For people hoping to travel to Europe for business ventures, travel or visiting family and friends, it is essential to know the process and requirements of Schengen Visa. Schengen Visa for UAE Residents allows entry into 27 European countries under a single permit which makes the whole process convenient. Here’s everything you need to know about the Schengen Visa for UAE Residents in 2025, including application procedures, costs, and necessary documents.
Schengen Visa for UAE Residents:
Citizens of the United Arab Emirates holding UAE passport do not require a Schengen Visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) This agreement was signed in 2015 between European leaders and UAE. However, UAE residents who hold other nationalities may still need to apply for a Schengen visa before traveling.
Schengen Visa Validity: Where Can You Travel?
A Schengen Visa is used to grant entry to 27 European Countries in the Schengen Area, for a limited period. Schengen Visa is also Valid for Bulgaria and Romania, as of 2025. The most visited and countries included in the Schengen Visa are France, Germany Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. Other well loved countries such as Sweden, Greece, Switzerland and Austria also attract record numbers of tourists each year.
One major perk of this visa is the ability to travel across multiple countries, in the Schengen area, with a single document, making it ideal for tourists and business travelers. Schengen visa holders can experience diverse cultures of Europe, explore historical landmarks of ancient Greece and Rome and learn about European history & Art. Schengen Visa has made it possible for UAE Residents to enjoy simplified travel procedures, as there are no internal passport checks between member states.
| List of Schengen 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 | 🇨🇭 Switzerland |
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa?
People who wish to apply for Schengen Visa for UAE Residents need to check necessary requisites. Such as:
- Determine the Visa Type – Determining the Visa type is the necessary initial step which begins the proper process of Visa Application.
- Select the Embassy/Consulate – You have to begin the Application process with the consulate of the country that you need to travel to.
- Schedule an Appointment – Book an appointment online through VFS Global or Respective Embassy of the country of interest.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed Visa Application form
- Recent Passport-Sized Photo (35×45 mm).
- UAE Residence Visa Copy (valid for at least 3 months after return)
- Travel Itinerary (flight & hotel bookings)
- Travel Insurance (Non-Mandatory Minimum coverage of €30,000)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, salary certificate, or sponsor letter)
- No-objection letter (NOC) from employer or sponsor
- Steps to Visa Appointment – Submit the important documents & Provide your Biometrics.
- Pay the Visa Fee – Fees vary based on Person’s Age and the Visa type (see below).
- Wait for Processing – The standard processing time is 15 Calendar days.
Schengen Visa Costs for UAE Residents (2025)
The following costs of Schengen Visa for UAE Residents are for individuals who do not have a UAE Citizenship. As mentioned above, since May 2015 UAE Citizens are exempt from such charges.
| Category | Cost (€) | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (12+ years) | €80 | AED 320 |
| Children (6-11 years) | €40 | AED 160 |
| Children under 6 | Free | Free |
| Service Fees (VFS Global, BLS, etc.) | Subject to change | (approx) AED 80-150 |
For official information and visa processing, visit VFS Global or check the respective Schengen Visa Info website.
Where to Apply for a Schengen Visa in UAE?
Visa applications for non-citizens are processed at the Official Consulates or Outsourced centers e.g. VFS Global, BLS International & TLScontact, depending on the country.
- France, Italy, Spain – VFS Global Dubai/Abu Dhabi
- Germany, Switzerland – VFS Global
- Netherlands, Belgium – VFS Global
- Greece, Austria – VFS Global
- Czech Republic, Hungary – BLS International
Schengen Visa Processing Time & Validity
- Processing time: 15 Calendar Days, might be subject to change.
- Validity: Up to 90 days per 180-day period.
- Multiple-entry visas: Multiple-Entry may be selected from the Application forms.
Note: It is advisable to reach the respective consulates of the Countries you wish you visit for additional information.
Concluding Remarks:
Securing a Schengen Visa for UAE Residents is a key step in planning your European trip. While the process requires careful preparation, a well-organized application saves time and reduces stress. Submitting complete documents, applying through the correct embassy, and allowing enough time for processing improve approval chances. Whether for business or leisure, ensuring all details are in order will help avoid last-minute issues. Travel smart, plan ahead, and soon you’ll be exploring the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that Europe has to offer.
Also Check: UAE Visa Status 2025 | Track by Passport and EID Number
Also Read: UAE Golden Visa for Content Creators & Creative Professionals
