Skip to main content
Europe Visa Check

Schengen Visa Processing Time

How long to get your visa

Quick Facts

Schengen Visa processing typically takes 15-45 days. Apply well in advance — appointments at busy embassies may have additional wait times of 2-4 weeks.

Standard 15-45 days
Busy Season Up to 60 days
Appointment Wait 2-4 weeks
Apply Early 6+ weeks before
15
Standard processing
45
Maximum extended

Processing Timeframes

⏱️
Standard 15 days Most applications
📅
Extended Up to 45 days Complex cases
🗓️
Apply window 6 months Maximum before trip
✅
Recommended 4-6 weeks Before travel date

How Long Does Processing Take?

By EU regulation, Schengen visa applications should be processed within 15 calendar days from the date of submission. However, this can be extended in certain cases:

  • Up to 45 days: If additional documentation is needed or further examination required
  • Up to 60 days: In exceptional circumstances (very rare)

The 15-day timeframe is a target, not a guarantee. Processing times can vary significantly depending on the embassy, time of year, and your specific circumstances.

Typical Application Timeline

  1. Day 0: Submit Application

    Attend appointment, provide documents and biometrics

  2. Days 1-5: Initial Review

    Embassy verifies documents, checks for completeness

  3. Days 5-10: Processing

    Background checks, database queries, assessment

  4. Days 10-15: Decision

    Visa approved or denied, sticker printed

  5. Day 15+: Collection

    Pick up passport or receive via courier

Factors That Affect Processing Time

  • Application completeness: Missing documents cause delays while embassy requests them
  • Embassy workload: Peak season (summer, holidays) means longer processing
  • Nationality: Some nationalities undergo additional security checks
  • Travel history: First-time applicants may face more scrutiny than frequent travelers
  • Purpose of visit: Business visas may process faster than tourism in some embassies
  • Destination country: Some embassies are more efficient than others

Apply 4-6 Weeks Before Travel

Don't wait until the last minute. Factor in appointment availability (which can be weeks out during busy periods), the standard 15-day processing, and potential delays. Applying 4-6 weeks before your trip gives you buffer time if something goes wrong.

Express or Urgent Processing

Some embassies offer expedited processing for urgent travel needs, but this is not guaranteed or standardized:

  • Not all embassies offer express options
  • Costs extra (varies by location)
  • May still take several days
  • Requires documentation of urgency (medical emergency, death in family, etc.)

Don't rely on express processing — always apply well in advance.

How to Track Your Application

Most visa application centers provide tracking options:

  • VFS Global: Online tracking via their website with your reference number
  • TLS Contact: SMS and email notifications, plus online tracking
  • Direct embassy: Contact them via phone or email (response times vary)

You'll typically receive notification when your application is ready for collection.

Related Guides

How to Apply

Step-by-step process

Book Appointment

Securing your slot

Documents Needed

Complete checklist

Processing Time FAQs

Can I get a Schengen visa in less than 15 days?
Sometimes, but don't count on it. Some applications are processed in just a few days, especially if you have a clean travel history and complete documentation. However, the official timeframe is 15 days, and there's no guarantee of faster processing.
Why would processing take 45 days?
Extended processing happens when the embassy needs additional documentation, wants to verify information, or your case requires extra security checks. This is more common for first-time applicants, certain nationalities, or when discrepancies are found in the application.
What if I need the visa urgently for an emergency?
Contact the embassy directly to explain your situation. For genuine emergencies (death of family member, urgent medical treatment), some embassies can expedite processing. You'll need documentation proving the emergency.
Can I travel while my application is processing?
Your passport is held by the embassy during processing, so you cannot travel internationally. If you have urgent travel needs, discuss options with the embassy before submitting your application.
How will I know when my visa is ready?
The visa application center or embassy will notify you via SMS, email, or phone when your passport is ready for collection. You can also track the status online with your application reference number.

Related Information

ETIAS Processing Time Schengen Area Guide Schengen Calculator Travel Insurance

Last updated: