🔄 Multiple Entry Schengen Visa
Want to visit Europe multiple times without applying each time? A multiple entry Schengen visa lets you enter the Schengen area as many times as you want during the visa validity period.
Types of Schengen Visa Entries
| Type | Entries Allowed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | 1 entry only | One-time tourists |
| Double Entry | 2 entries | Quick return trips |
| Multiple Entry (MULT) | Unlimited entries | Business travelers, frequent visitors |
Multiple Entry Visa Validity Options
- 6 months MULT - Common for first-time applicants
- 1 year MULT - After successful visa history
- 2 year MULT - Frequent travelers with clean record
- 3 year MULT - Business visitors, proven travel history
- 5 year MULT - Excellent visa history, strong ties
Remember: Even with 5-year visa, you can only stay 90 days in any 180-day period!
How to Get Multiple Entry Visa
Embassy decides entry type based on:
- Travel history - Previous Schengen/international travel
- Purpose of visit - Business needs frequent trips
- Application justification - Explain why you need multiple entries
- Financial stability - Strong bank balance, steady income
- Ties to home country - Job, property, family
Tips to Increase Your Chances
1. Build Travel History First
- Use your first single-entry visa properly
- Return before visa expires
- Don't overstay even by 1 day
2. Write a Strong Cover Letter
- Explain why you need multiple entries
- Mention business meetings, family visits, etc.
- Show planned trips for the next 1-2 years
3. Show Business Connections
- Invitation letters from European partners
- Previous meeting records
- Ongoing business projects
4. Apply for What You Need
- First application? Usually get trip-duration visa
- Second application? Can request 1-year
- Third+ application? Request longer validity
Understanding the 90/180 Rule
Even with multiple entry visa:
- Maximum 90 days stay in any 180-day rolling period
- This counts ALL Schengen countries combined
- Use a Schengen calculator to track days
Example: If you stay 30 days in March, 30 in June, and 30 in August - that's your 90 days used. Wait 180 days from first entry to reset.
Who Usually Gets Multiple Entry?
- ✅ Business professionals with European clients
- ✅ Frequent travelers with proven history
- ✅ People with family in Schengen countries
- ✅ Academics attending conferences
- ✅ Previous visa holders with clean record
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request multiple entry on my first application?
You can request it, but first-time applicants usually get single or double entry. Build your travel history first.
Is the visa fee higher for multiple entry?
No! The fee is the same (€90) regardless of single or multiple entry. The embassy decides entry type.
Can I choose which type I get?
You can request it, but the final decision is with the embassy based on your profile and justification.