What are multiple-entry Schengen Visas and how do I get one?

NAME: Axel Strauss
DATE: 10/21/2025
 

Everything You Need to Know About the Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa for Europe

The Schengen Zone is a historically ground-breaking group of dozens of European countries that have abolished border controls between them.
But if you’re one of the millions of people worldwide planning a visit to any of these Schengen countries, chances are you’ll need a Schengen visa first.

And if you’re planning more than just one or two trips to Europe, the specific visa you’ll want (and most likely need) is the multiple-entry Schengen visa.
In which case, AXA has all you need to know below - including types, travel insurance requirements, how to apply, and more!

Index
What are the different Schengen visa types?
What is a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
Do I need a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
What are the different types of multiple-entry Schengen visas?
Who Can Get a Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa for Europe?
How do I apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
How much does a multi-entry Schengen visa cost?
Do I need travel insurance for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
Why choose AXA for my Schengen travel insurance?
What travel insurance options does AXA offer (including for a multiple-entry Schengen visa)?
FAQ Multi-entry Schengen visa

What are the different Schengen visa types?

First off, it’s important to know that Schengen visas come in a number of shapes and sizes.
For example, the traditional short-stay (aka Type C or “tourist”) Schengen visa remains a common choice for many.
The reason being that it allows you to travel - one time - to, throughout, and/or in all of Europe’s Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
On the other hand, anyone planning to enter, leave, and then re-enter the Schengen Area will need what’s known as a double-entry visa. This type of visa - as its name suggests - allows two entries (for up to 90 days). However, it expires when you leave the Schengen Area for the second time. And that’s even if you have not used all your travel days.
PRO-TIP: But fear not - because AXA can gladly tell you more about all the different Schengen visa types one by one, of course.

What is a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

Meanwhile, there has been an increasing demand for even more flexible Schengen travel options in recent years. In fact, so much so that in 2024, the European Commission introduced new rules to facilitate multiple-entry visas.
Travellers from places like Brazil, Canada, the U.K. and the U.S. usually don’t. However, nationals of over 100+ countries worldwide do need a Schengen visa.
And if you’re one of the millions that do, then a multiple-entry Schengen visa is - again - the one you’ll need if you plan to travel to the Schengen Area several (i.e., more than two) times within the visa’s validity period.  

Do I need a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

Whether you need a multiple-entry Schengen visa depends on your travel plans and nationality. If you’re from a country that requires a Schengen visa and you plan to visit the Schengen Area multiple times within a specific period, this visa is essential.

What are the different types of multiple-entry Schengen visas?

So once you have an idea of your multiple travel plans (and visa situation), you’ll also need to decide which type of multiple-entry visa you want. Because multiple-entry Schengen visas come with the following varying validity periods:

• One-year multiple-entry visa: Valid for 12 months with multiple visits allowed.

• Three-year multiple-entry visa: Issued to travelers with a compliance history, valid for three years.

• Five-year multiple-entry visa: Available to long-term users with proof of previous multiple-entry visas over several years.

In addition, national (aka Type D) multiple-entry visas are also available for long stays - typically related to work, study, or residency - in a specific Schengen country.

PRO-TIP: And AXA can tell you all about the Type D (aka “long-stay” or “national”) visa too!

Who is eligible for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

Meanwhile, the decision to grant a multiple-entry visa depends on:
- the aforementioned Schengen authorities,
- your particular situation,
- your ability to justify the need for multiple visits, and
- your travel history.

Typically, applicants must demonstrate elements like proper documentation, past lawful use of visas, and a valid reason for repeated entries to the Schengen Area - such as ongoing business, family commitments, and so on.

But don’t worry - your destination country's Schengen authorities (and probably European coworkers, friends, and/or family) will be able to tell you more and help too.

How do I apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

Fortunately, applying for any Schengen visa - whether it be single, double-entry, or multiple-entry - follows more or less the same process. And you can usually begin said process online.

Traditionally, you fill out an application form, gather the required documents,* attend an in-person interview (including for biometric collection) at a your local Schengen destination consulate or visa application center, pay the visa fee, and - well - hope for the best!

*IMPORTANT: The main difference lies in specifying the number of entries you request and providing supporting documents to justify multiple entries (if needed, and which will likely be specified by your Schengen destination country’s website or representative).

PRO-TIPS: And, Schengen visa pros AXA got your back too, of course. In fact, much so that we have comprehensive, easy, step-by-step guides on:

• How to apply for a Schengen visa (including for specific Schengen countries)
• How to fill out a Schengen visa application form

And we can also help you find the website/contact info for your destination Schengen country’s embassy or consulate

How much does a multi-entry Schengen visa cost?

The price of a multi-entry Schengen visa is the same as for a single-entry visa. What makes the difference is the visa sticker, which will show the “MULT” mention if your visa allows multiple entries.
The exact fee depends on factors such as the applicant’s age, and in some cases reduced rates or exemptions may apply.
In addition, if you submit your application through a visa center rather than directly at a consulate or embassy, you may also need to pay extra service fees.

PRO TIP. For a full overview of all visa fees, please check our detailed Schengen visa fee chart

Do I need travel insurance for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

Yes, you do. Because not only is having the appropriate Schengen travel insurance a good call for multiple European journeys - it is also one of the primary requirements to be eligible for a Schengen visa. And that’s no matter how many of those European journeys you plan to make.

Moreover, your plan must also adhere to a certain set of criteria (as set forth by the European Commission).

What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

As stipulated by the European Union in Regulation (EC) No. 810/2009, in order to be granted your Schengen visa, you must have a Schengen travel insurance plan that:

• is purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries

• has a minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (such as hospitalization, emergency treatment, and repatriation — including in case of death)

• covers you in all the Schengen member countries (not just the ones you plan to visit)

• be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area.

PRO-TIP: Fortunately, all of AXA’s plans below meet all the criteria above.
But we can also gladly tell you more about travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa (including the reasons behind them, for example).

Why choose AXA for my Schengen visa travel insurance?

And whether you're a one-time vacationer or frequent traveler and multiple-entry Schengen visa* holder (and/or applicant), AXA is definitely the way to go when it comes to being safe and worry-free.

*PRO-TIP: For example, AXA’s ANNUAL is a single yearly contract covering all your trips across Schengen countries, the EU, and the UK for a full year (but more about that in a sec!).

No matter how many European entries you make, with AXA, you get insurance that:

• Has no age limit, zero deductibles, and no medical exams required

• Offers quick, easy, and hassle-free online subscription

• Is accepted by all Schengen embassies, consulates, and visa application centers worldwide

• Provides the certified, world-recognized AXA travel insurance certificate instantly upon purchase (via email)

• Offers a full refund in case your multiple-entry Schengen visa is denied

• Offers coverage of medical expenses and repatriation costs of up to €1 Million or even €2 Million

• Includes civil liability and personal liability insurance

• Includes death and/or disability coverage

• Offers baggage insurance (included or optional, depending on the plan)

• Offers customizable plans with multiple upgrade options

• Is valid for the Schengen area + the European Union + the United Kingdom (depending on the plan, that is - see below)

• Offers flexibility from just one day up to a full year

• Provides 24/7 emergency assistance

• Offers free remote medical consultation (in English and a number of other languages) with our unique Doctor, Please! feature

• Can be purchased on behalf of someone else

And, of course, with AXA, you also get the peace of mind of knowing you’re supported by a world-renowned, decades-trusted, first-class Schengen travel insurance brand!

What travel insurance options does AXA offer (including for a multiple-entry Schengen visa)?

When planning your multiple-entry Schengen visa application (and travels), AXA provides the following flexible plans to fit your needs:

- AXA SCHENGEN ANNUAL: our annual plan meets all the requirements for your multiple-entry Schengen visa while providing coverage across all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates (San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City) + the UK.
PRO-TIP: And ANNUAL uniquely offers a single contract for a full year of European travel, which makes it the best possible fit for frequent travellers and multiple-entry visa holders/applicants near and far!

- AXA SCHENGEN BASIC: our standard coverage also meets all the requirements for a multiple-entry Schengen visa, is simple, affordable, world-recognized, and covers you in all Schengen countries + European microstates above.

- AXA SCHENGEN ESSENTIAL: our complete, reliable European coverage that meets all EU/Schengen visa requirements and covers you in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates above + the UK.

- AXA SCHENGEN PREMIUM: and our all-inclusive, premium plan is the way to go for complete, zero-stress and worry-free travel throughout Europe (and beyond) as often as you like. It also meets all necessary multiple-entry Schengen visa requirements, and also covers you in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates + the UK. - for 100% stress- and worry-free travel!

And that’s just a quick overview. So before you book those various tickets (and/or Schengen visa appointment), be sure to click around, take a minute to compare all of AXA’s options, and get a free, zero-obligation AXA quote too!

That way you’re sure to see how AXA’s comprehensive options and flexible, customizable, short- and long-term coverage make multiple-entry Schengen travel safer and easier than ever - no matter your European destinations!

RELATED ARTICLES:

What is the first port of entry rule for a Schengen visa?

How do I apply for a Schengen business visa for Europe?

How do I apply for a student visa for the Schengen?

FAQ

Can I change a single-entry Schengen visa to a multiple-entry one?
No. You will need to return to your home and reapply for a multiple-entry Schengen Visa (unless it’s determined to be under very exceptional circumstances by the Schengen authorities).

Does a multiple-entry Schengen Visa allow travel anywhere in Europe?
Almost! While it does allow frequent travel to all Schengen countries, there are roughly 50 countries in Europe total - and not all of them are in the Schengen Zone.
PRO-TIP: But fear not, AXA can tell you all about the key differences between Europe, the European Union, the EEA, and the Schengen Zone too!

Do I need to purchase separate insurance for every trip with my multiple-entry Schengen visa?
No, you don’t have to buy new insurance for each trip. For instance, AXA’s ANNUAL (aka Multi-Trip) plan above covers unlimited trips within one year under a single contract - making it perfect for multiple-entry visa holders who travel frequently across Schengen countries.