One common question that arises for travellers is, “How long after a Schengen visa expires can you reapply?” Here you will find comprehensive information about flight reservations for Schengen visa, documents submission and the reapplication process.
In this article, we will provide you with the necessary details to understand the timeline for reapplying for a Schengen visa after its expiration.
Schengen Visa 90/180 Day Rule Guide
Before moving on to the guidelines for reapplying for a Schengen visa, we will explain the 90/180-day rule. You should rigorously adhere to the 90/180-day rule, as the Schengen government also does. In addition, they follow the 90/180-day rule when reviewing visa applications for reapplying for the Schengen visa.
Here’s How The 90/180 Day Rule Works
When you enter the Schengen Area, the countdown for your stay begins. You can stay for up to 90 days within any consecutive 180-day period. It is important to note that these 90 days do not need to be continuous; they can be spread out over the 180-day period.
However, the 180-day period is not fixed to a specific calendar year or any other specific timeframe. Instead, it is a rolling window that moves forward day by day. For example, if you enter the Schengen Area on January 1st, the 180-day period will be calculated from January 1st to June 29th. Any subsequent day will shift the window accordingly.
Also Read: Things You Should Not Miss When Travelling In 2023
In order to determine the number of days you have spent in the Schengen Area, you need to count all the days, including both the entry and exit days. The Schengen Area does not reset the 90-day clock.
If you leave before reaching the maximum 90-day limit within the 180-day period, the remaining days will still be available for use when you re enter within that same 180-day period.
Important Note: It is mandatory for every applicant to understand and comply with the Schengen Visa 90/180 day rule to avoid overstaying. Violating this rule may result in penalties, deportation, or being banned from entering the Schengen Area in the future.
To ensure compliance, it is advisable to keep track of your entry and exit dates, maintain accurate records, and plan your travels accordingly. If you need to stay in the Schengen Area for longer than the permitted 90 days within 180 days, you may need to explore other visa options or seek legal advice.
Schengen Visa Expiry And Reapplying Procedure
The Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished border controls between them. This means that once you have obtained a Schengen visa, you can freely travel within these countries for the duration of your visa’s validity. However, Schengen visas have an expiration date, typically ranging from a few days to a maximum of three months.
Once your Schengen visa expires, you are no longer authorised to stay in the Schengen Area. It is mandatory for every applicant to respect the visa’s validity and leave the area before the visa expires to avoid any legal complications or entry bans in the future.
If you wish to revisit the Schengen Area after your visa expires, you will need to reapply for a new Schengen visa. The deadline for reapplying depends on several factors, including your previous visa history, submitted documents, and the purpose of your visit.
Let’s examine these factors in greater depth!
Previous Visa History
If you have had a good track record of complying with Schengen visa regulations, such as respecting the visa’s validity and adhering to the permitted duration of stay, you may be eligible to reapply sooner.
Ensure that you book a dummy flight ticket for Schengen visa in advance even if you are re-applying for the visa. But if you have a history of overstaying your previous Schengen visa or violating its terms, it may affect your chances of obtaining a new visa.
Purpose Of Your Visit
The purpose of your visit to the Schengen Area plays a significant role in determining the timeline for reapplying. Different visa types have varying rules and requirements.
For example, if you had a tourist visa and wish to reapply for another tourist visa, you might be required to wait for a certain period, typically 90 days, before reapplying. This waiting period allows for a reasonable gap between your visits to the Schengen Area.
On the other hand, if you have a valid reason for another visit, such as business, studies, or family emergency, you may be able to reapply sooner, provided you can provide the necessary supporting documents.
Steps To Follow To Reapply For A Schengen Visa
- Check the consulate or embassy website: Visit the official website of the consulate or embassy responsible for processing visa applications in your country of residence. Familiarise yourself with their specific requirements and procedures.
- Gather the required documents: Prepare all the necessary documents, such as a completed application form, a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, financial means, and a dummy ticket for Schengen visa.
- Schedule an appointment: Follow the instructions provided by the consulate or embassy to schedule an appointment for submitting your application and attending an interview if required.
- Attend the appointment: Arrive on time for your appointment, submit your application, pay the required fees, and provide any additional information or supporting documents requested by the consulate or embassy.
- Wait for the decision: After submitting your application, the consulate or embassy will process it and make a decision. The processing time can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.