Traveling to England can be an exciting experience for anyone, but before you pack your bags and book your flight, it’s essential to know the visa requirements. One of the visa options available for Indonesian travelers is a Schengen visa, which allows you to travel to England and other European countries within the Schengen Area. In this article, we’ll provide you with a complete guide on applying for a Schengen visa for England.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a travel document that allows you to visit countries within the Schengen Area without the need for individual visas for each country. The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. This means that once you have a Schengen visa, you can travel between these countries without any additional documentation.
The Schengen Area 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, and Switzerland.
Do You Need a Schengen Visa for England?
If you’re an Indonesian citizen, you’ll need a visa to travel to England. Whether you need a Schengen visa or a standard visa depends on your travel plans. If you’re planning to visit England only, you need a standard visitor visa. But if you’re planning to visit other Schengen Area countries along with England, you’ll need a Schengen visa.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa for England?
The process of applying for a Schengen visa for England is straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Check if you’re eligible for a Schengen visa
You’re eligible for a Schengen visa if you’re an Indonesian citizen and you plan to visit England and other Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within a six-month period.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
The documents you need to apply for a Schengen visa include:
- Your passport (valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the Schengen Area)
- A Schengen visa application form
- A recent passport-size photograph
- Proof of travel arrangements (flight tickets, hotel bookings, etc.)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, salary slips, etc.)
- Travel insurance (covering medical expenses and repatriation)
- A cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and your itinerary
Step 3: Submit your application
You can submit your Schengen visa application at the nearest visa application center (VAC). The VAC will check your application and supporting documents and forward them to the embassy or consulate for further processing.
Step 4: Attend your visa interview
You may be asked to attend a visa interview to discuss your application and travel plans. The interview will be conducted by a visa officer, who will ask you questions about your trip and your background.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Schengen Visa for England?
The processing time for a Schengen visa for England varies depending on the embassy or consulate where you submit your application. In general, it takes around 15 days to process a Schengen visa application, but it can take up to 30 days in some cases. Therefore, it’s recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel date.
How Much Does a Schengen Visa for England Cost?
The cost of a Schengen visa for England is €80 (around IDR 1,300,000), which is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Some applicants may be eligible for a reduced fee or exemption, such as children under six years of age, students, researchers, and family members of EU citizens.
Conclusion
If you’re an Indonesian traveler planning to visit England and other Schengen Area countries, a Schengen visa can make your travel more convenient. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can apply for and obtain a Schengen visa for England in a hassle-free manner. Remember to apply for your visa well in advance and ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and document requirements to increase your chances of success.
