schengen visa tourist vs business

What are you looking for?

Business / tourism / visitor visa.

A Schengen visa is required if you intend to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for business, visitor or tourist purposes.

Visa needed?

Entry clearance requirements depend on the citizenship of the applicant.

We are pleased to confirm that persons holding a US passport do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, provided that the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180 day period and provided that no economic activity is being pursued. If you are not a US passport holder, please check our country list to see if you need a visa: country list

Where and how to apply?

German consular services are available throughout the USA. Customers will need to schedule an appointment via the service provider BLS International (except Consulate General Atlanta).

If you live in the jurisdiction of the Consulate General in Atlanta, please make sure to schedule an appointment in order to apply for a Schengen visa directly at the consulate (not via BLS).

Click below to find out where to submit your application and to learn about any specific application procedures. Due to local particularities handling and processing may vary slightly among the German Missions involved: Consulate Finder

Please note processing time of minimum 2 weeks. In some cases processing time may take up to 4 weeks plus additional business days for mailing your documents. Therefore make sure to schedule an appointment as early as possible before your intended trip to Germany.

In order to apply for a visa, it is not necessary to use services of an agency or service provider for facilitation. Also, some of such agencies provide false claims and information regarding the visa process. The German Missions are only cooperating with BLS International in the US.

Please be aware that the submission of forged documents and/or itineraries can lead to the rejection of the visa application.

Under certain circumstances you can mail in your application to the service provider BLS International . If you live in the consular jurisdiction of the consulate in Atlanta, you might mail in your application there if you qualify .

What do I need to fill out and bring?

• Online Schengen Visa Application Form
• Declaration of Accuracy
• Visa Photo Examples
• Information on Data Protection ​​​​​​​

Which documents are required?

• Schengen Visa
• Schengen Visa ( EU /EEA spouse, parent or child)
• Schengen Visa (German spouse, parent or child)

Applying for a Schengen visa

This is a general overview - for more details contact the embassy or consulate of your main destination country.

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is an entry permit for non-EU nationals to make a short, temporary visit of up to 90 days in any 180-day period to a country in the Schengen area. 

Schengen visas come in 3 forms: 

• single-entry visa - allowing you to enter the Schengen area once;
• multiple-entry visa - allowing several visits to the Schengen area for as long as the visa is valid;
• airport transit visa - allows you to connect through the international transit area of an airport in the Schengen area during a stopover or a change of flights. It does not allow you to leave the international transit area.

How long can you stay?

The short-stay visa calculator can help you calculate the remaining period you are allowed to stay in a Schengen country. 

The user's guide provides step by step instructions and practical examples to help you use the calculator.

Who needs to apply for a Schengen visa?

Citizens of certain non-EU countries must hold a short-stay visa when travelling to the Schengen area. 

Consult the EU list of countries whose citizens are required to hold a visa when crossing its external borders. There are exceptions to the visa requirements for certain types of traveller to certain countries (e.g. diplomats, armed forces, refugees, pupils on school excursions).

Airport transit visas

• Some non-EU nationals must also hold an airport transit visa when connecting through the international transit areas of airports located in any of the Schengen States . 
• For citizens of certain additional countries , an airport transit visa is required when connecting through the international transit areas of airports located in some of the Schengen countries . 
• There are some categories of people who are exempt from the requirement to hold an airport transit visa (see Article 3(5) of the Visa Code ).

Where to apply

You must lodge your application for a Schengen visa at the consulate of the country you intend to visit . 

• Visiting more than 1 Schengen countries : apply at the consulate of the country where you will spend the longest time.
• Visiting several Schengen countries (for stays of equal length): apply at the consulate of the first country you will visit.

As a general rule, you must apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate with territorial responsibility for the country where you are legally resident.

More information for each Schengen country can be found on these websites

When to apply.

You must submit your application to the consulate  at least 15 days before your intended journey and no earlier than 6 months beforehand . 

You may have to book an appointment before lodging the application.

What documents are needed to apply?

• A valid passport . The passport’s expiry date should be at least 3 months after the date of your departure from the Schengen area. For multiple-entry visas, the expiry date should be at least 3 months after your departure from the last country visited.
• A visa application form .
• A photo in compliance with ICAO standards .
• Medical insurance covering emergency medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation (including in the event of death).
• Supporting documents relating to the purpose of your stay, evidence of financial means and accommodation during your stay, and evidence of your intention to return to your home country after your stay.
• Your fingerprints will be collected when you submit your application (exemptions exist for specific categories of applicants).

Additional documents may also be requested by the consulates.

How much does a visa cost?

• €90 for adults
• €45 for children aged 6-12
• €35 for applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Belarus
• €67,50 for applicants from Cabo Verde.

An additional fee may apply if you go through visa service centres , which collect applications on behalf of consulates in some cases.

The visa fee can be waived for specific categories of applicants.

How long does the application take to process?

The normal processing time for a visa application is 15 days . 

This period may be extended to up to 45 days if a more detailed examination of the application and/or additional documents are required.

Under certain conditions, family members of EU or EEA citizens falling under the Free Movement Directive are eligible for a free and accelerated visa procedure.

Refusal of a visa application

If your application is rejected, you will be told:

• why it was rejected
• how to submit an appeal.

Share this page

Schengen Business Visa

If you are traveling primarily to conduct business, you should apply for a Schengen business visa.

What is a Schengen Business Visa?

• Schengen Business Visa is a kind of short stay (Type C) visa allowing you access to the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for business purposes.

Required Documents for Schengen Business Visa

• Copy of the valid trade license of the company in your resident country.
• Invitation letter from the company/authority in your destination country, including their complete address, also presenting the nature and length of the travel period, and/or:
• Information on the event/trade fair/congress you will be joining in your destination country, including detailed information regarding the host/event organizer, including their complete address, event length, and justification for your participation.
• If fair observer: relevant information on trade fair you will be attending, in the form of tickets/confirmation letter/invoice indicating valid status as trade fair exhibitor.
• Materials expressing the state of trade relations between your country of residence and the country in which you will be conducting business.

Eligibility: Who Can Apply

• Nationals of a third country excluded from visa-free access or visas on arrival to the Schengen area who have a legitimate, valid, and documented reason for entering a Schengen state to conduct business are eligible to apply for a Schengen Business Visa.

How to Apply for Business Schengen Visa

• To apply for a Business Schengen Visa, determine the Schengen country where you will be spending the most time on your trip. You will apply for the Business Schengen Visa through that country’s consulate.
• Select “ Business ” as the purpose of the journey.
• Determine how many “ Entries ” to the Schengen area you need.
• Gather your Basic Required Documents and  the documents required for a Business Visa.
• Fill out your   Schengen Visa Application Form . Different Schengen countries provide different ways of accessing applications; you might have to use an online application portal or fill out a print application by hand.
• Pay the application fee (standard fee for adults is 80 Euros). You will likely have to submit a service payment with your visa application. This is a separate cost from the visa fee, which you will likely pay in person, at your subsequent interview appointment at a Visa Application Center. Please note that these fees are non-refundable.
• Submit your application.
• Schedule an interview appointment. Interviews are conducted in person either at the embassy or the consulate of the country you are applying to, or at a Visa Application Center associated with the consulate of the country you are applying to.

When to Apply for Schengen Business Visa 

• You should apply for a Business Schengen Visa at least 15 days prior to the day you intend to travel, and no earlier than 6 months before you leave.

Where to Apply 

• You should apply for the Schengen Visa through the embassy or the consulate of the country you are travelling to in the Schengen area, or through a Visa Application Center associated with the consulate of the country.
• Suppose you are traveling to multiple countries in the Schengen area. In that case, you should apply through the embassy, the consulate or the associated Visa Application Center for the country in which you will spend the most time. And in case you plan to spend an equal period of time in those multiple countries, then you need to apply at the embassy, the consulate or the associated Visa Application Center of the country where you will arrive first.

Processing Time for Business Schengen Visa

• The processing time for a Schengen Business Visa is generally about two weeks (15 days). In rare cases, consulates can take anywhere from 30-60 days to render a decision on an application.

Schengen Tourist Visa

• What is a Schengen Tourist Visa?

The Schengen tourist visa is an official travel document that permits the holder free movement across all internal air and sea borders within the Schengen Area. It is also known as a “short-stay visa.” Many foreign nationals planning to travel to the Schengen Area for tourism are required to obtain a Schengen Tourist Visa which permits the holder to engage in tourism, business, or family visits that last up to 90 days. 

Millions of travelers enter the Schengen Area each year for tourism. Consisting of 29 countries, including nearly all European Union (EU) countries, except for Ireland and Cyprus, and some non-EU countries such as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, the Schengen Area is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world. 

After obtaining a Schengen tourist visa, travelers can enjoy the diverse cities, cuisine, and incredible natural beauty across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period . The 180-day period of validity begins the day the traveler enters the Schengen Area. 

Schengen tourist visas are available as single-entry or multiple-entry. A multiple-entry visa allows the holder to exit and reenter the Schengen Area numerous times during the 180-day period, provided they do not remain in the Area for more than 90 days. All travelers holding a Schengen tourist visa must be sure to exit the Schengen Area before their visa expires to avoid any legal consequences.

• Table of contents

Who Needs a Schengen Tourist Visa?

A valid passport, a complete visa application form, an icao-compliant photograph, valid medical insurance, supporting documents, after submitting your application, where to apply, when to apply, visa processing time, schengen tourist visa fees.

Nationals of many countries worldwide are eligible to obtain a Schengen tourist visa to experience all the wonderful sights that Europe hast to offer prior to entering the Schengen Area. This includes most countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The following is the full list of countries whose nationals must obtain a Schengen tourist visa: 

Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burma/myanmar, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Cote d'ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

The EU currently has visa-free agreements with 61 non-EU countries, two special administrative regions (Hong Kong and Macao), and one territorial authority (Taiwan). Countries with visa-free agreements include the United States, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Other countries, like Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, and Georgia, have visa facilitation agreements with the EU, which simplify the process of obtaining an EU travel visa.

Required Documents

All travelers seeking to obtain a Schengen tourist visa must adhere to the Schengen visa requirements in order for their application to be processed successfully. 

The following are the documents required for the tourist Schengen visa application process:

The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least three (3) months after the final date of departure from the Schengen Area. For holders of a multiple-entry visa, this is the date of departure from the last country visited. 

The Schengen tourist visa application form can be found online and should be completed with all the relevant personal, travel, and contact details

The ICAO guidelines are detailed. For example, they stipulate that photographs must be at most six (6) months old, 35-40 mm wide, and capture the head and shoulders of the applicant so that the face takes up 70-80% of the photo. Other guidelines will apply and can be found on the official website

All applicants must have medical insurance that is valid for the duration of their stay in the Schengen Area. Insurance should cover any medical appointments or expenses, and more serious cases requiring hospitalization or repatriation.

While these documents may vary depending on the applicant’s unique circumstances, they generally consist of documents that show the applicant’s purpose of staying in the Schengen Area. This might include proof of financial subsistence and proper accommodation while in the Area. Other supporting documents may include proof of intent to return to the country of origin within the allotted validity period for the tourist visa. It is recommended that the applicant provide documents showing ties to their home country such as proof of family members, a job, properties, or an established business.

Other requirements for the Schengen tourist visa might apply depending on the applicant’s nationality, their situation, and the purpose of their trip to the Schengen Area. There may also be slight differences in the required materials depending on the specific processes of the embassy or consulate of the country they plan to visit. More information about this can be found below. 

It’s important for applicants to verify the list of required documents and materials with the local embassy, consulate, or visa application center where they plan to submit the application.

Application Process

Fortunately, for those who need to apply for a Schengen Area tourist visa in advance, the process is fairly straightforward and can be completed within as little as 15 days. 

The following is the basic process all applicants will follow to complete the Schengen tourist visa application:

The Schengen tourist visa application form can be found online and should be completed to the best of the applicant’s ability. All sections must be completed diligently and accurately.

Applicants must ensure they have all the required documents including a valid passport, an ICAO-compliant photograph, and any required supporting documents demonstrating that their purpose of stay is tourism. Required materials may vary depending on the location of the application submission. Country-specific requirements can be found online on the various official websites.

Most applicants will be required to schedule and attend an official appointment at the embassy, consulate, or visa application center where they will submit their application. It’s important to bring all the required documents to this appointment and be on time.

Visa fees are a requirement for processing any Schengen Tourist visa. The fees will vary slightly for some nationalities. Information on all fees can be found below. The method of payment will vary depending on the embassy, consulate, or visa application center where the application is submitted, so applicants should be prepared with the correct form of payment.

During the processing period, applicants should be prepared to provide any additional information or documents as requested by the immigration authorities or visa center team.

Once the Schengen tourist visa is received, the traveler can proceed with their travel plans to Europe. They must ensure they enter the Schengen Area through the country they applied through or maintain their travel plans if visiting several countries.

Applications for the Schengen Tourist Visa must be submitted at the embassy or consulate of the country the applicant intends to visit. As a rule of thumb, if the travel itinerary includes more than one country, the applicant will submit their application at the embassy or consulate of the country where they plan to stay the longest. If they plan to visit multiple countries for the same duration in each place, they can submit their application to the embassy or consulate of the first country they will travel to. 

Alternatively, applicants may be required to submit their application and supporting documents at a visa application center (VAC) or visa service center in their home country. Some applicants may be able to complete their application online, depending on the country where they plan to submit. This will depend on the country in which the applicant legally resides and the systems in place in that location. 

It’s important for applicants to verify the correct method of application submission before moving forward with the process.

The application for the Schengen tourist visa must be submitted at least 15 days before the intended date of arrival in the Schengen Area. Applicants who want to submit their application materials early can do so up to six (6) months before traveling. 

In most cases, the applicant will attend a visa appointment to submit their application. Otherwise, they may be able to complete the process online. Either way, it is advised to begin the process well in advance of the intended date of travel to avoid any unforeseen delays.

The Schengen tourist visa processing time varies depending on the applicant’s unique situation, nationality, and the purpose of their stay. However, the typical processing time for the visa application is around 15 days. Processing can take up to 45 days in some cases where more information or documents are needed from the applicant. 

In some cases, family members of EU/EEA citizens may be eligible for an accelerated visa pathway, free of charge, under the Free Movement Directive. 

All applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their travel date to avoid any delays in processing. Applications can be submitted up to six (6) months before the intended travel date. The latest an application can be submitted for the Schengen tourist visa is 15 days to allow time for processing.  

The Schengen visa cost will vary depending on the age and nationality of the applicant. For all non-EU national adults, the fee is 80€. The fee for children aged 6-12 is 40€. 

Nationals from countries that have visa facilitation agreements such as Armenia, Belarus, and Moldova, must pay 35€. 

Finally, applicants from Cabo Verde will uniquely pay 60€ for their Schengen tourist visa. 

Additional fees may apply depending on where the applicant submits their application documents. Visa application centers in some locations may collect a fee. There will likely be additional costs for printing, taking photographs, or other administrative fees.

No, working, studying, or living in the Schengen Area is not permitted with a Schengen tourist visa. This travel permit is designed for short-term stays for tourism, business, or visiting family for up to 90 days. If you want to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, you can apply for another visa or permit for the relevant country.

Holders of a Schengen tourist visa are eligible to visit 29 European countries including popular tourist destinations like France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, and Portugal. It also includes non-EU countries like Norway and Iceland. All countries in the Schengen Area allow travelers to move freely within and between their borders.

With a Schengen tourist visa, you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It's important to adhere to this limit to avoid overstaying your visa, which could lead to penalties or difficulties in future travels.

Yes, you can visit multiple Schengen countries with a single tourist visa. The visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, so you can visit any of the 29 member countries during your permitted stay. However, it's crucial to specify your main destination when applying for the visa if you plan to visit multiple countries with different durations of stay.

If you hold a valid residence permit issued by one of the Schengen countries, you do not need a Schengen tourist visa for short stays within the Schengen Area. A resident of any Schengen country is free to travel within the Schengen Area without a visa.

Check if you need a visa for your next destination

Latest news and articles.

Greece unveils visa-on-arrival program for Turkish tourists to 10 islands

Ireland imposes visa requirements on citizens of Dominica, Vanuatu, and Honduras

The essential traveler's guide to understanding various types of visas

• Schengen Visa Types

How long is the Schengen visa valid?

Schengen visas have a limited validity period, which depends on the trip’s purpose and the visa category itself. The Schengen states issue short- and long-stay visas.

A short-stay visa is issued to a foreigner for the first trip to one of the countries of the agreement. A long-stay visa can be issued to those who have visited Schengen several times and have not violated visa requirements. But the decision is always made by the embassy of the country where the applicant applies.

If a Schengen visa is issued for up to 5 years, this does not indicate the possibility of staying in the Schengen states for all 5 years. The validity period of a visa and the length of stay in countries are different concepts.

The duration of stay in the Schengen Area also depends on the visa type ― up to a maximum of 90 days every 180 days. For example, if a visa is issued for five years, a foreigner can enter the region as many times as they want. The main thing is not to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days within 180 days.

To avoid confusion about validity terms and stay terms, we are presenting the Schengen visa types in the table below.

A Schengen visa is pasted into a foreign passport and is often called a visa sticker. The visa has a special hologram, which is forgery protection.

The sticker contains information about the owner and the country that issued the visa. The visa validity area, validity period, duration of stay, and purpose of the visit must be specified.

A visa is required for all citizens of countries not part of the Schengen Area. There are exceptions: citizens of countries with which an agreement on visa-free entry to the Schengen Area was signed. For example, countries like Cyprus, Grenada, and Dominica.

Foreigners receive a visa at the embassies and consulates of the member states of the Schengen agreement. If the applicant plans to visit more than one country, it is recommended to submit documents to the representative office of the Schengen state where they will spend the most time.

With a Schengen visa, you can travel to Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

The visa also allows you to visit countries that are:

• candidates to join the European Union — Albania, Romania, Macedonia, Cyprus, and Bulgaria. 
• de facto belong to the Schengen Area due to the peculiarities of their location ― Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City and San Marino.

However, if a foreigner is travelling with a single-entry visa, they will not be able to use it to return to the territory of a Schengen Area state.

Three types of the Schengen visa depending on the purpose of your trip:

• Uniform Schengen visa (USV);
• Limited territorial visa (LTV);
• National visa.

A visa type depends on the visit’s purpose and the stay’s duration. All types are indicated by the letters: A, C, and D .

Type A visa ― transit, Type C ― short-stay, allows you to stay in the Schengen states for up to 90 days within six months. Type D visa is a national visa issued for a longer stay in a Schengen country, for example, to study.

Validity periods of the visa are limited and depend on the purpose of the trip and the category. For example, a transit visa is issued for up to 2 days. The maximum validity period of a Schengen visa is 5 years. Specialists of the embassy and consulate decide on the deadline.

The duration of stay in the Schengen states is limited : foreigners can stay in the agreement countries for up to 90 days every 180 days. You will need to obtain a national Type D visa for a longer stay.

“A visa sticker” is a Schengen visa’s second name. The visa itself is pasted into the passport. Each sticker contains a unique hologram that confirms the authenticity of the visa.

The sticker must contain information about the owner and the country that issued the visa. The details are the country and city of issuance, visa validity area, validity period and duration of stay, as well as the purpose of the visit.

The visa is issued to citizens from countries outside the Schengen Area.

There are exceptions for the countries that have signed an agreement on visa-free entry with the Schengen Area. Citizens of these countries do not need to obtain a Schengen visa, for instance, Cypriots, Grenadians or Montenegrins.

Foreigners apply for a visa at the consulate of one of the Schengen states. Documents are submitted to the country’s consulate, where the longest stay is planned during the first trip.

• Search How can we help you? Search

I will be visiting two or more Schengen countries. For which country do I need to apply for a visa?

If you want to apply for a visa for the Netherlands but will be visiting other countries in the Schengen area as well as the Netherlands,  you should only apply to the Schengen country associated with your main purpose of travel. Otherwise your application will be rejected.

Apply for a visa to the country associated with your main purpose of travel

If you will be visiting two or more countries in the Schengen area, you should apply to the Schengen country associated with your main purpose of travel. This means: your main reason for visiting the Schengen area. 

A purpose of travel may be: 

• a holiday (tourism)
• visiting family or friends

See what countries are in the Schengen area

More than one purpose of travel

If you have more than one purpose of travel decide what your main reason is for travelling to a Schengen area country.  You should apply for a Schengen visa for the country associated with your main purpose of travel.

Example: business travel and holiday

If you are travelling to the Netherlands for business and want to holiday in Sweden before or after, your business trip is the main reason for your stay in the Schengen area. You should apply for a visa for the Netherlands, even if your stay in Sweden will be longer.

Same purpose of travel for each country

If your purpose of travel is the same for two or more countries (holiday, for example), apply for a visa for the country you plan to stay in the longest. If you plan to spend an equal amount of time in each country, apply for a visa for the country you will be visiting first.

Example: Going to a conference in two countries

If you want to go to a one-day conference in the Netherlands and a two-day conference in France, your purpose of travel is the same for both countries. Apply for a visa for France, because you will be staying there the longest.

Example: Going on holiday to three countries

If you want to go on holiday to the Netherlands, Germany and Spain, and plan to spend the same amount of time in each country, a pply for a visa for the Netherlands, as this is the first Schengen country you will be visiting.

Applying for a Schengen visa

If your travel plans require you to apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands, how and where you do this depends on the country you are in.

Find out how to apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands

If you need to apply for a Schengen visa for another country, ask that country’s embassy how and where you can do this. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us .

In this article

Schengen Visitor Visa – Traveling to Europe for the Purpose of Visiting Family Members, Friends or Relatives

A Schengen visitor visa grants its holder a short-term stay in any country in the Schengen Area to visit family or friends.

What Is the Difference Between a Visitor Visa and a Tourist Visa?

The difference between a Schengen visitor visa and a Schengen tourist visa lies in the purpose of the visit. While a tourist visa is for leisure or tourism , a visitor visa is specifically for visiting family members or close friends residing in the Schengen Area.

A visitor visa typically requires an invitation letter from the person being visited, whereas a tourist visa does not have this requirement.

How Do I Apply for a Visitor Visa to the Schengen Area?

To apply for a Schengen visitor visa, follow these steps:

• Check if you need a visa . 
• Determine if you qualify for a Visitor visa .
• Find out where to submit your application .
• Complete and download the visa application form . 
• Schedule your Visitor visa appointment . 
• Prepare the required documents . 
• Attend the visa interview . 
• Wait for the visa to process . 
• Collect your passport . 

Check if You Need to Apply for a Schengen Visitor Visa

If your nationality is on the list of countries whose nationals need a Schengen short-stay visa , you must apply for a Schengen visitor visa to visit family or friends in the Schengen Area. Nationals from other countries can enter Europe visa-free for a maximum of 90 days .

Use the Visitor Schengen Visa Checker to determine if you need to apply for a visitor visa before travelling to the Schengen zone to visit family or friends.

Visitor Schengen Visa Checker

I am a citizen of:

I am travelling to:

I am travelling from:

Have you ever been denied entry into the Schengen Area?

Do you hold a valid residence permit of ?

Determine if You Qualify for a Visitor Visa

Your trip to the EU/Schengen Area must be primarily for visiting family or friends to qualify for a Schengen visitor visa.

Common scenarios where you may be eligible for a short-stay visitor visa include:

• Visiting Family: Planning to visit relatives, such as parents, spouse, siblings, or cousins, residing in the Schengen Area.
• Visiting Friends: Intending to visit close friends who are residents of Schengen countries.

Remember that the primary purpose of your trip must be to visit family or friends, and you should not engage in any activities involving business, work, or seeking employment during your stay in the Schengen Area.

Find Out Where to Submit Your Application

You can file your Schengen visitor visa application at one of the following:

• An embassy or consulate of the main destination country.
• A designated visa centre authorized by the embassy of your destination country to handle visa submissions.
• The embassy or consulate of another Schengen state to which your destination country has delegated the responsibility for visa submissions.

You can use our Visitor Schengen Visa Checker to find out where to submit your visa application, or read the following article for more details!

Selecting the Main Destination and the Appropriate Consulate/VAC for Your Visa Application

Complete & download the visa application form.

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility for a Visitor short-stay visa to Europe and determined where to submit your application, you should complete the visa application form.

You have two options for this: you can either download the standard Schengen visa application form , fill in all the required information, print it out, and sign it, or you can visit the official websites of the Schengen member countries and fill it out directly online through their systems.

For example, if you’re applying for a Visitor visa for Germany, you can complete the visa application on the official Videx website of the Auswärtiges Amt .

How to Fill the Schengen Visa Application Form

Schedule your visitor visa appointment.

After determining where to apply for the Visitor Schengen visa and filling out the visa application form, the next step is to schedule an appointment.

Usually, you can do this online through the embassy, consulate, or visa application centre’s website. Keep in mind that certain embassies may only accept appointments made through their official website.

Available slots depend on the EU/Schengen embassy/consulate and the time of year. Based on our experience, we strongly suggest that you inquire about appointments at least three weeks before you plan to travel.

Our Schengen visa checker not only determines whether you require a visitor visa, but it also assists you in identifying the correct consulate/VAC for application and booking a visitor visa appointment.

When Is the Best Time to Book the Schengen Visitor Visa Appointment?

• The earliest you can file a Visitor Schengen visa application is six months before you start your planned trip.
• The latest you can file a Visitor Schengen visa application is at most 15 working days before you intend to travel.
• The recommended time to file a Visitor Schengen visa application is at least three weeks before your trip.

Prepare the Required Documents for a Visitor Visa

To apply for a Schengen visa for visiting family, friends, or relatives in Europe, you’ll need to gather the following documents:

• Visa application form . Fully completed and signed.
• A valid passport.  Not older than 10 years, and it should be valid for at least three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area. Older passports with visas on them (if you have any).
• Two recently taken photos must be attached. These photos must have been taken within the last three months, as per the visa photo requirements . You can obtain Schengen visa-compliant photos online at MyBiometricPhotos.com
• A round-trip reservation or itinerary must include dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen area.

Get free quotes and compare top-rated Schengen insurance plans from trusted providers . Ensure a hassle-free Schengen visitor visa application process by selecting the right insurance plan that meets all the requirements outlined in Regulation (EU) 2009/810 of the European Parliament.

• Proof of accommodation. You must provide proof of your accommodation, such as hotel reservation, private accommodation, rental agreement, etc. If you’re staying with a friend or family member, please include proof that you will be staying with them, such as their address or a statement from them saying they will be hosting you.
• Letter of invitation. Include a letter of invitation from your friend or family member who you are visiting in the Schengen Area. If they are sponsoring you financially, they must state so in the invitation letter.
• Bank account statement—This shows you have enough money in your account for the trip. The statement must be no older than three months.
• Sponsorship Letter—by the inviting person confirming they will be financially supporting your trip to Schengen. In order for this letter to be valid, it must be accompanied by a bank statement of the sponsor, no older than three months.
• A combination of your bank account statement and a letter of sponsorship.
• Proof of paid visa fee . If you’ve already paid online after confirming your appointment, please show the receipt. Otherwise, you’ll need to make the payment during the interview.
• Employment contract.
• Current bank statement of the latest 6 months.
• Leave permission from the employer.
• Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary.
• A copy of your business license.
• Company bank statement of the latest 6 months.
• Income Tax Return (ITR).
• Proof of enrollment.
• No objection letter from the School or University.
• Pension statement of the latest 6 months.
• A confirmation of Employment letter, no older than three months, from their spouse’s employer stating the position held within the company and the starting date.
• Spouse’s valid passport.
• An official marriage certificate.

Please note that official visa authorities hold the right to ask for any additional documents.

Attend the Visa Interview

Although some Schengen countries and authorized visa centres might offer the option to fill out the application online, you still have to submit your Schengen visitor visa application in person because you also have to provide your biometric information (photo and fingerprints). So, on the day of your scheduled appointment, show up on time and bring all the required documents.

What Are Some Common Schengen Visitor Visa Interview Questions?

During a visa interview for a Schengen visitor visa, the consulate or embassy may ask a variety of questions to assess your eligibility and intentions.

Here are some possible questions:

• What is the purpose of your visit to Europe, and how long do you plan to stay?
• Can you provide details about your relationship with the family member, friend, or relative you intend to visit in Europe?
• What is their name, address, and contact information in the Schengen Area?
• What is their occupation?
• Are they a citizen of a Schengen country or do they hold a residence permit?
• Do you have other close relatives living in the Schengen Area?
• Have you received an invitation from your family member, friend, or relative in Europe? Can you provide documentation of this invitation, such as an invitation letter or affidavit of support?
• Where will you be staying during your visit? Can you provide details of your accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations or the address of your host’s residence?
• Proof of your host’s residency status: If your host isn’t a citizen of the Schengen country, they may need to provide a copy of their residency permit or similar documentation.
• Have you previously visited your family member, friend, or relative in Europe or any other Schengen countries? If yes, please provide details of those trips.
• Are there any specific activities or events you plan to participate in during your visit to Europe? Can you provide documentation regarding these plans, such as event tickets or invitations?
• What ties do you have to your home country that demonstrate your intention to return after your visit? This could include employment, property ownership, or familial responsibilities.

The interview typically lasts 10 to 20 minutes. Please make sure your responses are clear and accurate and align with the information provided in your application form and other documents.

Here are some articles that could assist you in preparing for a successful Schengen Visitor visa interview.

Top Mistakes to Avoid During a Visa Interview

Top 60 most asked questions during a schengen visa interview, pay the visa fee.

When applying for a Schengen Visitor visa, you must pay a non-refundable fee. The payment method depends on the specific embassy/consulate or visa application centre.

The application fee for a Schengen Visitor visa is €90 , but certain categories may qualify for reduced fees or exemption from payment, depending on their circumstances.

The visa fees are consistent across all member countries.

Wait for the Response

Be patient as you await a response regarding your Visitor visa application. Typically, visas are processed within 15 days, but this period may be extended on occasion. Depending on various factors, the processing time can range from 15 to 45 days.

Upon approval, the consular officer will issue a Schengen visa of a specific type and validity.

Collect Your Passport

On the day of your appointment, you will be notified of how you can collect your passport after the visa has been processed. There are two ways:

• You can pick it up in person at the embassy, consulate, or visa application centre.
• Alternatively, they can arrange for delivery through a courier service, albeit at an additional cost.

How Long Is a Visitor Visa Valid For?

A Schengen visitor visa allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period .

It’s essential to understand that the validity of your visitor visa may differ. The consular officer determines this duration considering factors such as your itinerary, visa type (single or multiple entry), and intended stay in the Schengen Area. Whether you’re granted the full 90 days or a shorter period depends on the issuing authority’s discretion. The maximum duration allowed is found on the visa sticker .

Additionally, it’s important to count your days in the Schengen Area carefully since overstaying means you have to deal with serious consequences . You can use the Schengen visa calculator to help you.

What if My Visitor Visa Application Is Denied?

If your visitor visa application is rejected , you can make an appeal against the decision . Of course, the appeal process won’t guarantee that the final decision will change, but the outcome can be unpredictable at times.

You also have the right to re-apply for the visa, but always ensure that you address the reasons for your rejection the first time; otherwise, you risk another denial.

Can I Work With a Visitor Visa?

A Schengen visitor visa does not allow you to work, do business, or look for employment. However, if that is your purpose, you can apply for a business Schengen visa or even a work visa.

Please note that if you’re found doing gainful employment with a visitor visa in the Schengen Area, you may be fined, deported, or arrested.

Today's Paper | June 15, 2024

Uk, schengen states make millions off rejected visas.

LONDON: The United Kingdom and Schengen countries raised millions of pounds and euros in fees from rejected visa applications from Pakistan, new research published this month shows.

The analysis released by Lago Collective, a community of researchers, policymakers and designers, shows that Pakistanis spent £5.3 million on rejected UK visa applications, with close to 40 per cent applications rejected from Pakistan in 2023.

In the same year, around 50pc of Schengen visas from Pakistan were also rejected, with €3.344m spent on applications.

The data was published in collaboration with the EUobserver, which reported that EU governments raked in €130m per year in rejected visa application fees, which were dubbed as ‘reverse remittances’.

Data shows Pakistanis spent £5.3 million on UK, €3.344m on EU visa applications that were unsuccessful

The analysis compiled by Marta For­e­sti and Otho Mantegazza at Lago Coll­ective showed that the cost of Schengen visa rejections in 2023 was €130m.

“Visa inequality has very tangible consequences and the world’s poorest pay the price. You can think of the costs of rejected visas as ‘reverse remittances’, money flowing from poor to rich countries,” Foresti said in a statement to Dawn . “We never hear about these costs when discussing aid or migration, it is time to change that.

{try{this.style.height=this.contentWindow.document.body.scrollHeight+'px';}catch{}}, 100)" width="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="height:250px;position:relative" src="https://www.dawn.com/news/card/1243537" sandbox="allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-popups allow-modals allow-forms">

“The rejection rate for short-term visa applications from Pakistan is very high, at approximately 40pc for both Schengen countries and the UK, resulting in very significant costs for all involved. This is surprising given the multiple ties between Pakistan, Europe and the UK.

“Yet the challenges faced by Pakistani nationals to reach Europe through legal means became tragically clear a year ago when hundreds died in the Greece boat capsize. People have no choice but to resort to dangerous journeys,” Foresti added. Foresti is the founder of Lago Collective and senior visiting fellow, ODI.

The EUobserver report said the total sum is likely to increase in 2024 since the visa application fee to travel to the EU will increase from 80 to 90 for adults on June 11. It also said the UK raised £44m in rejected fees, which are non-refundable regardless of the outcome. African and Asian countries bear 90pc of the costs for rejected Schengen visas.

Writing for LSE blogs last year, Foresti noted, “Visas regimes are not equal or reciprocal. An Italian national can obtain a visa to Sierra Leone on arrival for £30. A Sierra Leonean wishing to travel to Italy for a business meeting must undertake two separate trips to the Italian Consulate in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, over several weeks at eye-watering costs.”

The analysis notes that the visa application fee for short-term Schengen visas is 80 and for the UK equivalent, £100. For UK visa applications, countries with high rejection rates include Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Algeria — bearing high costs as a result (£5.8m, £5.3m, 2.3m and 3.6m, respectively).

Visa application fees are increasing, to 90 for Schengen/Europe and £120 for the UK. This will result in significant increases in rejected visas in 2024, further exacerbated by the emphasis on tightening migration in many European countries where elections are taking place.

In a statement, Lago said, “These costs are just the tip of the iceberg: in most cases, applicants pay more than the basic application fee, with private agencies involved in processing visa applications and brokers providing additional services along the way. The costs of not being able to travel for business and leisure also results into significant losses for all those involved.”

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2024

Doctors perturbed over denial of US visa

‘Decision to issue visas made solely by Pakistani embassy’

No Schengen visa for me: A Pakistani scientist's dilemma

Our top 6 picks from Ideas Eid Collection 2024

دوسری شادی کرنے والے مردوں کا پہلے ہی افیئر چل رہا ہوتا ہے، حبا علی خان

گلگت بلتستان کے دلکش رنگ: ‘پھول مت توڑنا ورنہ بارش ہوجائے گی’ (دوسری قسط)

فلسطین میں جاری نسل کشی مذہبی ہے یا صرف زمین پر قبضے کی جنگ؟

What Happens To Non-Tax Filers?

“The Corrupt Are Making The Budget”

Pakistan Budget 2024-25 In A Nutshell

BUDGET 2024-25: Relief Rally At The Stock Market

Pakistan Budget 2024-25: Rs2.12 Trillion Proposed For Armed Forces

Budget 2024-25: Full Post Budget Press Conference

T20 WorldCup: India Beats USA to Qualify

Summary: Pakistan Budget 2024-25 Highlights

Dear visitor, the comments section is undergoing an overhaul and will return soon.

Latest Stories

Sindh Budget 2024-25: Murad unveils Rs959bn ADP

Inordinate delay in issuance of passports takes toll on citizens

FPCCI decries futility of ‘mighty’ FBR in widening tax base

Sindh Budget 2024-25: Sindh presents ‘balanced’ Rs3.06tr budget

PM okays Rs10.69 tariff cut for industries

Nepra hikes national power tariff by 20pc

Israeli comedian falls while trying to scale stage with flag during Coldplay concert

Why Zard Patton Ka Bunn deserves a spot on your watch list

Bridgerton’s Penelope and Colin are having their moment but the next ‘juicy’ announcement is coming soon

Most popular.

Budget FY25 Calculator : Find out how much tax you will pay on your salary

Cartoon: 14 June, 2024

Punjab unveils Rs5.45tr surplus budget

Imran Riaz arrested in another case after Lahore court discharges him in fraud case

Cipher case: Govt challenges Imran, Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s acquittals in SC

Three members of Ahmadya community detained under MPO in Chakwal

‘Neutral’ Pakistan will skip Ukraine summit in Switzerland

Budget and politics.

Iddat case: IHC orders sessions court to decide on suspension of Imran, Bushra’s sentence in 10 days

Editorial: Extensive police reforms needed to curb lawlessness in Sindh

Is Ogra listening?

Digital divide in gender is a reflection of the society we live in

Indignity, disease, death: The life of a sewerage worker in Pakistan

Game changer — How extreme heat is stifling women’s sports in Pakistan

Our digital liberty

Quetta transport

Climate debt trap

Tackling the lethal troika

Sindh lawlessness, punjab budget, a non-starter, budget 2024-25: psdp gets massive boost.

Concessions on import, solar panel making welcomed

Yes, you really will need a 'visa' to visit Europe: What to know about ETIAS

Editor's Note

Come 2025, Americans and Brits will be required to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System and pay a small fee to visit Europe.

Although sometimes referred to as a "visa," this is actually just an online application and preauthorization. It will be much easier to obtain and much less expensive than a traditional travel visa.

ETIAS is set to launch sometime in mid-2025, though the launch date has been pushed back many times (most recently from 2024) and could be bumped again. In fact, the region has talked about instituting the program since 2016.

The new program will require travelers from countries outside the Schengen Area of Europe to fill out an application before arrival and pay a fee of 7 euros (about $8 or 6 British pounds) to enter any European Union or Schengen Area country.

What does this mean for future trips to Europe? Here's everything you need to know about the new ETIAS program.

What is the ETIAS 'visa'?

ETIAS is a visa-waiver program similar to the current Electronic System for Travel Authorization used in the U.S. for European visitors.

The form will act as a preauthorization system to allow travelers from 63 countries outside the Schengen Area , including the United Kingdom and the U.S., to enter the region for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a full visa.

ETIAS will cross-check visitor information with government databases and watchlists before issuing authorization to enter. The information collected will also be used in data tracking for business and tourism purposes.

"We need to know who is crossing our borders," said Jean-Claude Juncker, former European Commission president. "This way, we will know who is traveling to Europe before they even get here."

Is ETIAS a visa?

ETIAS is not a traditional European visa and will only require a seemingly quick online application.

You'll fill out an online form with basic personal information, travel plans and history and answer a few security questions. The authorities promise that most applicants will be approved within an hour. However, if your application is flagged, it could take up to four days.

Which countries will require ETIAS?

Quite a few nations will require ETIAS approval. They include full Schengen members that previously didn't require any authorization for Americans, such as Spain, France and Italy.

Also included are European Free Trade Association nations like Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

Several future Schengen member nations, including Bulgaria and Cyprus, and smaller territories like Andorra and Monaco will also require ETIAS.

Here is the full list of counties that will require ETIAS:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• The Netherlands
• Switzerland

Do American and UK citizens need to apply for ETIAS?

American citizens (and those from the 62 other non-European Union countries that are not currently required to apply for visas, including the U.K.) will need ETIAS authorization to enter the EU for visits of up to 90 days. This includes transit passengers.

If you have applied separately for a visa to enter Europe, you will not need to complete the ETIAS application.

How much will ETIAS cost?

ETIAS will cost 7 euros (about $8 or 6 British pounds) for a three-year permit that allows "third-country nationals" to enter the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Only visitors between 18 and 70 will need to pay the application fee, but all ages will need ETIAS authorization to enter.

How do you apply for ETIAS?

Before traveling, you must access the ETIAS online application to input passport information, name, date and place of birth, email address, phone number and a credit or debit card to submit the payment fee.

You'll also need to provide your destination and answer a few background and profile questions. The ETIAS website indicates the form should take about 10 minutes to complete.

Travelers will be asked to provide details of health, education and criminal convictions.

Here is what you'll be required to fill out, according to schengenvisainfo.com :

• Identifying information, including your first name, last name, last name at birth, date of birth and place of birth
• Information regarding your citizenship
• Email and phone number
• Education and work experience
• First EU country you intend to visit
• Background and eligibility questions about your medical condition, travel to war countries or places where you were deported or rejected, as well as criminal records
• For minors, the legal guardian must apply for ETIAS
• For family members of EU citizens from other countries, you must submit proof of relationship, residence card and other background information

How long will the approval process take?

Approval for most applicants should take a matter of minutes. However, a manual review will occur if an item is flagged in the application. The applicant can correct the improper information or appeal a denial decision.

When will ETIAS start being required?

The launch of this long-planned system has been pushed several times over the years, but it sounds like it could finally happen in 2025.

At that point, airlines, cruise ships and other transport systems will be required to check for ETIAS authorization before allowing passenger boarding.

All visitors will be required to complete the application process before traveling. At land borders, visitors should also, in some locations, be able to complete the application at an electronic kiosk.

How long does ETIAS last, and will you need to apply for each Europe trip?

Once approved, your ETIAS will be valid for up to three years and can be used on multiple trips. You won't be required to apply for a new ETIAS each time you travel to Europe unless it's been more than three years since your last visit.

After three years have passed, you will be required to apply for a new ETIAS.

Is there a renewal process?

When your ETIAS is coming up to its expiration date, you should receive an email to the address you registered during your application.

You can apply for a new ETIAS authorization up to 120 days before the expiration of your current ETIAS.

How will your personal data be stored?

The European Commission has attempted to soften privacy fears by insisting that ETIAS is not a visa and includes a far less intrusive application process.

"There is no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data is collected, and significantly less information is gathered than during a visa application procedure," the European Commission said .

Bottom line

Fortunately, Americans and Brits planning to visit Europe don't need to take any immediate action.

However, be prepared to go through one more step and pay one more fee in the travel process as part of the ETIAS implementation sometime in 2025. Stay tuned to TPG for further developments related to this program.

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• What exactly are airline miles, anyway?
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status

• Celebrities
• Beauty & Health
• Relationships & Weddings
• Food, Travel, Arts & Culture
• International
• Pulse Picks
• Celebrity Picks
• Pulse Influencer Awards

Schengen visa rejections cost Nigerians €3.4m as application fees surge to €90

The report highlighted that Africans were significantly affected by these costs, given that most African nations have some of the lowest wages globally.

A report by Schengen visa statistics has revealed that from Tuesday, June 11, African nationals would pay €90 instead of €80 for a Schengen visa application

Recommended articles.

The report highlighted that the EU’s revenue was bolstered by €3.4 million, a significant portion of which was generated from rejecting Schengen visa applications submitted by Nigerian citizens.

The data revealed that in 2023, African nationals faced 704,000 visa application rejections.

“This means that €56.3m went up in smoke, considering that visa application fees are not refundable,” the report states

The report highlighted that a significant number of denied visa applications had led African nationals to spend millions annually.

These expenses, referred to as 'reverse remittances,' only benefit EU countries without providing any advantage to the applicants.

The report states that, “African nationals spent €56.3m in visa application fees in 2023, representing 43 per cent of all expenses; rejection rates in 2023 were especially high for African and Asian countries, which bear 90 per cent of all expenses. Expenditures are to increase by 12.5 per cent starting next week as the EU raises visa fees for adults from €80 to €90 on 11 June, following a recent decision by the EU Commission.”

Algeria, Morocco tops rejection log

In 2023, Algeria led in the number of rejected applications, accounting for 23.5% of the total amount spent on such rejections. The country also had the second-highest number of rejections, with 289,000 out of 704,000 applications being denied, making up 42.3% of all requests. Additionally, Moroccans, who were the top visa applicants from Africa, faced the highest number of visa rejections.

“A total of 437,000 visa requests filed by this nationality group were rejected in 2023, representing 62 per cent of the total. As per expenses, Moroccans spent €10.9m on rejected visa applications in 2023 ,” the stated as quoted by Punch.

How African applicants impacted hike in Schengen visa application fee

The study found that Africans accounted for 43.1% of the total revenue from rejected visa applications in 2023.

A recent analysis by EU Observer showed that Schengen visa rejections generated €130 million in 2023.

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected!

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: [email protected]

15-man robbery gang attacks bank, FCT police captures only 3

Unical's law, physics and 2 other courses risk losing nuc accreditation, another rea staff faces trial for alleged ₦1.85 billion fraud, gov lawal told to end blame game over zamfara attacks, i'm making money to spend on transport - fct residents decry rising transport fares, frsc deploys breathalysers to detect drunk driving at motor parks, highways, lagos govt strengthens sports development with signing of 60 new coaches, court discharges binance executive from tax evasion case, adjourns to july 12, ogun govt aims to harmonise taxes, cut double taxation for businesses, pulse sports, victor osimhen's future in the balance: premier league or saudi pro league, fifa rankings: nigeria ahead of ghana& south africa, remain best team in the continent, 'sack him now' - reactions as finidi george fails to inspire super eagles against benin, all for women gabby thomas and other female athletes accused of poor sportsmanship to thompson-herah, super eagles: nigeria are becoming world cup qualifying no-hopers, npfl standings: what the latest title race twist means after the abandoned rangers vs enyimba derby.

31 years later, Nigeria is still trapped in MKO Abiola's 1993

New twist as court rules deposed Kano Emir has valid case

KSIRS unveils e-tax system to enable taxpayers pay directly to govt’s coffers

Tension between akpata, obaseki's camp over destruction of campaign billboards.