How To Get Schengen Visa From Dubai
Did you know? In 2023, more than 233,000 Schengen visas were issued at the UAE, among residents, UAE citizens submitted almost 234,000 applications, occupying tenth place in the world.
A Schengen visa gives you an entrance to 27 European nations, be it a business meeting in Berlin, a vacation in Paris, or a visit to your family in Rome. In case you are a non-European resident of Dubai, whose passport is not in the European contingent, then here is a guide which might help you make the process stress-free.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
In case you are a citizen of a non-European country and live in the UAE, you are most likely to require a Schengen visa to visit the countries in the Schengen Area. Residents holding visas of such countries as India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Egypt will have to apply for a visa despite having a UAE residency.
To determine whether you need to have a visa because of your nationality, visit the official Schengen Visa Info site.
Types of Schengen Visas
Depending on the purpose of your travel, here are the main types:
- Tourist Visa
- Business Visa
- Student Visa (Short-Term)
- Transit Visa
- Medical Visa
Required Documents
Here are the essential documents you’ll need:
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond return date)
- UAE residency visa (valid for 3+ months after return)
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel bookings or accommodation proof
- Travel insurance (minimum coverage €30,000)
- Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
- Cover letter explaining trip purpose
- No objection letter from employer or sponsor
- Visa application form filled and signed
Always check the latest requirements on the embassy or VFS Global portal.
Application Process
- Select the country of destination (apply with the consulate of the country where you will spend the majority of the days)
- Book an appointment via VFS Global UAE
- Fill out the visa form and collect the required documents
- Attend the appointment for biometric data and document submission
- Pay the visa fee
- Wait for processing (usually 15–21 working days)
- Collect your passport at VFS or a delivery service of a courier type
Where to Apply in Dubai
In Dubai, VFS Global processes the visa applications of countries such as France, Italy, Germany, etc.
Location:
VFS Global Visa Application Centre
WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon, Oud Metha, Dubai, UAE
Common Reasons for Rejection
A couple of common mistakes often cause Visa refusals. Incomplete or incorrectly filled out documents, or lack of sufficient financial documentation, and invalid travel insurance may result in denial. Suspicious or unclear travel plans and any history of overstaying the Schengen area is also considered, as it is a red flag that is factored during the assessment phase.
If your visa is denied, don’t panic. One may appeal the ruling, and reapply once the problems. Be sure to look through the rejection cause and do not forget to provide any updated documentation the next time you apply.
Schengen Visa Cost & Processing Overview
| Visa Type | Cost (in AED) | Processing Time | Service Provider |
| Tourist Visa | 320 | 15–21 days | VFS Global |
| Business Visa | 320 | 15–21 days | VFS Global |
| Child (6–12) | 160 | 15–21 days | VFS Global |
| VFS Service Fee | 120–150 | — | — |
Conclusion
Applying Schengen visa in Dubai is not difficult in case you do everything correctly and on time. Check the latest news in the embassy and rely on an official source like Schengen Visa Info or the VFS Global UAE. With careful planning, your European journey can begin stress-free.
FAQs
Can I apply without a UAE residency visa?
No. To apply through Dubai, you have to have a valid UAE residence permit.
Should I make flight and hotel reservations prior to the application?
Yes, the bookings are confirmed or refundable to be made with the application.
Is it required to have travel insurance?
Yes, up to €30,000 in medical emergencies must be covered by insurance.
Is it possible to visit multiple countries with one visa?
Yes. With a valid Schengen visa, one is able to visit any of the 27 countries that are captured in the region.