Are you dreaming of visiting Europe in 2025? Maybe you want to see the Eiffel Tower in Paris, explore beautiful castles in Germany, or relax on sunny beaches in Spain. Before you pack your bags, you need to get a Europe tourist visa, also called a Schengen visa.
At our Europe Visa Agency in London, we help hundreds of people apply for their Schengen tourist visa every year. In this simple guide, we will explain how to apply for a Europe tourist visa in 2025, what documents you need, and how to increase your chances of approval.
What is a Europe Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa)?
The Schengen visa allows you to travel to 27 European countries in the Schengen Area. You can visit for tourism, family visits, or short business trips, and stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Countries you can visit with a Schengen visa include:
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Switzerland
- Greece
- And more!
This visa is perfect for people who want to explore multiple countries in Europe without applying for separate visas.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
If you are not a citizen of the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, or a few other visa-exempt countries, you must apply for a Schengen visa before traveling to Europe. Many UK residents who hold non-EU passports (such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nigerian, or Sri Lankan passports) need this visa.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Europe Tourist Visa in 2025
1. Choose Your Main Destination
If you plan to visit more than one European country, you must apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. This is called your main destination.
For example:
- 5 days in France + 3 days in Spain → Apply through the French embassy
- 4 days in Italy + 4 days in Germany → Apply through the first entry country
2. Book an Appointment at the Visa Centre
In London, most Schengen visas are processed through VFS Global or TLScontact, depending on the country.
Appointments can be booked online. Book early, especially during summer months, as slots fill quickly.
3. Gather the Required Documents
Make sure all your documents are ready and complete. Common documents include:
- Visa application form (filled and signed)
- Valid passport (must be less than 10 years old and valid for at least 3 months after return)
- Passport photos (as per Schengen standards)
- UK residence permit or BRP card
- Travel itinerary (flights and hotel bookings)
- Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies)
- Proof of funds (bank statements from the last 3 months)
- Employment letter or proof of income
- Cover letter (explain your travel plan)
Tip from a Europe Visa Agent in London: Always make copies of your documents and ensure your name, dates, and bookings match across all files.
4. Attend Your Visa Appointment
Go to your visa appointment on time. You will:
- Submit your documents
- Pay the visa fee (usually around €80 for adults)
- Give fingerprints and a photo (biometrics)
The process is usually quick if you are prepared.
5. Wait for Your Visa Decision
Processing times usually take 15 working days, but it can be faster or longer depending on the embassy and the season.
You can track your application online using the reference number given during your appointment.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
As Europe Visa Agents in London, we’ve helped many clients get their Schengen visa approved on the first try. Here are our top tips:
- Be honest and clear in your application and cover letter
- Don’t book non-refundable flights or hotels before visa approval
- Show enough funds – most embassies expect about €60–100 per day of stay
- Buy good travel insurance that clearly shows the coverage amount
- Check your documents twice to avoid small mistakes
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Even if you apply correctly, sometimes applications get rejected. Common reasons include:
- Not enough proof of income or funds
- Fake or incomplete documents
- Doubt about your return to the UK
- Mistakes in the application form
- No clear travel plan
If your visa is refused, you can appeal the decision or reapply after correcting the issues.
Why Use a Europe Visa Agent in London?
Applying for a Schengen visa can feel confusing, especially if it's your first time. A professional Europe visa agent can:
- Help you choose the correct embassy
- Fill your application form accurately
- Prepare a strong cover letter
- Review your documents
- Book your appointment for you
- Provide updates and advice during the process
We take the stress out of the process and improve your chances of a successful visa.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Europe tourist visa in 2025 is possible if you follow the correct steps and prepare well. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this visa opens the door to unforgettable memories across Europe.
If you're based in London and need expert help, our visa consultants are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s make your Europe trip happen!