Visitor visa guide
Schengen short-stay visa
One visa for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) across the 29 Schengen countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands.
Last reviewed 8 November 2026
- How to apply
- The embassy or consulate of your main destination, or its appointed visa centre in Accra.
- Timing
- Apply up to 6 months before travel and no later than 15 days before. Decisions usually take about 15 days and can take longer.
Which embassy do you apply to?
Apply to the country where you’ll spend the most nights. If your time is split equally, apply to the country you’ll enter first. Many Schengen countries handle Ghana applications through appointed visa centres in Accra, while some take applications directly at the embassy.
How the process works
- Plan your itinerary, then identify the right embassy.
- Book your appointment early, especially for summer and December travel.
- Prepare documents in the format that embassy asks for.
- Give your fingerprints at the appointment. They’re usually kept on file for later applications within about five years.
- Wait for the decision, typically around 15 days, longer at busy times.
On arrival: the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) now registers non-EU travellers’ fingerprints and a photo at the external Schengen border, replacing passport stamps.
How Evik helps
We plan an itinerary that fits the rules, prepare your document pack and cover letter, arrange compliant travel insurance and book flights and hotels that match your application.
Evik provides visa guidance and application support. We do not issue visas and cannot guarantee approval; decisions rest with the relevant Schengen state. Requirements vary by embassy, so confirm with the embassy you apply to.
Want us to review your application?
Book a consultation and we'll prepare your document pack and check everything before you submit.