Visa Processing Time

The USA visa processing time depends on the workload the visa office has at the time of your application. However, the estimated processing time is 15 days. 

 

Visa Processing Fee

Agency Service Charge: BDT 5000/-

Embassy Fee: 

• Adults: €80
• Children (6-12 years): €40
• Children (below 6 years): Free

Additional Charges: 

 

Schengen Visa Application from Bangladesh

Traveling to Europe is a dream for many Bangladeshi citizens. Whether it's exploring the Eiffel Tower in Paris, enjoying the canals of Venice, or hiking in the Alps, the Schengen Visa is your gateway to 27 European countries. This article is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Schengen Visa from Bangladesh, ensuring you understand the process and requirements. 

What is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Visa is a short-term visa allowing its holder to travel to any member country within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. The visa is ideal for tourism, business, family visits, or short study programs. Currently, the Schengen Area includes 27 European countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. 

Types of Schengen Visas

Bangladeshi applicants can choose from several Schengen Visa types based on their purpose of travel:

1. Tourist Visa: For leisure or sightseeing.
2. Business Visa: For business meetings or conferences.
3. Family Visit Visa: For visiting family or friends residing in the Schengen Zone.
4. Student Visa (Short-term): For short study courses.
5. Medical Visa: For receiving medical treatment. 

Schengen Visa Fees for Bangladeshi Applicants 

As of now, the standard Schengen Visa fee is:

• Adults: €80
• Children (6-12 years): €40
• Children (below 6 years): Free

Additional fees may apply if you use services like VFS Global. 

Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen Visa applications. It must:

• Cover the entire Schengen Area.
• Be valid for the duration of your trip.
• Provide coverage of at least €30,000.

Insurance can be purchased online or through Buy Air Ticket Ltd. by calling +880 1616-131319. 

Schengen Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Schengen Visa from Bangladesh is usually 15 working days. However, delays can occur during peak seasons. It is advisable to apply at least one month before your planned travel date. 

Common Visa Requirements for Schengen Countries

To apply for a Schengen Visa, you need to gather the following documents:

1. Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the application form, available on the website of the respective embassy or consulate.
2. Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages and validity for three months beyond your intended stay.
3. Photo: Two recent passport-sized photographs adhering to Schengen photo requirements.
4. Cover Letter: A detailed letter explaining the purpose and itinerary of your visit.
5. Travel Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, valid across the Schengen Zone.
6. Flight Reservation: Proof of a return ticket or onward travel.
7. Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.
8. Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last three months or sponsorship proof showing you can financially sustain your trip.
9. Visa Fee: Non-refundable application fee (approximately €80 for adults).  

Schengen Visa Checklist for Specific Countries 

If you’re planning to travel to Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Croatia, Georgia, Malta, or Ukraine from Bangladesh, the visa application process is handled by VFS Global Dhaka. Below is a country-specific guide for Schengen visa applications. 

1. Austria Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Completed visa application form.
• Valid passport with at least two blank pages.
• Recent passport-sized photos.
• Travel insurance covering €30,000.
• Proof of financial means (bank statement or sponsorship letter).
• Accommodation details (hotel bookings or invitation from a host).
• Flight reservations.
• For business purposes: Invitation letter from an Austrian company.

Processing Time: Typically 15 working days. 

2. Denmark Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned stay.
• Two recent passport-sized photographs adhering to Schengen guidelines.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources.
• Travel insurance valid across the Schengen Area.
• Confirmed hotel bookings and travel itinerary.
• For family visits: Proof of relationship and invitation from the host.

Additional Notes: Denmark often requires proof of accommodation and an explicit travel plan. 

3. Germany Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Schengen visa application form.
• Passport with at least two blank pages.
• Biometric photographs as per Schengen standards.
• Flight bookings and accommodation proof.
• Proof of financial means for the duration of your stay.
• Travel insurance with the required coverage.
• Additional documents like proof of employment or property ownership in Bangladesh.

Additional Notes: Germany emphasizes travel history; include past passports and prior visa details. 

4. Sweden Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Completed visa application form.
• Passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages.
• Two passport-sized photographs.
• Travel health insurance.
• Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship documents).
• Accommodation details or an invitation letter.
• For family visits: Host’s identity documents and relationship proof.

Processing Time: 15-30 working days, depending on application volume. 

5. Portugal Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Completed visa application form.
• Valid passport with at least three months’ validity beyond your stay.
• Two passport-sized photos meeting Schengen requirements.
• Proof of financial means.
• Travel health insurance.
• Confirmed flight tickets and accommodation bookings.
• Cover letter explaining your trip purpose and itinerary.

Additional Notes: Proof of property or employment ties in Bangladesh is often required to ensure return. 

6. Croatia Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Completed application form.
• Valid passport.
• Two biometric photographs.
• Travel insurance.
• Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the trip.
• Accommodation and flight details.
• For business purposes: A letter of invitation from the Croatian host.

Additional Notes: Health insurance specific to Croatia may be necessary for long stays. 

7. Georgia Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Completed visa application form.
• Passport with six months' validity.
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• Travel itinerary, including accommodation and flight reservations.
• Travel insurance valid for Georgia.
• Proof of financial means (bank statements).

Additional Notes: Georgia often requires a more detailed travel plan. 

8. Malta Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Valid passport.
• Two recent photographs.
• Completed visa application form.
• Travel insurance.
• Accommodation and flight bookings.
• Financial documents (bank statements or sponsorship).
• For business or family visits: Invitation letter and supporting documents.

Processing Time: Around 15 working days. 

9. Ukraine Visa Processing

Required Documents:

• Completed visa application form.
• Valid passport.
• Two passport-sized photos.
• Travel insurance valid for Ukraine.
• Confirmed flight bookings and accommodation proof.
• Proof of financial support for the trip.
• For visiting family: Notarized invitation letter from the Ukrainian host.

Processing Time: Typically 10-15 working days. 

Where to Start Your Schengen Visa Application

The VFS Global Dhaka Visa Application Center is the primary hub for processing visa applications for the following countries: Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Croatia, Georgia, Malta, and Ukraine.

VFS Global Dhaka Contact Details:

• Location: Bay's Edgewater, 8th Floor, Plot No 12, North Avenue, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.
• Website: VFS Global Dhaka
• Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Services Provided:

1. Document submission.
2. Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photograph).
3. Application status tracking.
4. Passport return service. 

Schengen Visa Application Process 

Step 1: Determine the Visa Type

Identify the type of visa you need based on the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, family visit, or study). This will determine the documents you need to prepare. 

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

Visit the VFS Global website to book your visa appointment.

• Select your destination country.
• Choose your visa type.
• Pick a suitable date and time for your visit to the center.

Important Tip: Schedule your appointment at least 4-6 weeks before your planned travel date to account for processing time and possible delays. 

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Collect and organize all necessary documents according to the specific requirements of your destination country. These generally include:

1. A completed visa application form.
2. A valid passport (minimum validity of 6 months).
3. Two recent passport-sized photographs.
4. Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship).
5. Confirmed flight reservation and accommodation bookings.
6. Travel health insurance covering €30,000.
7. Supporting documents like a cover letter, invitation letter (if applicable), and proof of employment.

Note: Refer to the official checklist provided on the VFS Global website for country-specific requirements. 

Step 4: Visit the VFS Global Center

On the day of your appointment:

1. Arrive at the VFS Global center with your appointment confirmation and all required documents.
2. Submit your application to the staff.
3. Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs).

Note: Ensure your application form and supporting documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays. 

Step 5: Pay the Fees

Pay the applicable visa fee and VFS service fee at the counter. Keep the receipts as proof of payment.

• Schengen Visa Fee: Approximately €80 (BDT 9,000 for adults).
• Children Aged 6-12: €40 (around BDT 4,500).
• Children Under 6: Free. 

Step 6: Track Your Application

Once your application is submitted, you will receive a receipt with a tracking ID. Use this ID to monitor the progress of your application on the VFS Global website.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport

Once your application is processed, you will be notified via SMS or email to collect your passport. Alternatively, you can opt for a courier service to receive your passport at your address.

Additional Services at VFS Global 

• Premium Lounge Access: Offers a more comfortable and expedited service experience.
• SMS Notifications: Regular updates on your visa application status.
• Courier Services: Convenient delivery of your passport.

By starting your visa application process at VFS Global Dhaka, following the outlined steps, and ensuring that all required documents are prepared accurately, you can increase the likelihood of a successful visa application for your chosen Schengen country. 

Contact Information for VFS Dhaka 

• Address: Bay's Edgewater, 8th Floor, Plot No 12, North Avenue, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.
• Website: VFS Global Dhaka
• Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. 

Embassy Contact Details in Dhaka

France Embassy

• Address: Madani Avenue, Baridhara Diplomatic Zone, Dhaka
• Phone: +880-2-5566-8650

Germany Embassy

• Address: United Nations Road, Baridhara, Dhaka
• Phone: +880-2-5566-86500

Italy Embassy

• Address: Plot 2/3, Road 74/79, Gulshan 2, Dhaka
• Phone: +880-2-8822781 

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

1. Incomplete Documents: Missing or invalid documentation.
2. Insufficient Financial Proof: Bank statements not meeting minimum balance requirements.
3. Inconsistent Travel Purpose: Discrepancies in your itinerary and cover letter.
4. Lack of Travel Insurance: Insurance not meeting the €30,000 requirement.
5. Overstaying Risks: Concerns about the applicant not returning to Bangladesh. 

How to Avoid Rejection

1. Double-Check Your Documents: Ensure all forms and documents are complete and valid.
2. Provide Genuine Information: Misleading or false information can result in a ban.
3. Strong Financial Proof: Show sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your trip.
4. Explain Your Itinerary Clearly: Write a detailed cover letter outlining your travel plans.
5. Meet Application Deadlines: Apply at least 3 weeks before your intended departure. 

Tips for Schengen Visa for First-Time Travelers from Bangladesh

If this is your first time applying for a Schengen Visa:

1. Opt for a shorter trip to establish travel credibility.
2. Provide additional proof of ties to Bangladesh, such as employment letters or property documents.

Tips for a Successful Schengen Visa Application 

1. Plan Ahead: Start preparing your documents well in advance.
2. Be Honest: Provide accurate information.
3. Show Strong Ties to Bangladesh: This assures the authorities of your return.
4. Follow Embassy Instructions: Adhere to specific guidelines from the embassy.

Why Use Buy Air Ticket for Schengen Visa Support?

At Buy Air Ticket Ltd., we provide comprehensive assistance for your Schengen Visa application. Our team ensures your documents are in order, helping you avoid common pitfalls.

Contact Us:

• Email: visa@buyairticket.com
• Phone: +8801616131318, +8801613336664, +8809678742742
• Address: 43/2, College Area, Flat 4/A, New Market, Dhaka-1205

Final Thoughts 

Applying for a Schengen Visa from Bangladesh may seem daunting, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a smooth process. This guide provides all the necessary information to help you navigate your application successfully. Let Buy Air Ticket Ltd. assist you in making your European dream a reality. 

FAQs

1. What is the validity of a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. Can I work on a Schengen Visa?

No, the Schengen Visa is only for short-term travel purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits.

3. Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes, travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for the Schengen Visa application.

4. How early should I apply for a Schengen Visa?

It is recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.

5. Can I apply for a Schengen Visa online?

You can fill out the application form online, but you must attend the visa appointment in person. 

6.  Can You Appeal a Schengen Visa Rejection?

Yes, you can appeal a rejected application by submitting a written appeal to the embassy. The appeal must be submitted within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice.

7. Which countries can I visit with a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa allows you to visit all 27 countries in the Schengen Area, including Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Croatia, Malta, and others. However, for countries like Georgia and Ukraine, you’ll need separate visas as they are not part of the Schengen Area.

8. Can I submit my application through VFS Dhaka for any Schengen country?
No, you can only submit applications for countries that VFS Dhaka specifically handles, such as Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Croatia, Malta, and a few others. For countries not serviced by VFS Dhaka, you must apply directly at their respective embassies.

9. What is the processing time for a Schengen Visa?
The processing time for a Schengen Visa typically ranges between 15-30 days, depending on the country and application volume. It is advisable to apply early to account for any delays.

10. Can I apply for a Schengen Visa without prior travel experience?
Yes, you can apply without prior travel history. However, first-time applicants are advised to provide strong supporting documents, such as proof of financial stability, accommodation, and a detailed travel itinerary, to establish the purpose and credibility of their trip.

11. Do I need to submit my original passport?
Yes, your original passport is required for the visa application. It will be retained during the processing period and returned with the visa decision.

12. Can I choose multiple countries as my destination on a single Schengen Visa application?
Yes, you can include multiple Schengen countries in your travel plan. However, you must apply to the embassy or visa center of the country where you plan to stay the longest. If the duration is equal across countries, apply to the country you’ll enter first.

13. Is biometric data mandatory for all applicants?
Yes, all applicants aged 12 and above must provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph) during their visa appointment.