Commonly Asked Questions at Schengen Area Borders for Visa Holders and Travellers

Obtaining a Schengen Visa for traveling to any of the 27 Schengen Area Member States is a challenging process.

However, even after obtaining the visa, travelers may still face a series of questions upon reaching the Schengen countries' borders. These questions aim to ensure compliance with visa conditions and assess potential risks. Schengen Visa Info conducted interviews with several travelers and compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions by police officers at the EU external borders.

1. "What Is the Purpose of Your Trip?" Travelers arriving in any Schengen Area country are often asked about the purpose of their visit. The question aims to determine the intention behind the trip and ensure that it aligns with the reason for which the visa was issued, while also assessing any potential risks.

2. "Where Will You Stay?" A crucial requirement for travelers under the Schengen visa regime is to provide proof of accommodation throughout their stay. Border officers may inquire about the planned place of residence and may even request evidence of the booking or arrangement.

3."Do You Have Travel Insurance?"

Another common question relates to travel insurance. Authorities want to confirm that travelers have proper insurance coverage during their visit, ensuring they are protected in case of health issues or emergencies.

4."Do You Have a Return Ticket?"

Travelers are often asked if they possess a return ticket to their home country or an outbound ticket to another third country after their visit to the Schengen Zone ends. While proof of the ticket may not be requested in every case, it is advisable to be prepared with the necessary documentation.

5. "How Will You Support Yourself During the Stay?"

To ensure that travelers can sustain themselves financially during their visit, authorities may inquire about their means of financial support. Having enough cash or access to credit cards can serve as evidence of the necessary funds to cover expenses.

In the absence of evidence to support their answers, travelers may face difficulties entering the Schengen country they intend to visit. They could be subject to further questioning or, in some cases, denied entry and required to return to their point of departure.

It is important for travelers to be aware of these common questions and have the appropriate documentation ready to facilitate a smooth entry into the Schengen Area.

By fLEXI tEAM