Applying for a Schengen visa can be a detailed and sometimes lengthy process. Once you've submitted your application, it’s natural to feel anxious about its status. Understanding how to track your Schengen visa status can save you from unnecessary stress and ensure that you're well-prepared for your next steps. This guide will help you understand how to check Schengen visa status online smoothly.

Why Track Schengen Visa Status?

Tracking your Schengen visa application status ensures you stay informed about its progress. It allows you to:

1. Plan Your Travel: Knowing when your visa is approved helps finalize your itinerary.

2. Address Any Issues Promptly: If your application requires additional documentation or corrections, you can respond quickly.

3. Ease Anxiety: Regular updates reassure you that your application is moving through the process.

How to Check Your Schengen Visa Status

The method for tracking your visa depends on the country where you applied and the agency or embassy processing your application. Below are the common ways to know if your Schengen visa is approved or not:

1. Using Atlys visa tracking tools:

Here are the steps to track visa application status online:

1. Step 1:Enter the application reference number and your last name. 

2. Step 2: Click ‘Check Status,’ and one of the following results will be displayed on the screen.

And Here are the list of Schengen countries you can track: 

• France

• Switzerland

• Italy

• Germany

• Greece

• Austria

• Belgium

• Croatia

• Czech Republic

• Estonia

• Finland

• Hungary

• Malta

• Netherlands

• Norway

• Poland

• Sweden

• Cyprus

2. Through the Visa Application Center (VAC)

Most Schengen visa applications are also submitted through external service providers like VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International. These centers provide online tracking services:

• VFS Global:

  • Visit the VFS Global website.

  • Select your country of residence and the destination country.

  • Navigate to the "Track Your Application" section.

  • Enter your application reference number and last name.

• TLScontact:

  • Access the TLScontact portal.

  • Log in using your credentials to view your application status.

• BLS International:

  • Go to the BLS International website.

  • Input your application reference number and date of birth.

Pro Tip: Ensure you have your application reference number and the correct spelling of your name as provided during the application.

3. Directly Through the Embassy or Consulate

If you applied directly at an embassy or consulate, they might provide tracking options:

• Online Tracking: Many embassies have an online portal for status updates. For example:

  • Visit the official website of the embassy where you applied.

  • Enter your tracking number or passport number to view your application status.

• Email or Phone Inquiry: If online tracking is unavailable, contact the embassy directly. Provide your full name, passport number, and application reference number for assistance.

Important: Embassy processing times vary, and contacting them too frequently may delay responses. Use this option only if necessary.

 4. Through Notifications or Updates

Some consulates or VACs offer notifications via:

• SMS Alerts: Opt for SMS updates when submitting your application.

• Email Notifications: Keep an eye on your email inbox (and spam folder) for updates on your visa status.

5. Using the Visa Information System (VIS)

The Visa Information System (VIS) is a central database used by Schengen member states to store visa applications and biometric data. While applicants cannot directly access VIS, consulates and border authorities use it to verify visa information. If your status needs to be verified at a border, authorities can reference VIS for confirmation.

Note: This method is not recommended for verifying your schengen visa application status.

Common Visa Status Updates and Their Meanings

When tracking your application, you may encounter the following statuses:

1. Application Received: Your application has been received and is under initial review.

2. Under Processing: The embassy or consulate is reviewing your application.

3. Approved: Your visa has been granted. You will be notified about passport collection or delivery.

4. Rejected: Unfortunately, your visa application was not successful. You can reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection.

What to Do If You Encounter Issues

If you're unable to track your visa status or face unexpected delays, follow these steps:

1. Double-Check Details: Ensure your reference number, name, and date of birth are entered correctly.

2. Contact the VAC or Embassy: Use their official contact information to inquire about your application.

3. Stay Patient: Processing times can vary based on the volume of applications and the complexity of your case.

How will I receive my Schengen visa once it is approved?

Once your Schengen visa is approved, you will receive it as a visa sticker placed inside your passport.

The Visa Application Centre (VAC) where you applied will notify you via email or SMS that your passport, containing the visa, is ready for collection. You can then either pick it up in person from the VAC or opt for courier delivery if that service is available.

Here is a sample of the one of the Schengen countries visa:

What can I do if my Schengen visa application status shows “rejected?”

If your Schengen visa application has been rejected, you have the following two options:

1. Reapply for a new visa: You can submit a new visa application after carefully addressing the reason for the rejection provided in your visa rejection letter. Schengen visa applications usually get rejected due to incomplete documentation, insufficient proof of financial means, unclear purpose of travel, or lack of ties to your home country. When reapplying, ensure that you address the applicable reason.

2. Appeal the rejection: Alternatively, you have the right to appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. To appeal, you'll need to gather any missing documents or additional information that supports your case and write a detailed and persuasive appeal letter explaining why the Schengen visa should be granted.

Worried about another visa rejection? Apply with Atlys and let our visa concierge assist you with the Schengen visa application process, increasing the chances of visa approval!

Conclusion

Tracking your Schengen visa status is a straightforward process when you use the right tracking tools and resources. By staying informed, you can reduce stress, plan your travels more effectively, and address any issues promptly. Use official tracking tools listed above, stay patient, and prepare for your exciting journey to the Schengen Area.