Proof of business for self-employment for tourist visa for Schengen visa?

Proof of business for self-employment for tourist visa for Schengen visa? - Side view of concentrated female freelancer in protective mask typing on netbook while sitting at table in modern airport terminal

One of the requirements in most Schengen tourist visas is either proof of employment or the firm’s registration or partnership deed.

A self-employed applicant to submit proof of business i.e. firm’s registration or partnership deed. - French VFS Requirements page

I am a freelancer and I get compensation in the form of cash, bank cheque as well as some via online money transfers from outside (online journalism, negligible though).

I do fulfill the requirements of Personal Income Tax returns as I have been doing it (filing and giving tax for number of years) more than the minimum requirements that is stated.

I can mention all these facts in a covering letter, is that enough to convince the embassy or what more can I do ?

I am looking for a multiple entry short stay visa of 90 days, although in reality I would be staying in Schengen more like a couple of weeks at the most.



Best Answer

As someone that can work from anywhere, you are a high risk applicant. I would advise the following:

  1. Show a significant history of tax filings; backed by deposit slips and bank statements. If you have any large deposits, make sure you explain these as well (for example, with an invoice copy you raised).

  2. Do not ask for a visa for longer than your itinerary; especially if you do not have a travel history with Schengen. It is not a case of your application will be denied (I have never had this happen or heard of it); but if you are going for a 3 day trip to France, but asking for a 90 day multiple entry visa - it may raise some suspicions. Not that it makes a difference as the validity of the visa you get it determined solely by the officer handling your case; they will often look at what you have requested vs. what is practical for you itinerary.

  3. Do not add superfluous information to your application, this can also cause your application to be rejected. Stick to the basics: photo, passport copy, passport, application form, travel reservation, flight reservation, etc.




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What are the documents required for Schengen tourist visa?

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION
  • Valid passport.
  • Completed Schengen visit visa application form.
  • Travel itinerary including countries you plan to visit, accommodation & flight details.
  • Evidence of financial sufficiency.
  • Evidence of your employment or student status to prove you will not be staying on.


Can Schengen tourist visa be used for business?

Visa holders can visit any country within the Schengen Area for tourism purposes. Holders of this type of visa are not permitted to carry out any business activities, study or obtain employment. Visa holders can visit any country within the Schengen Area for business purposes.

How much bank balance is required for Schengen tourist visa?

Proof of accommodation. Tickets for travelling within the Schengen area (if applicable) Proof of civil status \u2013 birth certificate will suffice. Bank statement \u2013 this needs to show a minimum balance of \u20ac3000 over the last 6 months.

Can I apply for Schengen Visa if unemployed?

One of the most common questions we get from our readers is, \u201cCan I apply for a Schengen Visa if I am unemployed?\u201d. The short answer is that it's possible. You can apply for a Schengen Visa even if you are unemployed. Schengen Visas are not exclusively for employed applicants or those with businesses.



Checklist for Schengen/Europe Visa for Businessman/Self Employed




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

Images: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi, Pixabay, Ian Probets, Aleksandar Pasaric