Applying for a Schengen visa with children
For travellers from Türkiye and many other countries, the first step of a European trip is often the Schengen visa. Here we have gathered the steps and the document list families need when applying. Rules change by country and over time, so always check the official source before you apply.
Which country do you apply to?
- Main destination: Apply to the consulate or authorised visa centre of the Schengen country where you will stay the longest.
- Equal stays: If the stays are equal, apply to the country you will enter first.
- Example: 6 nights in Belgium and 3 nights in the Netherlands means you apply to Belgium.
Most countries accept applications through an external service provider they appoint (for example VFS Global, iDATA or BLS International). Check which provider is authorised on the website of that country’s embassy in your country of residence.
When should you apply?
- You can apply no earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 days before the trip.
- Appointments are hard to find in summer and around public holidays; book one as soon as your dates are fixed.
- Refundable bookings for flights and hotels reduce the risk while you wait for the decision.
Documents for children
A separate application form is filled in for each family member; children usually apply together with their parents. Commonly requested:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid at least 3 months after your return, with at least 2 blank pages |
| Biometric photo | Taken within the last 6 months, white background |
| Proof of family relationship | Shows the link between parents and child (in Türkiye: the full civil registry record from e-Devlet) |
| Birth certificate | Some consulates ask for it separately |
| Parental consent | A notarised letter if one parent is not travelling |
| Copies of the parents’ ID or passports | Submitted with the consent letter |
| Travel health insurance | Covering the whole Schengen area, at least €30,000 |
| Flight and accommodation bookings | For every member of the family |
| School certificate | May be requested for school-age children |
Parents are also asked for employment documents, recent bank statements and proof of income. The full list varies by country, so use the current checklist of your visa centre.
Visa fees (approximate)
- Adult: about €90
- Child aged 6–12: about €45
- Under 6: free
The service provider adds its own service fee. Fees can change, so check the current amount with the visa centre.
Tips that help
- File documents person by person: Putting each person’s documents in a separate clear folder speeds things up on the day.
- Children’s fingerprints: Fingerprints are not taken from children under 12, but the child may still be asked to attend.
- Keep the itinerary consistent: Dates on the form must match your hotel and flight bookings exactly.
- Don’t forget insurance: The policy must cover every travel date and the whole family. See our travel health insurance guide.
Official sources
To start planning your route, browse our city guides.