Schengen visas will continue to be a requirement for UAE residents travelling to Europe in 2026, as international travel demand from the country shows sustained growth.
Authorities and service providers are urging applicants to plan early, citing appointment availability and processing timelines across destinations.
In an exclusive interview with Lana, Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head – UAE at VFS Global, outlined key guidance on application timelines, documentation requirements, processing procedures, refusal reasons, and common applicant errors.
When can I apply for a Schengen visa in 2026?
“Travellers can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months prior to their intended date of travel,” Billimoria advised.
“Schengen countries remain popular among travellers from the UAE, and we highly recommend customers start their visa processes at the earliest.”
In 2025 alone, VFS Global has recorded an increase in applications, Billimoria said, adding that a 9 per cent demand was noted compared to the previous year.
“We expect this year to be no different,” she explained.
In the UAE, demand for appointments typically rises when application windows open, especially during school holidays and peak travel periods.
Which Schengen country should I apply to?
Applicants must submit their visa application to the correct Schengen country based on their itinerary. Schengen rules require travellers to apply to the country that is their main destination.
“This can be either the country where you will be spending the maximum number of nights, or if you are staying an equal number of nights in multiple countries, it needs to be your first point of entry,” she said.
Submitting an application to the wrong country may result in delays or refusal, making itinerary planning an essential step before booking a visa appointment.
“Travellers always do this for hotels and flights, so why not visas?”
Documents required for UAE residents
Documentation requirements for Schengen visas vary depending on the destination country and visa category. Billimoria advised applicants to consult the official document checklist for each country, which is available on the VFS Global website.
These checklists outline mandatory and supporting documents and are updated based on embassy requirements.
Travel insurance
When it comes to travel insurance, the requirements also vary depending on the reason for travel and the visa category, according to Billimoria.
Applicants can review the specific requirements listed on the VFS Global website before submitting their application, as coverage amounts and policy conditions differ by country.
Proof of funds and bank statements
Questions around financial proof are common among applicants. However, VFS Global does not provide guidance on financial thresholds or documentation formats.
“VFS Global handles only the administrative tasks related to the visa application process and cannot comment on specific documents or requirements for a visa application process,” Billimoria said.
Applicants should refer to the document checklist of the country they are applying to for details on proof of funds and bank statement requirements.
Documentation for self-employed applicants, freelancers, and those sponsored by another individual varies by country and visa type.
“We recommend applicants check the documentation checklist before they submit their application in order to note any particular requirements for their respective visa application,” she added.
Processing times and passport submission
“The processing timelines vary between the Schengen countries and are also dependent on the visa category that has been applied for,” Billimoria explained, adding that applicants are required to submit their passports during the process.
“The passport needs to be submitted to the Embassy or Consulate till a decision is made on the application,” she confirmed.
Applicants should also factor this into their travel planning, especially if their passport is required for other travel during the processing period.
I’ve submitted all my documents, but my Schengen Visa was refused. Why?
VFS Global does not play any role in decision-making for visa applications, Billimoria said, adding that the organisation handles administrative processes only.
“Decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the respective Embassy/Consulate so we cannot comment on reasons for refusals. In fact, VFS Global staff are not even privy to decisions made on visa applications, as these come in sealed envelopes to be handed over to the applicant. We do not have any control or oversight on this process.
“We strongly advise travellers to ensure they have all the required documentation in line with the destination country’s checklist, to avoid any issues with their application. For UAE residents, we also recommend you check that your UAE residency visa is valid for at least 6 months ahead of your date of travel,” she added.
What to do if a visa is refused
In the event of a refusal, applicants are provided with information on next steps directly by the Embassy or Consulate.
“In the event of a refusal, an appeal process, where applicable, is detailed out in the refusal letter, along with the reason for refusal,” Billimoria said.
Applicants may choose to appeal or submit a new application. “Applicants who don’t wish to appeal also have the choice to submit a fresh new application immediately,” she added.
Billimoria also urged travellers torely only on official channels when booking visa appointments.
“We urge applicants to beware of fraudulent entities promising early appointments or guaranteed visas for an additional cost,” Billimoria said.
“We see a rise in these complaints especially during peak travel season. Appointments, processing timelines and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the respective Embassies/Consulates, and appointments are only available on the website at no additional charge,” she said.
Despite the process, Billimoria said planning ahead remains the key recommendation for 2026 travel. “Travellers always do this for hotels and flights, so why not visas?”
She advised applicants to ensure they are applying to the correct country and submitting complete documentation to avoid delays or refusal.
