UAE residents looking to travel to the Schengen area will now need to complete an additional step as part of their visa application.
With effect from June 18, 2025, individuals lodging an application to travel to Switzerland through a visa center must complete an online visa application form on the booking platform first.
This new move has been initiated with the goal of streamlining and boosting the efficiency of the visa appointment system. It is also part of a larger push towards digitizing the application process for Schengen visa applications from the UAE.
This means that applicants will no longer need to book a slot and fill out the application form on separate occasions. The online application has now been combined with the appointment scheduling process, similar to the application processes for Schengen visas to France and Germany.
Applying for a Type C Schengen visa, also known as a short-stay visa, involves completing the online application form through the website of the country that they intend to spend the majority of their trip in. The webpage, instructions, and documents required may differ across countries.
Traditionally, the application process has involved downloading, filling in, signing, and handing in the form with all the supporting documents to a visa application centre or embassy. Applicants are now encouraged to create an account and use the online application system.
Processing times can differ, so authorities advise travellers to submit their applications well ahead of their planned trips to avoid any delays.
Even though UAE nationals can travel to the Schengen area without a visa for short stays, this latest update is relevant for UAE residents of other nationalities, especially those who require a Schengen visa.
Guidance on Required Docs