A Schengen visa is a must-have for anyone who wants to travel to the European Union (EU) countries. It allows you to visit multiple countries in the Schengen area with a single visa. However, if you plan to visit the Schengen area several times during your trip, you may want to consider applying for a double entry visa Schengen instead of a single entry visa. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about double entry visa Schengen, including its requirements, application process, and validity.
What is a double entry visa Schengen?
A double entry visa Schengen is a type of Schengen visa that allows you to enter the Schengen area twice during the visa validity period. This means that you can leave the Schengen area and re-enter it one more time without having to apply for a new visa. A double entry visa Schengen is perfect for travelers who plan to visit two Schengen countries or who have a layover in a Schengen country on their way to a non-Schengen country. It is also an excellent option for frequent travelers who need to visit the Schengen area multiple times.
It is essential to note that a double entry visa Schengen is not the same as a multiple entry visa. A multiple entry visa allows you to enter and exit the Schengen area as many times as you want during the visa validity period. In contrast, a double entry visa Schengen only allows you to enter the Schengen area twice.
Requirements for a double entry visa Schengen
The requirements for a double entry visa Schengen are the same as those for a single entry visa. You will need to provide the following documents:
- A passport that is valid for at least three months after the visa’s expiration date.
- A completed Schengen visa application form.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- A travel health insurance policy that covers the entire Schengen area and meets the minimum coverage requirements.
- Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or an invitation from a friend or family member.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the Schengen area, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.
- A travel itinerary that outlines your travel plans in the Schengen area.
Additionally, if you are applying for a double entry visa Schengen, you will need to provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes your planned entry and exit dates from the Schengen area.
Application process for a double entry visa Schengen
The application process for a double entry visa Schengen is the same as that for a single entry visa. You will need to follow these steps:
- Gather all the required documents.
- Make an appointment at the Schengen embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Attend your appointment, submit your application and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for your visa application to be processed. The processing time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate, so make sure to apply well in advance of your travel dates.
- Collect your passport with the visa if your application is approved.
Validity of a double entry visa Schengen
The validity of a double entry visa Schengen can vary depending on your travel plans and the embassy or consulate where you apply. The maximum validity period is five years, but most double entry visas Schengen are issued for shorter periods. The visa’s validity period starts from the date of issue, not the date of entry into the Schengen area.
It is essential to note that a double entry visa Schengen allows you to stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that you cannot stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days during any 180-day period, even if you have two entries permitted under your double entry visa Schengen.
Why choose a double entry visa Schengen?
A double entry visa Schengen is an ideal choice for frequent travelers who need to visit the Schengen area multiple times. It eliminates the need to apply for a new visa every time you leave the Schengen area and re-enter it. This saves time and money and makes traveling to the Schengen area more convenient.
It is also an excellent option if you plan to visit two Schengen countries or have a layover in a Schengen country on your way to a non-Schengen country. With a double entry visa Schengen, you can enter the Schengen area twice without having to apply for a new visa, making your travel plans more flexible.
In conclusion, a double entry visa Schengen is an excellent option for frequent travelers and those who plan to visit two Schengen countries or have a layover in a Schengen country. It allows you to enter the Schengen area twice during the visa validity period, making travel to the Schengen area more convenient and flexible. Make sure to gather all the required documents and follow the application process carefully to increase your chances of getting a double entry visa Schengen.
