Travel SCHENGEN

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows its holder to travel to any of the 27 Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within 180 days.

The Schengen Area comprises 27: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Our Travel Schengen insurance covers all these countries and more and proves you have travel health insurance. This is one of the requirements when applying for a Schengen visa. 

When applying for a Schengen visa, you need a complete set of documents, including:

• A completed visa application form

• A valid passport

• Two recent photos

• Proof of travel and health insurance (like GIG Gulf's Travel Schengen insurance)

• Proof of accommodation (like hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host)

• A round-trip reservation or itinerary

• Proof of financial means (like bank statements, proof of income)

The exact requirements may vary depending on the specific Schengen country you are planning to visit first.

1. Application Timing: Apply for your visa at least 15 days before your planned departure date, but not more than 6 months in advance.

2. First Point of Entry: Apply for your Schengen visa from the consulate or embassy of the country you plan to visit first.

3. Visa Type: Make sure to apply for the correct visa type based on your travel purpose (tourism, business, studying, etc.).

Remember always to check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate from which you are applying, as they may have specific rules or guidelines.

In the UAE, this process is managed by VFS.Global. You can apply for a visa by visiting one of the Visa Application Centres in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. You can book an appointment here. For an extra cost, there is also a facility for getting someone to come to your home or office to complete the application. You should be aware that the visa fee is not reimbursed even if your visa is refused.

Schengen travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Schengen visa. It covers medical emergencies, including emergency medical expenses and emergency medical transportation, during your travel within the Schengen Area.

Our Travel Schengen insurance covers emergency medical expenses up to EUR 40,000, emergency dental care up to EUR 750, and emergency medical transportation up to EUR 30,000.

Yes, all Schengen countries require travel insurance that covers at least €30,000 in medical costs, including repatriation due to illness or death. GIG Gulf's Travel Schengen insurance exceeds this requirement, offering coverage for emergency medical expenses up to €40,000.

No, UAE citizens do not need a Schengen visa to travel to Schengen Area countries for stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. This allows for hassle-free travel and business opportunities.

No, UAE citizens can stay visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within 180 days. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a national visa for the specific Schengen country you intend to stay in.

Absolutely. While a Schengen visa isn't required for UAE citizens, travel insurance is highly recommended. Travel insurance, like our Travel Smart insurance, can cover medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more. It gives you peace of mind knowing you're protected during your travels.

Yes! If you're travelling with your family, children aged 16 and under qualify for Travel Schengen insurance at half the price. This makes it even more affordable for families.

Absolutely! With GIG Gulf, you can generate a personalised quote, launch, and track a claim – all online. It's travel insurance made easy.

Yes, our Travel Schengen insurance extends coverage to the entire European Union, not just the Schengen Area.

If you frequently travel to Europe, consider GIG Gulf’s multi-trip coverage covering all your trips over a year.

While a Schengen visa allows you to travel to Schengen Area countries, it does not guarantee entry. Immigration officials at the port of entry have the final say on whether you can enter.

You can't generally extend a Schengen visa except in special circumstances, such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or late entry.

Overstaying your Schengen visa can lead to penalties, including fines, deportation, and entry bans. It's important to adhere to the duration of stay specified in your visa to avoid these issues.

Remember, the above information serves as a general guide. Always refer to the guidelines provided by the embassy or consulate from which you apply.