Are Schengen visa appointments available as travel demand peaks?

Schengen visa

 UAE residents planning trips to Europe for the Eid Al Adha break or summer vacation might face difficulties securing Schengen visa appointments. Industry experts indicate that slots are booked till the end of August, though some may occasionally become available.

Travelers will have a five-day break in mid-June for Eid Al Adha, and schools will close for summer in July-August, making it a popular travel period. Monaz Billimoria, regional head for the UAE at VFS Global, emphasized the importance of planning and booking in advance, as Europe remains a high-demand destination for UAE travelers. Visa appointments are updated in real-time on the VFS Global website, necessitating early preparation.

Travel demand to Europe has surged by 40% compared to last year, according to Musafir, an online travel agency. While popular Schengen countries are the main attractions, 20-25% of travelers are exploring newer destinations.

For residents who have recently started planning their trips, securing a visa appointment may be challenging. Most embassies are currently offering appointments starting in September. However, Ramy Badr, sales head at Dopamine Travels, noted that some embassies periodically release a limited number of slots. For instance, the Czech Republic embassy recently opened appointments for late June and July. He advised residents to regularly check the VFS website and consider seeking assistance from travel agencies that can help monitor and secure appointments.

Anir Chatterji from Vialto Partners acknowledged the difficulty of obtaining appointments before the summer break. Consistent monitoring of the VFS website, especially during early or late hours, is crucial for finding available slots.

Additionally, VFS Global warned against fraudulent entities charging applicants for scheduling appointments. The company does not charge a fee for booking appointments on its official website. Some governments require pre-payment of the service fee when booking, which will be reimbursed or deducted during the application process to ensure genuine travelers secure appointments and prevent misuse by fraudulent entities.

In conclusion, UAE residents aiming to travel to Europe this summer should prioritize early visa application planning and remain vigilant against fraud. Regularly checking the VFS Global website and considering professional assistance can enhance the chances of securing a visa appointment amidst the high demand.