The Cost of Schengen Visas: Everything You Need to Know for 2025

A Schengen visa opens the door to 29 countries in Europe, offering easy travel and free movement across borders. Some of the most popular places in Europe are part of the Schengen zone, such as Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam – it’s a great visa to have.

However, there are costs associated with applying for your Schengen visa, as well as spending time abroad. In this article, we will talk about Schengen visa fees you can expect to encounter, as well as mandatory expenditures, such as Schengen travel insurance.

Schengen visa costs and financial requirements

The standard Schengen visa fee is €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6-12, and free for children under the age of 6 as of June 2024.

Some applicants, such as students or diplomats, may be exempt from fees or have reduced rates. Some countries also have agreements with other countries, allowing discounted or varied rates for citizens of specific nationalities (though this is uncommon).

Also, it’s important to understand that visa fees are taken when you apply for your Schengen visa. Because of this, visa fees are non-refundable – even if your visa application is rejected. In addition to that, there may be additional service fees if you utilize the services of a trusted visa processor (such as VFS Global, for example).

Schengen visa fees for multiple entry

If you're planning to enter and exit the Schengen area more than once during the validity of your visa, and you are not from a visa-exempt country, you can apply for a multiple-entry visa. The fee remains the same as the standard Schengen visa.

Note: If you’re a citizen of a visa-exempt country (such as the US, UK, Canada, or Australia), you can exit and enter the Schengen area as you please – as long as your time spent in the Schengen area doesn’t exceed 90 days in any given 180 day period.

How much does a Schengen visa cost in the UK?

For UK residents applying for a Schengen visa, the fees are the same: €90 for adults and €45 for children. However, be mindful of additional service fees charged by visa application centers.

FAQs about Schengen visa costs

Are Schengen visa fees refundable?

No. Whether your visa application is approved or rejected, Schengen visa fees are non-refundable.

Does it cost more to apply for a Schengen visa through a visa application center?

Yes, there may be additional fees when applying for a Schengen visa through a visa application center (Be aware that applying through a visa center is typically mandatory, so you won't have the choice).

Can Schengen visa fees be waived for any reason?

In some specific cases, it’s possible, but it isn’t common. Generally speaking, payment is required, unless applicants are under the age of six.

What is the total cost of a Schengen visa?

There are quite a few factors when it comes to calculating the total cost of a Schengen visa. You can expect to pay:

• Schengen visa application fee
• Service fee(s) if applying through a trusted visa processing center
• Schengen travel insurance policy (which is mandatory for most Schengen visa applications)

Additionally, you’ll need to consider accommodations while abroad, as well as associated travel costs to attend visa appointments and/or travel to your final destination.

What to know about Schengen visa fees and costs

• The standard Schengen visa fee is €90 for adults, €45 for children (ages 6-12), and free for children under the age of 6.
• Multiple-entry visas allow travelers to enter the Schengen area more than once for citizens from non-exempt countries.
• Applying for a Schengen visa from the UK has the same fees, but you may need to pay service fees.
• If you apply for your visa through a visa center, you can expect to pay service fees, but the amount can vary.
• Proof of funds is usually required for Schengen visa applications.