The First Point of Entry for a Schengen visa refers to the first country you intend to enter upon arrival in the Schengen area. This is the country where you will first cross the external borders of the Schengen area and will be subject to border control by the authorities of that country.
Do I Need to Enter the Schengen Area Through the Country That Gave Me My Visa?
No, you don’t have to go into the Schengen Area through the country that gave you your visa. You can enter through another Schengen country, but you must visit the country that issued your visa at some point during your trip. Just remember, at the border check, you might need to show that you’ll visit the country that gave you your visa at some point during your trip, and you could be asked why you’re not entering through that country.
Does the First Point of Entry Determine Where to Apply for a Schengen Visa?
Yes, sometimes where you enter the Schengen Area can impact which embassy you apply for a visa from. You need to apply for a visa at the embassy of your first entry point if:
- You’re only visiting one Schengen country. For example, if you’re going to France, apply at the French Consulate, as that’s the only country you’ll visit and your first entry point.
- You’re visiting several Schengen countries, and your stay in each one is the same. If you’re going to France, Germany, and Switzerland, and your time in each country is of similar duration and reason (e.g. for tourism), apply at the consulate of the country you’ll enter first. In this case, it’s France.
However, if you’re visiting multiple Schengen countries, but one is your “main purpose of visit,” apply at that country’s consulate even if it’s not your first entry point.
What Is the “Main Purpose of Visit” for a Schengen Visa Application?
The Main Purpose of a Visit for a Schengen visa application refers to the primary reason or objective for travelling to the Schengen area. It determines the country where the person will spend the most time or where the primary objective of the visit lies. This information is used to determine the primary destination in a multi-destination visit when applying for a Schengen visa.
For example, if a person is visiting multiple Schengen countries, but the main purpose of the visit is to attend a conference in France, the primary destination is France, and the visa must be applied for at the French consulate.
Note: It is important to note that the above rules are just general guidelines, and the final decision on where to apply for a visa lies with the Consulate. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for the country you plan to visit and to follow the instructions provided by the Consulate.
Difference Between First Point of Entry and Main Purpose of Visit
This is the difference between the first point of entry and the main purpose of the visit when applying for a Schengen visa:
| First Point of Entry | Main Purpose of Visit |
| The first country that a person intends to enter upon arrival in the Schengen area | The main reason or objective for a visit to the Schengen area |
| Determines the country where the person will first cross the external borders of the Schengen area and will be subject to border control | Determines the country where the person will spend the most time or where the primary objective of the visit lies |
| Used to determine where to apply for a Schengen visa if you will visit only one Schengen country or multiple Schengen countries equally. | Used to determine where to apply for a Schengen visa if you plan to visit multiple Schengen Area countries.
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Can I Change My First Point Of Entry After Obtaining My Schengen Visa?
Yes, you can change your first point of entry after getting your visa. Technically, you can enter any Schengen country with a visa issued by any other Schengen country. But, you should still visit the visa-issuing country during your trip, and/or you may be asked to explain the change at the border check. It will depend on the border control officer whether you will be allowed to enter. So, you should avoid major changes to your itinerary after receiving a Schengen visa.
What Documents Do I Need To Show at The First Point of Entry in the Schengen Area?
You’ll need to present your passport, Schengen visa, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means to cover your stay. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip’s purpose and schedule.
Can My Schengen Visa Be Denied at The First Point of Entry Even If I Have a Valid Visa?
Although rare, border officials can deny entry even with a valid visa. They may do so if they believe your circumstances or intentions have changed or if you pose a security risk. Make sure to carry all necessary documents and be prepared to answer any questions about your trip.