How to apply for Schengen Visa from Saudi? (+Documents +Translation)

Jeddah Translation Office
May 2
2 min read

Updated: May 5

✅ Schengen Visa Application from Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Visa Type

Tourist, business, study, family visit, etc.
Each purpose may require slightly different documentation.

2. Choose Your Schengen Destination

Apply at the consulate of the country that is:
- Your main destination (where you will stay the longest), or
- The country of first entry if no main destination.

3. Book an Appointment

Appointments are typically booked via VFS Global (for many Schengen countries) or directly through the consulate.
Some embassies in Saudi Arabia with Schengen jurisdiction include:
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Spain

4. Prepare Required Documents

Here are the typical documents needed (check specifics with the consulate):

🗂️ Application Package:

Completed Schengen Visa Application Form
Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond return date
- Must have at least 2 blank pages

📸 Biometric Photo:

Recent passport-size photo (35x45 mm)
White background, neutral expression

🛫 Flight Reservation:

Confirmed flight bookings (not necessarily purchased tickets)

🏨 Hotel Booking:

Proof of accommodation for entire stay

💰 Financial Proof:

Recent bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Salary slips or proof of income
Travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Additional (if visiting someone):

Invitation letter
Copy of host’s passport/residence permit

👷 For Employees:

No Objection Letter (NOC) from employer
Employment certificate and salary statement

🧑‍💼 For Business:

Invitation from company, business license, company bank statement

5. Translation Requirements (Very Important)

Documents such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificate
- Company letters
Must be translated into the consulate’s official language (often English, French, or German) and certified by a legal translation office in Saudi Arabia.

🔹 Tip: Some consulates require Arabic documents to be translated by a certified translator and stamped by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

6. Submit Your Application

Submit at the consulate or its authorized visa center.
Provide biometric data (fingerprints) if you haven’t done so in the last 59 months.

7. Pay Visa Fee

Approx. €80 for adults (payable in SAR at the time of submission)

8. Wait for Processing

Normal processing time: 15 working days
Apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance

📝 Translation Services in Saudi Arabia

If you need help translating documents, you can contact a certified translation office in Jeddah or Riyadh that specializes in visa document translation. Ensure the translations are: