it’s important to note that visa application fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected.

Step 5. Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment

While the EU VAP allows most of the application process to be completed online, applicants will still need to visit a consulate or visa center for a biometrics appointment.

This step is required for first-time visa applicants or those whose biometric data is no longer valid (Currently, biometric data is valid for 59 months). If you have applied for a Schengen visa in the past 59 months and submitted biometric data, you may be exempt from this step.

During this appointment, your fingerprints will be collected. You may also be required to have a digital photograph taken and share your signature electronically.

This is the only part of the EU VAP process that cannot be completed online and it is mandatory.

Step 6. Receive your answer

Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Schengen visa digitally. This means travelers will no longer need to submit their passports for a physical visa sticker. Instead, the visa will be issued electronically, making the process even more convenient.

Common questions about applying for a Schengen visa with EU VAP

Can you get a Schengen visa online?

Currently no, but with the introduction of EU VAP, you will be able to apply for a Schengen visa online once the system is up and running (in the coming years, by 2030).

This digital platform simplifies the visa application process, allowing you to submit your application, pay fees, and track your application status all from the comfort of your home.

What are the benefits of EU VAP?

The main benefits of the EU VAP include:

• Convenience: Once the system is up and running, you can complete the visa application process online, reducing the need for multiple in-person visits to consulates.
• Efficiency: The digital system speeds up processing times, allowing you to receive your visa quickly and efficiently.
• Transparency: The ability to track your application status provides peace of mind.
• Added security: With the visa application process going digital, advanced technologies can now be used to help mitigate fraud and increase the security of all applicants’ data.
• Environmental impact: Going paperless reduces the environmental footprint associated with traditional visa application processes.
• Uninterrupted travel: In traditional visa application processes, applicants are required to hand over their passports for the duration of processing. With EU VAP, applicant won’t need to submit their passports, meaning they can continue to travel or have their passport for identification while their visa is being processed

Is it safe to apply for a visa online?

Yes! Once EU VAP has been launched, applying for a visa through the EU VAP will be safe and secure. The platform is designed with advanced security measures to protect your personal data and ensure that all transactions, including payments, are encrypted.

When will the EU VAP system be available?

The EU VAP is being rolled out gradually, with full implementation expected by 2030. Some EU member states have already started offering online visa applications, while others will transition to the digital platform in the coming years.

Schengen visa applications: looking ahead

The launch of the EU VAP marks a significant milestone in the European Union’s efforts to modernize and simplify the Schengen visa application process. As more countries adopt this digital system, travelers to the Schengen zone will benefit from faster and more efficient visa processing.

Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa for a short vacation or a business visa for professional purposes, the EU VAP makes it easier to obtain your Schengen visa online!

EU VAP Key Takeaways

• EU VAP simplifies Schengen visa applications.
• The new EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP) will allow travelers to apply for Schengen visas online, streamlining the process.
• Applicants will be able to complete the process online, including filling out forms, uploading documents, and paying fees.
• Biometrics are still required: First-time applicants or those needing updated biometric data must attend an in-person appointment at a consulate or visa center to submit fingerprints and photographs.
• Schengen visas will be issued digitally, eliminating the need for physical visa stickers in passports.
• EU VAP is expected to be fully operational by 2030.