​​​Schengen Visa from China: how to get your Europe Visa step by step

PRO-TIP: Schengen travel Insurance is mandatory for your Schengen visa from China!

Written by Kurt Hambadda
Date : 04/13/2026

Schengen visa to Europe for Chinese nationals: How, where, and when to apply

Europe is a continent where centuries-old cities stand beside cutting-edge innovation. Where art, architecture, and nature meet in every direction. And where each of the dozens of countries offers its own irresistible mix of flavors, experiences, and culture. So it's no wonder that more and more travelers from China are setting their sights on Europe each year.

Meanwhile, most of Europe's dream destinations - from Italy and Spain to Germany, France, and Portugal - fall within the Schengen Zone. Which means that before their European getaway can begin, Chinese travelers will need a Schengen visa.

Luckily, you're number one go-to for Schengen travel insurance AXA is here to make getting a Schengen visa from China smoother, simpler, and stress-free too!

Schengen Visa for Chinese nationals - Table of Contents

• 🌍 European visa requirements for nationals of China
• 📝 How to apply for a Schengen visa from China
• 📋 Types of Schengen visas for Chinese visitors to Europe
• 📄 Required documents for a Schengen visa for Chinese nationals
• 🛡️ Travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa from China
• 📍 Where to apply
• ⏱️ Schengen visa application timing
• 💰 Schengen visa costs for Chinese nationals
• ❓ FAQs about the Schengen visa for Chinese nationals

Do Chinese nationals need a Schengen visa for short stays in Europe?

Yes. In order to visit and stay in any of Europe's Schengen countries, Chinese citizens need a Schengen visa. And that's because China - along with India, Russia, Turkey (Türkiye), and 100+ other countries worldwide - has yet to sign a visa-waiver agreement with the European Union.

📌 IMPORTANT NOTE
If you're travelling on a Chinese passport, you'll need to have a Schengen visa whether you're coming to Europe from China or anywhere else (the U.K., Australia, Thailand, as well as Chinese U.S. residents, Green Card holders, etc.).

→ A Schengen visa is mandatory for Chinese nationals!

FUN FACT: Did you know that nearly two million Chinese nationals apply for a Schengen visa annually, making China the number one Schengen visa applicant in the world?

HEADS-UP: Schengen or Europe?

The majority of Europe's nations are Schengen countries (and in the European Union). However, Albania, Belarus, Georgia, Serbia, the UK, and over a dozen other countries are not. And these non-Schengen European nations will therefore each have their own, separate visa requirements.

💡 PRO TIPS: Fortunately, AXA can also help you understand:

• Which European countries are not in the Schengen Area
• The differences between Europe, the EU, the EEA, and the Schengen Zone

How do Chinese nationals apply for a Schengen Visa? 6 Easy steps

The Schengen visa application process can be nerve-wracking. However, it's fairly universal whether you're applying from China or anywhere else in the world. So here's a quick breakdown:

Step 1: Decide on the Schengen visa type that works best for you

Step 2: Purchase the mandatory valid Schengen travel insurance (AXA's got you on this one below too!)

Step 3: Gather all other required documents for your Schengen visa

Step 4: Fill in the Schengen visa application form - usually found online, via your chosen Schengen consulate/visa application centre (VAC)

Step 5: Schedule your visa appointment with your Schengen destination embassy/consulate or corresponding VAC (this part's usually still online too, or over the phone).

Step 6: Attend the in-person interview (for document presentation, biometrics collection, and payment of visa fee (and service fees, if applicable).

And you should be good to go!

💡PRO TIP: You can also track your visa application status online while you wait to hear back from the consulate/VAC.
And just to make sure your visa's approved, here's a more detailed breakdown of these steps.

What kind of visa for Europe do Chinese travelers need?

Based on the purpose and length of your stay in Europe, your visa will fall into one of the following categories:

Short-stay (up to 90 days): Type C Schengen Visa

The type C (aka "tourist") Schengen visa is the most common one:

• Duration: up to 90 days within any 180-day period
• Purpose: tourism, family visits, and short business trips
• What it permits:
  - travel to one or multiple Schengen countries
  - single or multiple entries (depending on visa chosen/issued)
• Does not allow: work beyond short business purposes

⭐ AXA at your service!
You can also learn more about:

• The multiple-entry Schengen visa - for frequent trips to Europe (but still adhering to the 90/180-day Schengen visa rule below)
• The Schengen business visa
• Schengen visa validity
• The 90/180-day Schengen visa rule

Long-stay (more than 90 days): Type D Visa

If you're a Chinese national hoping to stay in Europe longer than 90 days, then you'll need either a residence permit or a Type D (aka "long-stay"/national) visa.

• Duration: more than 90 days (can vary depending on the issuing country)
• Purpose: work, study, family reunification, or long-term stays
• Countries you can visit: primarily the issuing Schengen country, with short visits (up to 90 days) allowed in other Schengen countries
• Allows: residing in the issuing country, traveling briefly to other Schengen countries
• Does not allow: permanent residence in other Schengen countries without additional permits

📌 IMPORTANT NOTE: The Type D is issued by the specific Schengen country you plan to stay in. And since it's technically not a uniform Schengen visa (i.e., it doesn't apply to the whole Schengen zone), each country will have its own specific requirements for being granted one. So check with the proper channels (which you can find below!).

⭐ AXA at your service!
Meanwhile, if you're a Chinese national looking to study or work in Europe, we've also prepared some helpful step-by-step guides on getting your:

• Student visa for Europe
• European Work Permit

Do Chinese nationals need a Schengen Airport Transit (Type A) Visa?

Good question! Many non-European nationalities transiting through the Schengen Area to non-Schengen destinations do require what's known as a Schengen Type A / Airport Transit Visa (ATV).

However, as of mid-2026, Chinese passport holders are generally exempt from the need for an ATV transiting through the international zone of a Schengen airport.

⭐PRO TIP: But keep in mind that Schengen ATV requirements tend to change, and certain countries may apply specific conditions for transit. so always check with the official authorities of your transit country for the latest rules.

What documents do Chinese nationals need to apply for a Schengen visa?

As far as the paperwork for your Schengen visa goes, you'll generally need:

• A completed and signed Schengen visa application form
• Your passport (valid for at least 3 months after the visa expires, with 2 blank pages)
• Two recent Schengen visa-compliant passport photos
• A Schengen travel insurance certificate
• Your Schengen itinerary (and/or flight reservation)
• Proof of accommodation

And depending on your particular situation, you may also be asked to show:

• Proof of sufficient financial means
• An invitation letter
• Proof of employment or enrollment in a school

⭐AXA at your service!
Want a step-by-step breakdown of these too? Check out AXA's in-depth guide on:
Documents required for a Schengen visa.

💡 PRO TIP: And, again, always double-check with your Schengen destination country's embassy/consulate/official website (and/or VAC) to make sure you're not missing any docs.

Do Chinese nationals need International medical insurance when applying for a Schengen visa?

Yes. Because not only is it a wise decision, but proper Schengen travel insurance is one of the primary/mandatory requirements for being granted a Schengen visa - be it from China or anywhere else in the world.

📌 IMPORTANT NOTE: And you'll need to have your insurance plan already in place when applying!

What travel insurance do Chinese citizens need for a Schengen Visa?

The European Commission stipulates that for your Schengen visa application to be accepted, you need to have 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 (including hospitalization, emergency treatment, etc.)
• covers repatriation expenses (including in case of death)
• covers you in all the Schengen member countries
• is valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area

⚠️ HEADS-UP: Your Schengen visa application will be automatically rejected if your travel insurance does not meet these EU requirements above.

💡 PRO TIP: Fortunately, all of AXA's travel insurance plans meet the EU requirements for a Schengen visa!

Why Choose AXA Schengen Insurance for Your Visa Application?

From your Schengen visa appointment to your travels to Europe and back, there are countless reasons the world's number one Schengen visa applicants choose the world's number one Schengen insurance brand.
For example, with AXA, you get:

• An instant travel insurance certificate, ready to submit with your visa application
• Guaranteed refund if your visa is refused
• 24/7 medical assistance
• Extended protection for you and your loved ones
• The confidence and expertise of being backed by a world-renowned, decades-trusted brand

But don't just take our word for it. Explore the following AXA coverage options for yourself:

• AXA SCHENGEN BASIC: our most standard coverage; meets all Schengen visa requirements; covers you in all Schengen countries + 4 European microstates (San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City).
• AXA SCHENGEN ESSENTIAL: complete European coverage; meets all Schengen visa requirements; covers you in all Schengen countries, all EU countries, the European microstates above, and the UK!
• AXA SCHENGEN PREMIUM: our all-inclusive, worry-free coverage; countless premium benefits (and upgrade options!); meets all Schengen visa requirements; covers you in all Schengen/EU countries, all the European microstates, and the UK.
• AXA SCHENGEN ANNUAL: our yearly plan; perfect for multiple-entry Schengen visa applicants and/or frequent travelers to Europe. Also meets all Schengen visa requirements, covers you in all Schengen/EU countries, the microstates, and the UK - but all under a single contract for a full year!

💡 PRO TIP: Get your Schengen travel insurance quickly and simplify your visa application process with step-by-step guides.

• Find the best Schengen travel insurance for Chinese citizens
• Compare AXA Schengen Insurance Plans

Get a free, zero-obligation AXA quote!

Where can Chinese nationals submit their Schengen Visa application?

Like in many other nations, Schengen visa applications in China are primarily dealt with by authorized visa application centres (VACs) - and not by the Schengen embassies/consulates directly.

You can find dozens of these VACs in most major Chinese cities. However, the location of the specific center you need will depend on your particular destination and place of residence.

Where should you apply for a Schengen visa in China?

• VFS Global:
  
  - Visa for: Austria, Bulgaria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, and Switzerland.
  
  - Centers in: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Jinan, Kunming, Shenyang, Wuhan, Xi'an, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Shenzhen, Fuzhou, and Changsha.
• TLScontact:
  
  - Visa for: France and the Netherlands (and representing Luxembourg in Guangzhou)
  
  - Centers in: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Jinan, Kunming, Nanjing, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Xi'an, Fuzhou, and Changsha.
• BLS International:
  
  - Visa for: Spain and Slovakia
  
  - Centers in: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenyang, Wuhan, Xi'an, Jinan, Changsha, Kunming, and Shenzhen.
• Direct consulates/embassies:
  
  For other Schengen countries or destinations without a Visa Application Center (VAC), please consult the official list of EU/Schengen consular contacts worldwide.

📌NOTES:

• As of early 2026, Greece has closed its mainland VACs in China, and applicants must now apply directly at a Greek embassy or consulate.
• In China, you must apply via the VAC responsible for the province where you live or work (verified via your Hukou or temporary residence permit).

💡 IMPORTANT PRO TIPS:

And remember - AXA continuously strives to bring you the latest info regarding Schengen visas near and far. But be sure to always double-check with official EU resources too, such as:

• The European Commission's official visa website
• The European Commission -- Visa policy
• The official government website of your destination Schengen country

How can Chinese nationals apply for a Schengen Visa outside China?

For Chinese citizens residing outside China, the application process is usually straightforward but must follow the rules of the Schengen country you intend to visit.

1. Contact the consular services of the Schengen country you plan to visit, or the country where you will spend the longest part of your trip, in your current country of residence.

2. Follow the instructions provided for the visa procedure, including where to submit your application, whether at the embassy, a consulate, or an authorized visa application centre.

3. Prepare the required documents, which generally include the standard Schengen visa requirements, as well as proof of your legal residence in the country where you are applying from.

💡 PRO TIP
Whether in China or abroad, find out how to apply for a Schengen visa for each Schengen country.

Where should I apply if I'm visiting more than one country?

If you're coming to Europe from China to see more than one country, you should:

• Apply to the Schengen country where you plan to spend the most time.
• If staying an equal amount of days in two (or more) Schengen countries, apply to the one you plan to enter first.

💡PRO TIP:
Fear not! AXA can also help you understand the Schengen visa First Port of Entry rules

Schengen visa timing: when to apply, how long to wait

Whether applying from China or anywhere else, Schengen visa timing is fairly universal too. And that's regardless of which country you're applying for. So here's what to know:

When to apply for a Schengen visa?

• Apply no more than 6 months and no fewer than 15 days before your trip
• Remember - you can usually book your initial appointment online. However, you'll still need to come for an in-person interview and biometrics/document collection at some point.

💡 PRO TIP: So to avoid delays, we recommend you give yourself at least 6 weeks before your departure date.

How long does it take to process my Schengen visa application?

In China or anywhere else, it usually takes the Schengen authorities 15 days to process a Schengen visa application.

But depending on the time of year, your particular situation, and how busy the Schengen VAC (and/or consulate) is, it may sometimes take up to a month or two.

💡PRO TIP: If you don't hear anything in 2 weeks, get in touch with the proper channels. And remember that you have 6 months before your trip to start the application!

How much does a Schengen visa cost in China?

The cost of a Schengen visa depends on the applicant's age and is standardised across all Schengen countries, meaning most applicants pay the same base fee regardless of where they apply.
However, the total cost may vary depending on the purpose and type of travel, and in some cases, the visa fee may be waived entirely.

Standard Schengen visa fees

• Adults: €90 (~¥700 CNY)
• Children 6-12: €45 (~¥350 CNY)
• Children under 6: Free

Can the Schengen visa fee be waived?

In certain cases, yes, such as for:

• Participants (25yo or under) in certain seminars, conferences, sporting, cultural, and/or educational events
• Students and/or teachers on certain study and/or training trips
• Researchers and other professionals traveling for the purpose of scientific research

💡PRO TIPS

• Check with the VAC/Schengen consulate when you apply whether the visa fee waiver applies to you (and make sure to have supporting documents ready)
• Keep in mind that the European Commission updates Schengen visa fees every 5--7 years or so. So always check the official updated list before applying.
• AXA can tell you more about visa pricing in our detailed Schengen visa costs guide.

Additional VAC service fees

Visa application centres often charge extra processing fees too (separate from the standard Schengen visa costs above).

So always check the official VAC website before booking your appointment.

📌NOTE:

Neither the Schengen visa fee nor the VAC/consulate service fees are refundable, even if your visa is refused.
AXA, on the other hand, will fully refund your Schengen travel insurance costs if your visa is denied!

So explore, book away, and good luck. And remember that with AXA, you're already one one huge step closer on your journey from China to Europe!

Secure your Schengen visa faster with AXA:
Free quote and instant insurance certificate.

RELATED ARTICLES

Check out the following Schengen visa guides too:

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for France from China
• How to get your visa insurance certificate online quickly
• Which European countries are the easiest to get a Schengen visa for?
• How safe is Europe for travellers?

FAQs

Can I work or study in Europe with a Type C (aka short-stay/"tourist") Schengen visa?

No. The Type C Schengen visa does allow you to visit the Schengen zone for a short business trip (as well as tourism, family, etc.). However, it cannot be converted into a work or study permit once you're there.

Can Chinese families apply together for Schengen visas?

Yes, families from China can submit joint applications at VACs like TLScontact or VFS Global. However, each member will need individual docs (such as photos, birth certificates and/or parental consent letters for minors, etc.). Still, applications can be processed faster when bundled.

Can Chinese business travellers get multiple-entry Schengen visas for Europe?

Yes, frequent business travellers may be eligible for a multiple-entry Schengen visa with a validity ranging from 6 months to 5 years, depending on their travel history and supporting documents. These typically include proof of previous Schengen trips, an invitation letter from an EU-based company, an employment contract, and other evidence demonstrating the need for regular travel.

Does ETIAS apply to Chinese travelers to Europe?

No, ETIAS applies to visa-exempt nationals traveling to Europe (such as visitors from Australia, Canada, and the United States). Chinese passport holders are not currently eligible for visa-free travel to the Schengen Area and therefore do not require ETIAS for short stays.
However, as non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area, Chinese nationals are subject to Europe's Entry/Exit System (EES), which records border crossings for short-stay visitors.

What should I do if my Schengen visa from China is refused?

If your Schengen visa application is refused, you can either appeal the decision to the authorities of the Schengen country that issued the refusal or submit a new application with updated or additional supporting documents.
Want to improve your chances of approval? Check out our guide on Schengen visa rejection reasons and solutions.

Is a Schengen visa the same as a "European" visa?

Technically, no. A Schengen visa does apply to the majority of Europe, as it allows travellers to visit all countries in the Schengen Area under the same entry rules. However, a handful of European countries are outside the Schengen Area (such as the UK, Albania, Moldova, Ireland, and so on). And these countries will therefore have their own individual European visa requirements.
Always double-check with the European Commission and the embassy/consulate/official website of your European destination country for specific requirements!