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Europe Visa Check

Schengen Visa Appointment

How to book and prepare for your appointment

Booking Your Appointment

A Schengen visa appointment is where you'll submit your application in person, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and potentially have a brief interview. Depending on your location, you'll book through one of three channels:

  • Embassy or Consulate: Direct booking through the destination country's diplomatic mission
  • VFS Global: External visa application center used by many embassies
  • TLS Contact: Another major visa service provider

How to Book Your Appointment

  1. 1

    Find the right application point

    Visit the embassy website of your destination country to find whether they process visas directly or use VFS Global/TLS Contact in your location.

  2. 2

    Create an account

    Most booking systems require you to create an online account with your email address before scheduling.

  3. 3

    Choose your visa category

    Select the appropriate visa type (usually "Short Stay/Type C" for tourism, business, or family visits).

  4. 4

    Select date and time

    Choose from available appointment slots. During peak season, available dates may be weeks away, so book early.

  5. 5

    Pay any appointment fees

    VFS Global and TLS Contact charge a service fee on top of the visa fee. This may be payable when booking or at the appointment.

  6. 6

    Receive confirmation

    You'll get a confirmation email with your appointment details. Print this and bring it to your appointment.

Appointment Quick Facts

📅
Book how early 4-6 weeks Before travel date
⏰
Arrive 15 min early Before scheduled time
⏱️
Duration 30-60 min Including wait time
🔄
Reschedule Usually allowed With advance notice

Book Early During Peak Season

During summer months and holiday periods, appointment slots fill up quickly — sometimes weeks in advance. Start looking for appointments as soon as you begin preparing your documents, not after they're ready.

VFS Global vs TLS Contact

Many embassies outsource visa processing to external companies:

VFS Global: The largest visa outsourcing company, operating in 140+ countries. They handle document collection, biometrics, and passport return. Used by embassies of Germany, France, Italy, and others.

TLS Contact: Another major provider, used by several Schengen embassies. Similar services to VFS.

Both charge a service fee (typically €20-35) on top of the visa fee. The actual visa decision is still made by the embassy — these centers just handle logistics.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

  • Appointment confirmation: Printed email confirmation
  • Passport: Original plus copies of all pages with stamps/visas
  • Completed application form: Signed and dated
  • Photos: 2 recent photos meeting Schengen requirements
  • All supporting documents: Insurance, bank statements, bookings, employment letter, etc.
  • Visa fee: €80 in accepted payment method (cash or card)
  • Service fee: If using VFS/TLS, their additional fee

What Happens at the Appointment

Your appointment typically includes:

  1. Check-in: Present your confirmation and passport
  2. Document submission: Staff review your documents for completeness
  3. Biometrics: Digital fingerprints (all 10 fingers) and photo taken
  4. Fee payment: Pay the visa fee and any service charges
  5. Interview: Brief questions about your trip (not always)
  6. Receipt: You'll receive a tracking number to monitor your application

Prepare for Your Appointment

Documents Checklist

What to bring

Photo Requirements

Get your photos right

Interview Tips

Prepare for questions

Appointment FAQs

How far in advance can I book an appointment?
Most systems allow booking up to 3 months in advance. You can apply for your visa up to 6 months before travel, but appointment slots typically open 2-3 months ahead.
What if no appointments are available?
Check the booking site regularly — cancellations create new slots. Some locations also have walk-in options or same-day appointments for emergencies (often with extra fees). Consider applying through a less busy location if your destination has multiple consulates.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
Usually yes, with sufficient advance notice (typically 24-48 hours). Log into the booking system to reschedule. Repeated no-shows may result in booking restrictions.
Can someone else attend the appointment for me?
Generally no — you must appear in person for biometrics. However, if you've provided biometrics in the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, some locations may allow a representative to submit documents on your behalf.
What if I'm running late?
Call ahead if possible. Small delays are usually accommodated, but significant lateness may require rescheduling. Aim to arrive 15 minutes early.

Related Information

ETIAS Guide Schengen Area Guide UK Travel Requirements Travel Insurance

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