The Schengen Area Member States

The holder of this type of visa is not required to have the citizenship of the designated country in order to spend time with their relatives or visit the designated Schengen country. However, such an authorization has its limitations as well.

Tourists are allowed to reside in the designated country for a maximum of 3 months/90 days, unless the visa states differently. You are not allowed to work during this period unless otherwise specified on the visa.

Tourist Visa (Visiting Friends or Relatives)

  • Bank Statement: Preferably for the last 6 months.
  • Affidavit of Support: If the applicant does not have a bank account, relatives need to sign an “official affidavit of support” at the corresponding office in their place of residence. The original document should be carried when applying for the visa.
  • Trip Description: A letter describing the purpose of travel, travel dates, and personal details.
  • Income Tax Returns: For the last three years.
  • Appointment Letter
  • Proof of Legal Entity: If employed by a company, include the company’s registration details.
  • Reference Letter: From the employer.
  • Business Owners: Include business registration, tax returns, and latest bank statement.
  • Flight Ticket Reservation: It is recommended to book tickets after the visa is granted.
  • Other Documents: As specified by the visa subtype.

Visiting Relatives/Friends

  • If the applicant is covering all travel expenses, proof of financial status is required.
  • If expenses are covered by a friend or relative:
    • A formal document issued by competent authorities must be submitted by the resident in the Schengen country.
    • A formal invitation by the friend/relative residing in a Schengen country.
  • If the applicant is self-funded:
    • Friend/relative’s name, address, and passport copy must be provided.
    • If the friend/relative is not a citizen of the Schengen country, a copy of their residency permit is also required.

Tourist Travel (No Visit to Relatives/Friends)

  • Bank Statement: Preferably for the last 6 months.
  • Travel Itinerary: Include detailed plans, hotel reservations, or a formal invitation letter by a resident of a Schengen country.
  • Additional Documentation: Depending on the embassy/consulate, additional documents may be required such as:
    • Certificate of no legal issues or pending criminal records.
    • Documents must be submitted in person at the appointment.
    • The consulate/embassy officer will inform you if further documentation is needed and its nature.

Why Choose Cosmos Visa for Your Schengen Visa Application

  • Registered immigration consultancy based in Abu Dhabi for over a decade, serving applicants across the UAE.
  • Direct access to licensed consultants in destination countries through our partner network — RCIC for Canada, MARA for Australia, OISC for the UK.
  • Free initial eligibility assessment so you know whether to invest your time and fees before you commit.
  • Document preparation, application filing, and post-decision support are all included in our service.
  • Consultations available in person at our Abu Dhabi office or via video call for applicants outside Abu Dhabi.

How the Schengen Visa Application Process Works

  1. Book a free eligibility check with our Abu Dhabi team on +971 2 645 8723, by WhatsApp, or by submitting the assessment form below.
  2. Submit the requested documents through our secure intake — we verify completeness and flag anything missing before filing.
  3. We prepare and file your application with the destination country's immigration authority and handle any clarifications they request.
  4. Track progress with your consultant until decision, and receive guidance on post-approval steps like landing, biometrics, or appeals if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Schengen Visa application typically take?

Processing times vary by category and destination. Most Schengen Visa applications take between three and twelve months from the date of complete submission. We give a specific estimate during your initial consultation based on your profile, current immigration backlogs, and the route you choose.

Can I apply for a Schengen Visa while living in the UAE?

Yes. Cosmos Visa is built to assist applicants living in the UAE — particularly Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Northern Emirates. The majority of applications can be submitted from the UAE without requiring you to leave the country during processing.

What documents will I need to start the Schengen Visa process?

Common requirements include a valid passport, educational and professional certificates, employment records, an English-language test result (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent), and proof of funds. The specific list depends on the visa category — your consultant provides a personalized checklist after the assessment.

How do I reach Cosmos Visa to begin?

Call our Abu Dhabi office on +971 2 645 8723, message us on WhatsApp at the same number, or fill in the assessment form on this page. Enquiries are answered within one business day, and consultations are free of charge.

Speak to a consultant about your Schengen Visa options today. Call our Abu Dhabi office on +971 2 645 8723 or scroll down to the assessment form to start with a free eligibility check.

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