Schengen visa: the application window
The European Commission’s guidance for short-stay Schengen visas: submit your application to the consulate at least 15 days before your intended journey and no earlier than 6 months beforehand. You may have to book an appointment first.
Key numbers
| Item | Rule |
|---|---|
| Earliest application | 6 months before the trip |
| Latest application | 15 days before the trip |
| Normal processing time | 15 days |
| Longer review | Up to 45 days |
| Fee | €90 adults, €45 children aged 6–12 |
Example timeline
Illustrative example only. Departure on Saturday, 1 May 2027.
| Date | Step |
|---|---|
| From 1 November 2026 | Application window opens (6 months before) |
| November–January | Book the appointment, collect documents, write the cover letter |
| 16 April 2027 | Last day to apply (15 days before) |
Heads up. The consulate of your main destination may set its own appointment rules, and a visa centre can charge an extra service fee. Check the consulate’s page for your country of residence.
Checklist
- ☐ Travel dates and main destination
- ☐ Appointment booked
- ☐ Cover letter: purpose, dates, who pays
- ☐ Fee ready
The cover letter is already written
Fill in your trip purpose, dates and funding. No letter guarantees a visa — it simply makes your application clear.
Legal basis: European Commission, Migration and Home Affairs — “Applying for a Schengen visa” (home-affairs.ec.europa.eu). Checked 01.11.2026. Not legal advice.