Schengen Visa Interview Questions

SCHENGEN VISA
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
https://visareservation.com
TABLE OF CONTENT
THE SCHENGEN REGION 4
1.1 THE SCHENGEN AREA 4
THE EU, EUROZONE, AND SCHENGEN 4
THE SCHENGEN NATIONS 5
SOME SCHENGEN VISA STATISTICS 6
WHY DO YOU NEED A SCHENGEN VISA? 6
TYPES OF SCHENGEN VISAS 6
1.2 WHAT IS SCHENGEN VISA? 6
WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

ACCEPT THE SCHENGEN VISA? 7
WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

DON’T ACCEPT THE SCHENGEN VISA? 7
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SCHENGEN VISA? 7
1.3 THE SCHENGEN APPLICATION PROCESS 7
SCHENGEN VISA INTERVIEW QUESTIONS 8
2.1 COMMON QUESTIONS 9
GENERAL QUESTIONS 10
2.2 APPLICANT-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS 14
14
24
24
2.3 VISA REJECTION & RE-APPLICATION 30
INTERVIEW MISTAKES AND

HOW TO AVOID THEM 31
2.4 FIVE COMMON SCHENGEN INTERVIEW MISTAKES 31
SCHENGEN VISA INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
THE SCHENGEN REGION
1.1 THE SCHENGEN AREA
Europe is a beautiful place, and you may want to travel there on leisure, work or study. To do so, you’ll need a visa. You visit the visa application website
and see that there is no single application for the continent of Europe in its entirety. Instead, you have a Schengen visa, a UK visa, and national visas. Why
are there multiple visas for the same continent? No other continent in the world operates this way.
To understand this, you need to understand how international relations were built in Europe. More specifically, you need to understand how Europe currently
is sub-divided on the grounds of trade and travel.
THE EU, EUROZONE, AND SCHENGEN

Trade within Europe started booming in the 1800s. By the early 1900s, individual countries found a need to set up trade agreements between each other to
facilitate easier economic transactions. Over time, 28 different countries signed an agreement which dictated that they follow the same trade, legal and judi-
cial systems. This group of 28 countries constitutes the European Union (EU).
In addition to sharing the trading and legal systems, some countries in the EU also decided to share a currency – the Euro (€). These countries, which are a
part of the EU and which share the Euro as the currency, constitute the Eurozone. However, the countries of Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Hungary, Poland, Romania and Sweden (which are part of the EU) don’t use the Euro. Therefore, although they are a part of the EU, they are not a part of
the Eurozone.
The Schengen area is a European passport-free zone, which is made up of 26 countries. Citizens and permanent residents of these Schengen countries are
allowed to travel to other Schengen countries without a passport and a visa. The Schengen is the largest free-travel area in the world. To be a part of the
Schengen area, countries had to sign the Schengen Agreement. According to this agreement, all citizens belonging to Schengen countries are exempted from
internal border checks and can travel without problems between other Schengen countries.
So essentially, the EU is an economic and political union created to facilitate trade, the Eurozone is a subset of the EU which shares a currency, and the
Schengen is a travel union created to facilitate easier travel. Some countries of the EU are also part of the Schengen and share the political and economic
benefits they get from the EU and the travel benefits they get from Schengen.
THE SCHENGEN NATIONS

• 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
If you wish to travel to any of these countries, but you do not belong to any of
these countries, you will need to apply for the Schengen Visa. You will need to
give the requisite documentation and interviews as you would when travelling
to another country.
1.2 WHAT IS SCHENGEN VISA?

The visa that you need to take in order to travel to & travel within the Schengen region is called
“Schengen Visa.”
SOME SCHENGEN VISA STATISTICS

(For the year 2017-2018)
• Total number of applicants for short stay visit: 16.1 million
• Total number of short stay visit visas issued: 14.6 million
• Countries that received the highest visa applications: France (3.6m), Germany (2.1m), Italy (1.8m), Spain (1.6m), Greece (1m), Finland (827K)
• Countries that have the highest visa rejection rate: Malta (25.23%), Belgium (16.01%), Portugal (14.93%), France (13.64%), Netherlands (10.01%)
• Countries that applied for Schengen visa the most: Russian Federation (3.8m), China (2.5m), Turkey (971K), India (920K), Algeria (779K)
After the US, UK and Australian visas, the Schengen visa is the fourth most difficult visa to get.
WHY DO YOU NEED A SCHENGEN VISA?

There’s just one reason why you’d need a Schengen visa – to travel to Schengen countries. A non-Schengen traveller cannot visit or travel within the boun-
daries of the Schengen area without the Schengen visa.
TYPES OF SCHENGEN VISAS

Before you apply for the Schengen visa, you need to determine the type of visa you need to apply for. Schengen visas can be categorised under three types:
1. Territory-based visas: These visas allow holders to stay in particular territories of the Schengen region during the duration of the visa validity. There
are three types of territory-based visa:
• Uniform Schengen visa: This visa allows holders to visit and reside in any of the 26 Schengen countries for up to 90 days continuously, within a
six-month period. Here two you have two types of visas. The “Type A uniform Schengen visa” allows holders to move as transit passengers from
one Schengen country airport to another and does not allow holders to travel outside the airport and into the country. The “Type C uniform Schengen
visa,” on the other hand, allows holders to travel within any of the 26 Schengen countries.
• Limited territorial validity visa: This visa is allocated only when applicants wish to visit particular countries or limited areas of the Schengen
country. It is also given if the applicant has been directed to enter through or exit from authorised countries only. This visa is very rarely given and
is provided only upon the direction of a consulate or embassy.
• National visa: This visa is granted to individuals who are studying or working in a single Schengen country and need a visa for a long duration. When
applying for a national visa, apply under “Category D” as that is the visa you need for study and work purposes.
2. Entry-based visas: These visas are uniform Schengen visas which restrict the holder on the number of times he can enter and exit the country. They
are of 3 types:
• Single entry visa: Holders of this visa can enter the Schengen area only once and exit it once. Once exited, they cannot re-enter the Schengen area
again.
• Double entry visa: Holders of this visa can enter and exit twice, at any time during the entire validity of the visa. But once they extinguish these two
opportunities, they aren’t allowed to re-enter the Schengen region.
• Multiple entry visa: This visa lets holders enter and exit as many times as they please during the validity period of the visa. Once the visa validity
expires, the holders will be ineligible for re-entry the Schengen area.
3. Purpose-based visas: These visas are granted based on the reason for the visit. Some of the reasons why a traveller would be visiting the Schengen
region are:
• Tourism/Visit
• Study
• Training
• Research or Internship
• Employment
• Business
• Medical Tourism
• Cultural & Sporting Events
• Film Crew
• Religion
• Permanent Residency
Most short-stay Schengen visas are valid for six months unless you request for an extension. Long-stay visas are for one year, three years and five years
respectively.
WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES ACCEPT THE SCHENGEN VISA?

All 26 Schengen countries accept the Schengen visa.
WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES DON’T ACCEPT THE SCHENGEN

VISA?
All countries which are a part of the EU, but not a part of the Schengen don’t accept the Schengen visa. These counties include - Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus,
Ireland, Romania, and the United Kingdom. However, Bulgaria and Romania are looking to join the Schengen area by the end of 2018. Once this happens,
they too will accept the Schengen visa.
To visit the UK (England, Wales, Scotland & Northern Ireland), you’ll need the UK visa. To visit any of the other EU-non-Schengen nations, you will require
the country’s specific national visa.
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SCHENGEN VISA?

To apply for a Schengen visa, you’ll need to undergo the Schengen visa application process. Continue to the next page, to understand how the Schengen visa
application process works.
1.3 THE SCHENGEN APPLICATION PROCESS

Now that you know which Schengen visa to apply for, its time you prepare yourself for the Schengen visa application process.
STEP 1: BOOK THE APPOINTMENT

Each country has a Schengen consulate or embassy that accepts visa appointments from citizens. You need to first visit the relevant website to book your
appointment for the visa application. VFS Global is a great place to book your visa appointments. Here you can even book premium services to seek perso-
nalised help or to fast track your application processing.
Many embassies do take walk-in appointments. But the cost of such appointments will be more than double the scheduled ones.
STEP 2: FILL OUT THE APPLICATION FORM AND SUBMIT

DOCUMENTS
Most Schengen nations use a standard application form, which you can download from the VFS Global website. This is how a typical Schengen visa appli-
cation form looks like, and this is how you need to fill it. Regarding the documents, you will need to carry a personal ID proof, proof of residence, proof of
enrollment/occupation, income slips, tax forms, bank statements, travel insurance, travel itinerary, vehicle tickets and health certificates (if asked for). When
attaching the photograph, be sure to get a photo taken with the Schengen passport photo specifications.
Carry the application form, documents and photos with you for the appointment.
STEP 3: ATTEND THE SCHENGEN INTERVIEW

The visa interview process is the most challenging part of the interview. Here, embassy staff will ask you a series of questions which you need to answer
truthfully. Be calm, clear and concise.
In the second chapter of this book, we will go through the most commonly-asked questions in the Schengen interview.
STEP 4: GIVE BIOMETRICS

Biometrics refers to your fingerprints and photos. The embassy will take your fingerprints and capture your photo during the visa application process. This
is primarily for identification and security reasons.
STEP 5: COLLECT THE VISA

Finally, if your application has been accepted, you should receive the Schengen visa in 15-30 days’ time. However, if your application has been rejected, be
sure to contact the embassy to know why. You will be informed of the reason either via email or call. Start rectifying the issue immediately and re-apply for
the visa.
Follow the same process as above during re-application.
SCHENGEN VISA
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
The Schengen visa interview is a mix of some easy, general questions and some tricky, “put the candidate on the spot” questions. Depending on what your
occupation is and the purpose of your visit, there will also be some questions which will be unique to you. In this eBook, we will consider both types of
questions – general & applicant-specific.
In this section, we’ll look at some of the common questions that every applicant is asked during the interview. Please note that you won’t be asked every
single one of these questions during the visa interview. You may be asked just a handful of questions from this list. We have only consolidated the top com-
mon questions routinely asked during the Schengen visa interview. Additionally, the answers we have given aren’t definitive answers, but only a guide to
what you can say during the interview.
2.1 COMMON QUESTIONS

1. What is your name? Please spell your name.
Hi good morning. My name is [say name & spell name].
2. Tell us about your family.

There are [X] number of people in my family. They are my [list of family members with their names and occupations]. We are a close-knit family and
enjoy holidaying together.
3. Do you live with your family or do you reside alone?

I live with my family in [city & state name where you stay].
Or
I don’t live with my family. I stay in my own apartment/share an apartment with my friend in [city & state name where you stay]. I moved here due to
study/work/marriage.
4. Which place do you stay at in your home country?

I reside in the state of [state name] and the city of [city name].
5. What is the purpose of your visit?

I am travelling on [purpose of travel].
(Note: You can use any of the reasons given in this list when answering the question.)
6. What are the dates of your travel?

I plan to travel between the dates of [departure date to Schengen country and arrival date to home country].
7. How long are you travelling for?

The visit is for a duration of [X] days long.
8. Will you be departing from your home country or another country? Do you have the stay/transit visa for that country?
I will be departing from [home country/foreign country name as applicable] and will have a layover at [layover country name] airport before travelling
to the [Schengen country name]. I don’t need a transit visa.
Or
I have applied for the transit visa already at [embassy name where you applied for the transit visa and the date of the application] and will be getting in
a few days time.
(Note: This is the list of nationalities which require a transit visa if going to the Schengen region)
9. Which countries do you plan to visit during your trip?

I plan to visit [Schengen country] during my travel. I will be staying [X] days in [Schengen country], [X] days in [Schengen country],…
GENERAL QUESTIONS
10. Can you tell us why you wish to visit this Schengen country?
I have always been fascinated by [Schengen country]. I love the art/scenery/university programs available here. Now I finally have the money and the
time to visit the country.
11. Is this your first visit to this country or have you come here before?
Yes, this is my first visit to this country.
Or
No. This is not my first visit to this country. I had visited before in [year] on [purpose of visit].
12. Have you visited any of the following countries – UK, USA & Australia?
Yes, I have. I had visited [country name] in [year] on [purpose of visit].
Or
No, I haven’t visited these countries before, but I would like to in the future.
13. What do you plan on doing once you reach your destination?
We have already prepared the itinerary. I plan to visit [location/landmark name] once I reach [Schengen country]. I’ve always wanted to visit this place.
14. Have you ever visited another Schengen country before? If yes, where & when?
Yes, I have. I had visited [Schengen country] before in [year] on [purpose of visit].
Or
No, I haven’t visited any other Schengen countries before, but I would like to in the future.
Or
No, I haven’t visited any other Schengen countries before, but I will be visiting [Schengen country name/s] during this travel.
15. Are you also planning to travel to any EU country during your trip?
Yes. I will be travelling to the EU during this travel. I will be visiting [EU country name/s] between the dates of [dates]. I have already applied for the
visa/I am planning to apply for the visa now.
Or
No. I do not have any plans to visit the EU currently.
16. Are you planning to make multiple visits to the Schengen area during the visa period?
Yes. I am visiting for [purpose of visit], which requires me to travel between [home country] and [Schengen country] often. I think I will be visiting
[Schengen country] [X] times during the visa period.
Or
No. I don’t plan on making multiple visits. Since I am visiting for [purpose of visit], I don’t need to visit [Schengen country] multiple times.
17. Have you already applied for/been granted a visa for the non-Schengen country you are travelling to?
Yes. I have already applied for the visa of [country name/s] on [date].
Or
No. I will apply for the visa of [country name/s] once I am done with the Schengen interview.
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18. Who are you travelling with?

I am travelling with [travel companions’ names, which country they are from and their relationship to you].
Or
I am not travelling with anyone else. This will be solo travel.
19. Will someone be joining you during the trip in the Schengen country or in any other Schengen country you visit?
Yes. I will be meeting a few people during the journey. They are [travel companions’ names, which country they are from and their relationship to you].
We are all planning to attend/visit [event/place name] together.
Or
I am not meeting up with anyone else during the trip. I will be travelling alone/with family.
20. Is this a group-travel or solo travel?

This is a group/solo travel. [as applicable]
21. Will you be travelling with this group during the entire duration of the travel?
Yes, I will.
Or
No, I will be leaving this group and then travelling alone separately.
Or
No, I will be leaving this group and joining another group of friends in [Schengen country].
From there we will go to [Schengen/Non-Schengen country visited next and purpose of visit].
22. Has your trip been organised by a travel agency or have you organised everything yourself?
I have got the entire itinerary planned by [travel agency name].
Or
I have planned everything myself. I have also made the bookings for everything myself.
23. Do you have any friend/relative living in a Schengen country?

No, I don’t.
Or
Yes, I do. He/she is staying/working/studying at [institute/office name] in [Schengen city/state/country].
24. What is your marital status? Do you have any children?

I am unmarried/divorced/widowed. I am/am not seeing someone currently. I have [X] children.
Or
I am married, and my spouse’s name is [name]. We have [X] children.
25. Is your partner/spouse/in-law currently pregnant or about to deliver a baby any time in the next six months? Will she be going on this trip with
you?
Yes, she is pregnant. Her delivery date is [date]. Yes/No she is/is not accompanying me on this trip.
26. Why do you want to visit the country at this time/season? Why not later/earlier?
The weather/lack of crowds during this time is perfect for visiting/doing [purpose/activity]. Anytime before or after these dates will not allow me to get
the best out of my travel.
27. Have you booked the flight and accommodation to/at the place of the visit?
Yes, I have. I have booked [provide the name of flight, dates of travel, the name of hotels/Airbnb and dates of check in & check out].
(Note: It is mandatory to book flights and itinerary to be eligible for the Schengen visa)
28. Where will you be staying during your visit to the Schengen country?
I will be staying at [provide the name of hotels/Airbnb and dates of check in & check out].
29. What are the expenses you will incur during this travel?
I believe the major expenses during this travel will be the flights and accommodation. I have already applied for the travel card for [Schengen country]
and have set aside a budget for food. I believe I have the resources to easily finance this trip.
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30. Are you paying for this visit yourself or is someone sponsoring you? Please provide their bank details.
I am paying for this visit myself. I have provided my income statements as evidence.
Or
I will not be financing myself during this visit. However, my [name of the financer or sponsor] will be paying for my expenses. I have provided his/her
income statements as evidence.
31. Do you have dual/multiple citizenships?

No, I don’t.
Or
Yes, I do. These are the countries – [Schengen country/s names].
32. Are you currently in a relationship with anyone who is a permanent resident or citizen of a Schengen country? Are you going to the Schengen
country to get married to your partner?
No. I do not know anyone from the [Schengen country].
Or
Yes. My partner is from [tell Schengen country name]. We [are/are not] planning to get married there.
(Note: Schengen countries each have their own international marriage policies and legal frameworks. Follow this thread to see an example of a Filipi-
no-German marriage conducted in Germany, with the Philippines traveller on a tourist visa.)
33. Are you aware of the validity of your Schengen visa?

Yes. I know that my short-stay visa is valid for three months.
Or
Yes. I know that my long-stay visa is valid for [X] years.
34. Do you know the penalties of overstaying on the Schengen visa?

Yes. I am aware that overstaying my visa validity period is a crime punishable by law. I do not intend to overstay my visit. I will be returning home on
[date of return to home country].
35. Why do you need the visa for this time-period? Won’t a short-stay visa be sufficient for your needs?
I feel that I will require these many days/months to complete my trip in [Schengen country]. This time period will allow me to visit all the places I want
and enjoy my experience there. However, if the need arises, I am willing to shorten my trip.
36. What will you do if we reject your visa application?

I will not panic if my visa application is rejected. I will understand the reason for the rejection, rectify it immediately and re-apply.
37. Do you think there is anything on your visa application that may make us reject your request?
I have gone over my visa application carefully, and I believe there is nothing on the application that may lead to a rejection. I have attached all the neces-
sary documentation and have filled in everything to the best of my knowledge.
38. Have you ever been incarcerated for a crime at your home country or in any other country?
No. I have not.
Or
Yes, I have. [Provide details of the crime, when it occurred and what happened.] But I have improved myself, and I do not indulge in the same activities
I used to before. I believe that I am a changed person and will never indulge in any wrong or criminal behaviour again.
(Note: Read this to understand how different countries process visas for applicants with a criminal background.)
39. Are you or have you ever been related to any terrorist outfit in the past?
No.
40. Has anyone you’ve ever known been related to any terrorist outfit in the past?
No.
(Note: The US’s list of State-Sponsored Terrorism Countries is used by many visa processing authorities (including non-US authorities) to grant/reject visas. Citi-
zens of these countries will be subject to stringent background checks.)
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41. Have you ever received any parking violations or any other warnings/penalties in any country? If yes, when and why?
No, I have not.
Or
Yes, I have. [Provide details of the violation and the penalties received].
42. How much are you willing to spend on your entire travel?
I have saved a considerable amount of finances for this travel. I am willing to spend up to [X currency] on this visit.
43. What will you do if your funds run out during your travel?
I plan on carrying an international SIM card with me to communicate with my family/friends during my travel. If my funds run low, I will ask my family/
friends to transfer some money into my account.
44. Do you have travel insurance? How much have you insured for this trip?
Yes. I have taken travel insurance worth [€X].
(Note: It is mandatory to take travel insurance worth €30,000/$50,000 to qualify for a Schengen visa.)
45. Have you ever been denied a visa to a country? When & why?
No, I have never been denied a visa before.
Or
Yes, I have been denied the visa before. [Provide details of the circumstance when the visa was denied, why, when and what you did to rectify the issue].
46. Are your itinerary and travel bookings finalised yet?

Yes, my itinerary is finalised, and I have already made the travel and accommodation bookings. I have attached a copy of the itinerary and the tickets/
receipts in the documents provided.
(Note: It is mandatory to book the flight, accommodation at the Schengen country and finalise the travel plans to qualify for a Schengen visa. You will need to
show proof of the same by submitting copies of all your tickets, travel passes and itineraries.)
47. We notice you haven’t made any arrangements for intra-country travel. Why is that?
I have already purchased Eurail travel passes for my travel within [Schengen country]. It will allow me to use trains to travel intra-country. I also plan on
walking during most of the tour, and I believe I won’t need to use public transport that often.
(Note: Purchase the Swiss all-purpose travel pass which will allow you to use any form of public transport across Switzerland.)
48. Do you follow any particular religious practices that may be banned or prohibited in any European/Schengen country? How will you handle this
issue once there?
No, I do not follow any religious practices which may be banned in [Schengen country].
Or
Yes, I do follow certain religious practices banned in Europe. However, I do not believe this will affect my visit since I will read through the regulations
and behave in accordance with the rules of the country’s government.
49. Will you be carrying anything with you or on your person to the Schengen country from your home country or the previous port of entry?
No, I do not intend to carry anything other than my personal luggage to [Schengen country].
Or
Yes, I do intend to carry [items/products to be carried] on my travel. I will be declaring these to customs in advance.
50. You get into a scuffle or fight with someone in a Schengen country. How will you handle it?
I do not believe in indulging in any type of altercation with locals or fellow-tourists. I will not take part in any fights when in [Schengen country]. I will
follow the instructions of the local authorities should any situation arise.
51. Are you planning on taking up small jobs to support your travel during the trip?
No. I understand that my Schengen visa allows me only to travel and not work in the Schengen area. I will bring enough finances with me, to support me
during the trip and I will not resort to temporary jobs to finance my travel.
52. Will you be travelling to a non-Schengen country on the Schengen visa during your trip?
No. I have applied for the visas for [Schengen/Non-Schengen country/s], and I will be getting the visas shortly. I will use my Schengen visa to travel
within the Schengen borders only.
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2.2.1 PRIVATE EMPLOYEES

PRIVATE EMPLOYEES TRAVELLING TO THE SCHENGEN
ON HOLIDAY ALONE/WITH FAMILY
1. Is this your first time travelling to this Schengen country?
Yes, it is.
Or
No, it isn’t [Mention the dates of the previous travel & purpose of visit]
2. Who are you travelling with on this trip?

I am travelling with – [Mention the names of the people you are travelling with, their relations-
hip to you and the purpose of travel].
3. Will you be accompanied by your family/friends/parents/guardians?

Yes/No (as applicable)
4. What do you want to see/do when there?

I have planned the entire itinerary already. I wish to [provide a brief explanation of your plans].
Or
My friends/family have planned this trip and planned the itinerary. [provide a brief explanation
of your plans].
5. Who in your group planned this trip? Is he/she paying for your costs as well?
I have planned this trip myself, and I am paying for myself too. I am visiting on holiday.
Or
My friends/family are sponsoring my trip to the [Schengen country].
P R I V AT E E M P L O Y E E S T R A V E L L I N G O N C O M P A N Y
M A N D AT E D W O R K
1. What is the nature of the job you’re being sent for?

I am travelling on an assignment from my company. I am a [your role/position], and currently,
I am in charge of [job/department you will be working for]. My assignment is for [X] months/
years.
2. Do you visit a foreign country often on company work? How often?

Yes, I am regularly sent for overseas assignments. In the past five years, I’ve visited a foreign
country on work [X] times.
Or
No, this is the first overseas assignments I have been sent on.
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3. Have you visited a Schengen country before for a similar job?

Yes, I have visited [Schengen country] in [year of visit] on company work.
Or
No, I haven’t visited a Schengen country before. This is my first visit here.
4. How long do you need to stay there?

My assignment/project is for [X] months/years. I need to stay here for the entire duration.
5. Will you be going as part of a team or alone?

I am going [alone/as part of a team]. I am joining a team in the [Schengen country] branch of my company.
6. What are your job responsibilities?

As part of my job in the [Schengen country] branch, I will be [list some of your primary roles & responsibilities].
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S T R AV E L L I N G TO AT T E N D A N I N T E R V I E W AT A S C H E N G E N
CO M PA N Y
1. Which company have you applied at for a job in the Schengen region?
I have applied at [company name], which is located in [Schengen city/state/country].
2. Why hasn’t the interview been organised via skype?

I have attended multiple rounds of interview already, which includes online tests and skype rounds. However, since this is the final interview and the
position on offer is a critical role, the management has requested me to attend a face-to-face interview.
3. What is the nature of the job?

I work in the [department/industry name] department/industry, and the new job entails [describe your job & what you do].
4. Will the work location be in the Schengen country?

If I get the job, my new place of employment will be based out of [Schengen city/state/country], and I will be working out of there for the entire duration
of the project. I may need to visit other countries in the Schengen area as part of my job.
5. Have you already quit your previous organisation?

No, I have not. But I will put down my resignation once this job is confirmed.
6. Tell us a bit about the company, please?

The company’s name is [company name], and it was started in [year]. The current CEO is [CEO name] and the company deals in [product/service/indus-
try]. They are based in [list of countries]. I am applying for a job in the [Schengen country] branch of the company.
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S A C C O M PA N Y I N G C H I L D TO S C H O O L / U N I V E R S I T Y I N T H E
SCHENGEN
1. How old is your child?

My son/daughter is [X] years old.
2. Which school/university has he been accepted into?

My son/daughter has been accepted into [mention school/college name], in [mention state/city].
3. What is the duration of the course?

The course is for [X] years, and I plan on visiting him/her at least once a year.
15
4. Will you be financing the entire expenses of your child’s tuition, travel and living?
Yes, I will be financing my child’s travel, tuition, accommodation, food and any other expenses he/she will require. If he/she becomes eligible to work
at a later date, he/she may partially support himself/herself.
5. Will you be staying behind to do some sight-seeing later?

Yes, we will. We have the itinerary already planned. I have attached it with the rest of my documents.
Or
No, I plan to return home within a few days, after getting my child settled-in.
6. How often will you come back to the Schengen country?

I plan to visit [Schengen country] at least once every [X] months/years.
7. Why didn’t you enrol your child to a school/university in your home country?
The course my child wanted to study isn’t available in [home country].
Or
The course was available in the [home country], but the [Schengen university name] has a better global ranking.
8. Who is the person of contact for your child in the Schengen area?
The person of contact is his/her teacher/guardian/relative. [provide name and contact details of this person].
9. Have you already made arrangements for your child’s accommodations in the Schengen area?
Yes, I have. He/she will stay at [mention the address of the accommodation].
Or
No, I am yet to search for accommodation options once I reach [Schengen country]. This is why I need the visa for [X] days so that I can get my child
settled-in.
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S P L A N N I N G TO P U R C H A S E P R O P E R T Y I N T H E S C H E N G E N
1. Why do you wish to purchase property in the Schengen area?

I have found this property to be perfect for my [residential/commercial] needs, and I believe the property will be a good value addition to me. I have all
the documents necessary to legally purchase property in [Schengen country].
2. What price range are you considering?

I am planning to purchase property between [mention the price range in euros].
3. Will this property be used for business or personal use?

Business/Personal (as applicable)
4. Who will be making the payment for the property?

I will be bearing the complete expenses for purchase, registration & upkeep of the property I purchase. Any partners I employ at a later date may chip
in for the same.
5. Are you aware of the laws regarding cross-country property purchase?

Yes, I am.
(Note: Read this article for a birds-eye-view of how the international real estate market works)
6. How often will you be visiting this property for repairs, assessments and refurbishments?
I will be visiting my property every [X] months/years.
16
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S C O M I N G TO I N S P E C T P R O P E R T Y/A S S E T S O W N E D A N D I N -

C O R P O R AT E D I N T H E S C H E N G E N A R E A
1. What type of property is this?

Residential/commercial (as applicable)
2. Do you own the property yourself?

Yes, this property is registered in my name.
Or
No, this property belongs to [mention owner’s name and their relationship to you]. I am in charge of upkeep and care only.
3. Has this property come to you as a gift?

Yes, it was gifted to me by [mention the person’s name, their relationship to you and why they gifted the property to you].
Or
No, I purchased this property in [mention year of purchase].
4. Who resides on this property now?

No one stays on this property currently. I am the only person who visits the property once every [X] months/years.
Or
[Provide the name and contact details of the person staying on your property in the Schengen area and why they are staying there.]
5. When did you buy the property?

I bought this property in the year [mention year of purchase] for [mention purpose of purchase].
6. How often do you come to visit it?

I visit my property every [X] months/years.
7. What will you be using this property for?

I intend to use this property for [mention how you will use this property].
8. Have you paid tax on this property in the Schengen country?

Yes, I regularly pay property tax on the property I own in [Schengen country]. I have attached the tax receipts with the documents I have submitted.
(Note: Read all about European property tax laws in this UN Habitat Report].
9. Do you have all the relevant property documents with you?

Yes, I have submitted the ownership and registration documents to the embassy.
10. What sort of inspections/refurbishments do you plan to conduct?

Currently, I plan to make some minor/major refurbishments to my property. [List out some of the key changes you will be making and how long you will
be staying behind to oversee this project.]
11. Do you plan to retain the property or sell it?

Currently I do not plan on selling the property. This visit is to evaluate the condition of the property.
Or
Yes, I do plan on selling the property in the future. I am in talks with buyers from around the world.
17
P R I V AT E E M P L O Y E E S C O M I N G A S S P E C I A L I S T TA L E N T T O T H E S C H E N G E N T O
TRAIN SCHENGEN EMPLOYEES
1. What will train the employees on?

I specialise in [area of specialisation], and I will be training the employees on [modules/areas of training].
2. Is the training organised by your company or the company in the Schengen country?
I belong to a training company, [company name] located in [Schengen/Non-Schengen country name] and I have been hired by [Schengen company] to
train the employees on [modules/areas of training].
Or
I belong to the [home country] branch of the [Schengen company name], and I am being sent to the [Schengen company] to train the employees on
[modules/areas of training].
3. Who will come with you to provide the training?

I am going alone.
Or
I will be joined by [names of colleagues who will be travelling with you].
4. Who will receive the training in the Schengen country?

The employees of the [department name] of [Schengen company name] will be the recipients of this training.
5. What is the duration of the training period?

The training is for [X] days/months.
6. Will this be a monthly/quarterly/half-yearly/yearly event?

[Yes/No as applicable – mention the duration of the training period here].
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S C O M I N G TO G E T T R A I N E D B Y S C H E N G E N E M P LOY E E S O N

SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE
1. What will you be trained on?

I work in the [department/industry], and I will be trained on [modules/areas of training].
2. Is the training organised by your company or the company in the Schengen country?
I belong to the [home country] branch of the [Schengen company name], and I am being sent to the [Schengen company] to get trained on [modules/
areas of training] in [Schengen country].
3. Who will come with you to receive the training?

I am going as part of a team of [X] employees.
Or
This is an executive/managerial level training, and at this moment, I am the only one going to the [Schengen country] for training.
4. Who will provide the training in the Schengen country?

We will be trained by [trainer’s name].
Or
Currently, we don’t know who the trainer is.
5. What is the duration of the training period?

The training is for [X] days/months.
6. Will this be a monthly/quarterly/half-yearly/yearly event?

[Yes/No as applicable – mention the duration of the training period here].
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P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S W H O H AV E TA K E N U P LO N G / S H O R T-T E R M C O U R S E S AT A

SCHENGEN COLLEGE
1. Why do you wish to study further when you have your own job/business?
I have always wanted to study further, and I believe that my doing so will help me add great value to my job/business.
2. What is the nature of your course?

[State course name and explain what it entails].
3. Have you already sent your application to the school/college in the Schengen country?
Yes, I have. [Mention date].
4. Has the institute replied and accepted your application?

Yes, I have received an acceptance mail with regards to my application. I have attached a copy of the mail with the documents provided.
5. When do you start your term?

[Mention the start and end of your term/semester].
6. What will you be studying?

[Mention the course name and details].
7. Who will look after your business/job when you are here for your studies?
I have my friends/relatives/business partners/colleagues who will be taking over my responsibilities for the duration of the course.
8. Will you still be doing your job/managing operations back home from overseas?
Yes/No [as applicable]
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S R E LO C AT I N G F O R A J O B
1. When did you apply for the job in the Schengen country?
I applied for this job on [mention date].
2. When did the company send you the offer?

I received the job offer from [company name] on [date].
3. Is this move permanent or will you be returning to your home country in a few years?
I plan on working for [X] years. Currently, I have made no concrete plans on staying behind at the [Schengen country] longer than [X] years.
4. Will you be taking your family with you to the Schengen country?
Yes/No[as applicable]
5. How often will you shuttle between your home country and the Schengen country?
I plan on visiting home at least once a year. If there is any other event that necessitates my return, I may come then.
6. Will you need to go to other Schengen countries on work?

19
7. Do you also plan to set up roots in the Schengen country and find schools for your kids?
Yes, I do. Since my work contract is for [X] years, I will need to make some arrangements for my children’s education.
Or
No. I will not be residing in the [Schengen country] long enough for my children to require admission into a school/college.
8. Have you worked in a Schengen country before on a work assignment?

Yes/No[as applicable – if yes, provide details]
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S W H O A R E V O LU N T E E R I N G I N T H E S C H E N G E N
1. Which organisation are you volunteering with?

I am volunteering at [organisation name]. It is located in [Schengen city/state/country] and works for [purpose of the organisation].
2. What are your roles and responsibilities as a volunteer?

As a volunteer for [organisation name], I am in charge of [your responsibilities as a volunteer or what you plan to do once there].
3. Why are you volunteering in the Schengen and not in your home country?
I found [organisation name] in [Schengen country] had openings for the volunteer program I sought. I feel my skills and experience are better suited for
this particular program. So, although I had many interesting volunteer projects at home, I was interested in taking this up.
4. Is this paid or unpaid work?

The volunteer program is unpaid. However, my stay expenses are covered by [organisation name]. [if applicable]
5. How long do you plan to volunteer here?

My volunteer project is for [X] days/months/years. I plan to stay in [Schengen country] for that duration.
6. Where else have you volunteered before?

I have volunteered at [organisation name and country name].
Or
I have not volunteered anywhere else before. This is my first volunteering experience.
7. Have you planned any other foreign volunteering trips next?

P R I V A T E E M P L O Y E E S A C C O M P A N Y I N G A N A G E D F A M I LY / F R I E N D F O R M E D I C A L
T R E AT M E N T
1. What is your relationship to the ill person?

The patient is my [your relationship to the patient]. I am his/her primary caretaker.
2. What is the nature of their condition?

His/her medical condition is non-critical/critical. Since I am the primary caretaker, my presence is necessary during the treatment.
3. Do they need round-the-clock care?

4. Whose house will you stay in during the treatment?

We will be residing at a friend/relative’s house in [Schengen country] for the duration of the treatment.
Or
We will be booking a room at a hotel for the duration of the treatment.
Or
The hospital is taking care of our accommodation.
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5. Have you already contacted a hospital in the Schengen area or will you find one after you reach?
We have already found a hospital in [Schengen country]. It is called [Schengen hospital name].
Or
No, we haven’t found a hospital yet. But we have shortlisted a few in [Schengen country], and we will be applying for treatment there. [Mention the
names of the hospitals under consideration].
6. How long have they had this problem?

He/she has suffered from this problem from [X] days/months/years.
7. What is the doctor’s name in the home country? What about the doctor in the Schengen country?
[Mention both home country & Schengen country doctor’s names and what they specialise in – what treatment you were taking at the home country and
what treatment you seek in the Schengen country].
8. How many times does the patient need to need to visit the Schengen country for treatment?
Considering the nature of the condition, he/she will need to visit [Schengen hospital/doctor name] [X] times a month/year, for the foreseeable future.
Or
We intend to stay in [Schengen country] till the end of the treatment. We will only know about re-visits once the treatment is over and the doctor can
evaluate his/her medical condition.
9. Who is sponsoring their medical bills?

I will be sponsoring the medical bills.
Or
We will be jointly sponsoring the medical bills [state the names of the other people who may be chipping in]
Or
This is a pro bono surgery/treatment, and we will only be paying for the travel and accommodation.
10. Would you stay with them throughout their treatment or will someone relieve you of your duties here?
Yes, I will be staying with him/her for the entire course of the treatment.
Or
No, I will be returning to [home country] on [date] since I have prior professional/personal obligations. However, my friend/relative in [Schengen coun-
try] will take care of him/her during that time. I do plan on returning to [Schengen country] around [date].
11. Have you hired a caregiver for them?

Yes, I have [provide name, contact & work details of the caregiver]
Or
I haven’t yet. I may hire a caregiver in [Schengen country] if the need arises.
12. Will the caregiver stay back in the Schengen area after you leave?
[This is only applicable if you are hiring a caregiver for the ill person]
Yes, since the caregiver is a citizen/resident of [Schengen country], he/she will be staying back after we leave.
Or
No, the caregiver will return to [home country] with us, since we had hired them in [home country] and not [Schengen country].
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S S E E K I N G M E D I C A L C A R E
1. What is the nature of your condition?

My medical condition is [state the name of the condition and explain what type of problems it causes you and why you require the treatment].
2. Do you need round-the-clock care?

3. Will someone from your family be accompanying you for the treatment?
4. Whose house will you stay in during the treatment?

I/we will be residing at a friend/relative’s house in [Schengen country] for the duration of the treatment.
21
Or
I/we will be booking a room at a hotel for the duration of the treatment.
Or
The hospital is taking care of my/our accommodation.
5. Have you already contacted a hospital in the Schengen area or will you find one after you reach?
I/we have already found a hospital in [Schengen country]. It is called [Schengen hospital name].
Or
No, I/we haven’t found a hospital yet. But I/we have shortlisted a few in [Schengen country], and I/we will be applying for treatment there. [Mention the
names of the hospitals under consideration].
6. How long have you had this problem?

I have suffered from this problem from [X] days/months/years.
7. What is your doctor’s name in the home country? What about your doctor in the Schengen country?
[Mention both home country & Schengen country doctor’s names and what they specialise in – what treatment you were taking at the home country and
what treatment you seek in the Schengen country].
8. How many times do you need to visit the Schengen country for treatment?
This treatment takes [X] days/months to complete. I intend to stay back for the entire duration of the treatment. I may return if the doctor requests me
to do so.
9. Will this illness/injury hinder you from discharging your professional duties?
Yes/No [as applicable]. I do have a colleague/business partner who will be taking over my responsibilities for the duration of my treatment.
10. Who is sponsoring your medical bills?

I will be sponsoring the treatment myself, and any shortage in funds will be supplemented by my family and friends back home.
11. Have you hired a caregiver for yourself? Where is the caregiver from?
Yes/No [as applicable – if yes, give name, contact & work details of the caregiver].
P R I VAT E E M P LOY E E S M A R R Y I N G A V I S A H O L D E R / P E R M A N E N T R E S I D E N T/ C I T I -
Z E N O F T H E S C H E N G E N A N D R E LO C AT I N G TO T H E S C H E N G E N C O U N T R Y
1. When did you meet your fiancé?

My fiance’s name is [name of person]. I met him/her in [month and year of the meeting]. We have been in a relationship for [X] months/years so far and
plan to get married by [approximate date of wedding].
2. Where did you meet your fiancé?

I met my [fiancé name] in [Schengen country] when I was there [as a student/ on work/on travel]. I met him/her in [mention name of the place where you
met your fiancé for the first time and the approximate date of the meeting].
3. How long have you known each other?

My fiancé and I know each other from [X] months/years.
.4. How long has your fiancé stayed in the Schengen area?
He/she has stayed in [Schengen country] for [X] months/years. [mention if he/she is a naturalised citizen or a permanent resident in the Schengen country
or a tourist from another country].
5. Do you plan to live with your fiancé in the Schengen area after marriage?
Yes, I do plan on residing in [Schengen country] with my fiancé after marriage.
Or
We are still unsure about where we will stay post-marriage. We may relocate to my home country. If we get a job in another country, we may relocate
22
there too.
6. Do either of you have any family in the Schengen area?

Yes/No [as applicable – if yes, provide details of the family in the Schengen area].
7. Are you aware of the international laws that apply to cross-country marriages?
Yes, we have researched international & transnational marriages. However, we do plan on visiting a lawyer to understand our situation in particular, so
as to stay on the right side of the law.
8. Are you marrying this person only to become eligible for permanent residency or citizenship?
No, I am not. We have been in a loving relationship for [X] months/years. We have mutually come to the decision to get married.
9. Tell us five things your fiancé really loves and couldn’t live without.
[Mention five facts about your fiancé].
23
2.2.9 APPLICANTS FOR LONG-STAY OR PERMANENT RESIDENCY
APPLICANTS SENT FOR LONG-STAY WORK BY COMPANY/GOVERNMENT TO THE

SCHENGEN AREA
1. What is the duration of your project/work in [Schengen country]?

My work/project in [Schengen country] is for a duration of [X] months/years.
(Note: Most Schengen countries provide a 1-year continuous work visa to applicants. Upon expiry of this period, applicants must return to the home
country and renew/extend their visa. This is different from the Uniform validity short-stay visa which follows the 90/180 rule. Applicants looking to
extend their stay beyond their validity, can follow one of these steps.)
2. Is this move permanent or will you be returning to [home country] in a few years?
I will be returning to [home country] once I finish my work/project. However, if my work/project is extended indefinitely, I may re-apply for long-stay
or permanent residency in [Schengen country].
Yes, since my work/project duration is so long [mention the duration of the assignment], I will be taking my family with me to [Schengen country].
Or
No, I will not be taking my family along to [Schengen country]. I will be returning home in a few months’ time and will not need to take my family with
me.
I plan to visit [home country] at least one or two times a year.

I may have to work in other countries of the Schengen region as part of my professional duties. However, for the most part, I will be based out of [Schen-
gen country].
6. How often will you be transferred on foreign assignments?

Not often. I am very rarely sent on foreign assignments. I may remain in [Schengen country] for a very long time or may be sent back to [home country]
in a few years’ time.
Or
I am sent on foreign assignments very regularly, and there is a high chance of my getting relocated to another country in the Schengen area. I may also
be relocated to a non-Schengen country too.

Yes, I have. [State where you have worked, when and what your job was].
Or
No, I have never worked in any Schengen country before.
8. Do you plan on applying for permanent residency or citizenship in [Schengen country]?

It is too soon to answer this question. I will only be able to take a decision based on how my life pans out in the future.
(Note: Long-term visa stay, permanent residency and citizenship are three different things. If you’re considering applying for a permanent residency or
citizenship in any Schengen country, it’s important you understood what the differences are and how immigration laws work. This article will give you
all the information you need to apply for a permanent residency or citizenship permit in France.)
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A P P L I C A N T S F O R LO N G - S TAY T R AV E L L I N G O N T O U R I S M W I T H F R I E N D S A N D FA -
M I LY
1. Is this your first time travelling to this Schengen country?

Yes, it is.
Or
No, it isn’t [Mention the dates of the previous travel & purpose of visit]
2. Who are you travelling with on this trip?

I am travelling with – [Mention the names of the people you are travelling with, their relationship to you and the purpose of travel].
3. Will you be accompanied by your friends/family/parents/guardians?

Yes/No (as applicable)
4. What do you want to see/do when there?

I have planned the entire itinerary already. I wish to [provide a brief explanation of your plans].
5. Who in your family/friends group planned this trip? Is he/she paying for your costs as well?
I have planned this trip myself, and I am paying for myself too.
Or
My parents/guardians/relatives/friends/teachers/colleagues have planned this trip. They are sponsoring my trip to the [Schengen country].
A P P L I C A N T S A C C E P T E D O N P O L I T I C A L / A C A D E M I C / S P O R T I N G / C U LT U R A L
BOARDS IN A SCHENGEN COUNTRY
1. What is your academic/professional qualification?

I hold a certificate/degree/Ph.D in [area of specialization] and I have been chosen as a representative of [company/country name] on the board of [name
of political/academic/sporting/cultural Board] in the capacity of [role/position].
2. Which political/academic/sporting/cultural board have you been accepted into?

I have been appointed as a representative of [company/country name] on the board of [name of political/academic/sporting/cultural Board] in the capacity
of [role/position].
3. Is this a permanent posting? How long will you be here?

This is a permanent posting, and I will remain on the Board for life. I will need to stay in [Schengen country] for the foreseeable future.
Or
This is a temporary posting, and I will be replaced by another person after the completion of my term. I may be offered a place on the Board in another
capacity.
4. Will your family be travelling with you?

Yes, since I will be remaining in [Schengen country] for a long time, I will be taking along with me my family.
5. Are you a representative of the political/academic/sporting/cultural board from your home country in the Schengen country?
Yes, I am a representative of the [name of home country political/academic/sporting/cultural Board], and I am here as a representative of my country in
the event/embassy/Board set up by [Schengen country].
6. Have you taken a house on rent for your stay?

No, I have not. My stay and travel are being taken care of by [Schengen country] officials.
Or
Yes, I have already made arrangements for my stay, travel and my children’s education in [Schengen country].
7. Who is sponsoring your stay in the Schengen country?

My stay is being sponsored by the [name of the home country or Schengen country political/academic/sporting/cultural Board].
25
M I N O R A P P L I C A N T S P E R M A N E N T LY R E L O C A T I N G T O A R E L A T I V E ’ S H O M E I N T H E
S C H E N G E N A F T E R PA R E N T ’ S D I V O R C E / D E AT H
1. How old are you?

[Provide your DOB and age]
2. When did the divorce/death happen?

[Provide the details about the incident]
3. Who are your legal guardians now?

[Give the names of your legal guardians, their contact details and address]
4. Who will you be living with now the Schengen country?

[Give the names of the people you will be living with in the Schengen country, their contact details and address]
5. Do you have any relatives in your home country you can live with during the processing of the visa application?
Yes/No [as applicable – provide their contact details and address]
6. Do you have any family in the Schengen country?

Yes/No [as applicable – provide their contact details and address]
7. Do you plan on studying/working in the Schengen country?

Yes/No[Provide details about the colleges/companies you are considering]
8. How many times will you return to your home country?

I am not certain at the moment.
9. Have you already enrolled at a school/college in the Schengen country?

Yes/No [As applicable]
A P P L I C A N T S A P P LY I N G F O R L O N G - T E R M S T U D Y I N S C H E N G E N
1. How old are you?

[Provide your DOB and age].
2. Are you planning to complete a major part of your education in the Schengen country?
Yes/No [as applicable – provide details about your course]
3. Why haven’t you considered your home country for your academics?
I believe the academic infrastructure offered in [Schengen country] are much better than what is available here for this course.
4. Do you also plan to set up roots in the Schengen country once you complete your higher education?
It is too soon to tell at the moment.
5. Who will be paying for your expenses in the Schengen country?

I will be sponsoring the trip for myself.
Or
My family will be paying for my expenses.
6. Will a parent/guardian be accompanying you to the Schengen country?

Yes/No [as applicable]
26
7. Where will you stay during your study period?

I will be staying with a family member during the duration of the course [provide address and contact details]
Or
I will be staying in the university campus.
A P P L I C A N T S R E LO C AT I N G F O R A P E R M A N E N T/ LO N G - S TAY J O B
1. When did you apply for the job in the Schengen country?
I applied for this job on [mention date].
2. When did the company send you the offer?

I received the job offer from [company name] on [date].
3. Is this move permanent or will you be returning to your home country in a few years?
I plan on working for [X] years. Currently, I have made no concrete plans on staying behind at the [Schengen country] longer than [X] years.
I plan on visiting home at least once a year. If there is any other event that necessitates my return, I may come then.

7. Do you also plan to set up roots in the Schengen country and find schools for your kids?
Yes, I do. Since my work contract is for [X] years, I will need to make some arrangements for my children’s education.
Or
No. I will not be residing in the [Schengen country] long enough for my children to require admission into a school/college.

A P P L I C A N T S M A R RY I N G A V I S A H O L D E R / P E R M A N E N T R E S I D E N T/ C I T I Z E N O F
T H E S C H E N G E N A N D R E L O C A T I N G P E R M A N E N T LY T O T H E S C H E N G E N C O U N T R Y
TO L I V E W I T H T H E I R PA RT N E R
1. When did you meet your fiancé?

My fiance’s name is [name of person]. I met him/her in [month and year of the meeting]. We have been in a relationship for [X] months/years so far and
plan to get married by [approximate date of wedding].
2. Where did you meet your fiancé?

I met my [fiancé name] in [Schengen country] when I was there [as a student/ on work/on travel]. I met him/her in [mention name of the place where you
met your fiancé for the first time and the approximate date of the meeting].
3. How long have you known each other?

My fiancé and I know each other from [X] months/years.
4. How long has your fiancé stayed in the Schengen area?

He/she has stayed in [Schengen country] for [X] months/years. [mention if he/she is a naturalised citizen or a permanent resident in the Schengen country
or a tourist from another country].
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5. Do you plan to live with your fiancé in the Schengen area after marriage?
Yes, I do plan on residing in [Schengen country] with my fiancé after marriage.
Or
We are still unsure about where we will stay post-marriage. We may relocate to my home country. If we get a job in another country, we may relocate
there too.
6. Do either of you have any family in the Schengen area?

Yes/No [as applicable – if yes, provide details of the family in the Schengen area].
7. Are you aware of the international laws that apply to cross-country marriages?
Yes, we have researched international & transnational marriages. However, we do plan on visiting a lawyer to understand our situation in particular, so
as to stay on the right side of the law.
8. Are you marrying this person only to become eligible for permanent residency or citizenship?
No, I am not. We have been in a loving relationship for [X] months/years. We have mutually come to the decision to get married.
9. Tell us five things your fiancé really loves and couldn’t live without.
[Mention five facts about your fiancé].
A P P L I C A N T S W H O W I S H TO S TA R T A B U S I N E S S I N T H E S C H E N G E N
1. Why do you want to start a business here?

I believe the Schengen area is highly lucrative for the business I plan to start.
2. Who will your customers be?

[Give details about your customer segment]
3. Will you expand operations to other Schengen countries in the future?

Yes/No [as applicable – state the countries where you may wish to expand to]
4. Which other non-Schengen countries do you plan to expand your business to?
[State the countries where you may wish to expand to]
5. How will the Schengen country benefit from your business?

Based on my research, I believe that [Schengen country] lacks this [product/service name] and I plan to plug this gap in.
6. What’s your five year projection?

[Furnish your five year P/L sheet, Balance sheet and cash flow statements]
7. Who is your financial backer? For how long have the funds been approved?
[Provide details about your financing]
8. Which sector will this business come under?

[State the industry your business will fall under]
A P P L I C A N T S F O R L O N G - S T A Y W I S H I N G T O L I V E W I T H A F A M I LY / F R I E N D I N T H E
S C H E N G E N F O R C A R E D U R I N G T R E AT M E N T
1. What is your relationship with the person who you wish to stay with when in [Schengen country]?
I intend to stay with my [friend/relative/parent/child/spouse/ex-spouse etc..]. He/she resides in [Schengen city/state/country].
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2. Are they a short-stay visa holder, permanent resident or a citizen of the Schengen country?
[Answer as applicable – provide details about their visa status]
(Note: Some Schengen countries like Spain do not provide visitor visas to retired parents whose children are working on a short/long-term visa in the
country. This is to discourage illegal immigration by retired parents of Schengen visa holders. If you are a retiree whose relative is working in a Schengen
country, you may find it difficult to get the visa. However, providing your medical documents and showcasing your “Intent to Return Home”, can help
you during the visa application.)
3. Will they be covering all the expenses for you– travel, lodging, medical etc.?
Yes, my friend/relative in [Schengen country] will be covering all my expenses during the course of treatment.
Or
No, I will be financing my expenses myself.
4. Does this person rent/own a house in the Schengen country?

[Yes/No – as applicable – provide the residential address of the friend/relative you wish to stay with].
5. How long will you be staying at this person’s home?

I intend to stay at his/her house for [X] days/months. My entire treatment is for this duration.
6. Will you be making multiple visits for treatment and stay with this person each time?
As of now, I am visiting for a period of [X] days/months. I may re-visit [Schengen country] for treatment if the doctor asks me to do so. I may stay at
my friend/relative’s house even then.
7. What arrangements will you make when this person is out-of-city/country?

I will have the keys to his/her house, and I will continue to stay there for the course of my treatment. If that doesn’t work out, I will make arrangements
for accommodation near the hospital, so that I can continue the treatment.
8. How will you spend your time when this person is at school/work?
I will be spending a lot of time at the hospital and won’t be at home for long. However, when I am at home, I intend to spend time reading or watching
television or gardening.
9. Is this person your primary point of contact in the Schengen area?

Yes, he/she is.
A P P L I C A N T S F O R L O N G S T A Y A D M I T T E D I N T O A H E A LT H C A R E C E N T R E O R O L D
A G E FA C I L I T Y I N T H E S C H E N G E N
1. Will your stay at the facility be sponsored by someone else or paid for by you?
[Answer as applicable – provide the name of the sponsor, if you aren’t paying for your stay, with supporting income documents.]
2. Have you been medically directed by professionals to enrol yourself into this facility?
Yes, I have.
Or
No, I haven’t. But I wanted to spend time recuperating in a serene healthcare/old age facility for a few years. I felt a stay in this facility/centre in [Schen-
gen country] will be good for my health.
3. Who will be your primary point of contact should we need to contact someone?
My primary point of contact in [Schengen country] will be my [friend/relative/doctor’s name and contact details]. My point of contact in [home country]
will be [friend/relative/doctor’s name and contact details].
4. How long will you be residing in the health care centre or old age facility?
I intend to stay in the healthcare/old age facility for [X] months/years.
5. Have you made any long-standing arrangements to sponsor your stay in the Schengen area?
I have set aside significant finances which I will access, should the need arise. This will help me finance my long-term stay in [Schengen country]. I will
make any other arrangements that may be necessary after consulting the doctor or facility manager in [Schengen country].
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6. Which hospital in the Schengen area will you seek treatment?

The hospital/nursing home I have applied for recover & rehabilitation at is [hospital/facility name]. It is located in [Schengen city/state/country].
A P P L I C A N T S F O R LO N G S TAY S E E K I N G PA L L I AT I V E C A R E A N D / O R H O S P I C E
CARE
1. Have you discussed with your medical practitioner and family members if this is the right choice for you?
Yes, I have. My medical condition requires palliative/hospice care. I have found [hospital/facility name] in [Schengen country] to be very well equipped
to meet the requirements of my treatment. Both the doctors and my family agree that seeking treatment at [hospital/facility name] is the best way forward
for me.
2. Will you be extending your stay if you get the opportunity to try other treatments?
I might do so. But this depends on a variety of factors. I will be consulting my doctor before taking any decision. I will re-apply for a long-stay visa if
the need arises.
3. Why have you chosen [Schengen country] for palliative care and/or hospice care?
The [hospital/facility name] is renowned around the world for the palliative/hospice care it offers. My doctor was of the opinion that it meets my exact
requirements. That’s why I’ve chosen [Schengen country] for palliative/hospice care and not any facility in [home country].
4. How will you finance this trip?

I do have my savings that I intend to use. My family and friends have offered to assist me financially, should I require their help.
5. Which hospital or care centre have you chosen for palliative care and/or hospice care? Are they registered service providers in the Schengen
area?
I have selected [hospital/facility name] in [Schengen city/state/country] for palliative/hospice care. They are recognised registered service providers.
6. Do you plan to travel or stay in any of the Schengen cities/countries before proceeding with the treatment?
Yes, I am planning a short trip with my family before I admit myself to the facility. I have attached my itinerary with the documents I’ve submitted.
Or
No, I will be going directly to [hospital/facility name] for care.
7. Will you be arriving in the Schengen country from your home country or another country?
I will be coming to [Schengen country] from [home country].
Or
I will [be on personal travel/seeking treatment] in [Schengen/Non-Schengen city/state/country’s name] and will be coming to [Schengen country] from
there.
8. Have you provided instructions that will help the Schengen authorities contact your loved ones, should the need arise?
I will be registering my person of contact and other details with the management at [hospital/facility name]. They will contact my family, my doctors and
the embassy during any circumstance. I have also created a will that can be used to take any further actions when the time comes [if applicable].
2.3 VISA REJECTION & RE-APPLICATION

It’s wonderful to imagine a Schengen visa on your passport. But the reality is that most applicants get rejected during the application stage. This could
be due to many reasons:
• Incorrect information provided - If you’ve written something false or misleading in your application form and the embassy finds out, there is a
chance that they may reject your visa application.
• Lack of documentation and evidence - Forgetting to or willfully not submitting any of the mandated documents is one way applicants seal their fates
during the visa application process. It’s okay if you submit additional documents not asked for. But never forget the mandatory ones.
• Proof of previous criminal activity - If you have a misdemeanour or a criminal lawsuit against your name either in your home country or another
country, chances are your application may be rejected.
• Damage to passport - Any damage seen on the body or pages of the passport is considered “willful tampering with an official document” and autho-
rities will reject your visa application. If this happens to you, apply for a new passport immediately and reapply for the visa.
• Expiry of passport validity - No Schengen embassy accepts visas that are due to expire in the next one year. That’s why it’s important you verify
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when your passport is due to expire before you apply for the visa. This way you can apply for a passport renewal and ensure your chances of getting
the Schengen visa.
• Insufficient or no travel insurance - A minimum €30,000 or $50,000 travel insurance is a must when applying for the Schengen visa. If you fail to
get travel insurance or get one of less amount, chances are your visa application will be rejected.
• Misleading reference letter or NOC - Reference letters and No Objection Certificates are necessary if you are employed or studying. If the embassy
realises the documents are forged or are untrue, they may reject your visa application.
• Lack of financing - Many times, embassies will not grant a visa to an individual if they feel they do not have the money necessary to support themsel-
ves during the travel. When this happens, you should provide a family member’s financial statements as proof and show them as your financial backer.
• Problems with previous visas - This is a rare occurrence, and you need to be worried about this if you’ve ever had trouble as a traveller in another
country. For example, if you didn’t return to your home country before the expiry of the visa and you were deported from the foreign country, your
chances of getting a Schengen visa approved will be very slim.
• Poor performance in the interview - This is the most common reason for rejection of the Schengen visa. Often, we say things in the heat of the
moment, without thinking things through. This can cause untold damage to our prospect of getting the Schengen visa.
But you don’t need to worry. If you follow our advice and become a smart interviewee, you’ll see how easy it is to get a Schengen visa. When re-applying,
follow the Schengen visa application process from scratch and get started.
INTERVIEW MISTAKES AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

In the previous section, we discussed how poor performance during the Schengen interview was the primary reason for most visa application rejections.
But what exactly are the things that applicants commonly do (or don’t do) which leads to a rejection?
2.4 FIVE COMMON SCHENGEN INTERVIEW

MISTAKES
• Coming late for the appointment - The most common way to put someone in a bad mood is to be late for the meeting with them. Coming in late for
your visa appointment will only serve to re-enforce the idea that you’re not serious about the application process. This lack of interest, punctuality and
commitment may anger the embassy officials enough to reject your application. On the day of the appointment, reach the venue at least a half-hour
in advance so that you can be on time for the interview.
• Dressing poorly - An untucked shirt, a very short dress, garish accessories and unkempt hairstyle are some things that may create a poor image of
you in front of the embassy officials. For one, your poor clothes may signify that you are cash-strapped or are involved in anti-social behaviours,
when, in reality, you aren’t. Why give embassy officials a negative perception of yourself through poor dressing, when you can look your best for the
interview? While there is no specific dress code for the Schengen visa interview, its good to follow the requirements the US embassy makes for its
visa interview.
• Dodging questions - Some applicants tend to avoid questions and provide only half-baked replies. Don’t do this. If you don’t want to answer a
particular question, give the officials a valid reason for the same. But for the most part, answer whatever question they ask truthfully. Not answering
questions and pretending to not understand questions will make the officials suspicious of you and your past. Instead, be open and honest in your
communication.
• Providing unnecessary details - if being skittish is one side of the problem, the other is being too explicit when providing the details. No embassy
interviewer wants to know a blow-by-blow description of how your day is going to be when you get to the Schengen country. All they want to know
is the general purpose of visit. So don’t give them information unless expressly asked for. Remember, providing too much detail may give them the
impression that you’re trying to hide something. Instead, just stick to the point and give the details as needed.
• Being rude or vulgar to the staff - Vulgarity and rudeness could be anything from shouting to using curse words to making inappropriate proposi-
tions to the embassy official. Never at any time indulge in any behaviour that may make the officials question your moral and ethical integrity. Not
only are rude and vulgar behaviours inappropriate and offensive, but they are also extremely dangerous to your visa prospects. Rude behaviour may
indicate that you have an unstable temperament, which may lead to trouble in the Schengen country. Once officials get this opinion of you, they
won’t hesitate to reject your application.
Be courteous, kind and respectful when speaking to the officials. Be non-aggressive in your body language and tone. Don’t make any statement that
could be construed as racially biased.
Following these pointers will help you get the Schengen visa with ease. If you require help applying for the Schengen visa, contact our team at [insert
company name]. We can help you successfully apply for the Schengen visa.
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This document is for information purposes only. It is the sole property of Visa Reservation Services LLC. Any attempts to resell,
reproduce or copy this content is unlawful and is subjected to charges. We take every right to take appropriate action if this
document is used not per our terms.
Image Credits:
Cover Image: https://flic.kr/p/ejxAaH
Image 1: https://pixabay.com/en/schengen-the-europe-center-3368018/
Image 2: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Schengen_uniform_visa_format_2017.jpg
Image 3: https://www.flickr.com/photos/141761303@N08/38708005321
Image 4: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Job_interview_0001.jpg
Image 5: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_British_College_Students.jpg
Image 6: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/926763
Image 7: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1431643
Image 8: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:US_Navy_020614-N-0552D-001_SPAWAR_award_winning_employee.jpg Image 9: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/724432
Image 10: https://www.flickr.com/photos/59632563@N04/6104068209
Image 11: https://www.flickr.com/photos/unfccc/5239088997
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SCHENGEN VISA

THE EU, EUROZONE, AND SCHENGEN 4

THE SCHENGEN NATIONS 5

SOME SCHENGEN VISA STATISTICS 6

WHY DO YOU NEED A SCHENGEN VISA? 6

TYPES OF SCHENGEN VISAS 6

1.2 WHAT IS SCHENGEN VISA? 6

WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SCHENGEN VISA? 7

1.3 THE SCHENGEN APPLICATION PROCESS 7

2.2 APPLICANT-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS 14

INTERVIEW MISTAKES AND

2.4 FIVE COMMON SCHENGEN INTERVIEW MISTAKES 31

THE SCHENGEN REGION

1.1 THE SCHENGEN AREA

THE EU, EUROZONE, AND SCHENGEN

THE SCHENGEN NATIONS

1.2 WHAT IS SCHENGEN VISA?

SOME SCHENGEN VISA STATISTICS

• Total number of short stay visit visas issued: 14.6 million

WHY DO YOU NEED A SCHENGEN VISA?

TYPES OF SCHENGEN VISAS

• Cultural & Sporting Events

WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES ACCEPT THE SCHENGEN VISA?

WHICH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES DON’T ACCEPT THE SCHENGEN

HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SCHENGEN VISA?

1.3 THE SCHENGEN APPLICATION PROCESS

STEP 1: BOOK THE APPOINTMENT

STEP 2: FILL OUT THE APPLICATION FORM AND SUBMIT

STEP 3: ATTEND THE SCHENGEN INTERVIEW

STEP 4: GIVE BIOMETRICS

STEP 5: COLLECT THE VISA

Follow the same process as above during re-application.

2.1 COMMON QUESTIONS

2. Tell us about your family.

3. Do you live with your family or do you reside alone?

4. Which place do you stay at in your home country?

5. What is the purpose of your visit?

6. What are the dates of your travel?

7. How long are you travelling for?

9. Which countries do you plan to visit during your trip?

18. Who are you travelling with?

20. Is this a group-travel or solo travel?

23. Do you have any friend/relative living in a Schengen country?

24. What is your marital status? Do you have any children?

31. Do you have dual/multiple citizenships?

33. Are you aware of the validity of your Schengen visa?

34. Do you know the penalties of overstaying on the Schengen visa?

36. What will you do if we reject your visa application?

46. Are your itinerary and travel bookings finalised yet?

2.2.1 PRIVATE EMPLOYEES

2. Who are you travelling with on this trip?

3. Will you be accompanied by your family/friends/parents/guardians?

4. What do you want to see/do when there?

1. What is the nature of the job you’re being sent for?

2. Do you visit a foreign country often on company work? How often?

3. Have you visited a Schengen country before for a similar job?

4. How long do you need to stay there?

5. Will you be going as part of a team or alone?

6. What are your job responsibilities?

2. Why hasn’t the interview been organised via skype?