Traveling across Europe without the stress of multiple visas is a dream for many, and the Schengen visa makes this possible by allowing entry into 29 European countries with a single permit. But what if you could extend that privilege for up to five years? What actually is needed if that is possible?
In 2025, obtaining a 5 year multiple-entry Schengen visa has become easy to attain for eligible applicants, especially those with strong travel histories and legitimate reasons for long-term vacation.
In this detailed guide, everything you need to know about securing a 5 year Schengen visa in 2025, including eligibility requirements, the application process, supporting documents, key strategies, and more have been outlined.
What is a 5 Year Schengen Visa?
The 5 year Schengen visa is a multiple-entry visa that allows the holder to travel freely to all Schengen member countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, valid over five years. It is typically issued to applicants with a proven history of complying with previous Schengen visa rules and who demonstrate a genuine need for regular visits.
Who Can Apply for a 5 Year Schengen Visa?
The 5 year visa is not granted to first-time applicants. It is intended for frequent travelers who have demonstrated reliability and strong ties to their home country. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- You have previously held and complied with multiple Schengen visas
- No record of overstays, visa violations, or deportations in any Schengen country
- You regularly travel for tourism, family visits, business, education, or cultural reasons
- You can provide evidence of frequent travel needs over an extended period
- You have stable financial means and a clean immigration record
Applicants must also meet the general criteria for Schengen visa issuance, including justification for each visit and an intention to return home after each stay.
Additionally, as a first time applicant and a national of Bahrain, Oman, or Saudi Arabia, you can also apply for the 5 years visa on your first Schengen application, provided you possess passports that is valid for at least five years at the time of application
Benefits of a 5 Year Schengen Visa
- Freedom of movement: Access 29 countries in the Schengen Area without applying for separate visas
- Cost-effective: Save time and money on repeated visa applications
- Convenience for frequent travelers: Especially helpful for business people, cultural professionals, or individuals with family in Europe
- Long-term flexibility: Travel when needed without delays caused by visa processing
Required Documents Checklist
It is mandatory that you are in possession of all the required documents which helps the authority to approve your application:
- Completed visa application form: Fill it in truthfully and clearly.
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after your intended return date and have at least two blank pages.
- Previous Schengen visas: Copies of old visas that show your travel history.
- Two recent passport-sized photos: Follow official biometric photo guidelines.
- Travel itinerary: Including your planned destinations and dates.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings, invitation letters, or rental agreements.
- Travel insurance: Covering at least €30,000 for emergency medical expenses, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
- Proof of financial means: Recent bank statements, employment letter, or sponsorship documents.
- Cover letter: Explain why you are requesting a five-year multiple-entry visa, your travel patterns, and your intention to respect Schengen rules.
- Proof of ties to home country: Property ownership, family connections, employment contract, or studies.
How to Apply for a 5 Year Schengen Visa in 2025
Step 1: Choose the Right Embassy
Apply through the consulate of the Schengen country that is your main destination (where you will spend the most time), or your first port of entry if you’ll stay in multiple countries for equal periods.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
While the document list may vary slightly by country, the core requirements (documents) needed are stated above.
Step 3: Book Your Visa Appointment
Schedule your visa appointment through the official consulate website or an authorized third-party visa application center. If possible, book early, as appointments fill up quickly.
Step 4: Attend the Interview
Attend your appointment with all your documents neatly arranged. Be prepared to answer questions such as why you need a long-term multiple-entry visa, how often you are looking forward to visiting, etc.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
As of 2025, the standard fee for a short-stay Schengen visa is €90 for adults, €45 for children of 6 – 12, and free for under 6.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Visa processing generally takes 15 working days not exceeding 30, and if your submission is approved, you will receive a 5 year multiple-entry visa sticker in your passport.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a 5 Year Schengen Visa
- Apply only after holding at least two previous Schengen visas with no overstays.
- If you have with you a 1 year or 2 year multiple-entry visa previously, you are in a stronger position to request 5 years.
- Ensure your documents and statements match your application purpose and history.
- Choose a country with a history of issuing long-term visas when justified.
- Explain your reasons and prove your travel consistency and reliability.
- Use professional support if needed if your case or involves multiple destinations.gy
Countries That Commonly Issue Long-Term Schengen Visas
While all Schengen states have discretion, some countries are known to be more open to long-term visa requests when justified:
- France: Often issues 1 to 5 year visas for frequent travelers
- Netherlands: Offers long-term options for business and family visits
- Italy and Spain: Flexible with applicants who have consistent travel records
- Germany and Belgium: More conservative but grant long-term visas to eligible applicants
While you have the following at the back of your mind, try to avoid incomplete documentation, weak financial proof, unexplained gaps in travel records, and other acts that might deny you this opportunity.
Good luck! You have now completed reading a detailed guide on securing a 5 year Schengen visa entry. Just apply the right approach, and watch how the moment becomes all yours.