For many passports, including Iran's and since December 2024 Vanuatu's, a short trip to the Schengen area needs a visa. The information in this guide comes from the European Commission's page "Applying for a Schengen visa" (updated on 2 December 2025), checked on 24 October 2026.
Where to apply
- At the consulate of the country you intend to visit.
- If you are visiting several Schengen countries: at the country where you will stay longest; if the stays are equal, at the first country you will enter.
- You may need to book an appointment before applying.
When to apply
- at least 15 days before the trip;
- at most six months before the trip.
Fees
- adults: EUR 90;
- children aged 6 to 12: EUR 45;
- visa service centres may charge a separate service fee.
Decision time
The usual time is 15 days, extendable to 45 days if further review is needed.
The main documents
- a passport valid for at least three months after the date of leaving Schengen;
- medical insurance covering emergency treatment, hospitalisation and repatriation;
- other documents, such as the purpose of the trip, accommodation and financial means, which the consulate specifies.
The European Commission says its page is an overview; ask the destination's consulate for the exact list.
The multiple-entry visa
A multiple-entry visa allows several trips while the visa is valid, but the rule of 90 days in any 180 days still applies.
After you get the visa
- Since 10 April 2026, the EES records your entries and exits at the external Schengen borders.
- ETIAS is not for visa holders; it is only for visa-exempt nationals.
Tips
- Make your first entry from the country that issued the visa, or have a clear reason for another route.
- State your real travel plan; a large unexplained change may raise questions at the border.
This article is general information and not legal advice. The decision on the visa rests with the consulate, and on entry with the border officers.
Sources
- European Commission, applying for a Schengen visa (updated on 2 December 2025) — https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen/visa-policy/applying-schengen-visa_en (checked on 24 October 2026)
- European Commission, main differences between the EES and ETIAS (28 April 2026) — https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/news/main-differences-between-ees-and-etias-what-travellers-need-know-2026-04-28_en (checked on 24 October 2026)
- Council of the European Union, "Vanuatu: Council ends visa exemption" (12 December 2024) — https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/12/12/vanuatu-council-ends-visa-exemption/ (checked on 24 October 2026)