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Schengen Travel

Schengen Business Visa

Schengen business visa support for UK residents

A Schengen business visa is a short-stay (Type C) visa for travelling to the Schengen area for business purposes — attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, training, site visits or trade fairs. It allows short visits within the standard short-stay limit but does not permit paid employment. Whether you need a visa, and the exact conditions, depend on your nationality and the consulate handling your application.

This route suits employees, directors, consultants and self-employed professionals based in the UK who are travelling for a defined business reason. You will normally apply to the consulate of the country where your main activity takes place. If your trip spans several Schengen states, you generally apply to the one where you will spend the most time. The rules differ between consulates, so it is worth confirming before you book an appointment.

What we help with

  • Identifying the correct consulate for your itinerary and confirming whether a visa is required
  • Completing the application form accurately and consistently with your supporting documents
  • Reviewing your invitation or business correspondence and trip evidence before you submit
  • Booking your embassy or consulate appointment
  • Preparing a clear cover letter explaining the purpose, dates and funding of the trip
  • End-to-end support from first enquiry through to your appointment

What to prepare

  • A valid passport with sufficient remaining validity and blank pages
  • An invitation letter or correspondence from the host organisation, where applicable
  • Proof of your employment or business, such as a letter from your employer or company registration details
  • Travel and accommodation details for the dates of the trip
  • Evidence of funds and travel medical insurance covering the Schengen area

Requirements vary by nationality and consulate, so we tailor your document list to your specific case. We provide application support and document checking — the decision always rests with the consulate, and we never guarantee an outcome.

To browse destinations and country-specific guidance, visit the Schengen visa hub. When you are ready to begin, contact us to start your application.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Schengen business visa?
It is a short-stay (Type C) visa for business activities such as meetings, conferences, training and trade fairs across the Schengen area. It does not permit paid employment. Allowed activities and conditions vary by nationality and consulate.
Which country should I apply to for a business trip?
Generally you apply to the country where your main business activity takes place. If you are visiting several Schengen states, you usually apply to the one where you will spend the most days. Rules vary by consulate, so confirm before booking an appointment.
Do I need an invitation letter from the company I am visiting?
Most consulates expect an invitation or business correspondence from the host organisation confirming the purpose and dates of the visit. The exact wording and supporting evidence required vary by nationality and consulate.
Can I work on a Schengen business visa?
No. A Type C business visa covers short business activities, not paid employment in the Schengen area. If you intend to take up work, a different route applies.
How long does a Schengen business visa take?
Processing times vary by nationality, consulate and time of year, so we suggest applying well ahead of your travel dates. Always check the relevant consulate for current guidance.
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