Do babies need their own Schengen visa?

Yes, every child including newborns needs their own visa and passport. Babies cannot be included on parent passports for Schengen travel.

Can I apply for my child's visa if I'm a single parent?

Yes, but you'll need additional documentation. Bring the child's birth certificate, your custody documents if applicable, and a notarized statement explaining the other parent's absence (death certificate, sole custody order, or unknown father statement).

What if my child's passport expires during the trip?

The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area. Renew the passport first, then apply for the visa with the new passport.

Do children need to show financial support?

Children don't need their own bank accounts, but parents must prove they can financially support the child during travel. Show €50-60 per day per child in bank statements or a sponsorship letter.

Can grandparents apply for a grandchild's visa?

Only if they have legal guardianship. Otherwise, parents or legal guardians must apply. If grandparents are traveling with the child, they need notarized consent from both parents plus their own documentation proving the relationship.

How to Get a Schengen Visa for Children

Children need their own Schengen visa application with additional documents including birth certificates, parental consent letters, and proof of financial support. Apply at the consulate of your main destination country at least 15 days before travel, though 6-8 weeks ahead is safer.

Determine which consulate to apply to. Apply at the consulate of the country where your child will spend the most time. If equal time in multiple countries, apply to the first country of entry. Each child needs a separate appointment.
Gather required documents. Collect passport (valid 6+ months), completed application form signed by both parents, recent passport photos, birth certificate, parental consent letter if traveling with one parent, and proof of financial support showing €50-60 per day per child.
Complete the application form. Fill out the form completely. Both parents must sign if the child is under 18. Leave no blank fields - write 'N/A' if something doesn't apply. Double-check all information matches the passport exactly.
Book your appointment. Schedule online or by phone. Most consulates require appointments 2-4 weeks in advance. Children under 12 typically don't need to attend in person, but check specific consulate requirements.
Attend the appointment. Arrive with all original documents plus photocopies. Bring both parents if possible, or the traveling parent with notarized consent from the non-traveling parent. Pay the fee (usually €35 for children 6-11, free under 6).
Track your application. Processing takes 15 calendar days typically, but can extend to 30-60 days during peak season. Track status online with your reference number. Collect passport in person or arrange courier pickup.

Do babies need their own Schengen visa?: Yes, every child including newborns needs their own visa and passport. Babies cannot be included on parent passports for Schengen travel.
Can I apply for my child's visa if I'm a single parent?: Yes, but you'll need additional documentation. Bring the child's birth certificate, your custody documents if applicable, and a notarized statement explaining the other parent's absence (death certificate, sole custody order, or unknown father statement).
What if my child's passport expires during the trip?: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area. Renew the passport first, then apply for the visa with the new passport.
Do children need to show financial support?: Children don't need their own bank accounts, but parents must prove they can financially support the child during travel. Show €50-60 per day per child in bank statements or a sponsorship letter.
Can grandparents apply for a grandchild's visa?: Only if they have legal guardianship. Otherwise, parents or legal guardians must apply. If grandparents are traveling with the child, they need notarized consent from both parents plus their own documentation proving the relationship.