Schengen Visa for Business - Requirements and Application Steps

In this article

Europe is one of the most stable economic regions in the world and provides economic stability. It is a great place to grow your business and reach your business goals. Europe’s thriving business landscape, diverse markets, and innovative industries make it an attractive destination for networking, collaboration, and exploring new ventures.

With well-connected transportation networks, world-class business facilities, and a rich cultural backdrop, Europe offers an ideal setting for combining work and travel. The Schengen business visa is intended for individuals that are looking to travel to Europe for business purposes and professional growth.

What Is a Schengen Business Visa?

The Schengen Business Visa is a type of Schengen visa that allows business people from non-European Union (EU) countries to visit the Schengen Area. This visa enables them to participate in various business activities like meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or conducting market research.

With a business Schengen visa, travelers have the flexibility to visit multiple Schengen countries without needing separate visas for each destination. The application process and required documents may vary slightly among the Schengen countries, so it is advisable to consult the relevant embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information.

Do I Need to Apply for a Business Schengen Visa?

Every person who is a citizen of a country that does not have a visa facilitation agreement with the EU and is traveling to the Schengen Area with the aim of being involved in the business: meeting clients, meeting partners, taking part at a particular business fair, etc., needs to obtain a Business Schengen visa.

What Is the Difference Between a Schengen Tourist Visa and a Business Visa?

Both a Schengen tourist visa and a business Schengen visa are type C visas issued for short stays only. However, there is a slight distinction that makes these two types of visas different from each other.

For example, a Schengen tourist visa is intended for individuals who plan to visit the Schengen countries for tourism, leisure, or recreational purposes. This can include sightseeing, visiting landmarks, exploring cultural sites, or enjoying holidays.

Whereas a Schengen business visa is designed for individuals traveling to the Schengen Area for business-related activities such as attending conferences, business meetings, negotiations, trade fairs, establishing business contacts, exploring investment opportunities, or engaging in professional events.

Schengen Visa Requirements for Business Visitors

Here are the documents that you need to submit to apply for a Business Schengen Visa:

Passport. Provide a valid travel document (passport) with at least two blank pages for stamping. The passport must have validity for another three months beyond the intended stay in the Schengen Area.
Schengen Business Visa Application Form. Submit a completely filled-out application form. You can fill it out online and must download the form in two copies and sign at the end.
Business letter of invitation. Issued by the host company in the Schengen area. The letter must be written on the company letterhead and be signed by the authorized representative of the company. It must state the name of the participant, the dates and purpose of the visit, and information regarding who will cover the travel expenses.
No Objection Certificate. This is a letter from your employer or your school/university that states that you have contractual obligations in your home country and assures the embassy that you will return back to your homeland.
Letter from your employer (if applicable). This confirms that you are employed, also stating salary and position, and shows the purpose of your travel. The letter must include information about the company and general information about the partnership with the invited party. It must also say who is going to cover the travel expenses.
Photograph. Enclose a photograph of yourself taken within the last 6 months. The photo must meet the Schengen photograph requirements.
Schengen Visa Travel Insurance. You must have an insurance policy under your name, valid throughout the entire Schengen area and for the whole duration of your visit.
Proof of paid Schengen Visa fee. Complete the Schengen visa application payment and receive the receipt as proof of payment.
Residence Permit. If you are living in a country that is not your home country, submit the original and copy of your residence permit, valid for at least 1 month after coming back from the Schengen Member State.
Work permit (if applicable).
Travel Itinerary. Present a document that shows in detail your route during your stay in the Member State, your accommodation place, when you plan to visit the country, etc.
Means of subsistence. You are required to provide proof of financial means to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial funds to support yourself financially during your business trip to Europe. You can provide one of the following as evidence:
- Bank Account Statement of the last three months showing that you have enough money in your account to cover the expenses of your trip.
- Sponsorship Letter not older than three months if someone else will be financially supporting your trip. The letter should confirm their commitment to support you financially and should be accompanied by the sponsor’s bank statement.
- Combination of Bank Account Statement and Sponsorship Letter to show that you have your own funds as well as support from another person.

After collecting all the Business Schengen visa required documents, make sure you have each of them in two copies. All the documents have to be provided in A4 format. Do not staple any of them. Keep in mind that the consul may require additional documents during your interview. Submit them all for the shortest period possible.

The difference between Schengen Business visa and other Schengen visa types lies in the requirements of the embassy or consulate where you will have to apply. There are some extra documents that you will be required to submit in order to be able to obtain a Business visa for Europe.

How to Apply for a Business Schengen Visa?

The application process for a Business Schengen visa includes the following steps:

Determine the embassy/consulate.
Schedule an appointment.
Collect the required documents.
Fill out the Business Schengen Visa application form.
Pay the Schengen visa fee.
Wait for the decision.
Collect your visa.

Determine the Embassy or Consulate of The Member State

Identify the diplomatic missions (embassy/consulate) of the Schengen country where your main business activities will take place.

Schedule an Appointment

Appoint an interview through the website of the consulate or embassy of the country you are planning to visit in your country of residence. You can appoint an interview six months before the earliest and two weeks before the latest.

Collect the Required Documents

Check the document checklist above to be informed on what documents you need to bring to the embassy or consulate to complete your business Schengen visa application. Make sure you comply with the guidelines for Schengen visa documents for business people.

Fill Out the Business Schengen Visa Application Form

You must complete the business visa application form online, print it twice and sign it at the end. The form must be filled out completely and correctly without any blank spaces, or it will not be accepted by the competent authorities.

The business Schengen visa application form contains questions for basic information such as your name, date of birth, country of birth, passport number, and nationality. Make sure to check the box that says “business” at the question regarding the purpose of your journey. You will also have to answer questions regarding your trip and make sure to fill out the application form in the correct way.

Pay the Schengen Visa Fee

You must pay the business Schengen visa fee to fully complete the application process. Keep your payment receipt to use as proof of payment.

Wait for the Decision

The processing time for a business Schengen visa can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks. During this period, the embassy/consulate will review your application and supporting documents.

Collect Your Visa

If your business Schengen visa application is approved, you can go and collect your visa from the embassy/consulate or through a designated visa collection center. Make sure to check the validity dates and any specific conditions mentioned on the visa.

*The application process and requirements for a Business Schengen Visa can differ among Schengen countries. Therefore, it is crucial to visit the official website of the embassy or consulate of the specific Schengen country you plan to visit for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the application process, required documents, and any additional instructions.

On the Day of the Appointment

Show up at the appointment center on time. Remember that if you are late even for a few minutes, then they will probably cancel your appointment.

You will also have to get your fingerprints scanned at the consulate’s office if you have never before applied for a Schengen Visa. If you have, then you don’t have to do it again since the consulate should be able to look it up.

After the verification of your application, the application form information will be entered into the online system of the consulate or embassy, and you will receive a printed copy of your application. This process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After you get the printed form, please make sure to verify all the details are correct and sign the form.

Where to Apply for a Business Schengen Visa?

If you are planning to conduct business in only one country of the Schengen member states, then you will have to simply apply for a Schengen visa for business at the embassy of that Member State in your home country.

But, in cases when you are planning to visit more than two countries inside the Schengen area, it may seem confusing to which embassy one has to apply. You do not have to apply at each embassy of every country you are planning to visit.

Simply, if you are planning to visit two or more countries during the same business trip, then you have to apply at the embassy of the country where you plan to spend more time. If you are planning to spend equal time in two or more Member States, then you have to apply at the embassy of the country where you will be landing first.

Find information about business visas for specific countries below:

How Long Is a Business Schengen Visa Valid For?

A business Schengen visa is typically valid for a maximum duration of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days during any 180-day period starting from the date of your first entry. The visa may be issued for a single entry or multiple entries, allowing you to enter the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa’s validity period.

A multiple-entry visa gives its holder the right to enter and leave the Schengen area multiple times. Whereas single-entry and double-entry visa holders will have to wait for the embassy or consulate, they have applied to decide on its validity after processing all documentation. Sometimes they issue you a visa for the amount of time you have sought for, and sometimes for a longer or shorter period.

The embassy not only appoints the number of days you can stay in the Schengen territory but also the earliest date you can enter and the last date when you can leave. This is all indicated on the visa sticker affixed in your passport.

Can I Get a Job with a Business Schengen Visa?

No, a business Schengen visa does not grant you the right to work in the Schengen Area. The purpose of a business visa is to allow individuals to engage in business-related activities such as attending conferences, meetings, or trade fairs, establishing business contacts, or conducting market research. It is not intended for employment purposes.

If you wish to work in the Schengen Area, you would generally need to apply for a specific work visa or work permit that is appropriate for the country where you plan to work.

Tips on Traveling with a Business Schengen Visa

Traveling with a business Schengen visa can be a smooth and rewarding experience if you keep a few tips in mind:

Understand your visa terms: Be familiar with the conditions and restrictions of your business Schengen visa, including the maximum stay and entry limits. Comply with these guidelines to avoid legal issues.
Carry essential documents: Always have your passport, visa, and supporting paperwork related to your business purposes, such as invitation letters or conference registrations. Keep both physical and digital copies for backup.
Maintain financial stability: Ensure you have enough funds to cover your expenses during the trip. Carry proof of financial means, like bank statements, credit cards, or sponsorship letters, if applicable.
Obtain travel insurance: Get comprehensive travel insurance that meets Schengen Area requirements, including medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.
Plan your itinerary: Organize a well-structured itinerary outlining your business activities and travel plans in the Schengen Area. This will help you stay organized and provide clarity to immigration authorities.
Respect local customs: Research the cultural norms and business etiquette of the countries you’re visiting. Dress appropriately, adhere to professional conduct during meetings, and be mindful of local customs.
Stay informed: Stay updated on travel advisories and any relevant changes that might impact your trip. Check your country’s embassy or consulate website for the latest information.
Seek assistance when needed: If you face any issues or require help during your trip, reach out to your host organization, local contacts, or your embassy/consulate for guidance.

Other Types of Schengen Visas

Did you find this page helpful?

Yes No