SCHENGEN FROM BANGLADESH : DOCUMENTS, CONSULTANT & FEES

Explore 27+ Countries with a Schengen Visa: Your Key to Roaming Europe Like Royalty!

For many of us in Bangladesh, the Schengen visa is a dream come true!

Let’s take a wild guess – you’re probably dreaming of exploring the world’s largest visa-free zone, right? And you’re thinking about applying for a Schengen visa from Bangladesh?

Well, you’ve come to the perfect place. Here’s a complete guide to help you get your Schengen visa approved quickly, so you can roam around Europe without the stress of dealing with grumpy embassy staff.

First things first, what exactly is the Schengen Area? It’s a group of European countries where you can travel between them without needing a passport or visa.

Yep, you read that right! The Schengen Area was created to make traveling across European countries easier, so you don’t need separate documents for each destination.

That means, once you get a visa for one of the Schengen countries, you can visit other countries within the area without needing a new visa. Pretty cool, right?

Now, let’s dive into the question you’re probably asking: Which countries are part of the Schengen Area?

Schengen Member States: The Full List

The Schengen Area includes the following 27 countries:
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.

Fun Fact: Croatia has recently joined the Schengen Area!

Spanning 50,000 km in length and covering 4,312,099 square kilometers with a population of 419 million, the Schengen Zone is made up of 80% water and 20% land. It includes numerous airports, ports, and land crossings, making travel within this area incredibly convenient.

While there are currently 27 member countries, others are in the process of being added. Romania and Bulgaria are hoping to join soon.

Interesting Note: Although the Azores, Madeira, and Canary Islands are located outside mainland Europe, they are part of the Schengen Area and the EU.

However, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City are not part of the Schengen Zone. But, the good news is that their borders are open to travelers holding a valid Schengen visa.

So, once your Schengen visa is approved, you’re all set to visit these countries too!

Types of Schengen Visa from Bangladesh

Depending on the purpose of your trip to the Schengen Area, you can apply for one of the following visa types:

  • Transit Visa
  • Tourism Visa
  • Visa for Visiting Family or Friends
  • Business Visa
  • Visa for Journalists
  • Visa for Cultural and Sports Activities
  • Visa for Official Visits
  • Study Visa
  • Visa for Medical Treatment

How to Obtain a Schengen Visa from Bangladesh

Europe is a popular destination for travelers, and to visit Schengen countries, there is a specific procedure and set of document requirements for Bangladeshi applicants.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Schengen visa:

  1. Determine the Correct Consulate
    Find out which consulate handles short-term visa applications for the country you intend to visit.

  2. Schedule an Appointment
    Book an appointment at the relevant consulate or embassy. Some embassies in Dhaka handle Schengen visas directly, while others process applications through VFS Global Dhaka.
    Note: If you need to apply through VFS Global, make sure to schedule an appointment with them, as some VFS offices (e.g., VFS Italy) may accept walk-ins without appointments.

  3. Complete the Application Form
    Fill out the Schengen visa application form and gather the necessary documents, including passport photos, proof of residence or employment in Bangladesh, and more. For a detailed list of required documents, check our dedicated Schengen visa documentation page.

  4. Attend Your Appointment
    On the day of your appointment, attend the embassy or consulate interview. You may be asked about your travel plans or the reason for your visa application, so be prepared to answer truthfully.
    Note: Remember to bring all required documents and payment for the visa processing fee, including the biometric and processing fee if VFS Global is handling your application. In most cases, VFS Global processes applications based on documents and doesn’t require an interview.

  5. Wait for Processing
    After submitting your application, the embassy or VFS Global will provide an estimated date for when your visa will be ready for collection.

  6. Receive Your Visa
    Once your visa is approved, you will receive a stamp in your passport, allowing you to travel freely within the Schengen Area without needing separate visas for each country.

Important Reminder: Before applying for a Schengen visa from Bangladesh, be sure to check the entry requirements for each individual country you plan to visit.

Schengen Visa Document Requirements

If you’re planning to visit the Schengen Area, understanding the document requirements is crucial to ensure your application is processed smoothly.

The exact documents you’ll need depend on the type of visa you’re applying for and your specific circumstances. Make sure to gather all the required documents before applying. Here’s a breakdown of the standard document requirements for a Schengen visa:

Standard Document Checklist for All Visa Types

  • Schengen Visa Application Form
  • Schengen Passport Photos
  • Cover Letter & Travel Itinerary
  • Employment Certificate (for employed individuals)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC)
  • Trade License & Business Documents (for business owners)
  • Personal Bank Statements
  • Personal Income Tax Return Certificate / Acknowledgement Copy & Certified Assessment Copy (for the last 3 years)
  • Company Bank Statements (for business owners)
  • Airline Ticket Itinerary (Initial booking, confirmed purchase not required)
  • Hotel Reservations (for the entire duration of your stay)
  • Schengen Travel Health Insurance (from an approved insurer)
  • Civil Documents (e.g., Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificate, Passport Copies)

Additional Documents for Business Visit Visa

  • Invitation Letter from an Italian registered company/organization
  • Forwarding Letter from your company in Bangladesh
  • Office ID Card & Visiting Card
  • Trade License
  • Incorporation Certificate
  • Company Memorandum
  • Invitation Letter for meetings, fairs, or other business activities within the Schengen Area
  • Company ITR Certificate, Acknowledgement Copy & Certified Assessment Copy (for the last 3 years, if the company is sponsoring the trip)

Additional Documents for Family Visit Visa

  • Invitation Letter from a family member or friend in the Schengen Area
  • Proof of Relationship with the invitee
  • Resident Proof of the host (e.g., utility bill or rental agreement)
  • Invitee’s Photo ID Card & Utility Copy
  • Invitee’s Bank Statements
  • Travel Insurance (mandatory)

Travel Health Insurance

A comprehensive travel health insurance policy covering at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen Area is mandatory for all types of visas.

Document Translation

Important note: All documents must be in English or the official language of the consulate where you are applying. If your documents are in another language, they must be translated into either English or the consulate’s language.

Additionally, some Schengen countries may require additional documents, so it’s a good idea to check with the embassy of the country you’re applying to for any specific requirements before submitting your application.

Best Schengen Visa Consultant in Bangladesh

Best Time to Apply for a Schengen Visa from Bangladesh

The processing time for a Schengen visa varies depending on the consulate you apply to. To avoid any last-minute stress, it’s always recommended to apply well in advance.

How early can you apply for your Schengen visa from Bangladesh?

The timing largely depends on the consulate handling your application. While most consulates allow you to apply up to 6 months before your planned trip, some countries (e.g., the Italian Embassy in Dhaka) accept applications up to 3 months in advance.

Here’s the general timeline for applying for a Schengen visa from Bangladesh:

  • Earliest you can apply: Up to 6 months before your planned trip.
  • Latest you can apply: No later than 15 working days before your intended travel date.
  • Recommended time to apply: At least 4 weeks before your trip.

Planning ahead ensures enough time for visa processing and any unexpected delays.

Schengen Visa Processing Fees from Bangladesh

The cost of obtaining a Schengen visa depends on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of the fees:

  • Standard Schengen Visa Fee: The general fee for a Schengen visa is 80 euros, which is approximately 8,500 BDT, depending on the current exchange rate.

  • Fees for Minors:

    • Children aged 6 to 12 years are charged 40 euros.
    • Children under 6 years are exempt from paying the visa fee.

  • Additional Charges:

    • If you apply through a visa processing center like VFS Global, there are extra charges for biometric data collection and document processing. These fees range from 32,000 BDT to 42,000 BDT, depending on the services you opt for. If you choose VIP services at VFS Global, the fees may be higher.

  • Visa Processing Service Charge:

    • For services at our Visa Processing Center, the charge is 12,000 BDT. This does not include extra costs for document translations and preparation.

  • Travel Insurance:

    • Schengen visa applicants are required to purchase mandatory travel insurance, which costs between 1,700 BDT and 3,000 BDT, depending on the duration of your stay in Schengen countries.

Be sure to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for your Schengen visa application.

Best Schengen Visa Consultant in Bangladesh

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the Schengen visa application process, let Visa Processing Center guide you through it.

We are one of the top Schengen visa consultants in Bangladesh, offering expert services to make your visa journey smooth and hassle-free. Our team of experienced and reliable consultants can quickly address any issues you may face, ensuring a swift and efficient process.

How Can Our Service Help You?

When you reach out to us, we’ll document your case and assess your eligibility. If we determine that you qualify, we’ll schedule a meeting with one of our consultants, either in-person or online. An initial assessment fee is required for our consultant to review your case.

During the meeting, our consultants will listen carefully to your travel plans and provide guidance on which service you need to proceed with your Schengen visa application. Based on your profile, we will help you select the appropriate visa type and provide a detailed list of required documents. Our experts will also guide you on how to organize and present your paperwork accurately to ensure your application stands the best chance of approval.

Contact us today, and let us make your Schengen visa process easy and stress-free!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We understand that you might have many questions when applying for a Schengen visa. Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions!

How can I get a Schengen visa from Bangladesh?

  • Decide which type of visa you need.
  • Consult an experienced visa processing consultant to handle your application.
  • Choose the specific country you want to apply to; your consultant can assist you with this.
  • Make an appointment with the consulate.
  • Gather all required visa documents.
  • Pay the necessary fee and submit your application.
  • Wait for your passport to be delivered with your visa stamp.

Is the Schengen visa open for Bangladesh in 2023?

Yes, Schengen visas are available for Bangladesh in 2023.

Which Schengen visa is easiest to get from Bangladesh?

Estonia has the highest visa approval rate for Bangladeshis, at 98.5%. That’s why it is considered one of the easiest countries to obtain a Schengen visa from Bangladesh.

How can I get a multiple-entry Schengen visa from Bangladesh?

Yes, a multiple-entry Schengen visa is available for Bangladeshis, provided you meet the necessary documentation and eligibility criteria.

Do I need to purchase a confirmed flight ticket when applying for a Schengen visa from Bangladesh?

While a confirmed return flight ticket can demonstrate that you won’t overstay, you may also provide a flight itinerary. The itinerary should include details such as the flight date, airline name and number, and your full name. You can get an air ticket booking through Visa Processing Center. If you have any doubts, feel free to contact us for assistance.

Can I staple my documents together for a Schengen visa?

No, you should never staple or glue your documents together. Embassies or Visa Application Centers require documents to be loose. You can use paper clips to attach additional paperwork, but staples or glue are not allowed. If your documents are stapled, please remove the staples before visiting the consulate or visa center.

Is it necessary to re-submit my biometrics if my Schengen visa application is rejected?

Yes, if your initial visa application is rejected, you will need to re-submit your fingerprints for any future applications. Schengen visa biometrics are only valid for one application, so you must provide them again when reapplying.

Do I need to translate my Bangla documents?

Yes, if you have documents in Bangla (e.g., national ID, property deed, or trade license), they must be translated into English or the official language of the Schengen country you are applying to. The translated documents must be certified or legalized by a notary public with an Apostille stamp.

If you need help with translation and notarization, please reach out to us for assistance.

Is it necessary to submit original documents?

It depends on the document. Some documents must be submitted in original form, while others can be submitted as photocopies.
For example:

  • Original documents: Passport, bank statement, and No Objection Certificate (NOC).
  • Photocopies: Marriage certificates, family records, etc. However, all photocopied documents must be legalized and attested by a notary public.

If you need further assistance with any part of the process, don’t hesitate to contact us!