For some travellers, a visa is not required for short stays, while others must apply in advance. In either case, knowing the right visa rules, timelines, and requirements can save you from delays, refusals, or unexpected complications at the border when applying for a tourist visa to Europe.

Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Europe?

Whether or not you need a visa depends on:

• Your citizenship
• The countries you plan to visit
• The length and purpose of your stay

Schengen Area Visa-Free Countries:

Citizens of many countries (such as Australia, the USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and others) can enter most Schengen countries without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism or short business.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

You need to apply for a Schengen Europe tourist visa if:

• Your passport does not qualify for visa-free entry
• You’re staying more than 90 days
• You’re visiting for non-tourist purposes (work, study, family reunion, etc.)
• You want to visit non-Schengen countries in Europe that require visas for your nationality

A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within 26 European countries, but entry depends on border checks and your documents – so preparation is key. Knowing how to get Europe tourist visa correctly increases your chances of approval.

What’s Changing: ETIAS and EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

Europe is modernising its borders with new electronic systems:

• ETIAS (Coming in 2026)
  • Required for visa-exempt travellers (e.g. Australians, Canadians, etc.)
  • Not a visa — it’s a pre-travel authorisation
  • Applied for online and valid for multiple short stays
• EES (Launching October 2025)
  • Digital system recording entries/exits of non-EU travellers
  • Collects biometric data (photo, fingerprints)
  • Replaces passport stamps

Even if you don’t need a visa, these systems will affect your entry into Europe. It’s important to stay informed, especially about Europe travel visa Australia requirements if you’re applying from Australia or hold an Australian passport.

How to Apply for a European Tourist Visa (Schengen or National Visa)

If you’re wondering how to get a European tourist visa, here’s a general step-by-step guide:

1. Identify Your Main Destination or Entry Point

Apply at the embassy of the country where:

• You’ll spend the most time, or
• You’ll enter first if the time is equal across countries

2. Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport (with at least 3 – 6 months’ validity after your return date)
• Recent passport-size photos
• Proof of accommodation (hotel or invitation letter)
• Round-trip flight reservation
• Travel insurance (covering at least €30,000 in medical costs)
• Bank statements or sponsor documents
• Travel itinerary or purpose of visit letter

Knowing the Europe travel visa Australia requirements (or those for your nationality) will ensure your documents match embassy expectations.

3. Fill Out the Visa Application Form

Available online or at the embassy.

• Be accurate and honest
• Double-check before submission

4. Schedule an Appointment

Depending on the embassy, appointments may be required for biometrics or interviews.

• Apply early – ideally 4 – 6 weeks before your trip

5. Submit and Pay the Visa Fee

Fees vary by country and nationality (typically around €80 for adults).
Some applicants (students, minors) may pay less or be exempt.

6. Attend the Interview (If Required)

• Dress appropriately
• Bring original and supporting documents
• Answer confidently about your travel plans

7. Wait for Processing

Most Schengen visas are processed within 15 calendar days, but delays happen.
Non-Schengen visas (e.g. UK, Ireland, or Eastern European countries) may take longer.

By following these steps, your tourist visa for Europe application will have a much smoother process.

Top Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documents
• Applying too close to the travel date
• Booking non-refundable flights before visa approval
• Underestimating processing times
• Providing vague or weak proof of funds or purpose

Understanding how to get Europe tourist visa correctly helps you avoid these pitfalls.

How Kritin Global Can Help

At Kritin Global, we assist clients from all nationalities in applying for Europe tourist visa – whether you’re from India, Nepal, China, the Philippines, South Africa, or anywhere else.

Our services include:

• Checking your visa eligibility
• Matching your plans with the right visa or embassy
• Preparing and reviewing all documents
• Booking appointments and tracking progress
• Coaching you for interviews and embassy queries
• Providing updates on ETIAS and new EU travel rules

We simplify the process and help you avoid costly errors – so you can focus on enjoying your trip, not worrying about paperwork. We also keep you updated on Europe travel visa Australia requirements if you’re based in or travelling from Australia.

Conclusion

Getting a tourist visa Europe doesn’t need to be stressful – but it does require preparation, especially as rules change. Whether you’re travelling for a holiday, visiting family, or planning a multi-country tour, Kritin Global can guide you through every step – no matter what passport you hold. From document checks to interview prep, we make sure your application is strong and on time.

Ready to get started?

Contact Kritin Global today and let’s get your European tourist visa approved – the right way, the first time.

Location: Perth, Australia (serving clients worldwide)

Phone: +61474 731 111

Email: admin@kritinglobal.com

www.kritinglobal.com/contact-us

FAQs – European Tourist Visa Application

1. Which nationalities need a visa to visit Europe as a tourist?
   Most African, Asian, and some Latin American passport holders need a Schengen tourist visa for Europe. Visa-exempt nationalities include Australia, the USA, the UK, Canada, and Japan – but only for short stays.
2. What is the difference between a Schengen visa and a national visa?

• A Schengen visa lets you travel within 26 Schengen countries for up to 90 days.
  
• A national visa is for long stays in a specific country (e.g., over 90 days in France, Germany, etc.).
  

3. Can I apply for a Schengen visa from outside my home country?
   Yes, in many cases – especially if you’re legally residing or studying in a different country. You’ll need proof of legal residence in the country where you’re applying.
4. How early should I apply for my visa?
   Apply at least 4 weeks before travel, but preferably 2 months early, especially during busy travel seasons.
5. Can I visit multiple countries in Europe with one visa?
   Yes – with a Schengen visa, you can travel across all member countries. Just apply via the country where you’ll spend the most time or enter first.