Schengen Visa Fees from Dubai: Complete Cost Breakdown 2026
How much does a Schengen visa cost from Dubai?
The total cost of a Schengen visa from Dubai is approximately AED 550 to AED 900 per adult. This includes the standard visa fee of EUR 80 (~AED 320), VFS Global service charge of AED 150-200, travel insurance of AED 50-250, biometric photos of AED 35-50, and optional extras like courier delivery (AED 75-100). Children aged 6-11 pay EUR 40, and children under 6 are exempt from the visa fee.
Key Takeaway
- The total cost of a Schengen visa from Dubai is approximately AED 550 to AED 900 per adult. This includes the standard v...
- Adult Visa Fee: EUR 80
- Child (6-11): EUR 40
- Under 6: Free
- Total Cost (est.): AED 550-900
How much is the Schengen visa fee from Dubai? The standard embassy fee is EUR 80 for adults. But the total cost is significantly higher.
You also pay the VFS Global or TLS Contact service charge. Plus mandatory travel insurance. Plus biometric photos. Plus optional services like courier delivery. Most applicants are surprised by the final bill at the visa centre.
This guide is updated for May 2026. We break down every Schengen visa fee from Dubai, compare charges across visa application centres, and explain which fees are mandatory versus optional. We also provide a realistic total cost estimate for different applicant profiles.
We cover reduced fees for children, fee waivers, and the latest 2026 EU regulation updates. Budget the right amount before you apply.
Official Schengen Visa Fees (EU Regulation)
May 2026 verified rates: Schengen adult visa fee EUR 80 (~AED 320). Child 6-11 EUR 40. Under 6 free. VFS Global service charge ~AED 145-200 in Dubai. Mandatory Schengen travel insurance AED 50-250. Total typical adult cost from Dubai AED 550-900 depending on optional services. Always verify current rates on the relevant VFS or TLS Contact UAE portal before applying.
The Schengen visa fee is set by European Union regulation and is the same regardless of which Schengen country you apply to.
This fee is paid to the consulate (through the visa application centre) and is non-refundable even if your application is rejected.
The fee covers the administrative cost of processing your visa application and is separate from any service charges levied by the visa application centre.
Standard Schengen Visa Fees (Set by EU Regulation)
Official government fees applicable at all Schengen consulates
| Applicant Category | Fee (EUR) | Approx Fee (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (12+ years) | EUR 80 | ~AED 320 | Standard fee for all adult applicants regardless of nationality |
| Children (6-11 years) | EUR 40 | ~AED 160 | Reduced rate for children aged 6 to 11 at time of application |
| Children (under 6 years) | Free | Free | No visa fee charged for children under 6 years of age |
| Certain nationalities (bilateral agreements) | EUR 35 | ~AED 140 | Reduced fee under EU bilateral agreements with select countries |
| Diplomatic and service passport holders | Free | Free | Exempt under Vienna Convention for official travel |
| Students and researchers (select cases) | Reduced/Free | Varies | Some consulates waive or reduce fees for academic travel — verify with consulate |
Adults (12+ years)
- Fee (EUR)
- EUR 80
- Approx Fee (AED)
- ~AED 320
- Notes
- Standard fee for all adult applicants regardless of nationality
Children (6-11 years)
- Fee (EUR)
- EUR 40
- Approx Fee (AED)
- ~AED 160
- Notes
- Reduced rate for children aged 6 to 11 at time of application
Children (under 6 years)
- Fee (EUR)
- Free
- Approx Fee (AED)
- Free
- Notes
- No visa fee charged for children under 6 years of age
Certain nationalities (bilateral agreements)
- Fee (EUR)
- EUR 35
- Approx Fee (AED)
- ~AED 140
- Notes
- Reduced fee under EU bilateral agreements with select countries
Diplomatic and service passport holders
- Fee (EUR)
- Free
- Approx Fee (AED)
- Free
- Notes
- Exempt under Vienna Convention for official travel
Students and researchers (select cases)
- Fee (EUR)
- Reduced/Free
- Approx Fee (AED)
- Varies
- Notes
- Some consulates waive or reduce fees for academic travel — verify with consulate
EUR to AED conversion rates are approximate and fluctuate daily. The conversion shown is based on an indicative rate of EUR 1 = AED 4.00. Verify the exact AED amount at the time of your payment.
The Schengen visa fee is the same whether you receive a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa. A multiple-entry visa typically allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
There is no additional charge for a multiple-entry visa — the consulate decides the type of entry based on your application and travel history, not based on which fee category you pay.
Some applicants mistakenly believe they need to pay extra for a multiple-entry Schengen visa.
Some nationalities benefit from reduced visa fees under bilateral visa facilitation agreements between their home country and the European Union.
Citizens of countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and several others may qualify for a reduced fee of EUR 35 instead of EUR 80.
Check with OraVisa or your consulate to confirm whether your passport nationality qualifies for a reduced rate before you apply for a visa.
VFS Global and TLS Contact Service Charges
In addition to the official visa fee, you will pay a separate service fee to the visa application centre that processes your application. Most Schengen consulates in Dubai outsource their visa intake to VFS Global or TLS Contact.
These centres provide the appointment booking system, document collection, biometric capture, and passport return services on behalf of the consulates. The service fee covers these operational costs and is non-refundable.
Visa Application Centre Service Charges in Dubai (2026)
Comparison of VFS Global and TLS Contact fees across popular Schengen countries
| Country | Application Centre | Service Charge (AED) | Premium Service Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | VFS Global | ~AED 185 | Yes (AED 350) | One of the busiest centres in Dubai |
| Italy | VFS Global | ~AED 180 | Yes (AED 300) | Specific appointment procedures |
| Spain | BLS International | ~AED 165 | Yes (AED 280) | BLS operates Spain visa centre, not VFS |
| France | TLS Contact | ~AED 190 | Yes (AED 350) | TLS Contact operates exclusively for France |
| Portugal | VFS Global | ~AED 170 | Yes (AED 300) | Generally smooth appointment availability |
| Austria | VFS Global | ~AED 175 | Yes (AED 300) | Efficient processing centre |
| Netherlands | VFS Global | ~AED 180 | Yes (AED 300) | Located in same VFS Dubai hub |
| Czech Republic | VFS Global | ~AED 165 | No | Lower volume, typically no premium needed |
| Finland | VFS Global | ~AED 165 | No | Quick processing without premium option |
| Switzerland | TLS Contact | ~AED 185 | Yes (AED 330) | TLS Contact handles Swiss applications |
Germany
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 185
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 350)
- Notes
- One of the busiest centres in Dubai
Italy
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 180
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 300)
- Notes
- Specific appointment procedures
Spain
- Application Centre
- BLS International
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 165
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 280)
- Notes
- BLS operates Spain visa centre, not VFS
France
- Application Centre
- TLS Contact
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 190
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 350)
- Notes
- TLS Contact operates exclusively for France
Portugal
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 170
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 300)
- Notes
- Generally smooth appointment availability
Austria
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 175
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 300)
- Notes
- Efficient processing centre
Netherlands
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 180
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 300)
- Notes
- Located in same VFS Dubai hub
Czech Republic
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 165
- Premium Service Available
- No
- Notes
- Lower volume, typically no premium needed
Finland
- Application Centre
- VFS Global
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 165
- Premium Service Available
- No
- Notes
- Quick processing without premium option
Switzerland
- Application Centre
- TLS Contact
- Service Charge (AED)
- ~AED 185
- Premium Service Available
- Yes (AED 330)
- Notes
- TLS Contact handles Swiss applications
Service charges are approximate and subject to change without notice. BLS International operates for Spain; all other major Schengen countries use VFS Global or TLS Contact. Verify current fees on the official centre website before your appointment.
The premium or priority service offered by VFS Global and TLS Contact provides benefits such as a dedicated lounge area, faster document processing, priority appointment slots, and personalised assistance.
While not necessary for most applicants, it can be worthwhile if you have a tight timeline or prefer a more comfortable experience. The premium fee is in addition to both the visa fee and the standard service charge.
Additional Mandatory and Optional Costs
Beyond the visa fee and service charge, several additional costs are either mandatory (you cannot submit without them) or strongly recommended for a successful application.
These costs vary depending on where you source them and the specifics of your trip.
Additional Schengen Visa Costs from Dubai
| Cost Item | Estimated Amount (AED) | Mandatory? | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Medical Insurance | AED 50-250 | Yes | EUR 30,000 minimum coverage; price depends on trip length, age, and provider |
| Biometric Photos | AED 35-50 | Yes | 2 ICAO-standard photos; available at VFS centre or photo studios in Dubai |
| Bank Statement (stamped) | AED 25-100 | Yes | Fee charged by UAE banks for stamped original statements; varies by bank |
| Courier Passport Return | AED 75-100 | Optional | Passport delivered to your Dubai address instead of in-person collection |
| SMS Tracking | AED 15-25 | Optional | Receive SMS updates on your application status |
| Premium Lounge | AED 200-350 | Optional | Priority service, dedicated lounge, faster processing at VFS/TLS |
| Photocopy Services | AED 10-30 | Optional | Available at VFS centre if you forget photocopies; better to prepare in advance |
| Flight Reservation (for visa) | AED 50-150 | Semi-mandatory | Some agents provide reservable itineraries for visa purposes at a nominal cost |
Travel Medical Insurance
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 50-250
- Mandatory?
- Yes
- Details
- EUR 30,000 minimum coverage; price depends on trip length, age, and provider
Biometric Photos
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 35-50
- Mandatory?
- Yes
- Details
- 2 ICAO-standard photos; available at VFS centre or photo studios in Dubai
Bank Statement (stamped)
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 25-100
- Mandatory?
- Yes
- Details
- Fee charged by UAE banks for stamped original statements; varies by bank
Courier Passport Return
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 75-100
- Mandatory?
- Optional
- Details
- Passport delivered to your Dubai address instead of in-person collection
SMS Tracking
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 15-25
- Mandatory?
- Optional
- Details
- Receive SMS updates on your application status
Premium Lounge
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 200-350
- Mandatory?
- Optional
- Details
- Priority service, dedicated lounge, faster processing at VFS/TLS
Photocopy Services
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 10-30
- Mandatory?
- Optional
- Details
- Available at VFS centre if you forget photocopies; better to prepare in advance
Flight Reservation (for visa)
- Estimated Amount (AED)
- AED 50-150
- Mandatory?
- Semi-mandatory
- Details
- Some agents provide reservable itineraries for visa purposes at a nominal cost
Prices are approximate and may vary. Insurance costs depend heavily on trip duration and applicant age. Bank statement fees differ between UAE banks.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Compare travel insurance from multiple providers — prices vary significantly for the same coverage level
- Get biometric photos taken before your appointment at a local studio (AED 20-30) instead of the VFS centre (AED 40-50)
- Prepare all photocopies at home or a print shop — VFS charges premium rates for on-site copying
- Skip SMS tracking if you are comfortable checking status online through the tracking portal
- Premium lounge is not necessary for most applicants — the standard service includes everything you need for a successful application
Total Cost Estimates by Applicant Type
To give you a realistic picture of the total Schengen visa cost from Dubai, we have calculated estimates for different applicant scenarios. These estimates include all mandatory costs and common optional extras.
Total Schengen Visa Cost Estimates from Dubai (2026)
Realistic total cost scenarios for different applicant types
| Scenario | Visa Fee | Service Charge | Insurance | Other Costs | Total Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single adult (standard) | AED 320 | AED 180 | AED 80 | AED 90 | AED 670 |
| Single adult (premium service) | AED 320 | AED 180 + 300 | AED 80 | AED 90 | AED 970 |
| Couple (2 adults, standard) | AED 640 | AED 360 | AED 150 | AED 150 | AED 1,300 |
| Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children 6-11) | AED 640 + 320 | AED 720 | AED 280 | AED 200 | AED 2,160 |
| Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children under 6) | AED 640 | AED 720 | AED 280 | AED 200 | AED 1,840 |
| Solo budget traveller | AED 320 | AED 165 | AED 50 | AED 60 | AED 595 |
Single adult (standard)
- Visa Fee
- AED 320
- Service Charge
- AED 180
- Insurance
- AED 80
- Other Costs
- AED 90
- Total Estimate
- AED 670
Single adult (premium service)
- Visa Fee
- AED 320
- Service Charge
- AED 180 + 300
- Insurance
- AED 80
- Other Costs
- AED 90
- Total Estimate
- AED 970
Couple (2 adults, standard)
- Visa Fee
- AED 640
- Service Charge
- AED 360
- Insurance
- AED 150
- Other Costs
- AED 150
- Total Estimate
- AED 1,300
Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children 6-11)
- Visa Fee
- AED 640 + 320
- Service Charge
- AED 720
- Insurance
- AED 280
- Other Costs
- AED 200
- Total Estimate
- AED 2,160
Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children under 6)
- Visa Fee
- AED 640
- Service Charge
- AED 720
- Insurance
- AED 280
- Other Costs
- AED 200
- Total Estimate
- AED 1,840
Solo budget traveller
- Visa Fee
- AED 320
- Service Charge
- AED 165
- Insurance
- AED 50
- Other Costs
- AED 60
- Total Estimate
- AED 595
Estimates are approximate and based on typical 2026 pricing from Dubai. Actual costs may vary depending on the consulate, insurance provider, trip duration, and optional services selected. EUR to AED converted at approximately 1 EUR = 4 AED.
As the table shows, a single adult should budget approximately AED 600 to AED 700 for a standard Schengen visa application from Dubai. Families will pay significantly more due to the per-person nature of most fees.
The most controllable cost variable is travel insurance — shopping around for competitive rates can save AED 50 to 100 per person, especially for short trips of under 90 days.
Refund Policy: What Happens If Your Visa Is Rejected?
One of the most important things to understand about Schengen visa fees is that they are non-refundable. If your visa application is rejected, you will not receive a refund of the EUR 80 visa fee or the VFS Global/TLS Contact service charge.
This applies regardless of the reason for rejection — whether it was due to incomplete documents, insufficient financial evidence, or any other ground.
Travel insurance is typically the only cost you may be able to recover after a visa rejection, provided the insurance has not yet commenced (your travel dates have not started) and the provider offers a cancellation or refund policy.
Some insurance providers in Dubai offer "visa refusal" coverage that refunds the premium if your visa is rejected. It is worth checking for this option when purchasing your policy.
Understanding the Refund Policy
- Visa fee (EUR 80): non-refundable under all circumstances, even if rejected
- VFS/TLS service charge: non-refundable regardless of application outcome
- Travel insurance: may be refundable if travel dates have not started — check your provider's cancellation policy
- Premium lounge and optional services: non-refundable once purchased
- Hotel bookings: refundable if you used free-cancellation reservations (which OraVisa always recommends)
- Flight reservations: refundable if you used a visa-purpose reservation instead of a confirmed ticket
The non-refundable nature of these fees underscores why it is critical to submit a strong, well-prepared application the first time.
A rejection does not just cost you the fees — it also creates a negative record in the Visa Information System (VIS) that can affect future applications.
Professional visa assistance from OraVisa is an investment that protects against the far larger cost of rejection and re-application.
Payment Methods at VFS Global and TLS Contact Dubai
Knowing the accepted payment methods before your appointment prevents last-minute surprises at the visa application centre. Payment policies differ between VFS Global and TLS Contact, and some centres have recently updated their accepted methods.
- VFS Global Dubai: accepts Visa, Mastercard debit and credit cards, and some centres accept cash in AED. Card payment is recommended as the receipt serves as a clear record of your transaction.
- TLS Contact Dubai: accepts Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards. Cash payment may not be accepted at all TLS centres — confirm before your appointment.
- BLS International (Spain): accepts card payments and cash in AED. Check the BLS Spain Dubai website for the latest payment policy.
- The visa fee is typically charged in EUR equivalent at the card processor's exchange rate on the day of payment. The AED amount may differ slightly from the estimates in this guide.
- Keep all payment receipts — you may need them if you need to follow up on your application or if there is a processing issue.
Get a Transparent Cost Quote from OraVisa
OraVisa believes in complete transparency when it comes to pricing.
When you engage our Schengen visa assistance services, we provide a single all-inclusive quote that covers our professional fee, the consulate visa fee, the VFS or TLS service fee, and guidance on travel insurance.
You know exactly what the visa application process will cost before you commit. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges when you apply for a visa with our team.
Our professional fee covers end-to-end support throughout the visa application process: document review, application form completion, cover letter drafting, appointment booking, and submission assistance.
Given that a single Schengen visa rejection costs you AED 500+ in non-refundable fees plus the time and stress of reapplying, investing in professional assistance is a practical decision that protects both your budget and your travel plans.
Know Exactly What Your Schengen Visa Will Cost
OraVisa provides a transparent, all-inclusive cost quote for your Schengen visa application from Dubai. No hidden fees, no surprises. Get your personalised quote today.
Get Free Cost EstimateFrequently Asked Questions
How much is the Schengen visa fee from Dubai in 2026?
The standard Schengen visa fee is EUR 80 for adults (approximately AED 320), EUR 40 for children aged 6-11, and free for children under 6. This is the official government fee set by EU regulation and is the same at all Schengen consulates in Dubai. In addition to this fee, you will pay a VFS Global or TLS Contact service charge of approximately AED 150-200.
Is the Schengen visa fee refundable if rejected?
No, the Schengen visa fee is non-refundable under all circumstances, including rejection. The VFS Global or TLS Contact service charge is also non-refundable. This is why OraVisa strongly recommends investing in proper document preparation to avoid the cost of rejection and re-application.
What is the cheapest way to apply for a Schengen visa from Dubai?
To minimise costs, apply using standard service (skip premium lounge), compare travel insurance providers for the best rate, get biometric photos at a local studio before your appointment, prepare all photocopies at home, and collect your passport in person instead of using courier delivery. The minimum realistic cost for a single adult applicant is approximately AED 550-600.
Do I pay the same fee regardless of which Schengen country I apply to?
The official visa fee (EUR 80 for adults) is the same across all 27 Schengen countries. However, the VFS Global or TLS Contact service charge varies slightly between consulates, typically ranging from AED 150 to AED 200. The total cost difference between countries is usually AED 20-40, which is minimal.
Is the Schengen visa fee the same for all nationalities?
For most nationalities, the standard adult fee is EUR 80. However, some nationalities benefit from reduced fees under bilateral visa facilitation agreements between their country and the EU. Citizens of countries with these agreements may pay EUR 35 instead of EUR 80. Check with OraVisa or your target consulate to confirm whether a reduced rate applies to your passport.
How much does Schengen visa travel insurance cost from Dubai?
Schengen travel medical insurance from Dubai typically costs AED 50 to AED 250 per person, depending on your trip duration, age, coverage level, and the insurance provider. A basic policy for a 7-day trip for a young adult can be as low as AED 50-70, while a 30-day policy for an older traveller may cost AED 150-250. Always ensure the policy meets the EUR 30,000 minimum coverage requirement.
Can I pay the Schengen visa fee in cash at VFS Global Dubai?
Most VFS Global centres in Dubai accept both card payments (Visa and Mastercard) and cash in AED, but policies may vary by specific centre and consulate. TLS Contact centres generally prefer card payments. OraVisa recommends using a debit or credit card for a clear payment record. Always confirm the accepted payment methods on your centre's website before your appointment.
Is the premium lounge service worth the extra cost?
The premium lounge at VFS Global (AED 200-350 extra) provides a dedicated waiting area, priority document processing, and a more comfortable appointment experience. It does not affect the outcome of your visa application — it is purely a service upgrade. For applicants with tight schedules or those who prefer a premium experience, it can be worthwhile. For budget-conscious applicants, the standard service is fully sufficient.
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Written by
Priya Sharma
Senior Visa Consultant — Asia & Americas
Senior Visa Consultant specializing in Asian & American destinations. 8 years of experience with a proven track record in complex multi-country applications.
Expert reviewed by Ahmed Al Rashid
Senior Visa Consultant
Last updated: · 12+ years of visa consultancy experience
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