Schengen Family & Friends Visit Visa UK

Visiting family or friends in the Schengen Area

If a relative or friend lives in one of the 29 Schengen states and you want to visit them, you will usually need a short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa. It covers stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area, and it is the same category used for tourism and short business trips — only the purpose and supporting documents differ.

The key feature of a visit application is that someone in the Schengen Area is hosting or inviting you. Consulates often want evidence of that relationship and of where you will stay, so the paperwork tends to centre on your host as well as on you.

Who this route suits

This route is generally suitable if you are a UK resident travelling to see family or friends for a short stay and you intend to return to the UK afterwards. It is not designed for long-term stays, study, or work, which fall under different national visa categories.

What we help with

Confirming the correct consulate for your trip and the visit-visa category to apply for
Guidance on the invitation letter or proof-of-accommodation document your host may need to provide
Completing the application form accurately and consistently
Pre-checking your documents against the consulate’s published checklist
Booking your embassy, consulate, or visa-centre appointment
Preparing a clear cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit

What to prepare

Requirements vary by nationality and consulate, but applications of this kind typically involve a valid passport, the completed application form, passport photos, travel and accommodation details, travel insurance, and evidence of funds. For a visit, expect to also provide an invitation or hosting document from your family member or friend, along with proof of their status in the country. Always check the official consulate or visa-centre website for the exact, current checklist.

A common pitfall is an invitation letter that is missing the host’s details, immigration status, or signature — small gaps that can delay a decision. We help you spot and fix these before you submit.

To browse requirements by country, see the Schengen visa hub. When you are ready, contact us to start your application.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Schengen family and friends visit visa?

It is a short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa for visiting relatives or friends who live in the Schengen Area, usually for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The exact rules and required documents vary by nationality and by the consulate you apply through.

Do I need an invitation letter from my host?

Many consulates ask for an invitation or proof of accommodation from the person you are visiting, sometimes on an official form. Requirements differ between countries, so always check the relevant consulate’s guidance for the format and supporting documents they expect.

Which consulate should I apply to?

As a general rule you apply to the country that is your main destination. If you are visiting more than one country, you apply to the one where you will spend the most time. We can help you confirm the correct consulate for your trip.

How long does a visit visa take to process?

Processing times vary by nationality, consulate, and time of year. Always apply well ahead of your travel dates and check the official consulate or visa-centre website for current timelines before booking flights.

Can Schengen Travel guarantee my visa will be approved?

No. The decision rests entirely with the consulate. We provide application support — helping you prepare a complete, well-organised application — but we cannot influence or guarantee the outcome.