Can Bangladeshis apply for Schengen visa? Yes, they can, but they must attach all the required documents to their application and go through the detailed process. To be successful with your application, you need to understand how the process works and the features of Schengen visas. Below we explain it in detail.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For A Schengen Visa in Bangladesh?
Citizens of Bangladesh can apply for this visa, including foreign nationals residing in the country legally. However, the latter must show evidence to prove that they are staying in the country legally.
Where Can Bangladeshis Apply For Schengen Visa?
There are two options available to Schengen visa applicants in Bangladesh, and they are as follows.
Embassy/Consulate
They can submit their application to the Embassy or consulate of the European country they wish to visit. Even if they want to visit several countries at a time, they must submit their application to the first country they plan to land in. Many EU countries have their embassies in Dhaka, the capital, but they operate based on appointment. To fix an interview to submit your application for processing, you must book an appointment using their available channels through phone, emails, agents, etc.
After booking the appointment, you can visit the Embassy or consulate on the appointed date to sit for an interview with a visa officer who will examine the documents and ask relevant questions before passing the application on for processing.
Visa Application Center
The second option opened to applicants is to apply for a Schengen visa through a visa application center. This option may be mandatory if the country they wish to visit doesn’t have an embassy or consulate in Bangladesh or use the services of licensed visa agents to collect applications. Using third-party agents is slightly different, but it works just fine. However, the agent will charge a particular fee apart from the visa fee, which goes to the Embassy.
Types of Schengen Visas For Bangladeshis
As a Bangladeshi passport holder, you are eligible for the following visas
Transit Visa: If you travel to any country but wish to make a brief stop in any Schengen country for a day or two before taking a connecting flight, you will need a transit visa. With a Schengen visa, you can enjoy brief stops.
Visitor Visa: Those with a family member or friend living in a Schengen country can visit them with a visitor visa. However, they will need their family or friend to send an invitation letter inviting them to the country.
Tourist Visa: Most Schengen visas issued by European countries are for tourism. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the country for up to 90 days or even take a tour of Europe and visit as many palaces as you wish within three months. This visa grants you free entry and exit within Europe’s Schengen Area.
Business Visa: Persons who have business meetings or engagements or wish to visit to conduct business for themselves or their employers may apply for a business visa. If a host invites them, the host must issue an invitation letter on the company’s letterhead.
Medical: A Medical visa is for those seeking medical care in a facility in a Schengen country. To get this visa, they must prove they have the financial resources to cover the cost of their treatment and an acceptance letter sent to them by the facility.
Official Visa: This visa is for government officials visiting to complete an official assignment.
Cultural Exchange Program Visa: A cultural exchange program visa is for religious, sports, cultural, film crew, or any social event. This visa is issued for different reasons.
Visa Processing Time
After submitting your application, the Embassy may take 4-6 weeks to process it, so it is advisable to start the application process on time to avoid delays.
Documents Required
Valid Bangladesh passport with a minimum of three months validity after the departure date
Completed and signed the application form
Two recent Passport sized photographs that meet Schengen requirements
Proof of financial capacity
Proof of accommodation
Round trip flight Itinerary
Cover letter
Invitation letter, where applicable
Civil Status Certificate, where applicable
Visa fee receipt
How Much Is The Visa Fee and How Do I Pay It?
The visa fee is €80 for adults and €40 for those between 6-12. There is no visa fee for children under the age of six. This fee is not refunded after paying it, and without the fee, you cannot submit your application. The Embassy will decide how the fee is paid, mainly through a credit or debit card or bank teller.
Can Bangladeshis apply for Schengen visa? Yes, they can, but all applications must be submitted to the primary country of choice.