Which country should I apply to?
Apply to the member state where you will stay the longest. If you split your stay equally, apply to the country you enter first. Applying to a "easy" country that is not your main destination is a common reason for refusal.
Core documents
- Passport valid at least 3 months after your planned departure from the Schengen area, with two blank pages and issued within the last 10 years.
- Completed and signed application form and recent photographs that meet ICAO specifications.
- Travel medical insurance valid across the Schengen area with minimum cover of EUR 30,000.
- Round-trip flight reservation and day-by-day itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation for the entire stay (hotel bookings or an invitation with host documents).
- Bank statements (typically the last 6 months), salary slips or business proof such as NTN and company registration.
- Employment letter with approved leave, or student/business documents showing ties to Pakistan.
- CNIC, family registration certificate and, where relevant, previous visas.
Fee and timeline
The standard Schengen visa fee for adults is EUR 90 (reduced for children), plus service fees charged by visa application centres. Standard processing is up to 15 calendar days and may extend to 30 or 45 days in complex cases. Apply up to 6 months and no later than 15 days before travel; during peak season (April–August) book the appointment as early as possible.
Why Schengen files get refused
- Unclear purpose of travel or an unrealistic itinerary.
- Insufficient or suspiciously large last-minute deposits in the bank account.
- Weak ties to Pakistan: no job letter, no business proof, no family responsibilities shown.
- Inconsistent information between the form, bookings and supporting documents.
How KPK Travel helps
Our Islamabad team audits your financial and travel documents, prepares the cover letter and itinerary, books refundable flight and hotel reservations for the application, and guides you through the appointment. We do not guarantee approval — the consulate decides.
FAQs
How long is a Schengen visa valid for Pakistanis?
Validity depends on the consulate: it can be single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry, but you can stay at most 90 days in any 180-day period.
Can I apply for Schengen with a last-minute bank deposit?
A sudden large deposit shortly before applying is a well-known refusal trigger. Consulates look for consistent balances and transaction history over several months.
Do I need to buy the flight ticket before applying?
No. Most consulates accept a flight reservation. Avoid paying for non-refundable tickets until the visa is granted.