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April 17, 2025 | 11:42 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Europe continues to be a dream destination for travelers. From the Eiffel Tower in France to the tulip fields of the Netherlands, the continent offers unforgettable experiences. But Indonesian tourists must first secure a visa to enter most European countries.
To visit the 29 countries within the Schengen Area, travelers need a Schengen visa. This visa allows short-term travel across participating nations, including popular destinations like France, Germany, and Italy.
Typically, Schengen visa processing takes about 15 days or longer. However, some countries offer significantly faster turnaround times.
What Is a Schengen Visa?
According to the website of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Jakarta, a Schengen visa is required for travelers who wish to visit countries within the Schengen Area for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. It allows short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
The Schengen Area consists of 29 countries that have abolished internal border controls. Of these, 25 are members of the European Union, while the rest—such as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein—are not. Once granted entry, travelers can move freely across all member states.
Schengen countries that are EU members include Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Italy, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, France, the Czech Republic, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Spain, and Greece.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
As noted by the European Commission, citizens of over 100 countries—including Indonesia, China, India, and Russia—must apply for a visa before entering the Schengen Area.
The application must be submitted at least 15 days before travel, and no earlier than six months prior. In some cases, an appointment is required before lodging the application.
Countries with the Fastest Schengen Visa Processing Times
While most visa decisions take about 15 days, the process can be extended up to 45 days for further checks. Still, some countries are known for quicker processing. Based on data from Travelo Biz, here are the top 10:
- Switzerland (5–15 days)
- Iceland (15–30 days)
- Italy (15–20 days)
- Luxembourg (15–20 days)
- Lithuania (15–30 days)
- Latvia (15–45 days)
- Germany (15–45 days)
- Greece (15–45 days)
- Slovakia (15–45 days)
- Austria (15–60 days)
Switzerland is among the fastest but also has a relatively high visa rejection rate at 13%. Iceland processes quickly too, partly because it receives fewer applications.
Tips to Avoid Delays
There is no guaranteed way to fast-track a Schengen visa, but applicants can reduce the chance of delays by submitting a clear and complete application along with all required documents.
These typically include:
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- A valid passport (plus old passports if available)
- Travel plans (flight details, accommodation, itinerary)
- Proof of visa fee payment
- Proof of travel and medical insurance covering up to €30,000 (around Rp575 million)
Editor’s Choice: How to Apply for Schengen Visa and Travel Tips
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