If you’re planning to travel to Europe, understanding the type of Schengen visa you need is the first step toward making your dream trip happen. There are different Schengen visas designed for different purposes—tourism, business, study, work, or even long-term stays.
National Visas (Type D) are designed for long-term stays (more than three months) in the issuing Schengen country. While they mainly allow the holder to live, work, or study in that specific country, they also permit travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
What Is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely across 27 European countries (the Schengen Area) without border controls. It’s perfect if you’re planning a multi-country trip, visiting family, attending business meetings, or moving to Europe for a longer stay.
But the key question is, which type of Schengen visa do I need?
Main Types of Schengen Visas
Let’s explore the most common types of Schengen visas and when to apply for each:
Type A – Airport Transit Visa
- For travelers who have a layover in a Schengen country but won’t leave the airport.
- Example: Flying from Dubai to New York with a connection in Frankfurt.
Type C – Short-Stay Visa (Most Common)
- Valid for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
- Ideal for tourists, business travelers, or short visits.
- Includes single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry options.
Type D – National Visa (Long-Stay Visa)
- For stays longer than 90 days in a specific Schengen country.
- Perfect for students, long-term workers, or those relocating.
- Also allows short-term travel to other Schengen countries (90 days within 180 days).
When Do You Need a Type D National Visa?
If you’re moving to a Schengen country for more than 90 days, whether for study, work, or family reunification, you’ll need a Type D National Visa. This visa allows you to:
- Live, work, or study in one country long-term.
- Travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- Apply for residence permits or extend your stay once you’re in the country.
How to Choose the Right Type of Schengen Visa?
Choosing the right type of Schengen visa depends on the purpose of your trip. Here’s a simple guide to help you:
- If you are traveling for tourism, you will need a Type C – Short-Stay Visa.
- If you are attending business meetings, you should apply for a Type C – Short-Stay Visa.
- If you are passing through a Schengen country on your way to another destination and staying inside the airport, you need a Type A – Transit Visa.
- If you plan to study for less than 90 days, a Type C – Short-Stay Visa is the right choice.
- If you are studying for more than 90 days, you must apply for a Type D – National Visa.
- If you are going to work for less than 90 days, a Type C – Short-Stay Visa is required.
- If you are planning to work for more than 90 days, you will need a Type D – National Visa.
- If you are joining your family in Europe, you should apply for a Type D – National Visa.
Each visa type is designed for a specific purpose, so it’s important to choose correctly to avoid delays or rejections.
Can You Travel with a Type D Visa?
Yes! Many travelers don’t realize that with a Type D National Visa, you can still explore other countries in the Schengen Area while living in your main destination.
For example, if you’re studying in Spain with a Type D visa, you can still hop over to France or Italy for up to 90 days without needing another visa.
How to Apply for the Right Type of Schengen Visa?
- Determine Your Purpose of Travel: Decide whether it’s tourism, business, study, or work.
- Choose the Correct Visa Type: Type A, C, or D.
- Gather Required Documents: Depending on the visa type, documents may vary.
- Book Your Schengen Visa Appointment: Don’t wait! Appointment slots fill up fast.
- Attend Your Appointment: Submit your application and documents in person.
At Fluxir, we guide you through every step, from choosing the right visa to booking your Schengen appointment.
Why Work with Fluxir?
At Fluxir, we simplify the Schengen visa process. Our team:
- Helps you choose the right type of Schengen visa based on your needs.
- Review your documents to ensure a successful application.
- Book your visa appointment and prepare you for the interview.
- Provides fast, friendly, and reliable service.
We make travel easier so you can focus on planning your adventure.
Ready to Apply for Your Schengen Visa? Let Fluxir Help
Applying for the right type of Schengen visa can feel confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. At Fluxir, we make the entire process simple, from choosing the right visa type to booking your appointment and ensuring your documents are 100% ready.
Contact us today and let’s get you one step closer to your European journey.
