I was given a multiple-entry business Schengen visa, but for 5 days. Why?

It feels like I'm being trolled.

I did everything by the book, travel insurance valid for a year, solid supporting docs (even though the application centre gave half of them back before sending to the Embassy), signed letters from the boss, and from the inviting company. In those letters it explicitly states that I will have to make multiple trips to the Schengen area.

What could have gone wrong?

What's the point of granting me a multiple-entry visa, if the validity is only for 5 days?

What can I do next time to prevent this?

Best Answer

It is common practice to give long, multiple entry visa only after a few successful visits on shorter visa. So if the validity period of your visa matches the first of your planned visits, that would appear normal. They expect you to apply again for the next one, and perhaps again for the one after that, before you get long-validity multiple-entry visa.

Only the multiple entry combined with the short validity looks a bit unusual.

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How long does a multiple entry Schengen Visa last?

The basic version allows you to spend 90 days at a time within the area over a period of 180 days, up to as many trips in and out as you require. Multiple-entry Schengen Visas are also available lasting one, three, and five years - covering you for any trips within that period.

How long is a Schengen business visa valid for?

What is a Schengen Business Visa? Schengen Business Visa is a kind of short stay (Type C) visa allowing you access to the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for business purposes.

How does multiple entry Schengen Visa work?

A multiple-entry Schengen visa permits its holder to go in and out of the Schengen Area as many times as he or she wants, as soon as they do not violate the 90/180 rule. Which means they do not remain in the Schengen zone longer than 90 days, within 180 days.

Why is my Schengen Visa taking long?

An extended period of Schengen visa processing may especially happen in cases when some Schengen States require to be consulted on visa applications submitted to the other Schengen States by citizens of some certain third countries.

Multiple Entry Schengen Visa for 5 years - Fact Check | Schengen Visa | Update Series #LiveinGermany

Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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