FAQs

1. What is a Schengen visa?
2. How can I get the free application forms?
3. When can I apply?
4. Can somebody apply for me?
5. How long does it takes to get back my passport ?
6. How can I collect my passport ?
7. What shall I do if my application is incomplete ?

1. What is a Schengen visa?
Sri Lankan citizens traveling to Schengen countries on business or as tourists may receive a uniform visa for a short stay of 1 to 90 days valid for Sweden and Finland (Embassy of Sweden), Germany and Austria (Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany), Italy and Greece (Embassy of Italy), The Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg (Royal Netherlands Embassy), Norway, Denmark, and Iceland (Royal Norwegian Embassy), France, Portugal and Spain (Embassy of the Republic of France). The Embassy of the main destination is responsible for issuing the uniform Schengen visa. If main destination cannot be determined, responsibility for issuing the visa lies with the Schengen state of first entry.

2. How can I get the free application forms?
Application forms can be downloaded from our website 24 hours a day: http://www.vfs-sweden.com. Application forms can also be collected from Monday to Thursday at VFS visa application centre, 120/A, Havelock Road, Colombo-05.
Application submission time - 8.00 am to 12.00 pm. and on Fridays application centre will remain closed.

3. When can I apply?
Applications have to be submitted at least 10 DAYS before the planned departure. The visa section is open every morning from Monday to Thursday.

4. Can somebody apply for me?
No. Applicant should call over in person. Travel agents or other individuals are not allowed to represent the applicant.

5. How long does it takes to get back my passport ?
After submission of your documents to VFS, the Embassy of Sweden requires a minimum of 10 working days to process a visa application. However in certain cases, it may take longer.

6. How can I collect my passport ?
Passport can be collected from Monday to Thursday - 3.30 pm to 4.30 pm only at V.F.S. visa application centre, 120/A, Havelock road, Colombo-05.

7. What shall I do if my application is incomplete ?
Applicant should provide a complete file with all the documents which is required for your visa. If not VFS will not accept the application.