Schengen Visa from the USA: Complete Guide for US Citizens, Green Card Holders & Non-US Residents (2025)
Traveling to Europe from the USA is a common plan for many, whether for tourism, business, or family visits. While US citizens enjoy visa-free travel to Schengen countries for short stays, green card holders and non-US citizens living in the USA often need a Schengen visa. This guide provides detailed information on how to apply for a Schengen visa from the USA, covering requirements, processing times, fees, and essential tips for green card holders, Indian citizens, and other non-US residents.
Do US Citizens Need a Schengen Visa to Travel to Europe?
US citizens holding a valid US passport do not need a Schengen visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. However, starting in 2025, US travelers must obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval before traveling to Europe.
Key Points for US Citizens:
- No Schengen visa required for stays under 90 days.
- ETIAS authorization mandatory from 2025.
- For stays longer than 90 days, a national visa of the respective Schengen country is required.
Starting in 2025, US citizens will be required to obtain ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval before entering the Schengen Zone. ETIAS is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization similar to the US ESTA system. The application process will be completed online, and once approved, the authorization will be valid for three years or until the passport expires. This requirement applies to all visa-exempt travelers, including US citizens.
For longer stays exceeding 90 days, US citizens must apply for a national visa or residence permit from the respective Schengen country where they intend to stay. Overstaying the permitted period without the proper authorization can result in fines, deportation, or future travel bans within the Schengen Area. Travelers planning multiple short trips should carefully track their days to ensure they remain compliant with Schengen immigration regulations.
Schengen Visa for Green Card Holders: Who Needs It?
Holding a US green card does not automatically grant visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Whether a Schengen visa is required depends on the passport the traveler holds, not their US residency status. Green card holders who are citizens of countries that require a Schengen visa must apply for one before traveling to Europe, even if they have legal permanent residency in the United States.
Citizens of visa-exempt countries, such as Canada, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and the UK, do not need a Schengen visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, green card holders with passports from countries like India, China, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Pakistan must apply for a Schengen visa before entering the Schengen Zone.
A Schengen visa issued in the USA allows a green card holder to visit any of the 27 Schengen countries for short-term travel, such as tourism, business, or family visits. However, if a green card holder intends to work, study, or stay in Europe for more than 90 days, they must apply for a national visa from the specific Schengen country where they plan to stay.
Green card holders applying for a Schengen visa must prove their residency in the USA by providing a valid US green card or long-term visa. Their residence permit must be valid for at least three months beyond their intended return date from the Schengen Area. Additionally, they must apply through the consulate of the country they plan to visit or, if visiting multiple Schengen countries, the embassy of the country where they will spend the most time.
Despite holding a US green card, the visa application process, fees, and required documents remain the same as for other non-US nationals applying for a Schengen visa. Green card holders should apply well in advance, as processing times typically range from 10 to 15 working days, depending on the embassy and travel season.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from the USA
Applying for a Schengen visa from the USA involves several steps, including gathering the required documents, scheduling an appointment, and submitting an application at the appropriate embassy or consulate. The process is the same for green card holders and non-US citizens residing in the USA who require a Schengen visa to travel to Europe.
1. Determine the Correct Embassy or Consulate
The Schengen visa application must be submitted to the consulate or visa processing center of the main destination country. If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. If the time spent in each country is equal, apply at the embassy of the first country you will enter.
2. Gather Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed Schengen visa application form, filled out online or on paper.
- Valid passport, issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended return date.
- US green card or long-term US visa (H1B, L1, F1, etc.), valid for at least 3 months beyond the return date.
- Two recent passport-sized photos that meet Schengen visa photo specifications.
- Travel itinerary, including round-trip flight reservations and accommodation bookings.
- Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, pay stubs, or an employment letter, to show sufficient funds for the trip.
- Schengen-compliant travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Letter stating the purpose of travel, whether for tourism, business, visiting family, or attending an event.
- Proof of employment or student status, such as a work contract, employer letter, or student enrollment certificate.
3. Schedule an Appointment at the Consulate or VFS Global
Visa applications must be submitted in person at the consulate or an official visa processing center like VFS Global. Appointments can be scheduled online through the respective embassy’s website or via VFS Global for countries that outsource visa applications.
4. Attend the Visa Appointment and Submit Biometric Data
Applicants must visit the designated visa center or consulate to:
- Submit their completed application and supporting documents.
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) if they have not done so in the last 59 months.
- Pay the Schengen visa fee, which varies by applicant category.
5. Wait for Processing and Track Your Application
Schengen visa applications from the USA typically take 10–15 working days for standard processing. Some embassies offer express processing, which reduces wait times to 5–7 working days. Applicants can track their application status through VFS Global or the consulate’s visa tracking system.
6. Collect Your Passport and Schengen Visa
Once the application is processed, applicants will receive a passport with the Schengen visa stamp. It can be picked up in person or delivered by courier service if selected during the application process.
To increase the chances of visa approval, applicants should ensure all documents are accurate, provide proof of strong ties to the USA, and apply at least 4 weeks before travel to avoid delays.
Schengen Visa Requirements for Non-US Citizens Living in the USA
Non-US citizens residing in the United States who hold a valid US visa or green card must apply for a Schengen visa before traveling to Europe if their nationality is not exempt from Schengen visa requirements. The visa application process is similar for Indian passport holders, Chinese nationals, and other foreign residents in the USA, but specific requirements vary based on their immigration status, visa type, and embassy regulations.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
Non-US citizens residing in the USA need a Schengen visa if they:
- Hold a passport from a country that is not visa-exempt for Schengen travel (e.g., India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan).
- Are green card holders but are nationals of a country that requires a visa for Europe.
- Have a temporary US visa (H1B, L1, F1, J1, etc.) and plan to travel to the Schengen Area.
Who Does Not Need a Schengen Visa?
Non-US citizens do not need a Schengen visa if they:
- Hold a passport from a visa-exempt country (e.g., Canada, Japan, Australia, South Korea).
- Have dual citizenship, including a passport from a Schengen visa-free country.
Required Documents for Non-US Citizens Applying from the USA
Applicants must submit the following documents when applying for a Schengen visa from the USA:
- Completed Schengen visa application form, signed and dated.
- Valid passport, issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond the return date.
- US residence permit or valid visa (H1B, F1, L1, J1, etc.), which must be valid for at least 3 months after returning from Europe.
- Two passport-sized photos that meet Schengen visa requirements.
- Travel itinerary, including round-trip flight reservations and hotel bookings.
- Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements, pay slips, or a letter from the employer confirming financial stability.
- Travel insurance covering a minimum of €30,000, required for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Letter explaining the purpose of travel, whether for tourism, visiting family, or attending a business event.
- Proof of employment, student status, or business ownership in the USA.
- Marriage or family-related documents (if traveling with a spouse or children).
Schengen Visa Application Process for Non-US Citizens in the USA
- Determine the correct embassy: Apply at the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time.
- Book an appointment: Schedule an interview at the embassy or VFS Global visa center.
- Submit documents in person: Provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph).
- Pay the visa fee: Visa processing fees are €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-11.
- Track the visa status: Most applications are processed in 10–15 working days, but delays may occur.
Final Considerations
- Applicants must ensure their US visa or green card is valid beyond their Schengen travel dates.
- Schengen embassies in the USA may require additional documents depending on the applicant’s nationality.
- Processing times may be longer for applicants with temporary US visas (e.g., F1, J1) due to stricter scrutiny.
To avoid visa rejection, applicants should submit accurate and complete documentation and apply at least four weeks before travel to allow for processing time.
Processing Time: How Long Does It Take to Get a Schengen Visa from the USA?
The Schengen visa processing time from the USA typically ranges from 10 to 15 working days, depending on the embassy, nationality of the applicant, and time of year. However, some applications may take longer due to incomplete documents, additional security checks, or seasonal demand.
Average Processing Times for Schengen Visa Applications in the USA
| Visa Processing Stage | Estimated Time |
| Appointment Availability | 1–4 weeks |
| Standard Visa Processing | 10–15 working days |
| Expedited Visa Processing (if available) | 5–7 working days |
| Delays Due to Additional Review | 3–4 weeks |
Processing time begins after the application and biometric data are submitted at the consulate or VFS Global center. Some consulates may offer fast-track processing for an additional fee, reducing wait times to 5–7 working days, but this option is not available for all Schengen countries.
Factors That Affect Schengen Visa Processing Time in the USA
Several factors influence how long it takes to obtain a Schengen visa:
- Embassy Workload – Popular embassies like France, Spain, and Italy often experience delays, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Nationality of the Applicant – Citizens from high-risk countries may face extended background checks, increasing processing time.
- Travel Season – Applications submitted before summer holidays (May–July) and Christmas (November–December) may take longer due to high demand.
- Completeness of the Application – Missing documents or incorrect information can delay processing or lead to visa rejection.
- Previous Visa Rejections – If the applicant has a history of Schengen visa refusals, additional security checks may be required.
How to Track Your Schengen Visa Application from the USA
Once submitted, applicants can track their Schengen visa application via:
- VFS Global tracking tool (if the visa is processed through VFS)
- The embassy’s online tracking system
- Email or SMS notifications (if selected during application submission)
When to Apply for a Schengen Visa from the USA
To avoid delays, applicants should apply at least 4–6 weeks before their travel date. Embassies accept applications up to 6 months in advance of travel.
What to Do If Your Visa Processing Is Delayed?
- Contact the embassy or VFS Global to check the status of the application.
- Verify that no additional documents are required.
- Avoid last-minute changes to your itinerary, as this may require additional verification.
Schengen visa processing times in the USA are generally predictable, but applying well in advance ensures you receive your visa before your travel date.
Schengen Visa Fees & Costs for Applicants in the USA
Applying for a Schengen visa from the USA requires paying a mandatory visa fee, along with potential additional service charges for application processing, biometric collection, and optional services like courier delivery. Fees may vary depending on the applicant’s age, visa type, and the country processing the application.
Standard Schengen Visa Fees (2025)
| Applicant Category | Visa Fee (EUR) | Approximate Cost (USD) |
| Adults (12 years and older) | €80 | $85–$90 |
| Children (6–11 years old) | €40 | $45–$50 |
| Children under 6 years old | Free | Free |
| National Long-Stay Visa | €99+ | Varies by country |
💡 Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected. Fees must be paid at the time of application submission, usually via credit card, debit card, or money order.
Additional Costs for a Schengen Visa from the USA
In addition to the standard visa fee, applicants may incur extra costs for application processing, optional services, and travel insurance:
| Additional Service | Estimated Cost (USD) | Mandatory? |
| VFS Global service fee (if applicable) | $35–$50 | ✅ Yes, for VFS applications |
| Biometric data collection | Included in visa fee | ✅ Yes |
| Passport courier return | $15–$25 | ❌ Optional |
| SMS or email updates | $2–$5 | ❌ Optional |
| Premium lounge access | $50–$70 | ❌ Optional |
| Fast-track visa processing (if available) | $30–$100 | ❌ Optional |
Certain consulates process Schengen visa applications directly, while others outsource processing to VFS Global, where an additional service fee applies.
Travel Insurance Costs for Schengen Visa Applicants in the USA
Schengen visa applicants are required to have travel insurance covering at least €30,000 ($32,000 USD) for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
| Insurance Provider | Cost for 7 Days (USD) | Cost for 15 Days (USD) | Cost for 30 Days (USD) |
| AXA Schengen Insurance | $20–$35 | $35–$50 | $50–$70 |
| Allianz Travel Insurance | $25–$40 | $40–$60 | $60–$85 |
| Aviva Travel Insurance | $22–$38 | $38–$55 | $55–$80 |
✅ Schengen travel insurance must be valid for all 27 Schengen countries and cover the entire duration of stay.
Payment Methods and Refund Policy
- Visa fees and additional service charges must be paid at the time of submission, either online or at the visa center.
- Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and money orders. Some consulates may not accept cash.
- Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied or withdrawn.
Total Estimated Cost of a Schengen Visa from the USA
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Schengen visa fee | $85–$90 |
| VFS Global service fee | $35–$50 |
| Travel insurance | $20–$70 |
| Optional courier return | $15–$25 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $140–$230 |
💡 Applying early and ensuring all documents are correct can help avoid additional expenses due to delays or reapplications.
Travel Insurance Requirements for Schengen Visa Applicants in the USA
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for all visa applicants from the USA. Without valid insurance, the visa application will be automatically rejected. The insurance policy must meet specific Schengen visa requirements to be accepted by European embassies and consulates.
Mandatory Schengen Travel Insurance Requirements
A Schengen visa applicant must provide proof of travel insurance that meets the following conditions:
✔ Minimum medical coverage of €30,000 (approximately $32,000 USD) for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
✔ Valid in all 27 Schengen countries, regardless of the primary destination.
✔ Covers the entire duration of stay in the Schengen Area, from arrival to departure.
✔ Includes repatriation for medical emergencies and accidental death.
Best Schengen Travel Insurance Providers in the USA
| Provider | Coverage Amount | 7-Day Plan (USD) | 15-Day Plan (USD) | 30-Day Plan (USD) |
| AXA Schengen Insurance | €100,000+ | $20–$35 | $35–$50 | $50–$70 |
| Allianz Travel Insurance | €50,000+ | $25–$40 | $40–$60 | $60–$85 |
| Aviva Travel Insurance | €30,000+ | $22–$38 | $38–$55 | $55–$80 |
✅ Policies must explicitly state Schengen compliance to be accepted by embassies.
✅ Many insurers offer instant online purchase with a printable policy certificate.
Where to Buy Schengen Travel Insurance?
- Directly from approved insurance providers (AXA, Allianz, Aviva, etc.).
- Through VFS Global (if applying via their visa service center).
- From international travel insurance platforms that specialize in Schengen coverage.
Purchasing Schengen-compliant travel insurance early ensures smooth visa processing and avoids last-minute delays.
Special Visa Considerations for Popular European Destinations
Some Schengen countries have specific visa requirements or longer processing times due to high application volumes. Travelers from the USA should consider which embassy to apply through based on their travel plans and approval rates.
Italy Schengen Visa for Green Card Holders
- Processing time: 10–15 working days
- Approval rate: High, provided documents are complete
- Best for: Applicants with well-documented travel history
France Schengen Visa from the USA
- Processing time: 10–15 working days (fast-track service may be available)
- Best for: First-time travelers applying through VFS Global
Spain Schengen Visa from the USA
- Processing time: 15–20 working days (one of the slowest)
- Best for: Travelers with flexible travel dates, as consulates are often overbooked
Germany Schengen Visa from the USA
- Processing time: 12–15 working days
- Best for: Applicants needing precise visa validity based on travel history
Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia Schengen Visas
- Processing time: 7–10 working days (some of the fastest in the Schengen Zone)
- Best for: Those needing quick approvals with fewer delays
Choosing the right Schengen country to apply through can speed up processing times and increase approval chances, especially for Indian passport holders and non-US nationals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Green Card Holders Need a Schengen Visa to Travel to Europe?
Yes, unless their nationality is visa-exempt. A US green card does not grant automatic entry into the Schengen Zone. Applicants must apply for a Schengen visa through the embassy of their primary destination.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Schengen Visa from the USA?
Standard processing takes 10–15 working days, but some consulates may take up to 20 days. Peak travel seasons (summer, Christmas) may increase wait times.
What Is the Schengen Visa Fee for Applicants in the USA?
- Adults: €80 ($85–$90)
- Children (6–11 years): €40 ($45–$50)
- Children under 6 years: Free
Additional service fees apply if applying through VFS Global.
Can Indian Citizens Apply for a Schengen Visa from the USA?
Yes, Indian passport holders residing in the USA must apply through the appropriate embassy. They need a valid US visa or green card and must meet all Schengen visa requirements.
What Happens If a Schengen Visa Application Is Rejected?
A rejection letter will state the reason. Applicants can:
- Appeal the decision at the respective consulate.
- Submit a new application with additional supporting documents.
- Ensure all required documents are correct and complete before reapplying.
Can I Get a Refund If My Schengen Visa Is Rejected?
No, Schengen visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application outcome.
Applying early and ensuring all documents meet embassy requirements increases the chances of visa approval without delays or rejections.