No-nonsense guide to Schengen Visa: Here's how a 5-time applicant got approved every time

 

Applying for a Schengen visa doesn’t need to be a maze of agents, forms, and second-guessing, if you know what matters. A Reddit user from the forum r/SchengenVisa, who has successfully applied five times, has laid out a no-nonsense guide for travellers tired of paying agents or facing rejections.

“You don’t need an agent. If you understand basic English and can follow instructions, you can do it yourself,” the user writes.

Their post strips the process down to essentials, clear communication, proper documentation, and honesty.

Start with the basics: Clarity wins

Your visa email subject line matters more than you think. Use a simple and specific format like:

- Short Stay Schengen Visa | Passport No. XXXXXXXX | Expiry: DD-MM-YYYY | Invitation Letter Attached (if any)

Cover letter: Not a novel, just the facts

The embassy staff don’t have time to read pages of narrative. “Your cover letter should be 1.5 to 2 pages max. Embassy staff don't have time to read novels,” the user notes. The letter should include:

• Purpose and travel dates

• Travel history (especially within Schengen)

• Itinerary details (flights, hotels, duration)

• Funding details (bank statements, ITRs, or sponsor info)

• Ties to home country (job, family, property)

The goal is simple: prove you’ll return.

Document checklist: Be precise, not excessive

Here's what you’ll need:

• Valid passport and copies (include old passports if relevant)

• Cover letter

• Invitation letter (if applicable)

• Round-trip flight and accommodation bookings

• 6-month bank statement

• 2 years’ ITR (yours or sponsor’s)

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer (if working)

• Proof of relationship with sponsor

• Sponsor’s ID copy and notarised sponsorship letter

• Travel insurance (as per embassy requirement)

Tip: Highlight relevant details—“underline name on bank statement, highlight hotel booking dates,” the user advises.

Visa fees and extras: Don’t overpay

You’ll pay two fees:

• Visa Fee (to the embassy)

• Processing Fee (to VFS/BLS when you apply online)

Avoid unnecessary add-ons. “I’ve never asked for extra services. I collect my passport myself,” the post says.

Timelines and appointments: Plan early

Don’t wait until the last minute. Embassy timelines vary, and appointments may not be available within a week, especially during peak travel months.

Which country to apply from? Follow these rules

If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply to the one you’ll spend the most time in. If that’s unclear, apply to the port of entry.

Warning: “Don’t try to act smart. Be honest,” the user warns.

Rejections happen, even to genuine travellers

If your visa is denied, don’t panic. You’ll receive a letter with reasons. You can appeal. “Stop panicking, stop running to agents... Genuine visa applications are also rejected. Don’t take it personally.”

Final takeaway: Simplicity, not showmanship

Avoid copying generic templates or using complex language. Write like a real person. Embassy officers want clarity, not legal jargon. “You’re not trying to impress. You're trying to make things easy for the officer reading your file.”