Applying for a Schengen Visa in Jamaica

Do Jamaicans need a Schengen Visa to enter Europe?

Jamaican passport holders need to apply for a Schengen Visa in order to enter any of the Schengen Area countries.

How do I apply for a Jamaica Schengen Visa?

You will first need to work out which Jamaica Schengen Visa you need, depending on your purpose, the length of your trip, and how many times you plan to visit. The standard Schengen Visa, for trips lasting up to 90 days, is a short-stay visa, with longer stays requiring a work or study visa. Multiple-entry visas are also available if you plan on traveling regularly to the Schengen Area.

You must apply for your Jamaica Schengen Visa no more than six months, and no fewer than 15 days, before your trip. It is advised you apply at least three weeks before you leave, however, to allow for any delays in the processing of your application. Then, you need to fill out your application, obtain all the documents you need for your Jamaica Schengen Visa, and attend an interview at a consulate or embassy.

How much does a Jamaica Schengen Visa cost?

A Schengen Visa from Jamaica costs €80 for adults and €40 for minors. Visa fees are waived for children under six years of age, those traveling to Europe for study purposes, researchers, those under 25 years old traveling with charitable organizations, and those attending sporting or cultural events.

What documents do I need to apply for a Jamaica Schengen Visa?

You can download a Schengen Visa application form here:AXA Schengen Visa Application

In addition to this, you will need two recently taken passport-style photos and a Jamaican passport or other travel documents that are no older than 10 years and valid for at least three months after your departure date from the Schengen Area. You will also need travel and medical insurance covering you up to costs of €30,000, a cover letter stating your itinerary and the purpose of your visit, as well as a flight itinerary and proof of accommodation during your stay, proof of your civil status, like a marriage certificate, and proof you have means of subsistence during your stay. This will vary from country to country.

When proving your accommodation and itinerary you are advised not to purchase full-price tickets until you get the visa, like a dummy ticket or reservation held for a small fee, or even a printout showing your flight plan is sufficient. When booking accommodation, you are advised to ensure your payment is refundable if your visa is refused.

Which countries can Jamaican citizens travel to without a visa?

Jamaican passport holders have visa-free access and visas on arrival to countries such as Singapore, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Israel, and Kenya.

How strong is the Jamaican passport?

As of 2022, Jamaican citizens hold the 62nd most powerful passport globally, according to analysis from immigration specialists Henley’s and Partners, assessing where they can travel visa-free, with an eVisa, or get a visa on arrival to more than 80 countries worldwide.

Are there any documents I will need when applying for a Jamaica Schengen Visa to work?

If you are planning to work or study in the Schengen Area, then you will need additional documents to obtain your Jamaica Schengen Visa. For those coming to work in Europe, these include an employment contract, a current bank statement, a no objection letter from your employer, and an income tax return. As a student, you will need proof of enrolment and a no objection letter from the school you study at in Jamaica.

You may also need to supply proof of a pension or property income if these provide your income.

Where do I apply for a Schengen Visa in Jamaica?

Not all countries have their own embassy or consulates in Jamaica, but not to worry - other embassies or consulates act on their behalf. Those you can use are:

  • The Embassy of Germany
    If you need a German visa, head to the German Embassy in Kingston - which also processes applications on behalf of Estonia, Finland, Iceland and Italy.
     
  • The Embassy of Spain
    Located in Kingston, the Embassy of Spain in Jamaica is the place to go if you’re looking for a Spanish Schengen visa, or if traveling to Austria, France, Greece, Hungary, Portugal, The Czech Republic, Slovenia, Slovakia, Latvia, or Switzerland. The Embassy of Belgium
     
  • The Belgian Embassy in Kingston processes tourist visas for Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway.

You still need to apply for a visa from the country that is your main destination. So, if you’re traveling to Greece and Italy, with most of your time in Italy, then you should apply at the German embassy.

How long does it take to process a Jamaica Schengen Visa?

Applications should take around 15 days but can take up to 30 days to process, especially during busy periods.

Why choose AXA Schengen Insurance?

AXA’s Low Cost Travel Insurance only costs €22 ($23.82) per week of your trip and will meet your visa requirements, while the AXA Schengen Europe Travel Insurance offers extended coverage up to costs of €100,000.

Those seeking a multiple-entry visa can purchase the Multi Trip insurance from €328 per year, which again covers you for expenses up to €100,000.

How to apply for Schengen visa in other countries? :

Frequently asked questions about Jamaica Schengen Visas

Are there any Covid restrictions on travelers from Jamaica to the Schengen Area?

There are no restrictions on those vaccinated with an EU-authorized or a WHO-approved vaccine -provided they have received the last dose of the primary at least 14 days and no more than 270 days before arrival.

What will happen if I overstay my Schengen Visa?

You could be deported or detained and may face a fine or a travel ban barring you from Schengen countries.

Which country is most likely to accept a Schengen Visa application?

Lithuania is the easiest country to get a Schengen Visa from, with only around 1.3% of the short-term applications rejected.

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