Can we apply at different consulates?

No. All family members must apply at the same consulate representing your main destination country. Split applications will be rejected.

What if our children have different last names?

Provide birth certificates showing the parent-child relationship and any relevant court documents for name changes or custody arrangements.

Do we need separate travel insurance policies?

You can buy one family policy that covers everyone, as long as each person is individually named and has minimum €30,000 coverage.

Can one parent apply for the whole family?

No. Each person needs their own application and appointment, but you can attend together and submit simultaneously.

What happens if one family member is rejected?

The others can still receive visas if their individual applications meet requirements. Rejection of one doesn't automatically reject all.

How to Apply for Schengen Visas as a Family

Apply for Schengen visas as a family by submitting all applications together to the same consulate, using one person as the main applicant, and providing additional family documentation like marriage certificates and birth certificates. Book appointments for the same day and prepare identical supporting documents for each family member.

Determine your main destination country. Choose the Schengen country where you'll spend the most nights. If tied, pick the country you enter first. This determines which consulate handles your family's applications.
Gather family documentation. Collect marriage certificates, birth certificates for children, and custody documents if applicable. Get official translations if your documents aren't in English or the destination country's language.
Book appointments together. Schedule visa appointments for all family members on the same day at the same consulate. Many consulates offer family appointment slots specifically for this purpose.
Prepare individual application packets. Complete separate visa application forms for each family member. Children need their own applications signed by both parents or legal guardians.
Create family cover letter. Write one cover letter explaining your family's travel plans, including who's traveling, relationship to each other, and detailed itinerary. Reference this letter in each individual application.
Submit applications simultaneously. Attend the appointment together and submit all applications at once. Bring originals and copies of all documents. Pay fees for each family member separately.

Can we apply at different consulates?: No. All family members must apply at the same consulate representing your main destination country. Split applications will be rejected.
What if our children have different last names?: Provide birth certificates showing the parent-child relationship and any relevant court documents for name changes or custody arrangements.
Do we need separate travel insurance policies?: You can buy one family policy that covers everyone, as long as each person is individually named and has minimum €30,000 coverage.
Can one parent apply for the whole family?: No. Each person needs their own application and appointment, but you can attend together and submit simultaneously.
What happens if one family member is rejected?: The others can still receive visas if their individual applications meet requirements. Rejection of one doesn't automatically reject all.