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Which Schengen country should I apply to?

You apply to one country for your Schengen visa, even if you visit several. Which one is set by a simple rule, and applying to the wrong one can get your application returned.

The rule

  1. 1Most nightsApply to the country where you will spend the most nights.
  2. 2Same nights, different purposesIf one country is the main purpose of your trip (for example a conference or a family visit), apply there.
  3. 3Same nights, no main purposeApply to the country you enter first.

Examples

Your flight reservation, hotel bookings and itinerary must show the same route. If they show more nights somewhere else, the officer will ask why you applied to this country.

Skip the agent. We prepare everything for you.

Your official checklist line by line, letters ready to sign, a Flight Reservation and a day-by-day itinerary, all matching. You review, sign and apply.

AED 250 per person applying from the UAE · PKR 9,999 per person applying from Pakistan.

Start your application Applying from Pakistan

Common questions

Can I apply to the country that is easiest?
No. You must apply to your main destination. Applying elsewhere to avoid a stricter embassy can lead to a refusal.
What if I change my plans after getting the visa?
Small changes are normal, but your trip should broadly follow the plan you applied with, especially the main destination.
Do I count nights or days?
Count the nights you sleep in each country.

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Last updated: 1 November 2026. Rules change, so always check the official checklist of the country you apply to.