Application Tip

Understanding Different Types of Visas: Which One Do You Need?

If you’re traveling to Europe and need to enter the Schengen Area from a country without a visa-free travel arrangement, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa. Schengen visas come in four main types: A, B, C, and D.

Schengen Visa Categories

  1. Type A Schengen Visa (Airport Transit Visa)
    • Purpose: Allows travelers from non-Schengen countries to transit through the international zone of an airport in a Schengen country without entering the Schengen Area.
    • Use: For those connecting flights in a Schengen country while traveling from one non-Schengen country to another.
  2. Type B Schengen Visa
    • Note: This visa type, which was for journeys lasting fewer than five days, has been replaced by the Type C visa with a transit condition.
  3. Type C Schengen Visa (Short Stay Visa)
    • Purpose: The most common visa, it allows stays or travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
    • Types:
      • Single-Entry Visa: Allows one entry into the Schengen Area. Any exit invalidates the visa, even if the validity period hasn’t expired.
      • Double-Entry Visa: Permits two entries into the Schengen Area. The visa expires after the second exit.
      • Multiple-Entry Visa: Allows multiple entries and exits within a 90-day period over any 180 days.
  4. Type D Schengen Visa (National Long-Stay Visa)
    • Purpose: For stays longer than 90 days and up to one year, for purposes such as study, work, or family reasons.
    • Travel: Allows travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period during the visa’s validity.
    • Issuance: Granted by the consular authorities of the intended Schengen country according to national legislation.

Types of Multiple-Entry Visas

  1. One-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa
    • Eligibility: Granted to applicants who have used three visas within the previous two years. Allows 90 days of stay in each 180-day period.
  2. Three-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa
    • Eligibility: For those who have lawfully used a one-year multiple-entry visa within the previous two years. The 90/180 rule applies.
  3. Five-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa
    • Eligibility: For applicants who have used a two-year multiple-entry visa over the past three years. The 90/180 rule applies.

The 90/180 Schengen Visa Rule

This rule stipulates that within any 180-day period, a visa holder can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days. This period is rolling, so you must count back 180 days from any planned re-entry date to ensure compliance.

Limited Territorial Visa

This visa allows travel only within a specific Schengen country, usually issued under special or emergency circumstances when a standard visa is not obtainable.

How AXA Can Help

AXA offers travel and medical insurance starting from €22 per week, with certificates available immediately to support your visa application. AXA policies are accepted by all Schengen Area embassies and consulates.

By understanding these visa types and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a smooth application process and enjoy your travels within the Schengen Area.

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