How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from the UK

If you are a UK resident, you require a visa to enter Europe. This visa is called a Schengen visa, which requires a simple process to follow and the documents, including a passport,  residence card, travel insurance, Flight and hotel booking confirmation, bank statements and proof of employment. This guide outlines the verified steps you must take before applying for a Schengen Visa from the UK, and explains what can trigger a Visa refusal and how to avoid them.

What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that lets people travel to 29 European countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. One visa lets you travel to all Schengen countries, as long as your visa is valid and border officials approve your entry.¹

Who Needs a Schengen Visa From the UK?

You need a Schengen visa if your nationality appears on the EU’s “visa-required” list.Living in the UK with a BRP, work visa, student visa, pre-settled status, or settled status does not remove this requirement.British citizens do not need a Schengen visa for short stays.

Where to Apply in the UK

Every Schengen country uses a visa centre. These centres collect your papers and biometrics.Most countries use VFS Global, while some (like Germany and Belgium) use TLScontact. Additionally, a legal UK residence is required to be eligible to apply for the Schengen Visa. The main visa centres are usually in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Schengen Visa in the UK

1. Choose your destination

You must apply in the country where you will spend the most days. This is an official Schengen rule.⁴ If your time is equal, apply through the country of first entry.

2. Fill your online form

All forms are on the VFS Global or TLScontact system. The form must match your bookings exactly. Differences in dates or spelling can delay or harm your application.

3. Book your appointment

Visa appointments are required. No country allows walk-ins. Centres fill quickly during summer and school holidays, so early booking is best.

4. Prepare the required documents

All Schengen states require similar documents, and these documents include the following:

• Passport (issued in the last 10 years and valid 3 months after return)

• BRP or UK residence card

• Travel insurance that covers €30,000 medical emergencies

• Flight booking

• Hotel booking or invitation letter

• Bank statements

• Proof of work, study, or self-employment

• Visa fee (usually €90 for adults, €45 for ages 6–11)

5. Attend the appointment

You will give fingerprints and a photo. Your papers will be checked. This takes about 15 minutes. You will receive a tracking number to follow your file.

6. Collect your passport

Now wait for your Visa to get approved by the relevant authorities. When your Visa is ready, you can pick it up from the centre or choose courier delivery. Check the visa dates and the number of entries.

Why Schengen Visas are Refused

The Schengen Visa applications are rejected

• Bank statements look irregular

• There are large unexplained deposits

• Accommodation is unclear

• Travel insurance does not meet the €30,000 rule

• Employment letters are missing

• A passport has less than 3 months' validity after return

• UK residence proof is weak

All consulates follow strict rules on these points.

How Much Money do You Need to Show to Apply for the Schengen Visa in the UK?

Most Schengen states expect travellers to show between €60 and €120 per day. This amount is not official for all countries, but is widely used in consulate checks. Clear statements and stable income always help.

How Early Can You Apply

You can apply up to 6 months before travel and no later than 15 days before your trip. Most travellers apply 1–3 months before departure.

Can You Visit Multiple Countries?

Yes. A Schengen visa lets you move freely across all 29 Schengen states unless your visa label has special notes.

Can You Get a Multiple-Entry Visa?

Some travellers receive visas valid for 1 to 5 years. These are given when you have a strong travel history, clear funds, and good ties to the UK. The decision is made only by the consulate.

Facts About the Schengen Visa

Topic	Fact
90/180-day Rule	Yes, applied for 90 days in any 180-day period
UK Residents Can Apply	Yes, but must be a legal UK resident
Insurance Requirement	At least €30,000 emergency coverage required
Passport Rules	The Passport must be valid 3 months after return.
Appointment Rule	An appointment required; no walk-ins
Application Window	You must apply up to 6 months before travel
Processing Time	Can take about 15 days to process

Services Provided by MSD Solicitors

MSD Solicitors offer support for Schengen visa applications, including:

• Help prepare your full document bundle

• Checking your bank statements for compliance

• Writing invitation, explanation, and cover letters

• Supporting appeals for refused Schengen visas

• Offering legal guidance for complex or high-risk applications They also cover UK immigration, asylum, family visas, judicial review, and administrative review cases.

Conclusion

If you are looking to apply for a Schengen Visa from the UK, you must understand the rules and have the required documents, which are discussed in this blog. You must be a legal resident in the UK, choose the correct country based on your main destination, and follow the steps set by VFS Global or TLScontact. Your passport, BRP, bank statements, bookings, and travel insurance must match and show a clear plan. Most applications are approved when the paperwork is complete, the funds are stable, and the travel reason is strong. 

FAQs

Q1: Where do I apply for a Schengen visa in the UK?

You apply at VFS Global or TLScontact, depending on your destination country. However, you cannot visit them without an appointment, so you must book one first.

Q2: How long can I stay in Europe with a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa will allow you to live up to 90 days within any of the defined 180-day period across all Schengen countries.

Q3: What documents are required for the Schengen Visa?

To apply for a Schengen Visa, the required documents are a valid passport, a BRP, travel insurance with at least €30,000 emergency coverage, flight and hotel booking details, an invitation letter (if applicable), bank statements, and proof of employment or study.

Q4: How long does the process take?

For most visas, the processing time is usually up to 15 days, but some complex cases might take longer.

Q5: Can I get a multiple-entry visa?

Yes, it is possible if you have a strong travel history and clear financial evidence, but it depends on the consulate’s decision.

Q6: Can I visit more than one country on the same visa?

Yes, one Schengen visa allows you to visit all Schengen states, unless your visa has special restrictions.