Schengen Visa Types Explained: A Beginner’s Guide

When it comes to Schengen visas, there are many different types to choose from – and which one you should apply for depends on your needs.

In this guide, we will walk you through all of the different types of Schengen visas, what types of travelers they are suited for, and how to choose the right visa for you. We'll also discuss Schengen visa requirements, such as who must apply for Schengen travel insurance.

Whether you’re beginning your study abroad journey, leaving on an extended work trip, or simply want to visit and explore the Schengen area, this article will help you understand Schengen visas and all that they entail.

Are there different types of Schengen visas?

Yes! Schengen visas are not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the purpose of your travel, the duration of your stay, and the nature of your activities, you'll need to apply for a specific Schengen visa type. 

In your research, you may have seen the terms “Type C” and “Type D” Schengen visas. 

Each type has its own specific rules and allowances, as well as additional sub-types of visas that fall under each of them.

Don’t worry – we’ll cover all of it!

What is Schengen visa Type C?

The most common type of Schengen visa is a Schengen Type C visa, which is a short-stay visa. 

This is the visa that tourists, family visitors, or short-term business travelers generally apply for when they’re planning short trips to the Schengen area. This specific visa allows travelers to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Who should apply for a Schengen Type C visa?

If you are not a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you likely need a Type C visa. 

If you are planning a trip to the Schengen zone that’s under 90 days in length, and fall into one of the following categories, you may require a Type C Schengen visa: 

• Tourist
• Visiting family and friends
• Business
• Seafarers
• Officials
• Diplomats

Type C visas allow you to enter the Schengen zone and (generally) move freely through it for up to 90 days. This type of visa is typicallu for citizens from countries who do not have visa-waiver agreements with the Schengen area, such as India or China.

On the other hand, if you’re from a visa-exempt country and are planning a short trip to a Schengen country where you will not be working or studying, you do not need to apply for a Schengen visa at all. Due to a mutual agreement, short-stay visitors from visa-exempt countries are, well, exempt! Visa-exempt countries include the UK, US, Canada, and others.

With that being said, if you’re from a visa-exempt country (such as the US), but plan to stay in the Schengen area for longer than 90 days, read on. You may need a Type D visa. 

Subcategories of the Schengen Type C visa

• Single-Entry Visa: This allows one entry into the Schengen area. Once you leave the Schengen zone, the visa expires, even if you haven't used all the days permitted.
• Double-Entry Visa: This allows two entries. You can leave the Schengen Area once and then return, but the second exit will finalize the visa.
• Multiple-Entry Visa: As long as your overall stay does not exceed 90 days in a 180-day period, you can enter and leave the Schengen area multiple times. This is particularly helpful for frequent travelers.

What is a Type D Schengen visa?

Type D Schengen visas are long-term Schengen visas issued for people who intend to stay in the Schengen zone for an extended period (over 90 days). 

These visas are typically used for work, study, or residency in a specific Schengen country.

If you’re planning to stay in the Schengen area for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a Type D visa, regardless of whether or not your country of nationality is visa-exempt.

What is the difference between a Type D visa and a Schengen visa? 

The difference is in terminology. A Type D visa is a type of Schengen visa. However, there are multiple types of Schengen visas. 

When people say “Schengen visas”, they’re often referring to short-stay Schengen visas (Type C). 

The difference between Type D visas and Type C visas is straightforward. Type D visas are for visitors intending to stay in the Schengen area for over 90 days. Type C visas are for those staying in the Schengen area for fewer than 90 days. 

• Type D: Long stays (90+ days)
• Type C: Short stays (under 90 days)

You may also see a Type D visa referred to as a national visa. 

Additional Schengen visa types

While Types C and D cover the most common travel needs, there are also special categories of Schengen visas that cater to specific circumstances, like Type A Schengen visas, which are for travelers who need to transit through a Schengen country on their way to a different destination (outside of the Schengen zone).

How to choose the right Schengen visa

Choosing the right Schengen visa type depends on a few factors:

• The duration of your trip: Will you be staying for less than 90 days (Type C), or do you need a longer visa (Type D)?
• The purpose of your travels: Will you be working or studying? Or, are you traveling to visit friends or family or for tourism? This will affect which specific visa you apply for within the Type C or D categories. 
• Do you have transit needs? If you're simply passing through a Schengen airport or crossing by land, you might need a Type A visa. (Note: Citizens from visa-exempt countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia do not need transit visas to transit through the Schengen area). 

If you’re simply visiting the Schengen area for leisure or visiting, you’ll likely need a Type C visitor or tourist visa if you are not from a visa-exempt country.

Applying for a Schengen visa

To apply for any type of Schengen visa, you must go through a visa center or consulate of the Schengen country you’ll arrive in. The process typically involves filling out a visa application form, submitting relevant documentation (such as travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and financial means), and attending an appointment at the visa center or consulate.

Key Takeaways: Schengen visa types

• Schengen visas come in different types (like Type C and Type D) depending on the nature and length of your stay.
• Type C Schengen visas are the most common, meant for short-term stays (up to 90 days) for tourism or business.
• Type D Schengen visas are for long-term stays (over 90 days), usually for work, study, or residency.
• The Type A Schengen visas are transit visas, allowing travelers to pass through the Schengen area on their way to a different destination.
• Knowing which Schengen visa type to apply for depends on your travel purpose and length of stay.
• US citizens do not need visas for short stays (90 days or fewer) in the Schengen zone.
• UK citizens do not need visas for short stays (90 days or fewer) in the Schengen zone.
• Chinese citizens need a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen area.
• Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen area.