Overview
Last checked: September 2026. Schengen rules and fees can change, and each country’s consulate may have its own document requirements. Always confirm the latest details on the website of the consulate you are applying to and its official visa application centre.
A Schengen visa lets Pakistani passport holders visit 29 European countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Greece and Switzerland, on a single visa. The standard short-stay visa (Type C) allows stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, family visits or business. It does not allow you to work.
Which Country Should You Apply To?
You must apply to the consulate of your main destination, meaning the country where you will spend the most nights. If your nights are split evenly, apply to the country you will enter first. Do not choose a country only because it is thought to be “easier”. Applying to the wrong consulate can lead to refusal and problems at the border.
Fees
- Adults: €90
- Children aged 6–11: €45
- Children under 6: free
In Pakistan, most consulates use a visa application centre, such as VFS Global or TLScontact, which charges its own service fee on top of the visa fee.
Processing Time
Decisions are usually made within 15 days, but this can be extended to 45 days in some cases. You can apply up to 6 months before your trip. Appointment slots fill up quickly before summer, so book early.
Travel Insurance
You must have travel medical insurance valid across the whole Schengen Area, with coverage of at least €30,000, for the full length of your stay.
New: Entry/Exit System (EES)
Schengen borders now use the Entry/Exit System. Instead of passport stamps, your fingerprints and facial image are recorded when you enter and leave. The system automatically tracks your 90/180-day limit, so any overstay is detected immediately and can seriously affect future visa applications.
Tips for Pakistani Applicants
- Show a steady income and regular bank history, not a sudden large deposit.
- Make sure your hotel bookings, flights and insurance match your travel dates exactly.
- Include a clear cover letter explaining your trip.
- First-time applicants usually receive a single-entry visa. A good travel history can lead to multiple-entry visas later.