A Schengen visa enables you travel freely to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, a region comprising 27 European countries that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders, is a dream for many.Â
For Nigerian passport holders, the process involves obtaining a Schengen visa. It’s essential for short stays, tourism, business trips, and visiting family or friends.
Which Countries Are In The Schengen Area
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Liechtenstein
- Croatia
These countries have abolished internal borders, allowing for passport-free movement across the member states, making it a convenient and accessible region for travelers.
For more on Schengen countries, visit schengen/the schengen area
Requirements for Schengen Visa by Nigerian Citizens
- Valid Passport: Your Nigerian passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. It should also have at least two blank pages.
- Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the visa application form of the country of entry and will spend most of your days. You can typically download this from the website of the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you intend to visit.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos, taken according to Schengen visa photo requirements.
- Travel Itinerary: A detailed travel itinerary including your flight reservations (with return ticket) and hotel bookings. If you are staying with friends or family, an invitation letter may be required.
- Travel Insurance: Medical travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements for the last three to six months, a sponsorship letter (if applicable), and proof of income or employment.
- Cover Letter: A personal cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, itinerary, and other relevant details.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host in the Schengen country.
How To Apply For Schengen Visa In Nigeria
- Determine the Consulate to Apply: Apply to the consulate or embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. If your stay is evenly distributed, apply to the consulate of the country you will enter first.
- Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment through the consulate’s online portal or by contacting them directly.
- Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all documents are complete and organized. Make copies of everything.
- Attend the Visa Interview: On the day of your appointment, arrive early with your documents. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip.
- Pay the Visa Fee: The fee is usually not constant for all countries, but check the specific consulate’s website for exact amounts and possible exemptions.
- Wait for Processing: Visa processing typically takes 15 business days, but it can vary. Track your application if the service is available.
- Collect Your Visa: Once approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker attached. Check all the details on the visa for accuracy.
Common Reasons For Schengen Visa Refusals In Nigeria
Obtaining a Schengen visa can be a rigorous process, and there are several reasons why applications from Nigerian citizens might be refused. Understanding these reasons can help applicants better prepare and increase their chances of approval.
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: One of the most common reasons for visa refusal is the submission of incomplete or incorrect documentation. This includes missing required documents, discrepancies in the information provided, or failure to comply with the specific requirements of the consulate.
2. Insufficient Financial Means: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses during their stay in the Schengen Area. This is typically shown through bank statements, salary slips, or a sponsorship letter.
3. Unclear Travel Intentions: The consulate must be convinced of the purpose of the visit. Ambiguous travel plans or purposes can lead to suspicion and refusal. This includes unclear itineraries or inconsistent reasons for travel.
4. Lack of Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for a Schengen visa. It must cover medical emergencies, hospital care, and repatriation with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
5. Previous Visa Refusals: A history of visa refusals can negatively impact your current application, especially if the reasons for previous refusals were not addressed.
6. Unreliable Travel History: A poor travel history, such as overstaying a previous visa or violating visa conditions, can lead to a refusal.
7. Lack of Proof of Accommodation: Applicants must provide proof of accommodation for their stay in the Schengen Area. This can be hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.
8. Inconsistent Information: Any inconsistencies in the information provided in the application form, cover letter, or supporting documents can raise red flags.
9. Failure to Demonstrate Strong Ties to Nigeria: Applicants must prove that they have strong ties to their home country, ensuring they will return after their visit. This can include proof of employment, property, or family ties.
10. Unimpressed Interview: During the visa interview, applicants may be asked questions about their trip, financial status, and ties to Nigeria. Poor preparation or unsatisfactory answers can lead to refusal.
We understand the shortcomings of DIY (Do It Yourself) because of lack of experience and adequate information in handling such application. If you need us to provide assistance with your schengen visa application in Nigeria, you can reach Asedeeq Travels today!