Applying for a visa to European countries, including Lithuania and Hungary, generally follows a standard process as both are part of the Schengen Area. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Schengen visa for these countries:
1. Determine the Type of Visa You Need
- Tourist Visa: For travel and leisure.
- Business Visa: For business activities like meetings or conferences.
- Student Visa: For studies or research purposes.
- Work Visa: For employment in the country.
2. Where to Apply
- You must apply at the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting. If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time.
- If your primary destination is either Lithuania or Hungary, you should apply at the respective consulate.
3. Gather Required Documents
You will need to provide the following general documents:
- Completed Visa Application Form: Download and fill out the form from the embassy website.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay and have two blank pages.
- Passport-Size Photos: Recent photos according to Schengen visa photo requirements.
- Proof of Travel Insurance: Coverage must be at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Flight Reservation: A copy of your flight booking showing your entry and exit dates.
- Accommodation Proof: Hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a host.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, pay slips, or sponsorship letters proving you can financially support yourself during your stay.
- Visa Fee: The current Schengen visa fee is €80 for adults and €40 for children (this may vary based on nationality and type of visa).
For specific cases:
- For Business Visa: Invitation letter from the host company in Lithuania or Hungary, detailing the purpose and length of stay.
- For Student Visa: Proof of enrollment in a Lithuanian or Hungarian institution, and proof of payment of tuition fees.
4. Book a Visa Appointment
- Go to the official website of the Lithuanian or Hungary work permit consulate or visa application center to schedule your appointment. It’s crucial to apply well in advance (at least 3-6 weeks before travel).
- In some cases, visa application centers like VFS Global manage Schengen visa applications on behalf of the embassy.
5. Attend the Visa Interview
- Bring all your documents to the interview. You may be asked about your purpose of travel, accommodation plans, and financial stability.
- You may also have your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) taken.
6. Processing Time
- The visa processing time can range from 15 to 30 days, depending on the consulate and the season.
- You can track your application status online if applying through a visa center like VFS Global.
7. Visa Approval or Denial
- If approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport.
- If denied, you will receive a reason for the denial, and you can appeal or reapply.
Read more about how to apply a work permit in Lithuania
Additional Tips:
- Lithuania: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or intend to work or study, you’ll need to apply for a national visa (D visa) or a residence permit.
- Hungary: Ensure you check specific guidelines for long-term visas if you are planning to work or study.
By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a visa to Lithuania or Hungary. Make sure to check for any recent changes in visa rules or COVID-19-related travel restrictions before applying.
