Planning a trip to Europe this year? You’ll need a Schengen Visa — an official permit that allows you to enter 29 European countries with a single application. This article explains the latest 2025 requirements, visa fees, application process, and interview tips to help ensure your visa gets approved without issues.
What Is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which consists of most European countries. With a single visa, you can move between Schengen countries without additional border immigration checks.
As of 2025, the Schengen Area covers 29 countries including France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Norway, Finland, and more.
Types of Schengen Visa
- Type C (Short Stay): For short trips up to 90 days within 180 days — usually for tourism or business.
- Type A (Transit): For travelers transiting through a Schengen airport.
- Type D (Long Stay): For long-term stays such as study, work, or family reunification.
Schengen Visa Requirements 2025
Here are the mandatory documents you need to prepare before applying:
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months after return date).
- Schengen visa application form (online or printed from the embassy’s website).
- Passport photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background, recent).
- Financial proof (bank statements for last 3 months, employment letter, payslips, or sponsor letter).
- Accommodation proof (hotel reservation or invitation letter).
- Round-trip flight ticket or complete travel itinerary.
- Travel insurance with minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 valid across the Schengen Area.
- Employment certificate or business license (for employees or entrepreneurs).
- Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends in Europe).
Ensure all documents are in English or accompanied by a sworn translation if originally in Indonesian.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa 2025 (Step-by-Step)
- Determine your main destination (the country where you will stay the longest or your primary purpose).
- Fill in the online application form according to the target country’s system (e.g., via VFS).
- Prepare complete documents including photocopies.
- Visit the visa application center for document submission and biometrics (fingerprints & photo).
- Attend the interview (if required) by the embassy.
- Wait for the result — typically 10–21 working days.
Processing Time & Validity
- Processing time: 15–30 working days (depending on season and destination country).
- Visa validity: usually 90 days within 180 days.
- Multiple entry: available for travelers with good travel history.
Schengen Visa Interview Tips
- Arrive on time and dress appropriately.
- Answer honestly — do not exaggerate your purpose of travel.
- Provide a clear itinerary (dates, cities, and reasons for visiting).
- Prepare financial proof — show sufficient funds.
- Show intent to return to Indonesia — provide proof of job, family, or assets.
- Practice short interview questions to boost confidence.
Schengen Countries (2025 Update)
Here are the 29 countries included in the Schengen Area:
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
Money-Saving Tips for Schengen Visa
- Apply at least 2 months before departure to avoid express fees.
- Compare travel insurance prices online for the best value.
- Create a realistic travel itinerary — don’t make it overly packed or suspicious.
Conclusion
Getting a Schengen Visa in 2025 is now easier with digital systems such as Visaloka and transparent guidelines. Prepare your documents neatly, answer honestly during the interview, and rely on official sources. With the right preparation, you can explore the beauty of Europe without hassle!