Applying for a Schengen visa involves a thorough process and can require significant time. Following submission of your application, it is common to experience concern regarding its progress. Determining your Schengen visa status proactively can mitigate anxiety and facilitate preparedness for subsequent actions. This document outlines methods for efficiently monitoring your Schengen visa application status digitally.

The Significance of Monitoring Your Schengen Visa Application Status

Maintaining an up-to-date record of your Schengen visa application’s status is crucial for several reasons. This proactive approach enables you to:

• Finalize Travel Arrangements: Knowing the anticipated approval date allows for the precise scheduling of your travel plans.

• Respond to Requests for Additional Information: Timely submission of any requested supplementary documents or necessary corrections is essential to maintain the progress of your application.

• Manage Anticipation: Regular monitoring provides reassurance and facilitates stress reduction regarding the application’s progression.

Methods for Determining Schengen Visa Status

Determining the status of your Schengen visa application requires referencing the specific procedures established by the country in which you submitted your application and the relevant processing agency or embassy. Common methods for obtaining information regarding the approval status of a Schengen visa include:

“You can typically check the status of your application online through the website of the embassy or consulate that processed your application.”

• Online Portals: Many Schengen visa applicants can track the status of their applications via online portals provided by the issuing embassy or consulate.
• Email Updates: The agency or embassy processing your application will often send email updates to the applicant’s registered email address regarding the status of the application.
• Phone Inquiry: Applicants can contact the embassy or consulate directly to inquire about the status of their application, provided they have the necessary application reference number.

1. Tracking Visa Application Status via VisaFast

To monitor your visa application’s progress online, follow these procedures:

Step 1: Input your application reference number and your full last name.

Step 2: Click ‘Check Status,’ and the system will provide one of the following outcomes:

The following Schengen countries can be tracked through this tool:

• France

• Switzerland

• Italy

• Germany

• Greece

• Austria

• Belgium

• Croatia

• Czech Republic

• Estonia

• Finland

• Hungary

• Malta

• Netherlands

• Norway

• Poland

• Sweden

• Cyprus

2. Through the Visa Application Centre(VAC)

Most Schengen visa applications are also submitted through external service providers like VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International. These centres provide online tracking services:

VFS Global:

1. Visit the VFS Global website.

2. Select your country of residence and the destination country.

3. Navigate to the “Track Your Application” section.

4. Enter your application reference number and last name.

TLScontact:

1. Access the TLScontact portal.

2. Log in using your credentials to view your application status.

BLS International:

1. Go to the BLS International website.

2. Input your application reference number and date of birth.

Pro Tip: Ensure you have your application reference number and the correct spelling of your name as provided during the application.

3. Application Tracking via the Embassy or Consulate

When an application is submitted directly to an embassy or consulate, tracking services may be available.

1. Please visit the official website of the embassy where the application was submitted.

2. Utilize the provided tracking number or passport number to access your application status.

3. For assistance, if online tracking is not accessible, contact the embassy directly. Submit a request via email or phone, including your full name, passport number, and the application reference number.

Note: Processing times at embassies and consulates are subject to variation. Frequent contact may impede response times; utilize this method only when required.

4. Via Notifications and Status Updates

Certain consulates and VACs provide updates through the following channels:

• SMS Notifications: Applicants are advised to subscribe to SMS alerts upon application submission.
• Email Updates: Please monitor your email, including your spam folder, for ongoing notifications regarding your visa application status.

5. Utilizing the Visa Information System (VIS)

The Visa Information System (VIS) serves as a primary database maintained by Schengen member states for the storage of visa applications and associated biometric data. Consulates and border control agencies utilize this system to authenticate visa details. In circumstances requiring verification at a port of entry, authorities can consult VIS to confirm application information.

Note: This process is generally not advisable for confirming the status of a Schengen visa application.

Indications of a Schengen Visa Approval

The following observations may signify a positive outcome when awaiting your Schengen visa application decision:

• The tracking status reflecting “Processed,” “Ready for Collection,” or “Dispatched” by the visa service provider (VFS/BLS/etc.) denotes a decision has been made, but does not confirm the outcome. Verification of the passport is essential.

• Receipt of SMS or email notifications concerning passport movement from the visa centre. While these updates represent progress, they do not confirm approval. A request to collect your passport from the Visa Application Centre (VAC) may indicate a different situation.

• An email from the embassy or consulate confirming case closure utilizing standard procedural language, which does not disclose the result of the visa application.

Frequently Encountered Visa Application Statuses and Their Implications

During the processing of your application, you may observe the following status updates:

• Application Submitted: This indicates that your application has been successfully received and is currently undergoing an initial assessment.

• In Review: The embassy or consulate is actively reviewing the submitted documentation and information within your application.

• Visa Approved: Confirmation that your visa application has been approved. You will receive subsequent notification regarding the necessary procedures for passport collection or delivery.

• Application Denied: Your visa application was not approved at this time. Reasons for denial will be communicated, and you may reapply after implementing the specified corrective actions.

Addressing Potential Issues with Your Application

Should you experience difficulties in monitoring your visa status or encounter unforeseen processing delays, the following actions are recommended:

• Verify Application Details: Confirm that your application reference number, full name, and date of birth are accurately provided.

• Engage with the Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Embassy: Utilize the designated contact information for the respective VAC or Embassy to seek clarification regarding your application status.

• Maintain Realistic Expectations: Processing times are subject to fluctuations dependent upon application volume and the complexity of your individual case.

What is the process for receiving my approved Schengen visa?

Upon approval, your Schengen visa will be issued as a visa sticker affixed within your passport.

The Visa Application Centre (VAC) designated for your application will provide notification regarding the availability of your passport, bearing the visa, for collection. You have the option to collect it personally from the VAC or select courier delivery, provided this service is offered.

What can I do if my Schengen visa application status shows “rejected?”

If your Schengen visa application has been rejected, you have the following two options:

• Reapply for a new visa: You can submit a new visa application after carefully addressing the reason for the rejection provided in your visa rejection letter. Schengen visa applications usually get rejected due to incomplete documentation, insufficient proof of financial means, unclear purpose of travel, or lack of ties to your home country. When reapplying, ensure that you address the applicable reason.

• Appeal the rejection: Alternatively, you have the right to appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. To appeal, you’ll need to gather any missing documents or additional information that supports your case and write a detailed and persuasive appeal letter explaining why the Schengen visa should be granted.

Worried about another visa rejection? Apply with VisaFast and let our visa concierge assist you with the Schengen visa application process, increasing the chances of visa approval!

Tracking your Schengen visa status is a straightforward process when you use the right tracking tools and resources. By staying informed, you can reduce stress, plan your travels more effectively, and address any issues promptly. Use official tracking tools listed above, stay patient, and prepare for your exciting journey to the Schengen Area.