Introduction
For many people, traveling to Europe is a dream come true. Europe is a culturally rich continent with diverse experiences. However, as an Indonesian citizen, it’s essential to have the right visa to enter any European country. One of the most popular visas is the Schengen visa. But how many countries are included in a Schengen visa? In this article, we’ll explore all the details about the Schengen visa and how many countries it covers.
What is a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to visit any of the 26 countries that are part of the Schengen Area in Europe. This visa is perfect for anyone who wants to explore multiple countries in Europe without having to apply for a visa each time they cross a border. The Schengen Area is a zone where all internal borders have been abolished, meaning there are no passport checks when traveling between countries.
How many countries are included in a Schengen visa?
As mentioned earlier, the Schengen visa allows you to visit 26 countries in the Schengen Area. These countries are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
How long is a Schengen visa valid for?
The validity of a Schengen visa depends on the type of visa you apply for and the purpose of your visit. Generally, a Schengen visa is valid for up to 90 days within a six-month period. This means that you cannot stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days in a six-month period. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, and it’s always best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
How do you apply for a Schengen visa?
If you’re an Indonesian citizen and want to apply for a Schengen visa, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Determine the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit.
- Gather all the required documents, including a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, passport, travel itinerary, and travel medical insurance.
- Book an appointment with the embassy or consulate to submit your application and biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Wait for your visa application to be processed.
Conclusion
The Schengen visa is an excellent option for anyone who wants to explore multiple European countries without the hassle of applying for a visa each time they cross a border. With 26 countries included in the Schengen Area, there is no shortage of destinations to visit. Remember to check the visa requirements and validity period before you plan your trip to Europe.
