Schengen Visa Processing Time
How long to get your visa
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
- Standard processing
- 15
- Maximum extended
- 45
Processing Timeframes
- Standard
- 15 days
- Extended
- Up to 45 days
- Apply window
- 6 months
- Recommended
- 4-6 weeks
Most applications
Complex cases
Maximum before trip
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 documents are 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
Day 0: Submit Application
Attend appointment, provide documents and biometrics
Days 1-5: Initial Review
Embassy verifies documents, checks for completeness
Days 5-10: Processing
Background checks, database queries, assessment
Days 10-15: Decision
Visa approved or denied, sticker printed
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
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 documents proving urgency (medical emergency, death in family, and similar)
Do not 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 will typically receive notification when your application is ready for collection.