Fee snapshot
Government fee
USD 95–105
Service / VAC
USD 30–45
Biometrics
Included / N/A
Who pays more, who pays less
Pays more: Adults aged 12+ from most third countries pay the EUR 90 standard fee (raised from EUR 80 in June 2024). Nationals of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Russia and several others still pay EUR 35 under remaining visa facilitation agreements.
Pays less: Children aged 6–11 pay EUR 45; under 6 are exempt. Researchers, students on school trips and close relatives of EU citizens are also fee-exempt under Articles 16(4) and 16(5).
Payment, premium options & refunds
Cash or card at the VAC on submission; some consulates require payment via designated bank deposit slip in advance.
Refund policy: Visa fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome; service fees are non-refundable once the appointment is attended.
Common cost mistakes
- Confusing the application fee with the issuance fee — some countries charge both
- Paying a third-party agent's mark-up without realising the official fee is fixed
- Forgetting that biometrics and IHS / insurance are paid upfront, not after approval
Travel insurance for this trip
Many Schengen visa applicants are required to provide travel medical insurance that meets Schengen coverage requirements (minimum €30,000 medical coverage, valid across all member states). Verify the latest requirements through official government sources before applying.
Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance
Travel insurance may help cover medical emergencies, trip interruptions, lost baggage, and other unexpected travel expenses while abroad.
- Medical emergencies
- Trip interruption
- Lost baggage
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Schengen Area Short-Stay Visa (Type C) cost in 2026?⌄
The government fee is USD 95–105, plus USD 30–45 in service / VAC charges.
Is the Short-Stay Visa (Type C) fee refundable if refused?⌄
Visa fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome; service fees are non-refundable once the appointment is attended.
Who pays more for this visa?⌄
Adults aged 12+ from most third countries pay the EUR 90 standard fee (raised from EUR 80 in June 2024). Nationals of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Russia and several others still pay EUR 35 under remaining visa facilitation agreements.
Who pays less or is exempt?⌄
Children aged 6–11 pay EUR 45; under 6 are exempt. Researchers, students on school trips and close relatives of EU citizens are also fee-exempt under Articles 16(4) and 16(5).
What are the hidden costs?⌄
VFS Global / TLScontact / BLS service fee (EUR 25–40 per applicant) Schengen-compliant travel insurance (EUR 30,000 medical cover) — USD 20–60 depending on length Courier / SMS / premium lounge add-ons that VACs upsell at checkout Photo to ICAO 2005 spec (USD 5–10)
How is the fee paid?⌄
Cash or card at the VAC on submission; some consulates require payment via designated bank deposit slip in advance.
Can I pay extra to speed up?⌄
No official premium service exists for this visa. Beware of third-party agents claiming guaranteed expedited processing.