Complete guide to Schengen visa fees for South African applicants in 2026. Learn about standard fees, reduced fees, service fees, payment methods, and fee exemptions.
Understanding Schengen visa fees is essential for budgeting your visa application. Fees vary depending on visa type, applicant age, and other factors. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about Schengen visa fees for South African applicants, including standard fees, reduced fees, service fees, payment methods, and fee exemptions.
Fee: EUR 80 (approximately ZAR 1,600)
Applies To:
Payment: Payable in ZAR at current exchange rate at time of application
Fee: EUR 40 (approximately ZAR 800)
Applies To:
Payment: Payable in ZAR at current exchange rate at time of application
Fee: Free
Applies To:
Payment: No fee required
Fee: EUR 35 (approximately ZAR 700)
Applies To:
Note: Reduced fees apply to specific countries with visa facilitation agreements with the EU. South Africa does not have such an agreement.
Fee: ZAR 200-400 (varies by location and services)
Applies To:
Services Included:
Fee: Additional ZAR 200-500 (varies by service)
Services:
Method: Pay visa fee online before appointment
How to Pay:
Accepted Methods:
Method: Pay at Visa Application Centre during appointment
How to Pay:
Accepted Methods:
Method: Transfer fee to designated bank account (if available)
How to Pay:
Accepted Methods:
Exemption: Free (no visa fee)
Applies To: Children under 6 years of age
Exemption: Free (no visa fee)
Applies To:
Requirements:
Exemption: Free (no visa fee) - under certain conditions
Applies To:
Requirements:
Exemption: Free (no visa fee) - under certain conditions
Applies To:
Requirements:
Visa Fee: EUR 80 (approximately ZAR 1,600)
Service Fee: ZAR 200-400
Total: Approximately ZAR 1,800-2,000
Visa Fee: EUR 80 (approximately ZAR 1,600)
Service Fee: ZAR 200-400
Premium Services: ZAR 200-500
Total: Approximately ZAR 2,000-2,500
Adult 1 Visa Fee: EUR 80 (approximately ZAR 1,600)
Adult 2 Visa Fee: EUR 80 (approximately ZAR 1,600)
Child Visa Fee: EUR 40 (approximately ZAR 800)
Service Fees: ZAR 600-1,200 (for 3 applications)
Total: Approximately ZAR 4,600-5,200
Refundable: No (visa fee is non-refundable)
Exceptions:
Note: Visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if visa is denied or application is withdrawn.
Refundable: Partial refund may be available in certain circumstances
Conditions:
Note: Service fee refund policies vary by service provider. Check with VFS Global for specific refund policies.
Visa Fee: Payable in EUR or ZAR (converted at current exchange rate)
Service Fee: Payable in ZAR
Exchange Rate: Exchange rate at time of payment (may vary)
Impact: Exchange rate fluctuations can affect total cost in ZAR
Example:
Note: Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Check current rates before payment.
Budget Accordingly: Include visa fees in your travel budget
Check Exchange Rates: Monitor exchange rates before payment
Pay Online: Pay visa fee online to avoid exchange rate fluctuations at VAC
Avoid Premium Services: Skip premium services if not necessary
Family Applications: Consider costs for family applications
Fee Exemptions: Check if you qualify for fee exemptions
Payment Methods: Use payment methods with favorable exchange rates
Keep Receipts: Keep all payment receipts for records
How much does a Schengen visa cost?
Standard visa fee is EUR 80 (approximately ZAR 1,600) for adults, plus service fees of ZAR 200-400.
Do I need to pay the visa fee if my application is denied?
Yes, visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Can I pay the visa fee online?
Yes, you can pay the visa fee online before your appointment through the VFS Global or embassy/consulate website.
What payment methods are accepted?
Accepted methods include credit cards, debit cards, cash (ZAR), and bank transfers (if available).
Are there any fee exemptions for South Africans?
South Africans are generally not eligible for fee exemptions, except for children under 6 years and family members of EU/EEA citizens.
How much is the service fee?
Service fees range from ZAR 200-400, depending on location and services.
Can I get a refund if my visa is denied?
No, visa fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
Do children pay the same fee as adults?
No, children aged 6-12 years pay EUR 40 (reduced fee), and children under 6 years are free.
Can I pay in EUR or must I pay in ZAR?
You can pay in EUR or ZAR (converted at current exchange rate). Service fees are payable in ZAR.
Are there additional fees for multiple-entry visas?
No, visa fees are the same for single, double, or multiple-entry visas.
Schengen visa fees are standardized across Schengen countries, with standard fees of EUR 80 for adults, EUR 40 for children aged 6-12, and free for children under 6. Additional service fees apply for applications submitted through VFS Global. Budget accordingly, pay online when possible, and keep all payment receipts. Fee exemptions are limited, so most South African applicants will pay the standard fees.
For the most up-to-date fee information, consult the official VFS Global website or the embassy/consulate website of your main destination country.
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