A Schengen visa allows you to travel to 27 European countries (Schengen Area) for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
As an international student in the UK, you’ll need a Schengen visa unless you hold a passport from a country that has a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Zone (e.g., the US, Canada, Australia).
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Determine the Type of Visa You Need
- Short-stay visa: For tourism, visiting family/friends, attending conferences, or study programs under 90 days.
- Long-stay visa: If you plan to study, work, or stay longer than 90 days.
2. Choose the Right Embassy
Apply at the embassy or consulate of the country you will spend the most time in or, if visiting multiple countries for equal durations, apply at the embassy of your first point of entry.
3. Check Visa Requirements
Each Schengen country may have slightly different requirements. Visit the official website of the respective embassy.
4. Gather Required Documents
Typical requirements include:
✅ Completed Schengen Visa Application Form
✅ Valid UK Student Visa (must be valid for at least 3 months after your return)
✅ Passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond your trip + two blank pages)
✅ Recent Passport Photos (meeting Schengen specifications)
✅ Proof of UK Residency (BRP or visa stamp)
✅ Travel Itinerary (flight and accommodation bookings)
✅ Travel Insurance (covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses)
✅ Proof of Financial Means (bank statements or sponsorship letter)
✅ Letter from University (confirming student status)
5. Book an Appointment
Most embassies require an in-person appointment. Schedule it early, as slots fill up quickly.
6. Pay the Visa Fee
- €80 for adults
- €40 for children (6-12 years)
- Free for children under 6 and certain students on EU-funded study trips
7. Attend the Visa Interview
You may be asked about your travel plans, finances, and return intentions. Be honest and confident.
8. Wait for Processing
Processing times vary but usually take 15 calendar days. Apply at least 4-6 weeks in advance.
9. Receive Your Visa & Travel!
If approved, check your visa details before traveling. If rejected, the embassy will provide reasons, and you may reapply or appeal.
Can I travel to Europe with a UK Student BRP?
No, you cannot travel to Europe with just a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). The BRP only proves your right to stay in the UK; it does not grant you entry into Schengen countries.
What Do You Need to Travel to Europe?
If you’re an international student in the UK and your nationality requires a Schengen visa, you must apply for one before traveling to Europe.
Key Points to Remember:
✅ Your UK BRP must be valid for at least three months after your return from Europe.
✅ You must apply for a Schengen visa from the embassy of the country you’ll visit the most.
✅ Even if you have a valid UK visa, you still need a Schengen visa unless you’re from a visa-exempt country.
Would you like guidance on applying for a Schengen visa?
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes such as tourism, business, visiting family, or attending conferences.
Which Countries are in the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area includes 27 European countries that have abolished passport control at their borders:
🇦🇹 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
🛑 Note: Some EU countries (e.g., Ireland) are NOT in the Schengen Zone, and some non-EU countries (e.g., Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein) are part of Schengen.
Types of Schengen Visas
🔹 Type A (Airport Transit Visa) – For layovers in a Schengen country without leaving the airport.
🔹 Type C (Short-Stay Visa) – Allows travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days in 180 days.
🔹 Type D (Long-Stay Visa) – For studying, working, or staying more than 90 days in a specific country.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
You need a Schengen visa if you are from a country that does not have a visa-free agreement with Schengen states. Some passport holders (e.g., US, Canada, Australia) can enter Schengen countries without a visa for up to 90 days.
👩🎓 International students in the UK: If you are a non-EU national, you will likely need a Schengen visa to travel to Europe—even if you have a UK visa or BRP.
