How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan Guide

Dreaming of wandering Paris streets or biking in Amsterdam? To cross into 27 European countries on one visa, you need a Schengen Visa. Applying from Pakistan may feel complex, but with clear steps and tips, you’ll breeze through it. I got mine in just two weeks—and you can too!

What Is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Visa lets you visit any country in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within 180 days. It’s perfect for tourism, business trips, or visiting friends and family.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

Pakistani passport holders
Dual nationals without EU residency
Anyone planning short trips to Europe’s Schengen zone

If you hold a valid EU residency, you don’t need this visa.

Types of Schengen Visas

Info Box: Schengen Visa Types

Tourist (Type C): Sightseeing, holidays
Business (Type C): Meetings, conferences
Family Visit (Type C): Visiting relatives
Transit (Type A/B): Layovers through Schengen airports

Choose the category that fits your trip.

Required Documents

Gather these well before your appointment:

Valid Pakistani passport (at least 3 months validity beyond return date)
Two recent passport-size photos (35×45mm, plain background)
Completed visa application form (print and sign)
Travel itinerary (flight reservations, hotel bookings)
Travel medical insurance (min. €30,000 coverage in Schengen area)
Proof of funds (bank statements, salary slips)
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
No-objection certificate (from employer or university)

Pro tip: Scan documents clearly; blurry copies lead to rejections. I once had to redo my bank statement upload—double-check yours!

Step 1: Choose the Right Embassy or Consulate

Apply at the embassy of the country you’ll spend most time in. If time is equal, apply at the country of first entry. Most Pakistanis use VFS Global application centers for:

France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Netherlands

Check your destination’s official visa website for exact details.

Step 2: Book Your Appointment

Most embassies require you to set an appointment online via VFS Global:

Visit the VFS Global portal for your country of destination.
Register with your email and create a profile.
Choose a date and time slot—early morning ones fill fast.
Print your appointment confirmation.

Tip: I always book at least three weeks in advance, especially during summer holidays.

Step 3: Pay the Visa and Service Fees

You’ll pay fees in PKR at the VFS center:

Fee Type	Amount (PKR approx.)
Schengen Visa (EUR 80)	24,000
VFS Service Charge	3,000
Courier Return Fee	500

Bring exact cash or a debit card—centers may not accept credit cards.

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment

On the big day:

Arrive 10 minutes early
Bring original documents plus photocopies
Submit your forms and biometrics (fingerprints & photo)
Pay fees at the counter
Collect your VFS receipt (holds your tracking number)

Quick heads-up: wear business-casual—first impressions count!

Step 5: Track Your Application

After your appointment, use the VFS tracking number on their website to see:

Application received
Under process
Decision made

I checked mine once a day—don’t overdue it. Refreshing every hour can spike your anxiety!

Step 6: Collect Your Passport

When VFS notifies you, go back to the center or wait for the courier to deliver it. Bring:

Your original VFS receipt
CNIC or passport copy for ID check

Open your passport on the spot and confirm:

Your name spelled correctly
Date of birth and passport number match
Visa validity dates fit your travel plan

Common Mistakes & Fixes

Missing signature on the form? They’ll reject it on the spot—sign before you leave home!
Wrong insurance amount? Check that your policy covers all Schengen countries and is valid for every trip day.
Appointment no-show? You’ll lose your slot. Reschedule ASAP online.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to process?
A: Usually 10–15 working days, but can be longer during peak season.

Q: Can I apply for multiple-entry?
A: Yes—request it on your form if you need to travel in and out of Schengen multiple times.

Q: Do minors need to attend in person?
A: Yes, both parents and the child must be present for biometrics.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Schengen Visa from Pakistan might look like a maze, but with this guide, you’ve got the map. Gather your papers, book your slot early, and keep an eye on your application online. Before you know it, you’ll be exploring Europe’s hidden gems—beyond the Eiffel Tower and canals of Venice. Safe travels!