Schengen Tourist Visa: A Complete Guide for Bangladeshi Passport Holders
The Schengen visa allows you to travel across 27 European countries with a single visa stamp. For Bangladeshi passport holders, this is one of the most sought-after tourist visas — and also one of the more demanding to obtain. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Schengen Area?
- Types of Schengen Visa
- Required Documents
- Application Process
- Fees & Processing Time
- Tips to Avoid Rejection
What Is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area comprises 27 European nations that have abolished internal border controls. A single Schengen visa lets you move freely between member countries during your authorized stay. Popular Schengen destinations for Bangladeshis include France, Germany, Italy, Greece, and the Netherlands.
Types of Schengen Visa
- Type C (Short-Stay): For tourism, family visits, or business — valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Single Entry: You may enter the Schengen zone once.
- Double Entry: Allows two entries.
- Multiple Entry: Unlimited entries during the visa validity period.
Required Documents
Documentation requirements may vary slightly by embassy, but the standard checklist includes:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond your travel dates, with at least 2 blank pages)
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photographs (as per embassy specs)
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings — ideally refundable)
- Hotel reservations or a host's invitation letter
- Travel insurance covering a minimum of €30,000
- Bank statements from the last 3–6 months showing sufficient funds
- Proof of employment or business (e.g., salary certificate, business registration)
- Income tax returns (last 1–2 years)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer or educational institution
- Previous visa copies (if any)
Application Process
- Determine the embassy to apply to: Apply at the embassy of your main destination country. If visiting multiple countries equally, apply at the country of your first entry.
- Book an appointment: Most European embassies in Dhaka accept appointments through VFS Global or directly through the embassy website.
- Prepare and submit documents: Attend the biometric appointment with your full document package.
- Pay the visa fee: Fees are non-refundable.
- Wait for processing: Typically 15–30 working days. Apply well in advance.
Fees & Processing Time
| Category | Fee (Approx.) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | €80 (~BDT 9,500) | 15–30 working days |
| Children (6–12 yrs) | €40 (~BDT 4,750) | 15–30 working days |
| Children under 6 | Free | 15–30 working days |
Fees are subject to change. Always verify with the relevant embassy before applying.
Tips to Avoid Rejection
- Show strong ties to Bangladesh: Property ownership, family, a stable job, or a running business — all demonstrate that you will return home.
- Maintain healthy bank balances: Avoid sudden large deposits before applying; embassies prefer consistent transaction histories.
- Be honest and consistent: All documents must tell the same story. Discrepancies are a red flag.
- Apply early: Don't apply last-minute; give the embassy adequate time to process.
- Get travel insurance from a reputable provider: Make sure it clearly states Schengen area coverage.
Applying for a Schengen visa requires patience and careful preparation. With the right documents and a genuine travel plan, Bangladeshi passport holders successfully obtain Schengen visas every year.