Processing time, validity, and entry conditions are different for each Schengen visa category. This page puts every category we cover for Schengen side by side, so you can see what to expect before you apply — for the full category list, documents, and photo specification, see our Schengen visa guide.
| Category | Processing Time | Validity | Entries | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C) | Standard EU rule: up to 15 calendar days, extendable to 30-45 in some cases — apply well ahead of travel | Typically issued matching your travel dates; repeat, well-documented applicants may be granted longer multi-entry validity over time | Single, double, or multiple entry as granted | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period, across the whole Schengen Area |
| Schengen Business Visa (Type C) | Standard EU rule: up to 15 calendar days, extendable in some cases | Typically matches travel dates; frequent business travellers may be granted longer multi-entry validity | Single, double, or multiple entry as granted | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period |
| Schengen Family Visit Visa (Type C) | Standard EU rule: up to 15 calendar days | Typically matches travel dates | Single, double, or multiple entry as granted | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period |
| Schengen Medical Visa (Type C) | Apply as soon as treatment is confirmed — standard EU rule is up to 15 calendar days | Matches the confirmed treatment period | Single or multiple entry as granted | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period, matching the treatment plan |
| Schengen Airport Transit Visa (Type A) | Standard EU rule: up to 15 calendar days | As granted, for the transit journey | Single or double, per itinerary | Airport Transit: international transit area only, no Schengen entry |
| Schengen Visa for Short Courses | Standard EU rule: up to 15 calendar days | Matches the course duration | As granted | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period |
What Actually Causes Delays
Processing time is mostly set by the destination's own consular workload, not by us — but the delays that ARE avoidable usually come from the same handful of issues: an incomplete document set for the specific category, a photo that doesn't meet specification, inconsistent details between the form and supporting documents, or applying too close to the travel date to allow for normal processing. We check all of these before your Schengen application is submitted, so the only variable left is the consulate's own timeline.
How Visa Expertz Helps
We confirm the current processing expectations for your specific Schengen category and travel date, and make sure your application has everything it needs the first time. Start with our Schengen Visa page, or read the full Schengen visa guide.
Important: Processing times depend on Schengen's current rules and consular workload and can change — always confirm before booking non-refundable travel. No genuine agent can guarantee a specific turnaround.
Looking for a different destination? See our full country directory — visa assistance for 50+ countries from India.