UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM. International Students Advisory Service. Guide to Applying for a Visa to Travel outside the UK

Transcription

1 UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM International Students Advisory Service Guide to Applying for a Visa to Travel outside the UK International Student Advisory Service International Office, C Block, Aston Webb Building Edgbaston Campus University of Birmingham B15 2TT Tel: P a g e

2 INTRODUCTION TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 VISA 1.1 What is a visa? 1.2 Schengen Visas 1.3 Non-Schengen Visas 1.4 Tips 1.5 Important Visa information 2 SCHENGEN APPLICATIONS 2.1 Austria 2.2 Belgium 2.3 Czech Republic 2.4 Denmark 2.5 Estonia 2.6 Finland 2.7 France 2.8 Germany 2.9 Greece 2.10 Hungary 2.11 Iceland 2.12 Italy 2.13 Latvia 2.14 Lithuania 2.15 Luxembourg 2.16 Malta 2.17 The Netherlands 2.18 Norway 2.19 Poland 2.20 Portugal 2.21 Slovakia 2.22 Slovenia 2.23 Spain 2.24 Sweden 3 OTHER COUNTRIES 3.1 Ireland 3.2 USA 4 FINDING EMBASSY INFORMATION 5 SUPPORTING LETTER 2 P a g e

3 Introduction During your time at the University of Birmingham you may have opportunities to travel which will enhance your experiences of other cultures and your time in the UK. Applying for a visa to travel can seem confusing or difficult, so it is important when applying for a visa that you plan and prepare in advance. This Guide is designed to assist you with the visa application process and will give you some key points you need to consider when applying. The Guide is not a complete list of all the countries in the world, but is a list of the most popular countries students choose to visit during their stay in the UK. Section 4 will show you how to search the web for visa details of any other countries not included in this Guide. Finally, this Guide is for those students who are already in the UK who hold a relevant valid visa. The Guide is NOT intended to provide information on how to apply for, or extend, a Tier 4 Visa For full information on applying for a Tier 4 Visa for the UK you should refer to or the ISAS website at 1 VISAS Due to the fact that an Embassy can change the information on its website at anytime, you are strongly advised to check the Embassy web page prior to submitting your application. We cannot take responsibility for any changes which occur on Embassy websites. 1.1 What is a visa? A visa is a document issued by a country giving you permission to enter the country for a given period of time. Most countries will require you to have a valid visa as a condition of entry. Visas are obtained by prior application at the country's Embassy or Consulate. You will usually be charged a non-refundable fee for making a visa application. Visas are normally stamped or attached into your passport. Visas can be single-entry, which means will be cancelled as soon as you leave the country, or multiple-entry, permitting multiple entries into the country with the same visa. Once issued, a visa will usually have to be used within a certain period of time and the period of validity usually starts only on entry into the country. Overstaying a visa's validity period is considered illegal immigration and you may be fined, deported and even banned from entering the country again. There are two types of visas you can apply for a Schengen visa (see 1.2) and non- Schengen visas (see 1.3). 1.2 Schengen Visas The Schengen visa is for the following European countries: Austria Germany The Netherlands (Holland) Belgium Greece Norway Czech Republic Iceland Poland Denmark Italy Portugal Estonia Latvia Slovakia Finland Lithuania Slovenia France Luxembourg Spain Hungary Malta Sweden 3 P a g e

4 A Schengen visa issued by an Embassy or Consulate of the above countries allows the holder to travel freely in all of these countries. However, if you are travelling to more than one of these countries, you may be required to hold a return ticket for some countries or other proof of onward travel please check the requirements of the country you are applying to before you purchase your return travel ticket. The rules for applying for a Schengen visa are as follows; (a) If you intend to visit ONLY ONE SCHENGEN COUNTRY, you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of that country. (b) If you intend to visit SEVERAL SCHENGEN COUNTRIES WITHOUT HAVING A MAIN DESTINATION, you should apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the first country of entry. (c) If you intend to visit SEVERAL SCHENGEN COUNTRIES, with one country being your MAIN DESTINATION (i.e. you intend to stay in a particular country for more time than the others), then you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country in which your main destination is situated. Your stay is limited to 90 days within any 6 month period. Please check each country s requirements before assuming that you only require a Schengen for your European journey. For example Australians currently require a visa to visit Portugal. Please note: the Schengen Agreement applies only to those specific counties who signed to the Agreement within the EU and EEA the Schengen Agreement is not specific to all European Member countries but only to those listed in Section 1.1. Holders of Schengen visas are still subject to immigration controls and are not guaranteed entry into any of the Schengen countries. 1.3 Non-Schengen Visas If you intend to visit countries which are not listed in Section 1.2 you will be required to apply to each individual country you wish to visit. You should also note that if you are planning a trip which includes one or more countries listed in the Schengen agreement and a country which is not listed in the Schengen agreement you will need to apply to one of the Schengen countries (within the criteria listed in Section 1.2) and also to the Embassy of other country/countries you will be visiting. For example, if you were planning to visit France, Germany, Spain, Ireland and Romania you would have to apply for three visas as follows: (a) (b) (c) A Schengen visa for France, Germany or Spain A tourist visa for Ireland A tourist visa for Romania 1.4 Tips When you telephone an Embassy number you will be charged a minimum amount per minute do not use your mobile as it could be very expensive; If you need an appointment, when telephone for an appointment have your passport with you and a pen and paper; When posting your application never post cash. Always send a Postal Order for the exact amount required; Always buy travel and health insurance whether or not it is required as part of the visa application 4 P a g e

5 If you are booking your accommodation and travel with a Travel Agent take your passport with you to ensure that the names entered in the booking are the same always check spelling; If you wish your passport to be returned to you by post you should include a special delivery prepaid self-addressed envelope with your application; You should normally allow 4-8 weeks for the processing of your application - check the relevant Embassy website for more information 1.5 Important Visa information Providing false information in a Schengen visa application will be taken very seriously by the Embassy and the you will be held responsible for the fraudulent claims; even if someone else completed your form, it is you who signs the form and you are responsible for all information provided in that form. Please do not be tempted to be involved in any type of deception. If you do then your Schengen visa application will be refused and you are putting yourself at risk of being prosecuted. You should also remember that, when applying for a Schengen visa, you must apply either to the embassy of the country where you will be visiting first, or the country where you will be spending the most time. You should not apply to a different embassy because you think your application will be dealt with quicker or more favourably there - this is known as visa shopping and is not approved of by Embassies. Visa shopping may also lead to the refusal of a Schengen visa. The University of Birmingham will not assist you if we believe that you are visa shopping. 5 P a g e

6 Schengen Applications This section shows the Embassy and their requirements for applying for a visa: 2.1 AUSTRIA Visa Appointments : Visa fee Austrian Embassy Visa Department 18 Belgrave Mews West SW1X 8HU Tel: Fax: Web: visa.london-ob@bmeia.gv.at visa.london-ob@bmeia.gv.at Tel (visa section) (In order to access the service you will need a credit card, which will be charged approx. 11 GBP per call ) More than 3 months longer than the visa applied for Two blank pages More than 3 months longer than the visa applied for Yes Download from webpage 2 Passport sized photos Recent showing name and address and a minimum amount of per person each day of stay Confirming status and attendance Reservation of return ticket (ticket should not be bought until visa is guaranteed or issued) Confirmed hotel booking/confirmation of tour Minimum GBP 15,000 to cover period of stay Please click into the web page link Cash/Postal Orders As of 15 December 2011 applicants have the additional option to submit applications at the Visa Application Centers in Manchester and Edinburgh operated by VF Services (UK) Limited. Please note that VF Services (UK) charge an additional service fee (approx. GBP 25), for further information see Opening hours of Visa Department (for appointment holders only) Monday to Friday 9.00 am to am, closed on Austrian Public Holidays/Bank Holidays. Please be aware that you will only be seen with a valid appointment. You must submit original documents together with a copy of each document being submitted. If you are staying with a friend you require an original letter of invitation legalised by a notary public, solicitor or other competent authority and a copy of the Austrian Passport (or national passport containing a valid Austrian residence permit) and proof of sufficient income or funds of the host. 6 P a g e

7 The endorsements of children in valid passports of their parents expire on 15th June Each child, including newborns, must be issued with their own passport in order to travel. The passport of the parent itself still will be valid until the expiry date only the holder of the passport can travel with it. The Austrian Embassy does have a telephone-based appointment scheduling system for Visa and Residence Permits. The service is available via a local UK number and a local Austrian number Operating hours for the Visa Information Service are Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 5.00 pm. In order to access the service you need a credit card, which will be charged with appr. 11 GBP per call. Information is available in English and German. The Visa Information Service is operated on behalf of the Austrian Foreign Ministry by CSC. Applicants who do not wish to make use of this service will be able to make appointments directly at the Austrian Embassy on Wednesdays between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm. THIS WILL BE FOR SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT ONLY. Please bring your passport. We will not process applications on Wednesdays afternoon. Please be advised that by coming to the Embassy directly rather than contacting the Visa Information Service you might encounter longer waiting times in securing an appointment. Visa collection (visas cannot be issued on the same day) is either in person or provide a pre-paid, self-addressed special delivery envelope (from Post Office) at application and your passport will be posted back to you once the visa is issued. You should keep a note of the 13 digit reference number of the special delivery/recorded envelope. Visa collection Time: Monday to Friday 9.00 am to am. The Consulate is closed on Austrian Public Holidays/Bank Holidays. 7 P a g e

8 2.2 BELGUIM (Visa Office) Student visa validity Visa fee Joint Visa Application Centre 1-8 Bateman s Building South Soho Square W1D 3EN Telephone: T Web: visabelgium.uk@vfshelpline.com (for all information regarding the visa process) documentbelgium.uk@vfshelpline.com (for all additional documents for your current application) A blank page for the visa sticker No Applicants can submit in person with a prior appointment. Applications may also be sent by post only if you have previously had a Schengen visa issued by the Embassy of Belgium. Postal applications can be sent by special delivery to: Belgium Visa Application Centre 1-8 Bateman s Building South Soho Square W1D 3EN Download from webpage 2 recent photographs (check the following link for photograph specification on the website) Recent showing name and address Confirming the holiday Proof of reservation. Once the visa will be issued, the return tickets to Belgium non-exchangeable and nonrefundable may be required by the Embassy Hotel reservations covering all of your stay in the Schengen countries You are required to provide Travel Insurance on all occasions, with an exception of the Airport Transit Visa, covering the intended stay with a minimum coverage of least 30,000 Euros. Please see Embassy web page. There is also a service charge in addition. Credit/Debit card (only at Visa Application Centre)/Postal Orders You must mention the correct date(s) of entry into the Schengen area and mention the countries to be visited and the length of stay in each Schengen country. If you are providing evidence of your guarantor s financial means to cover your stay, rather than your own, you need to provide a pledge of financial support from them which has been authenticated by the municipal authorities, together with a copy of the guarantor's last three pay slips and a copy of a document proving that the guarantor is of Belgian nationality (identity card) or has authorisation to stay in Belgium indefinitely (residence permit). 8 P a g e

9 If you are applying by post you must enclose a special delivery pre-paid self-addressed envelope for your passport to be returned to you. You should supply a photocopy of each document with the original you wish to be returned (tickets, marriage certificates, passport, bank statements, insurance documents etc). For an easy and quick service, visas should be applied for at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) and not the embassy. The address of the VAC and further details are available from 9 P a g e

10 2.3 CZECH REPUBLIC Reference (Department) Letter Travel/Health Insurance Visa fee Embassy of the Czech Republic Kensington Palace Gardens W8 4QY Telephone: (Visa Section) Fax: (visa section) Web: At least 90 days longer than the visa applied for 2 blank pages for the visa sticker Yes Download from webpage and fully complete it 1 recent passport photograph Current bank statements covering 3 months transactions: showing name and address with minimum of GBP for each day of stay From your employer/education institution Yes Hotel reservations covering all of your stay in the Schengen area Confirmation letter from your health insurance company and one copy. The insurance should cover at least GBP 20,000, for the whole length of stay in Schengen area Please see Embassy web page. Cash/Postal Orders You should supply a photocopy of all documents, otherwise the originals will not be returned. If you wish to have your passport returned by post you must enclose a pre-paid self-addressed special delivery envelope. 10 P a g e

11 2.4 DENMARK (Visa Office) Joint Visa Application Centre 1-8 Bateman s Building South Soho Square W1D 3EN Visa Enquiry info.schengen@vfshelpline.com 2 blank page for the visa sticker At least 3 months after your visit to Denmark Appointment needed for office. Download from webpage 1 recent passport photo see web for details Recent, original bank statement covering the last 3 calendar months is required. The last transaction must be no more than 1 month old, showing name and address, GBP per day if staying with family/friends or hotel is pre-paid; GBP per day if staying hostel; GBP per day if staying in a hotel. See web page for details. Original signed student letter from school, college or university confirming course details. Travel tickets are not a requirement but the Embassy may request them in some circumstances as part of further documentation Confirmed reservation for all planned stays in the Schengen area Insurance Certificate/confirmation letter must be provided, with insurance covering minimum EU 30,000 including emergency medical expenses, hospitalization and repatriation (also in case of death). Visa fee Please see Embassy web page Please see Embassy web page If you are staying with family or friends they need to send you an original, recent, signed letter of invitation stating duration of stay s are not accepted. The Embassy of Denmark has appointed VF Services (UK) Ltd. as its outsourced partner for acceptance and processing of its visa applications. All visa applications (including residence and work permits for the Green Card Scheme and Family Reunification) will be accepted and processed by VF Services (UK) Ltd. through its dedicated Denmark Visa Application Centres in, Manchester and Edinburgh. The centre in manages scheduling of appointments for submission of visa, Green Card and Family Reunification applications (appointment necessary). The centre in Edinburgh operates on a walk-in basis (no appointment necessary) and the centre in Manchester accepts 10 applications daily on a first come first serve basis. Visa, Green Card and Family Reunification applications must be submitted in person (including children). 11 P a g e

12 For more information - including the location of the centres in Manchester and Edinburgh - please visit the VF Services website: ESTONIA Estonian Embassy 16 Hyde Park Gate SW7 5DG Telephone: Fax; Visa Appointments london@mfa.ee pages for the visa stickers Passport issued within previous 10 years, with two blank At least 2 blank passport pages for visa sticker Yes Download from web page 1 passport sized photograph (size 35x45mm) see details at this link keedile-lisatavad-dokumendid/index.dot Original, recent bank statement showing name and address covering last 3 months Recent letter from the University Evidence of confirmed booking Evidence To cover at least 30,000 EUR for the entire stay Visa fee (as of 03/2012) Cash Please note that additional documents may be required in every case. Notice for minors under 18: In addition to the above documents, minors under 18 must produce a declaration from both parents authorising them to travel and stay in a Schengen country and appointing the person who will be responsible for them. Please note that Estonian Embassy accepts only prefilled online application forms for applying for a Schengen visa. Please use the ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The completed application form has to be printed out, signed and submitted to the Embassy. Visa application must be lodged at least 15 (VFA nationals 10) calendar days before the intended visit (as this is the normal processing time) and cannot be lodged earlier than three months before the start of the intended visit. 12 P a g e

13 2.6 FINLAND Embassy of Finland 38 Chesham Place SW1X 8HW Telephone Number Fax Number &contentlan=2&culture=en-GB ; issued within the previous 10 years. A blank page for the visa sticker No Available online 1 passport sized photograph in colour (47x36mm) Last 3 months, showing name and address. Recent Only when visa has been granted, paid return tickets must be presented when collecting of the visa Or invitation letter where applicable Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 covering emergency and sudden illness or accident, etc. Visa fee EUR (correct as of 03/2012) Cash Consular Offices Requirements vary for each country please visit: For visiting family, friend or other applicable an invitation letter with copy of passport data page or residence permit. For applicants under 18 years old both guardians' written consent, passports and the applicant's birth certificate must be presented. In some cases, further documentation may be requested. Please note that the applicant has to submit photocopies of all the supporting documents with his/her application. The Embassy does not make copies. The embassy or consulate may also want to interview you to ask about the purpose of your visit. 13 P a g e

14 2.7 FRANCE French Consulate General Visa Section The Embassy of France 6A Cromwell Place SW7 2EW Web: Tel: , Monday to Friday between 8.30 and For general information on visa to France please contact TLScontact via website: Passport photo Bank statements School/department letter Evidence of reurn tickets Evidence of hotel bookings Insurance When to submit visa application How to make Appointment Supporting documents, no more than ten years old. Photocopy needed. Please also bring any old passports and copies. Two blank pages for the visa sticker Yes Two, less than three months old with white background required, showing minimum 55 per day in Schengen area required, confirming studies, must be less than three months old. Required Itinerary of whole stay in France needed, stating where you will stay. Booking confirmation required. Required, minimum 30,000 EUR covering entirety of stay. At least 15 days but no more than 3 months before your planned dates of travel. via TLScontact s website as above or via TLScontact s call center: , Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. To obtain the detailed list of documents relevant to the visa you are applying for, please go to the TLScontact website and complete the questionnaire online. Alternatively you may call , Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30 pm to speak to an adviser Copies of all documents needed. In accordance with the European Council Decision 2004/512/EC, from 6 Feb 2012, the French Consulate will issue biometric visas - this new measure entails the compulsory appearance of all visa nationals (except children under the age of 12) as biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) must be collected. TLScontact center From the 15 th of January 2012, due to the forthcoming introduction of biometric visas - and the consequent compulsory appearance of all visa nationals, TLS contact centre will no longer accept postal applications. In order to improve the standard of service offered to visas applicants, the French Authorities have outsourced the visa application process (from advices to receipt and return of the 14 P a g e

15 documents) to TLScontact. This service is available to all regardless of nationality, type of passport, duration and purpose of stay in France. Regarding the latest news on Schengen visa please check the French Consulate website: If you are staying with a friend they will need to obtain a certificate of board and lodging ("Attestation d'accueil") from the local Town hall ("Mairie") or Police Station ("Gendarmerie" or "Commissariat de Police"). You must submit originals and photocopies of all documents requested. If you are applying by post you must enclose a self-addressed pre-paid special delivery envelope for the safe return of your documents. 15 P a g e

16 2.8 GERMANY for, no more than ten years old for Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany 23 Belgrave Square SW1X 8PZ Telephone: Visa Information Fax Number Web Visa Appointments At least 3 months longer than the visa applied At least 2 blank pages for the visa sticker At least 3 months longer than the visa applied Yes See comments* Download from web page: a/application form seite.html Visa fee See web for details: sport/passport photos seite.html Recent showing name and address Required Hotel bookings covering all of your stay in the Schengen countries Covering at least GBP 20,000, valid for all member states of Schengen and to cover the whole period of visa validity Please see web page: a/visa fees seite.html Others: Cash or Postal Orders If you wish to receive your documents back by post please attach one self-addressed Special Delivery envelope. New regulation from : Please note that from 5 April 2010 only passports that have been issued (not extended!!!) during the past ten years can be endorsed with a visa. If your passport was issued longer than 10 years ago, please apply for a new passport at your Embassy. Please always bring the original plus one copy of all documents mentioned below. Please note that the Embassy has to charge 40p per copy if you do not bring copies of the originals. Please note that incomplete applications will not be accepted. From 26 April 2010 it is also possible to book your visa appointment online. To make an appointment online please check the embassy website. All persons wishing to apply for visas to visit Germany MUST apply in person (except application by post - see below) and MUST make an appointment in advance. Applicants must not attend the Embassy without first making an appointment, as admission will not be 16 P a g e

17 possible. This also applies to applicants using the online application form. Do NOT book a flight before booking an appointment. ONLY applications from residents in the UK can be accepted. Application by post Important message: Due to the high number of applications, processing times for applications by post can be a bit longer than normal. Please apply for your visa as soon as you can, and allow plenty of processing time before your planned date of travel. You may apply by post: 1. If you are a spouse of an EU or German national or 2. If you have had a Schengen visa from the German Embassy in issued within the past 12 months or 3. If you have had at least 2 used Schengen visa from any Schengen Embassy issued within the past 24 months or 4. If you have had a one-year or multiple-year Schengen visa within the last 24 months and have used it. Please note that the main destination of your travel needs to be Germany in order to apply with the German Embassy!!! If you are staying with a friend you will require a formal obligation from your friend in Germany. If you wish to receive your documents back by post you should submit a self-addressed Special Delivery envelope. 17 P a g e

18 2.9 GREECE Travel/medical Insurance Visa fee The Greek Consulate General 1A Holland Park W11 3TP Telephone Number Visa Section Tel: /5609 Visa Section Fax Web Visa Appointments Booking: ( automated Line, 1 per minute) Two blank pages for the visa sticker Yes, can book online Download from website 2 recent passport sized photographs Last three months bank statements with at least 5 Euros per day of stay. Confirming status, attendance and duration of course Confirmation of flight / ferry bookings. Proof of hotel bookings. Terms and conditions of the insurance, proving minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros for any expenses which might arise during stay in the Schengen area Please see web page Postal Order or cash Visa application shall be lodged no more than 3 months before the start of the intended visit. Visa application shall be lodged no less than 15 days before the intended date of departure. Submit original and photocopies of all documents being submitted including your passport and Student Visa. If you are visiting friends or relatives in Greece, please submit an original invitation letter duly signed by the host, whose signature needs to be verified by a Greek authority (police, honorary consulate etc). When the data regarding the host have not been verified by the authorities of the Member State dealing with the application, the applicant needs to present: A copy of ID card or bio data page of the host's passport; residence permit; proof of residence (property title deeds, rental agreements etc, proof of income). If you wish your passport to be returned to you by post you should submit a special delivery repaid self-addressed envelope. 18 P a g e

19 2.10 HUNGARY Embassy of the Republic of Hungary Visa Section 35b Eaton Place SW1X 8BY Telephone Number Fax: or fast track Hungary Visa Application Centre 1-8 Bateman s Building South Soho Square W1D 3EN Web: info.schengen@vfshelpline.com Visa Appointments: fast track or online or written request to the Embassy. At least 2 blank pages for the visa sticker Yes Down load from website 2 passport sized colour photographs not older than 6 months Recent 3 months bank statements, showing name and address Addressed to the Embassy of the Republic of Hungary,. Valid tickets or certificates of reserved & prepaid journeys Yes To the value of at least 30,000 and for the whole period of stay in the Schengen area Visa fee Please see web page Cash / debit / credit card / postal order / cash Other documents Evidence of the purpose of the journey passport issued within 10 years before the submission of the visa application If you are visiting family or friends you should provide a letter of invitation issued and endorsed by the Office of Immigration and Nationality in Hungary or a letter of invitation signed by the inviting person and two witnesses accompanied by the photocopy of their passports and evidence of occupation or student status. If you wish your passport to be returned to you by post you should submit a special delivery prepaid self-addressed envelope. Specific requirements (photocopies are also needed): The specific requirements depend on the main purpose of travel, the length of intended stay and the personal circumstances of the applicant. For more information please visit the website of the Visa Application Centre ( the website of the 19 P a g e

20 Office of Immigration and Nationality ( or the website of the European Commission. Please bear in mind that the consul may ask additional documents in any time during the visa procedure as well as the applicants may be invited for personal interview to the Consulate. 20 P a g e

21 2.11 ICELAND Visas for Iceland are processed via the Royal Danish Embassy Visa fee Visa Office Embassy of Denmark 55 Sloane Street SW1X 9SR Telephone Number See 2.3 Web: Visa Appointments See 2.3 & one copy A blank page for the visa sticker Yes Download from webpage 2 recent colour photo see web for details Recent & one copy showing name and address, GBP per day if staying with family/friends or hotel is pre-paid otherwise GBP per day Recent, confirming course details Proof of Where processing time is same day/24 hrs Confirmed reservation for entire stay Confirmation letter & one copy Covering at least GBP 20,000 Please see Embassy web page Please see Embassy web page Visas for Iceland are processed via the Royal Danish Embassy Applications for visas to Iceland should be submitted using the same procedure as for a visa to Denmark. Please read the guidance and requirements for visas to Denmark. Please use the application form on the Embassy of Denmark s website If you are staying with family or friends they need to send you an original, recent, signed letter of invitation stating duration of stay s are not accepted. If processing time is more than 24 hours you should submit a plastic Post Office delivery prepaid self-addressed envelope (small size to hold passport). Please note: In individual cases, you may be required to provide additional documents. Embassy rules and regulations can and do, very occasionally change overnight. The embassy will not accept no responsibility for any such changes. Also, the embassy cannot, under any circumstances, intercede or take responsibility for any transaction initiated directly between an applicant and the embassy. 21 P a g e

22 2.12 ITALY Visa fee Consulate General of Italy Visa Section 136 Buckingham Palace Road SW1W 9SA Telephone Number Fax Number Web Or VFS Joint Visa Application Centre 1-8 Bateman s Building South Soho Square W1D 3EN info.ituk@vfshelpline.com Helpline At least 2 blank adjacent pages for the visa sticker Yes Download from web page 1 recent colour passport size Last 3 months bank statements with minimum GBP per day to cover period of stay Addressed to the Consulate General of Italy, Fully paid return tickets Fully booked hotel reservation or invitation letter by your host in Italy, along with a copy of their valid ID. Yes, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros for the intended stay Check with Embassy/Consular Office Check website You must submit originals and copies of all documents being submitted 22 P a g e

23 2.13 LATVIA Embassy of Latvia 45 Nottingham Place W1U 5LY Telephone Number Fax Number Web: Visa Appointments Visa Section Fax Number Visa Section Address Visa fee See website At least 2 blank pages for the visa sticker Yes, and at least 8-12 weeks before travelling date Download from web page 1 recent colour passport photo (check website for specifications Bank statement/travellers cheque of the last 3 months showing approx 40 per day to cover the duration of your visit. To prove your student status Or evidence of reservation of tickets Must have pre-booked travel plans including flight/ferry/train booking, plus booking for hotels, etc. Minimum EUR to cover entire period of stay in Schengen area Please Check with Embassy/Consular Section Self addressed special delivery envelope. This is so that the Embassy can post your passport and / or documents back to you when a decision has been made and is available from all post offices. Copies of all documents provided. Generally you will be expected to take both originals and copies of all your documents to your appointment with you. Information on how to get to the Latvian Embassy and a map can be found on the Embassy website. The nearest underground stations are Baker Street and Regents Park. If you have a morning appointment, you will probably have to book overnight accommodation in to ensure that you arrive in time. Make sure you plan your route across on a map before you go. If your appointment is early in the morning, try and have a practice walk of the route the day before your appointment. You will not be seen or offered a later appointment if you miss your slot. 23 P a g e

24 2.14 LITHUANIA Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania Lithuania House, 2 Bessborough Gardens Westminster, SW1V 2JE Telephone Number Fax Number Web Visa Appointments TWO blank pages for the visa sticker No Download from web page 2 recent passport sized photographs Recent showing name and address Recent, confirming attendance. Or other documents proving country of final destination Or approved invitation Minimum EUR to cover period of stay Visa fee (correct as of 03/2012) Cash or by card No pre-arranged appointment is needed, however all documents must be submitted by an applicant in person. The travel document submitted together with visa application may be collected after 2 weeks. If you prefer to receive your travel document by post, the prepaid "Special Delivery" envelope with delivery address should be provided together with the visa application. 24 P a g e

25 2.15 LUXEMBOURG For a visa pack please ring the Embassy Visa fee Embassy of Luxembourg Consulate Section 27 Wilton Crescent SW1X 8SD Telephone Number Fax Number Web londres.amb@mae.etat.lu Visa Appointments A blank page for the visa sticker Yes, book by telephone. Download from web page 2 passport size photographs Recent showing name and address with enough funds to cover your stay Confirming attendance or confirmed onward journey Confirmed hotel booking To cover the time of your proposed stay Sterling equivalent to (price correct as of 03/2012) Cash only If you are staying with a friend you need an official letter of invitation from your host as proof of the purpose of your visit. 25 P a g e

26 2.16 MALTA Malta High Commission Malta House Piccadilly W1J 0LE Telephone Number /4800 Fax Number N/A Web Visa Appointments (between 2pm - 4pm) Not less than 3 months Please check with Embassy Not less than 3 months remaining Yes, book by telephone Available online 2 passport-size photographs taken against a white background Recent showing name and address with enough funds to cover your stay Confirmation of attendance and address or onward travel details Confirmation of booking reservation Covering at least 30,000 Visa fee Sterling equivalent to (price correct as of 03/2012) Cash You must be in possession of documents providing evidence of the purpose and the conditions of your planned visit to Malta and have sufficient means of support, both for the period of the planned visit and return to the UK. If you are staying with a friend you need an official letter of invitation from your host as proof of the purpose of your visit. 26 P a g e

27 2.17 THE NETHERLANDS Royal Netherlands Embassy Consular Department 38 Hyde Park Gate SW7 5DP Telephone Number Visa Information Fax Number Web Visa Appointments An appointment at the visa section of the Embassy can be made on working days between 10:00-12:00am If you have a new passport you must also submit your old passport 2 blank pages for the visa sticker, cannot be older than 10 years, including extensions Must be valid upon departure from Schengen area Yes, please use phone number provided Download from web pages Two recent passport-size photographs, please see web for standards Recent showing name and address and a minimum amount of EUR (approx GBP 30.00) per person each day of stay Recent, confirming attendance If this is your first trip you must also include travel reservations For your full period of stay in the Schengen area, and including your credit card details. Must be in English or Dutch. Travel insurance policy covering medical have expenses including emergency hospital treatment and repatriation. The policy must been taken out with an insurance company in the UK and provide cover for all Schengen countries. Minimum cover: EUR. Visa fee 60 EUR (approximately 50-55). Postal Order (payable to Royal Netherlands Embassy) or cash If you are visiting a friend you need an Original proof of sponsorship ( completed by the sponsor in the Netherlands and legalized by the town hall, with a copy of the sponsor's passport, residence permit and pay slips from the last 3 months 27 P a g e

28 2.18 NORWAY (postal) Temporary visitng address (visa collection): Visa Appointments Royal Norwegian Embassy Consular Section 25 Belgrave Square SW1X 8QD Embassy of Sweden 11 Montagu Place (entrance at 5 Upper Montagu Street) W1H 2AL Telephone Number Web konsulat.london@mfa.no Visa applications to the Embassy in must be lodged and paid for on the Internet using the secure visa portal on the embassy website. Applicants can check the status of their applications online. Two blank pages for the visa sticker and stamp of border control authorities Appointments to submit supporting documents can be booked on the portal Use the portal A recent passport size photo, please see webpage for further recommendations Recent showing name and address Confirming status/attendance May be required, but it is recommended you do not pay until visa is granted You will be required to submit a travel plan outlining where you intend to go/stay. Proof of booking will be required if visa is granted. It is recommended that you don t pay until you get your visa. The policy must provide cover for all Schengen countries. Minimum cover: EUR. Visa fee 60 EUR Must be paid via online portal when submitting application If relevant a signed, original letter of invitation (evidence of accommodation) (less than 3 months old), accompanied by a copy of your friend / family member's passport and residence permit (if applicable) will be requires. Applicants may also be requested to submit a GUARANTEE FORM signed by the sponsor in Norway. Please see website for further info. Applicants who have had a visa from the Norwegian Embassy in or the Consulate General in Edinburgh before may either apply in person or send their supporting documents by post / courier (after filling in the application form and paying the visa fee online). Visas can be collected 11-12, with the exception of Wednesdays. 28 P a g e

29 2.19 POLAND Visa fee 51 Consulate General of the Republic of Poland 73 New Cavendish Street W1W 6LS Telephone Number Web For visa questions only: must be no more than ten years old Two blank pages for the visa sticker Yes, please book online when completing application form To be completed online One recent passport photo, see web for specifications Recent showing name and address Addressed to the Visa Section of the Polish Consulate and including all information about your course, attendance and intended period of leave/holidays taken for your journey. Issued within one month of applying. Readiness to depart is required E-confirmation without proof of payment will not be accepted For the whole period of stay in the Schengen area, with a minimum cover of 30,000 EUR The applicant should submit a written confirmation from the insuring company with information about the name of the insured person, territorial validity of the insurance, exact dates and amount of the coverage. Cash, Postal Order or cheque payable to Embassy of the Republic of Poland, must be sent same day as application submitted If staying with friends you will need a formal invitation from your host in Poland. A formal invitation (Zaproszenie) can be obtained by your host (person or institution) at the local municipal office in Poland (Urząd Wojewódzki) in the place of residence of your host. Please note, that the invitation made by or by fax will not be accepted. You will also need a copy of the passport of the inviting person. If the host is not a citizen of Poland, the copy of Polish residence permit card is also required. 29 P a g e

30 2.20 PORTUGAL School (Department) Visa fee Portuguese Embassy Consular Section 3 Portland Place W1B 1HR Telephone Number Visa Information Fax Number Web / mail@cglon.dgaccp.pt Passport valid for at least 3 months and photocopy of passport and previous visa Not stated Valid for at least 3 months beyond the return date from your trip Please call embassy to clarify on this necessity Complete application online 1 passport-size photograph Recent showing name and address and funds covering stay and return Letter Required Required Required, or terms of responsibility if visiting friends (please see website) Minimum cover: 30,000 EUR 65 EUR Please check with the Embassy Photocopies of all documents needed 30 P a g e

31 2.21 SLOVAKIA Visa fee Embassy of Slovakia 25 Kensington Palace Gardens W8 4QY Telephone Number Fax Number Web must not be over 10 years old Two blank pages for the visa sticker Not stated Yes, please call to book appointment. Applications must be submitted in person. Download from web page One recent photograph (3 x 3.5cm) Recent 3-6 months including month your application is submitted and showing name and address. No stated amount per day but must be sufficient. At border crossings may be asked to demonstrates 56 EUR per day Recent original letter confirming student status, type and hours of studies Required Will be required, or appropriate document of accommodation that will be booked, Covering up to at least 30,000 EUR, valid in all member states 60 EUR Please check with Embassy, not stated on website If you are visiting a friend you require an original letter of invitation verified by Slovak Alien Police (Cudzinecká polícia), which cannot be older than 90 days You must submit originals and a copy of all documents 31 P a g e

32 2.22 SLOVENIA Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia Consular Department 10 Cowley Street SW1P 3SH Tel: (during office hours) Fax: vlo(at)gov.si Visa fee 50 Cash only A blank page for the visa sticker Not stated Yes, please request via Download from web page One recent colour passport photo of good quality Recent showing name and address Required to demonstrate applicant is student Not stated Voucher or confirmation from travel agency or hotel Valid for the entire area for which the visa is applied for and for entire stay You must provide photocopies if you wish for your original documents to be returned. If you are visiting family or friends you must submit a completed, signed, original form of guarantee (see website) from the person from Slovenia inviting you. This must be certified by Local Administration Unit (Upravna Enota) or Notary. 32 P a g e

33 2.23 SPAIN Embassy of Spain Consular Section 20 Draycott Place SW3 2RZ Tel: () (Manchester) Visa Information Visa Appointments Fax Number Web To apply for visa go in person with photocopies (do not send any documents or leave any original documents) and an appointment will be sent to you via post see comments. Or Visa Application Centre 1-8 Bateman s Building South Soho Square W1D 3EN Visa appointments or online Visa fee TWO blank pages for the visa sticker Yes Download from web page 2 passport colour photographs glued to form Recent 3 months showing name and address Recent on letter headed confirming attendance Confirmed return flight / travel tickets Bookings in the applicant s name or original, official letter of invitation from the host issued by the Police in Spain Yes, UK issued only Check with Embassy or Consulate Credit/debit Card/postal order/cash When requesting an appointment in person you should bring photocopies (please do not send any documents or leave any original documents) with: Cover letter with name, address and a day time telephone number Passport, bio-data page UK residency visa Spouse or parent's passport, if applicable Marriage certificate or Birth certificate, if applicable Large self stamped addressed envelope 33 P a g e

34 If you are staying with friends or family you should submit an official letter of invitation issued by the Police in Spain. Original documents and photocopies must be provided at appointment. You can only apply for Spanish Visa through the Consulate if you reside in one of the following counties: Avon, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Dyfed, Essex, Glamorgan (W M S), Gloucestershire, Greater, Guernsey, Gwent, Hampshire, Hereford & Worcester, Hertfordshire, Jersey, Kent, Leicestershire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Powys, Scilly Island, Somerset, Suffolk, Surrey, Sussex, Warwickshire, West Midlands, Wight (Isle), Wiltshire. You can only apply for Spanish Visa through the Manchester Consulate if you reside in one of the following counties: Cheshire, Cleveland, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Durham, Humberside, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Northumberland, Nottinghamshire, Salop, Staffordshire, Tyne and Wear, Yorkshire, Clwyd, Gwynedd, Isle of Man and Northern Ireland Spanish Embassy accepts visa applications by previous appointment only. To arrange for your appointment you need to phone (automated service and charged at 1 per minute from BT landlines) People without appointments will NOT be admitted at the Spanish Consulate. A multiple entry Schengen visa will allow the holder several entries into the Schengen area, allowing you to return to the UK and then re-enter the Schengen area at a later date. Not all embassies issue multiple entry visas some prefer to only issue a single entry visa to cover you for the specific trip you are going on. Generally you need to have at least three months left on your UK immigration visa at the time you return from your holiday. If for example your visa expires on 12 December 2010 you can only apply for a visa up to 12 September P a g e