Recent experiences applying for short stay Schengen

Schengen Visas
1

Hi everyone, I am currently planning a culinary research trip through France and Italy for next summer. Being based in Hanoi, I keep hearing conflicting stories about the current state of visa approvals for Vietnamese passport holders. Some say it is business as usual, while others mention widespread delays and arbitrary rejections based on itinerary details.

I would love to hear from this community. What are your specific experiences with short-stay Schengen visa applications from outside the Schengen area in the last few years? I am particularly interested in how strict they are regarding the proof of funds and established itinerary for freelancers.

2

I was informed of a refusal regarding my application submitted in Ankara last month. To provide context, I have been a history teacher for over twenty years and intended to visit the Ottoman archives in Budapest.

3

Realizing this is not about the specific country of destination but rather the entry point rules, I thought I should share a regulator update for North African applicants.

4

I was subjected to a distressing situation regarding my visa validity versus my duration of stay.

5

Vietnamese applicants are still getting Schengen visas — it’s not a blanket crackdown — but the process can feel stricter and slower, especially in peak season.

For freelancers, they look closely at:

  • Proof of funds (3–6 months bank statements, stable balance, no sudden big deposits)

  • Clear itinerary (realistic plan, matching flights/hotels)

  • Strong ties to Vietnam (ongoing projects, contracts, tax docs, family, property, etc.)

Processing can be around 2–3 weeks if the file is solid, but delays happen — so apply early.

6

Regarding the financial proof question, I recently navigated a similar issue.