schengen tourist visa interview questions and answers

What Are The Schengen Visa Interview Questions?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen Visa . This visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes 27 European countries.

The application process can be daunting, but one of the most important parts is the interview. This is your chance to show that you are a qualified candidate for a Schengen Visa.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of the most common Schengen Visa interview questions and how to answer them.

Here are the most common questions asked during a Schengen Visa interview:

Which Schengen country are you planning to visit?

The Schengen area includes 27 European countries, so you will need to specify which country or countries you are planning to visit. Be prepared to explain your reasons for wanting to travel to that particular country or countries.

What is the purpose of your visit?

The interviewer will want to know why you are visiting the Schengen Area . Be prepared to explain your itinerary in detail and what you plan to do while you are there.

If you are visiting for business purposes, be prepared to discuss your business plans. If you are visiting for tourism, be prepared to discuss your travel plans.

Is this your first time visiting the Schengen Area?

If this is not your first time visiting the Schengen Area, the interviewer might ask about your previous visits. They may want to know how long you stayed and what you did while you were there. Be prepared to answer questions about your itinerary and why you are returning to the Schengen Area.

If it is your first time visiting the Schengen Area, a simple yes will suffice.

How long are you planning to stay in the Schengen Area?

Let the interviewer know the exact length of time you are planning to stay in the Schengen Area. Your departure and return should be the same as what is stated in your travel itinerary.

Where will you be staying while you are in the Schengen Area?

Your accommodation is important to the interviewer because it will show them where you will be staying during your time in the Schengen Area. Be prepared to discuss your accommodation arrangements in detail.

What do you know about the country/countries you are visiting?

The interviewer wants to know if you have done your research about the country or countries you are visiting. Showing that you are familiar with the culture and customs of your destination will demonstrate that you are a responsible traveler. Answer this question with a brief overview of what you know about the country or countries you are visiting.

How much will this trip cost you?

Being prepared with an estimate of your travel expenses will show the interviewer that you are a responsible traveler. Give a detailed breakdown of your expected travel expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and meals.

Do you have covered health insurance?

All travelers to the Schengen Area must have health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay. The interviewer will want to see proof of your health insurance before they grant you a visa. Be prepared to show your health insurance policy or confirmation of coverage.

Have you bought or booked your tickets already?

Answer with a yes or no and provide details of your travel plans, if asked. Showing that you have made concrete travel plans shows that you are serious about your trip and less likely to overstay your visa.

Do you have a girlfriend or boyfriend?

A simple yes or no answer will suffice for this question. However, the interviewer may follow up with additional questions about your relationship, such as how long you have been dating or whether you plan to marry.

Are you traveling with anyone?

If you are traveling with anyone, the interviewer will want to know who they are and what their relationship is with you. Be prepared to explain why you are traveling with them and what your travel plans are.

Are you married? How long have you been married? What does your husband/wife do?

The interviewer may also ask you about your marital status. Committing to the memory of the dates of your marriage and other important details will help you answer this question truthfully.

Do you have children? How old are they?

Usually, a follow-up question to whether or not you are married, the interviewer may ask about your children if you have any. This lets the interviewer know if you have familial ties to your home country and whether or not you are likely to return after your trip.

Do you have any siblings? Where do they live?

Like with questions about your children, the interviewer may ask about your siblings to help gauge whether or not you have ties to your home country. Just let them know how many siblings you have and where they live without hesitation

Do you have a property in your country?

Another question that lets the interviewer gauge your ties to your home country. Owning property or other assets in your home country shows that you have a reason to return and are less likely to overstay your visa. Discuss any property or assets that you own in your home country.

Why do you need a 3-month visa, can you not achieve your purpose with a shorter stay?

The interviewer may ask you to explain why you need a visa for the duration of your stay. Be prepared to discuss your travel plans in detail and how long you need to accomplish your goals.

What is your job?

Discuss your current job in detail. The interviewer wants to know if you have a stable job and whether you are likely to return to your home country after your trip. Answer the question truthfully and provide as much detail as possible.

How long have you been working for this company?

The interviewer wants to know your employment history to gauge your stability and likelihood of returning to your home country. Answer this question truthfully and provide as much detail as possible.

Answering these questions truthfully and confidently will help you demonstrate to the interviewer that you are a good candidate for a Schengen Visa. Remember, they are looking for applicants who have a clear purpose for their visit and who can show that

How much do you earn?

The interviewer will want to know your salary to gauge your financial situation and whether you can afford to travel. Answer this question honestly and provide supporting documentation if possible.

Can I see your bank statement?

Be prepared to show your bank statement to the interviewer. This will help them assess your financial situation and whether you can afford to travel. Any sign of hesitation may make them doubt your capacity to pay for your travel expenses.

How can you travel for 3 months if you have a job?

The interviewer may be concerned that you will not return to your home country if they grant you a visa. Discuss how you will arrange your affairs so that you can take an extended leave from work.

Do you have leave approval from your company?

Let the interviewer know that you have indeed obtained permission from your employer to take the leave by providing the necessary documentation.

Have you traveled to other countries before? If yes, which countries?

This question allows the interviewer to get an idea of your travel history. Having traveled to other countries shows that you are a seasoned traveler and less likely to overstay your visa. Answer this with a yes or no and provide details of other countries you have visited if asked.

How do we know that you’ll return to your home country after your trip?

Explaining your ties to your home country is important because it will show the interviewer that you have a reason to return. Be prepared to discuss your job, family, and other commitments that will tie you to your home country. 

Letting the interviewer know that you understand that it’s illegal to overstay your visa will also help show that you are a law-abiding traveler.

What will you do if your visa is not granted?

Asking this question will help the interviewer assess your risk of overstaying your visa or illegally working in the Schengen Area. Letting the interviewer know that you have other things planned in case your visa is not granted will show that you are prepared for all eventualities.

Mistakes to Avoid On A Schengen Visa Interview

Interviews are often straightforward, but there are a few things you should avoid doing if you want to increase your chances of getting a Schengen Visa.

Here are some mistakes to avoid in a Schengen Visa interview:

1. Appearing nervous or unprepared

2. Not knowing the purpose of your trip

3. Lying about the reason for your travel

4. Unable to answer common questions about your destination

5. Not having all required documentation

6. Arriving late to the interview

Keeping these things in mind will help you ace your Schengen Visa interview and get one step closer to your dream vacation.

As with most things in life, being prepared is key to success. The same goes for a Schengen Visa interview. By knowing what to expect and being honest about your travel plans, you will increase your chances of getting your visa approved. Remember, the interviewer is looking for applicants who have a clear purpose for their visit and who can show that they will return to their home country after their trip.

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List of 20 Most Common-Asked Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Answers

A Schengen Visa allows you to stay or travel to any of the Schengen member countries. Are you applying for Schengen Visa from Dubai ? You will be required to appear for a Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Answers!

What is a Schengen Visa Interview?

A Schengen Visa interview is more than just presenting supporting documents for a visa application to a visa official from a specific country. In fact, a visa interview is designed to allow for more in-depth communication between the applicant and a diplomatic office representative. As the interview is an important factor that decides whether you will get the visa or not, you need to be aware of the dos and don’ts of a visa interview process . Along with this, you should know about the commonly asked questions and how to answer them.

The following are the general questions you should expect to be asked during a Schengen Visa interview Appointment:

Interview Questions for Schengen Visa with Answers

1. do you have a spouse if so, what does your partner do how many years have you been married.

If married, promptly answer with the right wedding date and other details. Any incorrect, delayed, or insecure answer on years of marriage could be interpreted as an attempt to conceal the truth. In case you are unmarried, tell your status as it is.

2.  Are you traveling with another person?

Give the right answer with a yes or no. Also, make it a point to clarify your relationship with the person accompanying you on the trip.

3. Is it possible to reschedule a shorter trip? Why Do You Require a Three-Month Visa?

Do not be intimidated. Honesty is what the interviewer is looking for. Mention your desire to visit various tourist destinations within the Schengen Area , and that you will be unable to do so in a short period of time. You can highlight the places that you are interested in. Or carry the tickets and package itinerary to validate your plan. However, if necessary, you can answer with an agreeable response that you can reschedule and shorten the trip.

4. How are you making money for this trip? Can You Provide a Bank Statement?

Often people are shaken by the former question. Be calm. Clearly specify your job and the sources of earnings. In case, your parents, spouse, or any other beneficiary is sponsoring your trip, mention their name and relationship. The absolute answer to the latter question is YES. Without any pause, readily offer your bank statement to the interviewer.

5. Do You Have Any Scholarships?

This is another Visa interview question that should be answered directly with a yes or no. If you have a student scholarship, include the name of the institution that is awarding it, as well as the amount of financial assistance it provides and the duration of the scholarship.

6. Do you have adequate health insurance for this trip?

It is a must to safeguard your trip with valid health insurance that works overseas. Provide proof of covered health insurance for the duration of your stay in the Schengen Area with details of the name of the insurer and policy.

7. Do You Have A Boyfriend/Girlfriend?

Answer honestly, with a yes or no.

8. Do you have a job-leave authorization letter from your boss?

You will have to justify your saying by submitting the employer’s letter (signed and stamped) to the official. Because, in case you do not have such a document, it is pointless trying to persuade the interviewer that you have your employer’s permission to leave the job during the travel period.

9. Do you have any kids? If so, what age are they and what do they do?

At times, even these very common interview questions of Schengen Visa can set you back if you are not prepared. It may happen that you fail to remember your child’s job title, exact birth date, or the exact name of the company, university, or school. That is why we recommend that you prepare and memorize such information ahead of time in order to avoid giving a hesitant answer during the visa interview.

10. Do you have any family or friends who live in the Schengen Zone?

Make a list of all family members and friends who live in the Schengen Area well in advance of the interview. Tell the interviewer about your relationship with them. If your plan revolves around meeting them, mention that too. If you forget to mention anyone during the interview, the embassy may interpret this as an attempt to avoid answering the question.

11. Do You Know Anyone Involved in The Most Recent Terrorist Activities?

Try not to interpret the question as a warning. Stay unaffected and cordial. Answer the question truthfully and unequivocally. Inform the official that you have no relatives involved in these activities and express your sorrow over such acts.

12. Do you have any relatives or friends who are studying at this university?

Declare the names and relationships of relatives or friends who are currently studying at the university in the Schengen Area where you have been admitted to study if you are applying for a student visa (if any).

13. Do you know what your son/daughter’s annual earnings are?

It is important that you discuss these Visa interview questions with your children beforehand to have a clear picture of their salaries and earnings. When asked, state the annual incomes of your children accurately.

14. Do You Have to Pay Income Tax?

Any responsible, earning citizen has to pay the tax. So, there is no other answer other than Yes. You could also provide evidence for that.

15. Do you intend to pursue master’s or doctoral studies after completing your bachelor’s degree?

Express your concern about your current Bachelor’s studies and what you are looking forward to, In case you are in dilemma about your future prospects, mention that there is a possibility that you will consider this opportunity in the long run.

16. Is your son/daughter the father/mother of any children?

The answer should be straightforward: yes or no. You could also include the number and gender of his/her children.

17. Have you applied to any other universities, and if so, which ones? Have you been admitted to any other universities?

Mention the names of the universities where you applied for admission (if you applied to more than one), as well as whether you were granted permission to study at any of them, regardless of which one you chose.

18. Have you booked or purchased your plane ticket?

Simply provide the answer by presenting evidence of a booked or purchased flight ticket.

19. Have You Ever Traveled Elsewhere?

Please respond with a yes or no. Elaborate on the answer by naming the places and countries that you have been.

20. What factors influenced your decision to attend this university or college?

Indicate your interest in the specific study field offered by the selected university. Conduct some research on the university and discuss the institution’s distinguishing potentials in comparison to other similar institutions.

The following are the typical Visa interview questions that Schengen Visit Visa officials ask their visa applicants. Keep in mind our explanations and recommendations for each of the following questions so that you can easily plan an answer that allows you to GIVE YOUR BEST in a visa interview. Remember that an untruthful answer can be one of the reasons for Schengen visa rejection . So, always answer truthfully and confidently.

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Schengen Visa Interview Questions

on 22 Nov, 2021

Schengen Visa Interview Guide: Top 30 Questions And Answers

What is a schengen visa interview.

A Schengen Visa interview is a face-to-face meeting with the Embassy/Consulate officers during which every Visa applicant must answer a set of questions concerning their application, trip purpose, and the personal situation that they have in their countries of residence.  

The Schengen Visa interview questions are a mandatory step in your Schengen Visa application process. 

Setting up an interview with the Embassy/Consulate officers means booking a Visa appointment.

During this appointment, you will also be required to submit your documents, provide your biometric data (your fingerprints must be registered), and pay the Visa application fee via cash, debit, or credit card. 

If you have any doubt concerning the steps that you must follow in order to book your appointment (and hold the interview) please check our guide: “ Book a Schengen Visa Embassy & Consulate Appointment .” 

Since some Embassies/Consulates have chosen to outsource the Schengen Visa application process to Visa outsourcing companies (companies working on behalf of Embassies and Consulates that are transferring the obligation of delivering administrative services to third parties), some applicants may hold the interview with the representatives of these companies.

However, some Embassies/Consulates that have outsourced the Visa application keep holding interviews with applicants themselves – meaning that the applicants submit their documents through the outsourcing company, but they still need to book a Schengen Visa appointment to hold the interview with the Visa officers.

Important – If you are part of a group that you will be travelling with, each one of you must book an individual Schengen Visa interview. Nearly in all of the situations, Visa applicants must not be accompanied during the interview except for:

• A parent accompanying a minor or a Visa applicant with special needs or disability
• A relative or spouse accompanying a Visa applicant older than 79 years of age (e.g., a child accompanying the elderly mother or father who is applying for a Schengen Visa)

The importance Of The Schengen Visa Interview Questions

For the Schengen Visa officers, a face-to-face interview is extremely important because they want to ensure that:

● You are who you say you are  

Schengen Visa officers must see you during a face-to-face meeting so that they can be sure that no one is applying for a Schengen Visa in a fake name or persona. 

In other words, the interview has the purpose of protecting people from identity theft. 

● You provided genuine information about you as a Visa applicant

Even though your application contains all the required documents, Schengen Visa officers must be sure that the information that you provided is genuine before issuing a Visa to you. 

They are trained to spot misinformation by analysing both verbal and nonverbal communication with an applicant. This is the main reason why they would never approve your Visa before setting up a face-to-face meeting with you. 

● You intend to return to your country of residence

For the Schengen Visa officers it is highly important to ensure that you intend to return to your country of residence and you will not overstay your welcome in the Schengen Area. 

Their duty is to prevent illegal migration in the Schengen Region. Even if you submitted documents showing that you have a fixed job and strong family bonds in your country they may ask you additional questions concerning the purpose of your trip and the ties you have in your country of residence.  

30 Most Common Schengen Visa Interview Questions & How To Answer Them

We strongly recommend you read all the tips and guidelines listed in this article, as they can help you make a good impression during the interview and get your Schengen Visa approved. 

1. Are you a tourist/Why do you want to travel to the Schengen Area/Why do you want a Schengen Visa? 

Be honest with the interviewer concerning the purpose of your trip and try to give a detailed answer. For example, do not say “ I want a Schengen Visa to visit Italy ”.

Visa officers can check a supporting document to see that you travel for tourism purposes. Therefore, you may want to explain the reason why you want to visit the Schengen Area. 

For example: “ I would like to visit Italy because I have always been interested in their history and culture and it would make me very happy visiting the most important tourist attractions in Rome, Florence, and Naples ”.

However, if you give this type of answer you can expect questions such as: “ What are the tourist attractions that you would like to visit? And where in your day-to-day travel itinerary does it show this? ”. 

Thus, make sure you have clear ideas concerning your travel itinerary. 

2. Do you have travel medical insurance for your Visa application?

Show the Visa officer interviewer that you have adequate travel medical insurance that covers at least 30,000 EUR and is valid for each day that you plan to spend within the Schengen Region. 

3. Are you married? If yes, what does your wife/husband do? 

They may ask you this to ensure that you have family ties in your country of residence and you have strong reasons to return home from the Schengen Region.

If you are married, just give them some basic details about the job that your spouse has. Also, it is important for them to know that your husband or wife has a respectable profession that can strengthen the economic situation you have in your country of residence, as it provides reasons as to why you will return. 

This is why you must pay attention to the way you answer these questions.

 For example, if your husband or wife is currently unemployed, do not simply answer “ My wife/husband does not work ”. Mention the degree they have in a specific field and some details about his/her previous job. 

For example: “ My husband/wife is specialised in English translation. He/she is an authorised English translator and for the moment is seeking new work opportunities ” or “ My husband/wife worked for years as a sales agent and now is seeking new career opportunities ”. 

4. For how long have you been married?

Make sure you remember your marriage details (not only for how long you have been married but also your marriage date). 

Also, if you are married you may want to submit a copy of your marriage certificate to prove that you have ties in your country of residence. This means that the Schengen Visa officers can easily check to see if the information you provide is accurate.  

5. Do you have a financée?

In case you are not married, Visa officers may still want to know if you are involved in any kind of relationship that can strengthen the ties you have in your country of residence. Just answer with yes or no. 

If you are involved in a relationship, they may ask you additional questions concerning your partner (for example, questions concerning his/her profession and income, why they are not travelling with you, etc).

6. What is your educational qualification? 

Just mention the highest degree that you received from a school or university. 

For example, “ I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and I graduated from university in 2014. ” 

It is not necessary to mention the lower level schools/educational institutions that you attended previously. 

However, if you have more qualifications you can mention each of them. For example: “ I have a bachelor’s degree in Economics and I attended a 1-year accounting course ”.  

7. What properties do you have in your country?

Name all the assets that you own in your country of residence (for example, a house or a car). 

If you do not own assets but intend to buy a property you can mention it, as long as your intentions are genuine. 

For example: “ For the moment, I don’t own any property but I am currently saving money so that I can get a bank loan to buy a car/a house/another property ”. 

If you give this answer, you can expect them to request further details concerning the property that you want to buy: “ What kind of house would you like to buy? ” or “ How much money can you borrow from the bank? ”. 

This all relates to the Visa officers ensuring you have strong intentions to return to your country of residence.

8. What would you do if your Schengen Visa application got rejected?

Schengen Visa officers want to hear that you have commitments in your country of residence and for you, it wouldn’t be the end of the world if your application got rejected. 

For example, you can answer: “ I would be very sorry about that and I wouldn’t like to cancel my travel plans. But if my application got rejected, I would return to work despite the approved leave of absence from my employer. Then, next time I can take some weeks off from work, I will submit a new application. ”

If they ask you this question, do not show signs of anxiety or worries. For example, do not answer: “ Why would you reject my Visa? Is there anything wrong with my application? ”

9. How much will this journey cost you?

For sure you already have an overall idea concerning the amount of money that you will spend during your trip. 

Remember that your answer must show consistency with your bank statements and other documents that you submit as proof of financial means.

Tell the interviewer the total amount of money that you will be spending on your trip and then elaborate on a detailed answer. 

For example: “ I am expecting to spend approximately 3500 EUR for my trip. My flight reservations and insurance cost 1200 EUR and I will pay 800 EUR for 7 nights at the hotel. I have a 150 EUR budget limit for each day that I plan to spend in Greece. Also, I included in the overall price the cost of the insurance and the money I have spent to get some documents for my application as well as the Visa fee ”.

10. Is this your first time in the Schengen Area? 

Just answer with yes or no. 

If you traveled to the Schengen Region previously, for sure they will ask you some questions concerning your other trip(s) to Europe. 

For example: “ When did you travel to the Schengen Area? ”, “ Which Schengen countries did you visit? ”, “ What was the purpose of your trip? ”, etc. 

11. What do you usually do in your country?

Tell them more about your daily activities and routine. You can include your hobbies as well. Do not forget to mention how often you see your relatives. 

For example: “ In the morning, I go out for a jog before getting dressed and going to work. Usually, I arrive home around 6 pm. In the evening, I like going out with some good friends except for Monday evening, when I attend an Arabic course that hopefully will improve my professional achievements. Twice a week, I visit my parents and my sister. ”

12. Do you have relatives in your country of residence?

Tell them more about your relatives and do not forget to mention if there is any relative with whom you have a strong relationship. 

You can include your parents, siblings, cousins, or any other relative. Try to give a complete answer, but be concise (if you have a big family, the interviewer does not want to hear a half-an-hour story about each member of your family).

For example: “ I have a strong relationship with my parents, who I usually visit at the end of the week and help with grocery shopping. My brother is my best friend even though we can only speak on the phone because we both have work commitments. My parents and my brother are my closest relatives, but I also have three cousins and an aunt living in another city. Usually, I visit them once every two months. ”

Also, if you have relatives you should be ready to answer more questions about them: “ What are your parents/siblings/other relatives doing for a living? ”, “ Do your siblings have children? ”, “ What is your parents/siblings/other relatives income? ”, “ Do any of them live in the Schengen Region? ”, etc. Answer these questions honestly. It is not a problem if you do not know the exact income of your sister’s husband or other specific details concerning your relatives.

As long as you’re transparent, the Visa officers will appreciate it. 

For example, you can answer: “ My sister’s husband works for a telecommunications company and I guess he gets around $1,500 monthly but I have never asked how much money he gets monthly ”, or “ My brother is an engineer and he works for a software company but I don’t know the exact name of his position within the company ”.

 It is not necessary to call all of your relatives before your Schengen Visa interview, ask them specific questions concerning their work and income, and memorise the answers.    

13. What do you know about the country that you plan to visit?

Make sure you know some details about the places that you are planning to visit. However, try to give simple answers. Do not memorise the information you find on the Internet. 

For example, do not say: “ I know that France is located in Western Europe, is a unitary semi-presidential republic, it has an area of 640,679 km2 and during the Iron Age was inhabited by the Gauls, a collection of Celtic tribes. ”  

A more appropriate answer would be: “ I know that France offers a lot of attractions and has some of the world’s largest and most renowned museums, such as the Louvre, Musée d-Orsay, and Centre Georges Pompidou. French cuisine is famous all over the world. I know that some of the most popular French dishes are confit de canard and Tarte Tatin that I am eager to try once I arrive in Paris. Also, the country has a very rich culture. For example, my favourite French writers are Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre and my favourite French singer is Patrick Bruel. ”

Give them an honest answer. For sure you do not want the interviewer asking you what is your favourite novel written by Albert Camus if you have never read his books. 

14. What does your company do? What are your job responsibilities?

Just make an accurate description of your job/your duties and talk about your company. 

Try to answer in the same way you would answer if you had a job interview and the recruiter asked you to talk about your current position and employment details. 

15. Do you have children? 

Answer with yes or no. If you have children, make sure you remember their exact birth dates, especially because you might want to submit copies of their birth certificates in order to prove that you have strong ties in your country of residence.

The Visa officers can check if the information you provided is accurate. 

Also, they can ask you additional questions concerning your children, according to their age. For example: “ Who takes care of them? ”, “ Does your family have enough money to take care of your children while you are travelling (for younger families)? ”, “ Are they married (for older families)? ”, “ Do they have children? ”, “ What do they do? ”, etc. 

16. Do you have family members or friends living in the Schengen Area?

Answer with yes or no. Bear in mind that if you have a parent, relative, or friend in the Schengen Area, you should declare it when applying for your Visa. 

For example, when you fill out the Schengen Visa form you are requested to mention if you have any relatives living in a Schengen Country. Also, if you intend to visit them (even if they do not provide you with accommodation), you should submit an invitation letter which is not mandatory, but it can strengthen your application. 

Therefore, if you answer: “ Yes, I have relatives living in the Schengen Area ” make sure that your answer is the same as the information you provided when you filled out the Visa form. 

If you answer: “ Yes, I have friends living in the Schengen Area and I plan to visit them ” but you didn’t submit an invitation letter (even if it is not mandatory as long as they do not provide you with accommodation) for sure the interviewer will ask you why didn’t you submit an invitation letter from your friends. 

Also, you will have to answer additional questions concerning your relatives and friends who are living in the Schengen Area: “ What do they do? ”, “ Do you have a tight relationship? ”, “ How did you meet your friends? ”, etc. 

17. Do you pay income tax?

You can prove that you pay income tax, especially because submitting your Personal Income Tax Return is mandatory for almost all Embassies/Consulates. In an ideal scenario, you should show the Visa officers that you are a responsible citizen who pays taxes. 

However, if for any reason you didn’t pay your taxes just be honest. Schengen Visa officers are not tax agents and they just want to ensure that you have genuine intentions to return to your country of residence.

Explain to them the reason why you didn’t pay your taxes. 

For example: “ This year I didn’t pay taxes because I needed extra money to help my elderly parents with grocery shopping/my son wanted to attend an English course. ” Show them that the ties you have in your country of residence remain strong, even though you are not the most upstanding citizen. 

18. Are you travelling with someone else?

Answer with yes or no. If you plan to travel with someone else, make sure you know some details about this person and the background of their trip (e.g., trip purpose, professional background, etc.). 

Also, you will have to explain the relationship you have with the person that you will be travelling with.  

19. Do you have any relation with a person involved in terrorist activities?

In case they ask you this question, consider it as an ordinary question (just like the other ones). 

Do not imagine that the Visa officers have suspicions that you actually have a relationship with someone involved in terrorist activities. Just answer without hesitation.

20. Why did you choose to study at this University?

You might hear this question in cases where you are a student. 

However, Visa officers are free to ask you this question even if you are currently graduated and employed and no longer a student, especially if your profession is not related to your field of study. Answer them by highlighting your interest in a specific field of study and the reasons why you choose a specific College/University and specialisation. 

21. How do we know that you will return back?

Highlight the reasons why you would never permanently leave your country of residence.

 Start with the most important reasons. For example: “ First, I would never leave my son. The relationship I have with my family is extremely important and I strongly believe that we must stay close. Family is my core value. Secondly, I have no reason to leave my current job that is stable enough and gives me the chance to take care of my family. Thirdly, I love travelling and discovering new cultures, but I would never choose to live in a foreign country that has different rules and laws and where people speak a language that I don’t speak. ”  

This question is extremely common, so be sure you know how you are going to be answering it before you step into your interview. 

Especially if you are travelling over to Europe to visit your husband/wife or fiance or child, as the first assumption from the interviewer is that you will not return. So, in your answer, include the reasons why you won’t stay beyond your Visa’s duration, similar to the examples mentioned above.

For example, if you are travelling to Europe to visit your spouse or a relative, explain to the Visa officers the reasons why you wouldn’t stay beyond your Visa by using logical arguments , such as: “ I have no reason to stay illegally in Europe and be a burden for my spouse/relative since I have achieved economic independence in my country of residence and I have a stable job and a family ”, “ I would never leave here my elderly parents that I must take care of ”, or “ Even if I could stay legally in Europe I wouldn’t do this because my spouse/relative cannot afford to maintain me and I would never find a job in a country where I don’t speak the language ”. 

No matter what your answer is, you should use your logical reasoning in order to prove that you do not intend to stay illegally in Europe. 

Do not give the officers answers such as: “ I promise I will return ”, “ I will return back to my country because I do not want to stay in Europe ”, or “ I will return back because I love my country ”. These answers do not bring any proof of your intentions to return back from the Schengen Area.  

22. How much do you earn?

Tell them your monthly income, as indicated on all of your employment documents/other documents that show your means of subsistence in your country of residence. 

If you are a student and unemployed, tell them what is your source of income (for example, your parents). 

Do not forget to mention any other source of income (such as money from rental property). 

According to your answer, they may also ask you who is supporting your trip. If you are going to cover all of the expenses for your trip to the Schengen Region by yourself, just mention it. Otherwise, give them some details about your sponsor: who is he/she, what is his/her professional background, what is his/her income, what type of relationship you have with your sponsor, etc. 

23. Why do you require a Visa for such a long duration? 

This question is in regards to applicants who are planning to stay for more than one month within the Schengen Region, but also applicants who are requesting a long-term Visa. 

No matter the duration of your journey, just tell them the reason why you need to spend more time in Europe. 

For example, you can tell them that you need more time to visit the countries properly or that you have worked hard for one year and deserve a longer vacation.

24. Are you aware of which countries your Visa covers and which it doesn’t? Do you know what the validity of your Visa will be?

We highly recommend you learn more about the Schengen Region before attending the interview. 

Learn about the countries that are included in the Schengen Area and the non-Schengen countries you are allowed to enter with a Schengen Visa . Also, learn some basic information about the Schengen Visa ( types of Visa , the maximum duration of stay, the validity of the Visa, the difference between the duration of stay and Visa validity, how the “ 90/180 rule ” works). 

We recommend you read our blog posts and memorise relevant information concerning the Schengen Area and the Schengen Visa policy. 

25. Why do you think that we should grant you a Schengen Visa?

The way you answer this question is extremely important. 

Even during a job interview, the question “ Why do you believe that you should get this job? ” is extremely important. You can tell them that travelling to the Schengen Region would be a great opportunity for you to learn more about Europe and enrich your life with more culture (in case you travel for tourism purposes, but obviously, the answer depends on the purpose of your trip). 

Also, do not forget to mention that you have the financial resources to undertake the trip.

However, try not to appear overconfident. You should point out that the Schengen Visa would be an opportunity for you and not something that you deserve and they must grant you at any cost.  

26. Once you arrive in the Schengen Area, are you going to seek employment?

“ No ” is the answer that Visa officers want to hear from you. 

Tell them that you understand the limitations of every type of Visa and you have no intention to abandon your family, your job, and/or your properties to seek illegal employment in one of the Schengen countries. 

27. Who lives with you now and what do they do?

Schengen Visa officers are interested to know if you have a tight relationship with someone living with you no matter who this person is. 

For example, you can live with your parents, a partner, or a friend. If this is applicable to you, give them details concerning the nature of the relationship you have with the person you live with, for how long they have been living with you, and the source of their income. 

28. I don’t think that you will come back. What do you have to say about this?

With this question, the Embassy/Consulate officials are trying to put applicants on the spot.

 Do not get scared and do not show signs of anxiety. The answer you should give them depends mostly on your personal situation. 

However, it is important to highlight that you would never abandon your family or your properties to live illegally in Europe. For example, you can answer without hesitation: “ If I don’t come back, it means that I would abandon my children and I have no intention to do this. ” 

29. How will you travel from one place to another?

The answer to this question is important as it can prove to the Visa officers that you are a genuine tourist that considered various options to travel from one city to another or from one Schengen country to another. 

Do not tell them only the means of transport you have chosen (e.g. train or car), but also the reason why you have chosen that means of transport. For example: “ I will be travelling from Switzerland to Italy by train because it is cheaper than travelling by plane. However, once I arrive in Italy, I plan to rent a car and visit some famous tourist destinations. For me, renting a car to visit Italy is the most affordable option .”

30. Did you reserve or book your flight?

Give them more details about your flight. 

Tell them if you hold flight bookings or flight reservations , as well as your travel dates. 

If you have submitted flight reservations, tell them that the company allowed you to hold your seat for a specific period of time and if they grant you a Visa you will pay immediately 100% upfront for your tickets. 

Common Mistakes To Avoid During The Schengen Visa Interview

During the Schengen Visa interview questions, make sure you avoid making the following mistakes:

● Memorise your answers

Do not respond to the questions of the interviewer as if you memorised the answers. Try to be spontaneous.

Learning some information about Europe and the Schengen Visa is important, but do not show them that you have learned by heart the answers to the most common questions (especially because if they ask you a question that you are not prepared for, you might face a mental block and not be able to answer it). 

● Knowing too many details about your family and friends

Do not call your family and friends and ask them to give you all the details about them that you actually do not know. 

Providing accurate and relevant information about them is important, but if you start talking about your family and show the Embassy officers that you remember the exact date when your brother got married 15 years ago, you can raise suspicions as they may believe that you are giving pre-prepared answers.

They are aware that even if you have a close relationship with your family, sometimes you cannot remember specific dates and details. If you say “ My brother got married 15 years ago in October ” sounds more natural and spontaneous than “ My brother got married on October 20, 2005. ” 

● Not building a well-articulated speech

When you answer a question, try to build a short but well-articulated speech. 

Do not answer just “ Yes ” and “ No ” and then expect them to ask you another question.

For example, if they ask you why you want to visit Italy, do not answer “ Because it is a nice country ” or “ Because Italian people are nice. ” 

Give them a complete answer that proves you are a determined person who knows how to justify choices. Poor communication can affect your application in a negative way.   

● Inappropriate appearance

You should dress for the Schengen Visa interview in the same way as you would dress for a job interview. 

All Visa applicants must have an extremely professional appearance and show the officers that they have a sense of consideration for the event.

Avoid sunglasses, shorts, t-shirts, too much makeup, sneakers, and any kind of informal outfit. 

Also, pay attention to your body posture during the interview and the rules of nonverbal communication (for example, do not avoid eye contact and do not keep your arms closed – this would show that you don’t feel confident enough).

● Nervousness

Even if you have an anxious personality, do your best to stay relaxed and avoid showing them that you are nervous. 

Otherwise, the officers might believe that you have something to hide or conceal. 

Try to overcome your nervousness by thinking that the interviewers are just normal people who want to learn more about you and to ensure that you are trustworthy and can be granted a Visa. 

● Arriving to your interview late

Never arrive to the appointment late, always aim to arrive 30-45 minutes before your appointment, this ensures that if you have issues with traffic or trouble finding the Embassy/Consulate/Visa Center, there is still enough time to arrive prior to your interview.

Being late can cause your Schengen Visa interview to be rescheduled which would be an extreme inconvenience, or at worst the officer could refuse or reject your entire visa application.

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Home » Visas » Schengen Visa » Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Tips

Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Tips

On the day of your Schengen visa appointment, you should arrive at the embassy or consulate around 30 minutes early.

You must bring all the required documents, as well as the supporting documents. Unless you are exempt, you must pay a visa application fee.

At the Consulate

In most situations, you would have to attend the visa appointment by yourself, unless one of the following exceptions apply:

• You are a parent accompanying a visa applicant who is a minor
• You are accompanying an adult visa applicant that has special needs
• You are the spouse or adult child of a visa applicant who is 80 years or older

If any of the above situations apply, you must submit a written request at least 24 hours in advance of the interview.

Usually, there are no waiting areas outside the consulate for the friends/relatives who are not admitted to the interview.

Minor applicants must be accompanied by their father/mother/legal guardian at the personal interview.

For those consulates where a prior appointment booking is required, if you don’t go to your appointment and fail to cancel it within 48 hours or if you make more than one appointment, your online appointment will be cancelled without notice.

If you are not already registered in Europe’s Visa Information System (VIS) within the last 59 months prior to the date of your visa application, your fingerprints will be collected at the time of interview.

The consular staff of the Embassies and Consulates General of the Schengen countries in the U.S. guarantee a courteous, knowledgeable, and speedy handling of your application. They expect you to behave equally as courteous and to answer all relevant questions they might ask related to your application and the purpose of your stay.

The visa officer may ask you questions about yourself, your trip, questions related to your ties to your home country, your financial situation, and more.  The interview may be just a few minutes or even half an hour. However, in most cases, it would be around 5 to 10 minutes.

Sample Interview Questions

While there is really no exhaustive list of questions that the consular officer may ask, the following are some of the most common questions asked during a Schengen visa interview:

• What is the purpose of your trip?
• Why do you want to visit this country?
• For how long will be traveling to Europe?
• What Schengen countries are you planning to visit?
• When you will be traveling?
• Where will you stay?
• How will you travel from one place to another?
• Are you married?
• For how long have you been married?
• What does your wife or husband do?
• Do you have any children?  How old are they?  What do they do?
• Do you have any friends or family members that live in Europe?  If yes, when did you meet them last?
• Where do you work?
• What does your company do?
• What is your profession?
• What is your role in the company?
• How many years of total experience do you have?
• For how long have you have been employed with your current employer?
• For how long were you employed with your previous employer?
• Can you show me your company profile?
• How many people work in your company?
• Can you explain your current project that you are working on in your company?
• Who will pay for your trip?
• What is your annual income?
• Do you pay income tax?
• How much will your trip cost?
• Can I see your tax returns?
• Where do you stay?
• What is your highest educational qualification?
• How can you assure me that you will come back?

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Schengen Visa Interview: How to prepare yourself

Applied for your Schengen Visa ? Made a Schengen visa interview appointment? Great, the hard part is done! All you need to do now is prepare for your Schengen Visa interview .

In this complete guide, we’ll give you all the tips and tricks for a successful Schengen Visa interview and some examples of the most common and difficult questions.

Let’s get started! Still need to apply? Click the button below and apply instantly online with iVisa.

What can I expect during the Schengen Visa interview?

As soon as you have submitted your visa application form, you will be required to attend an interview with a visa officer at the consulate of the Schengen country.

The goal of this interview is simply to verify the information Schengen Visa applicants submitted during the application and check if they meet the requirements. If you do, you have nothing to worry about !

They will try to determine the following:

That you are who you say you are.

That you have enough money to support yourself during your trip.

That the reasons for traveling are valid, and related to the permitted activities for this type of visa

You are of good character and have no criminal intent.

You are not planning to stay longer than your visa allows or work in the Schengen Zone.

These are just a few factors that will determine if your Schengen Visa application will be approved.

The questions, reasoning, and outcome are entirely up to the visa officer. Also note that it’s up to the interviewer if you get a single-entry visa, double-entry visa, or multiple-entry visa.

Tips for a successful Schengen Visa interview

Any interview can be stressful, and we totally understand. With these tips, you’ll avoid stress and increase your chances of getting through the interview successfully and quickly.

Stay calm and be yourself

Make sure to relax before the interview and keep breathing. Remember, it is not an interrogation. It is simply a standard procedure to double-check that you are eligible for a Schengen Visa.

Simply be yourself, answer honestly, and wear something comfortable but appropriate.

Bring all the required documents

Bring a neat folder with all the supporting documents required for your application. When you apply for your Schengen Visa with iVisa, you’ll receive a complete checklist of visa requirements and documents to gather, with a comprehensive explanation of each one.

During the interview, the visa officer will check your documents and ask you questions about your Schengen Visa application form, verify your reasons for traveling, and more.

Make sure all documents match the information in your passport and are in the required language, legible, and clean.

Don’t be late

This should speak for itself, but just in case: be on time! It’s always better to be early than late, so catch an earlier bus or train to the consulate or embassy or hang around in the café around the corner for the morning. If you do not arrive in time, your visa application will most likely be rejected.

The most common Schengen Visa interview questions

Prepare the questions and read the guidelines below, as they can help you relax and make a good impression during the interview, and get your Schengen Visa approved .

Why do you want to travel to this country? Are you going to other Schengen or European countries during your trip?

How long are you planning to stay in the Schengen Zone? Why do you need that much time?

Will you be visiting someone, and if so, how do you know that person?

Are you traveling with someone, if so, who?

Have you traveled to the country before, and why?

Do you have medical or travel insurance?

Are you able to sustain yourself financially during your trip? What type of job do you do?

Have you booked any transport, accommodations, or tours?

What and where are you studying?

Do you have a partner or spouse and what do they do?

As you can see, these are fairly easy and logical questions, and your answers should be supported by your documents.

How to answer difficult questions during the Schengen Visa interview

Some questions may be more unusual than others, but should not be a problem to answer. Here are a few examples and how to answer them appropriately.

• How do we know you will return to your home country?

In Addition to a return flight ticket, you can simply state that you have financial and other responsibilities at home, such as a job, your own business, a family, studies, planned events, or a mortgage or rental home.

Bank statements, salary slips, or a rental agreement can all be used as proof to support your answer.

• Have you ever been convicted or accused of a crime or have been part of a terrorist organization?

This may not be a difficult question, but surely one that makes many visa applicants nervous. Simply answer with a simple “no”. A clean criminal record is a requirement to get a Schengen Visa.

• What do you know about the country you are visiting or about the other Schengen countries?

The visa interviewer wants to know if the reasons for traveling are genuine. Doing some research beforehand about the Schengen member countries and the areas you are visiting, plus stating any places of interest you intend to explore is a good idea.

• How can you stay away from your job for three/six months?

Explain why you stop working for six months to travel to the Schengen Area. It can be a gap year, a sabbatical, training, a break from working at all, or something else. However, the answer must be honest and supported by your documents.

Remember, you are not allowed to work in the Schengen Area or European Union on this visa.

Mistakes to avoid during the Schengen Visa interview

Schengen visas are not rejected for no reason. If you meet all the requirements and can prove these with supporting documents, you should not have anything to worry about.

Even so, you should take the Schengen Visa interview very seriously. Except for being late and not bringing all the required documents, here are a few more mistakes to avoid during your Schengen Visa interview .

Lie in your answers. Any answer must be proven, and lying will most definitely result in a Schengen Visa rejection.

Disagree with the visa official, threaten the interviewer, or raise your voice in anger.

Gather documents based on a random list from a friend and only consult trustworthy sources. When applying with iVisa , you’ll receive a complete, up-to-date checklist.

Use a passport that does not meet the requirements. It must be valid for at least six months after arrival in the Schengen Zone, and have at least two blank pages.

Not prepared properly. It is not necessary to memorize any answers, but knowing basic information about the destination country, your financial situation, and the people you are visiting are the least you can do.

How to apply for a Schengen Visa with iVisa

After reading this post, you should feel more confident about attending your Schengen Visa appointment.

For more information about how to apply for a Schengen Visa, check out the iVisa video guide below!

Apply now for a Schengen Visa online with iVisa ! We’ll guide you from start to finish and ensure you are fully prepared for the application process.

Benefits include:

Concierge service and full access to your own iVisa Expert who will guide you from start to end and carefully review your application to ensure it is 100% government-compliant.

A simplified application form that’s up to 50% shorter than on the government website with clear, concise questions.

Receive a complete step-by-step PDF guide with full instructions and all the tips you need to fill out the questions and prepare for your interview.

More questions about Schengen Visas?

If you have another question about Schengen Visa applications and can’t find the answer on this page, contact our customer service team for free via online chat or email at [email protected] . They are available 24/7 to assist!

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Common Schengen Visa Interview Questions

While citizens of European Union countries, as well as those from countries that have a visa-free agreement with the EU, do not, as yet, require a Schengen Visa to enter or travel through a Schengen Area member state , many intending visitors will. The visa-exemption countries include the United States, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Canada and several others. British citizens are also visa-exempt for the present, though this situation may change in the future as the European Union rolls out the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in 2023 and 2024.

Citizens of all other countries that do not enjoy visa-exempt status must possess a Schengen Visa for the country (or countries) being visited and this is a two-part process. Firstly, the intending traveller must submit a detailed online application form, and secondly, the applicant must arrange and attend a personal interview with the relevant embassy, consulate or designated visa processing centre.

The interview is an integral part of the visa application process as it is here that the consular officials have a chance to personally meet and assess the applicant and render a judgement as to whether the visa should be granted or refused. The purpose of the interview is to question the applicant regarding the reason(s) for the visa and determine if the details supplied on the application form are truthful and match the answers to the interview questions.

Objective Assessment

The prime objective of the interview is to determine whether or not the applicant is visiting the country for valid reasons, thus reducing the risk of permitting undesirable elements to enter the Schengen Area, which could pose a security risk.

The questions asked at a Schengen Visa interview can cover a wide range of topics. They can range from the applicant’s travel plans to recent travel history and some may even be of a personal nature. All questions are designed to allow the interviewer to get a better understanding of the applicant and then make an objective assessment of the person’s merit, honesty and trustworthiness.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

Questions will vary according to the purpose of the visit, how long the stay is for, whether travelling solo or as part of a larger group and many other variables.

While many of the questions may revolve around the information supplied on the visa application and the applicant’s travel itinerary, these are far from the only topics that may be covered. There is no set list of questions that may be asked, but some of the most frequently asked are with regard to:

• Marital Status:  Applicants may be asked if they are married or not and, if so, to provide the exact date of the wedding. A wrong answer may raise some suspicion in the interviewer’s mind as to the applicant’s veracity.
• Travel Companions: Solo travellers just need to state this fact while those travelling with a spouse, relative, friend, or children should be able to provide details of those people who are accompanying the applicant.
• Duration of Visa: Applicants should be prepared to offer a reasonable explanation for the length of the visa being applied for. For the interviewer, a shorter visa may be sufficient for the itinerary outlined on the application form.
• Funding: Most types of Schengen Visa  require the applicant to demonstrate adequate funding for expenses and accommodation but this may also be requested at the interview. Copies of the last six month’s bank statements should be brought to the interview in case proof of funding is requested.
• Study:  For applicants seeking a Schengen Visa for study purposes, it may be necessary to furnish documentation proving enrolment in a recognised educational establishment as well as details as to how the period of study will be funded.
• Student Friends and Relatives:  Applicants seeking a visa for study purposes may be asked for details of friends or relations already enrolled in an educational course in the country. If requested, the applicant should be able to provide names and details of the duration and location of these studies.
• Health Insurance: Virtually certain applicants will be asked if they have sufficient travel health insurance to cover illness or accident while in the country. Such documentation should accompany the application form and be brought to the interview.
• Personal Relationship: Of a more personal nature, the applicant may be asked about current relationships, such as a boyfriend or girlfriend. This is particularly pertinent if the other person is currently resident in the Schengen Area or a citizen of the country being visited.
• Employment: Applicants are frequently asked about their current employment situation. Questions regarding employment should be answered truthfully and fully as the details provided can be easily checked, and the visa should be refused if inconsistencies or untruths are uncovered.
• Leave Approval: Visa applicants in full-time, part-time or temporary employment should bring a signed, stamped and dated letter from the employer confirming the applicant’s status and permission to take leave. Such letters are not always requested but it is vital to have this document at the interview, as failure to do so may adversely affect the outcome.
• Children: Applicants with children may be asked general questions about the children’s ages and schools attended, and this is even more likely if the children are accompanying the applicant on the trip. Applicants with older children may be asked for details about the children’s employment and approximate salary. Another question that may be asked is whether the applicant’s children have children of their own.
• Friends or Relatives: If asked, it is important to inform the official of any friends or relatives who are citizens or official residents of the country being visited. In many cases, the officials will already be aware of close friends or relatives and omitting to mention one or more of these may be construed as suspicious.
• Tax Details: Applicants may be asked whether or not they pay taxes, as this is indicative of regular income. The purpose of this question is to determine if the applicant has a job and is, therefore, more likely to return home when the visa expires.
• Flight Tickets: Proof of a return flight (or other means of travel) is a requisite part of the application process. The applicant will be asked to provide documentation showing that travel has been booked for the dates stated on the application form.
• Previous Schengen Visas: A very common question asked is whether the applicant has visited the Schengen Area previously. If so, details will be required as to where, when, for how long, and the type of Schengen Visa used. If this is a first-time application, this should be stated in answer to the question.
• Previous Visas : A common question at the interview is with regard to previous travel and particularly where a visa was required. This is important as an applicant with a history of overstaying a visa, being refused entry to a country or having been deported will have considerable difficulty in securing the required Schengen Visa.
• Length of Stay: An interviewer may question the reasons for the length of the visa, and a good explanation will be required. For this reason, it is strongly advisable to compile a day-by-day itinerary plan listing the places being visited, why and for how long. Many visa administrators expect some form of travel itinerary to be supplied at the interview, which will document the visitor’s plans for the visit.
• Estimated Costs:  The interviewer may ask questions regarding how much the entire trip is expected to cost and be satisfied that the applicant has, or has ready access to, sufficient funds for all expenses that may arise while in the Schengen Area.
• Main Purpose: The most commonly asked question is why a traveller wishes to visit the country in question. This will be for a specific purpose, which will determine the type of Schengen Visa that should be applied for. The main reasons could be study, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment and holidays. Whatever the main purpose of the visit, applicants should have a basic explanation for applying for a visa and supply any documentation which supports the reason given.
• Seeking Employment: All Schengen Visas prohibit the holder from seeking employment (even unpaid work) while in the Schengen Area. However, this is a rule that is often broken by some, and the interviewer may query the applicant’s employment status to seek reassurance that this will not be the case should the visa be granted.
• Accommodation: Details of accommodation booked (even if staying with friends or relatives) are a required part of the application procedure. The interviewer may have questions concerning the applicant’s accommodation plans and ask for documentary proof of confirmed bookings or a letter confirming that accommodation is being provided.

Main Purpose

The interviewer’s aim is not to catch the interviewee out but to get an overall impression as to whether he or she can be trusted to obey the Schengen Visa rules and pose no criminal or terrorist risk. It is understood that the applicant may be nervous and make simple errors, but any issues can be avoided by preparing for the interview and ensuring that any supporting documentation is readily available.

Tourism and income from visitors are important for every country, and the main purpose of the interview is simply to meet the applicant and get an overall sense of the person’s veracity. Almost 100% of visa applications are granted with little difficulty unless a major issue should arise. The vast majority of applicants who attend a Schengen Visa interview have already been thoroughly checked by the authorities and will be granted the required visa.

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Schengen visa interview questions & answers

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• Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Answers

If you’re planning to travel to Europe anytime soon, you will require a Schengen visa . We know that the thought of applying for a visa often makes people nervous, which is why we at 11th Hour Travel constantly help our customers every step of the way, right from the time they fill in their visa application till they receive their visa. Be it Schengen visas from Dubai , Schengen visas from Abu Dhabi, or Schengen visas from Sharjah, our Schengen visa services ensure that you get your visa as smoothly as possible.

You could be wondering how to apply for a Schengen tourist visa and what the entire procedure entails. Before you receive your visa, however, you will have to go through the visa interview where you will be asked a couple of questions related to your travel plans. In this article, we will be exploring some of the questions you could possibly be asked and the best way in which you can answer them.

Questions to Expect During a Schengen Visa Interview and Corresponding Answers

The following are some of the questions you could be asked during your visa interview and the kind of answers that you can provide:

Is this your first visit to a Schengen area?

If you haven’t traveled to a Schengen area before, simply answer with a “no”. In case you have been to a Schengen area before, you can talk a bit about your last visit and the places you visited without getting into too many details as those are not necessary.

Which Schengen country are you planning to visit? And why?

With this question, the interviewer wishes to know if you have a clear itinerary set in your mind or not. It’s best to answer in a way that shows you have done your research about your vacation thoroughly.

What is the purpose of your visit?

Although this question may sound simple, this is an imperative one so that the interviewer can know exactly what you’re going to do during your holiday. This is also vital so that they can determine if you’re planning to seek employment during the period of your vacation.

Are you going to seek employment in any of the Schengen areas?

While the previous question may sound indirect, this is a direct way for the interviewer to know if you hope to get employed in one of the Schengen areas. Convey to the interviewer in very clear words that you’re going there for a particular reason, be it just for sightseeing or to visit friends and family, and not to look for jobs in any manner. If you have a job back in your home country, convey that as well, and the fact that seeking employment in a different country goes against the rules of your current job.

When will you travel to the Schengen areas?

The reason interviewers ask this question to applicants is so that they can verify they are the ones who booked the tickets as there are certain agencies who illegally attempt to get immigrants to move to foreign countries under false pretenses. Make sure to give them details of your itinerary so they can be sure that you are the ones who booked the tickets and that you’re completely aware of the limitations of the tourist visa.

How much will this journey cost you?

Whenever someone travels to a foreign location, the people in charge of processing their visa must be sure that they can handle the trip financially. This is why this question is asked, which is why you must tell them confidently that you have been saving up for this vacation or have enough balance in your bank account to comfortably cover the entire duration of the trip.

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• Schengen Visa

Interview Questions for Schengen Visa

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An interview is a very important part of a Schengen visa application. Although in most cases, you may not have to attend an interview, in certain cases where you are asked to attend an interview, a large percentage of your chances of visa approval will hang on the interview. As a result, it is necessary to know the common Schengen visa interview questions and answers . 

A typical visa interview will last around 10-15 minutes, and this time is crucial. It is your window to impress the interviewing officer and convince him that you are worthy of being issued with a Schengen visa. Although most questions will revolve around your visit, some of the interview questions for Schengen visa may seem odd and even personal. However, answering these questions is extremely important as they will give the officer an idea of your honesty, openness, and other qualities. This is to ensure that you return to your home country before the expected date and that you do not engage in any illegal activities during your stay.

Let us take a look at some of the common Schengen visa interview questions and how you should answer them. Note that these are just the most asked questions. There may be additional questions asked based on the status. Also, the below questions are just a pool; you may be asked with only a selected few from these.

Are you married? If Yes, What does your spouse do? For how long have you been married?

If you are married, you must be ready with the exact marriage date as well as your spouse and marriage details. If you are not married, a simple ‘no’ will suffice. A delayed or insecure answer will make them think that you are lying. This can seriously affect your visa application. 

Can You Reschedule A Shorter Trip? Why Do You Need Three/Month Visa?

If you honestly do not require a long time to meet your purposes, it is best that you answer “yes, I can reschedule”. In case you require a longer stay period, you should tell the officer about why you need to stay for long. This can include telling them about your sightseeing plans to visit various destinations which can only be done if you have enough time. However, assure them that you are willing to shorten your trip if the embassy requires you to do so. 

Can you show your bank statement?

You must show your bank statement without any absolute hesitation. In certain cases, you must also be able to explain any unusual transactions that have been made. 

Do you enjoy any scholarship?

You should answer this with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. If you do have a scholarship, you should state institution, the amount of the scholarship, as well as other basic details about it. 

What is your educational qualification? Do you plan on studying in any of the Schengen countries?

To this, you should answer by telling them about your highest educational qualifications. DO NOT start talking about your school education unless the official particularly asks about them. If you are applying for a short term study visa, you must answer ‘yes’ to the latter part of the question. You should also be able to provide details of the study. 

Are you expecting? Are you planning to have the baby in the Schengen country?

The former is a simple yes or no question. You must answer accordingly. If you know the gender of the baby, you may mention that as well. As for the latter part, a positive response would be to say that you DO NOT  plan on having the baby in the Schengen country. If you say that you are planning to have a baby in the Schengen, it would mean that you will most probably be extending your stay, and this can hamper your chances of getting the visa. 

Your sibling/friend/parent is working in the Schengen area. Are you going to meet them for a job?

This is a strictly ‘no’ answer. As per the basic rules of a Schengen visa, you are not allowed to work. As a result, the officer expects you to say that you are not going there to search for a job or to work. 

Do you intend to take up a temporary job/internship in the Schengen area?

This again is a ‘no’ answer. The regulation states that you cannot take part in any work on the payroll of a Schengen company. As a result, you must answer that you do not plan on taking up a job or an internship (unless you are going on a study/training/internship visa). 

Do you have a covered health insurance for this journey?

Schengen travel insurance is a mandatory document for the visa. As a result, you must possess this and answer with a ‘yes’. If you do not have it, you will not be eligible to apply for the visa. 

How long are you going to stay?

Answer this truthfully and in accordance with your travel itinerary. You must be able to tell your date and time of departure and arrival as well. Note that your visa duration will depend on your itinerary. 

Do you own property in your home country?

You must name any houses, flats, cars, or other properties you own. This is to ensure that you will return back to your home country after your stay. 

Is this your first time in the Schengen area?

This is a yes or no question. If you have been to the area before, do mention the places you have visited as well as the time of your visit. If possible, provide further details as well. Be sure to provide exact and not vague answers. 

Why are you travelling to this country/countries?

This is one of the most common questions asked in Schengen visa interview . You must provide details of your purpose of the visit in detail. If you are travelling to multiple destinations, be sure to explain the places you are visiting, the dates, with whom, and other details. 

Have you already made the travel and accommodation arrangements in the country of the visit?

Your answer to this must be a ‘yes’. Two of the documents required for a general Schengen visa application are the ‘proof of accommodation’ and ‘flight reservations’. Although it is not a mandatory document for certain visa categories, you will still need to make arrangements. 

Can you guarantee that you will return to your home country within the stipulated visa expiry time?

The answer to this has to be a ‘yes’. You must list out ties that you have in your home country such as family, education, job, property, etc. You may even show documents pertaining to the same. 

Why do you think you should be granted the Schengen visa?

To this, you must answer about the purpose of the visit, the place you will be visiting, the time required, as well as that you will be returning to your home country. If you have possessed a Schengen visa in the past, you should mention this too. You can also state that you have met all the eligibility criteria and possess the documents required for the visa.  

What does your son / daughter / son-in-law /daughter-in-law /sponsor /brother /sister do in the Schengen area?

This is specific to a family visit visa or if you are being sponsored by an individual in the Schengen. An answer to this must be by mentioning the name of the relative/friend/sponsor as well as details on their current job and place of stay. Ensure that you ask them and find out these details before you attend the interview. 

What is the legal status (what visa) of your son/daughter?

This is usually asked for a family visit visa or a sponsored visa. You must be able to mention the type of visa or permit they are on. Be sure to ask them about it before attending the interview. 

When in Schengen area, are you going to seek employment?

This is also one of the very common Schengen visa interview questions . You must answer this as a ‘no’. You are strictly prohibited from seeking employment or working while you are on a Schengen visa. As a result, you must accompany the response by explaining why you do not need to find a job in the area, as well as stating that you understand the rules of the Schengen visa.  

What will you do if we reject your visa application?

A respectable answer to this is to state that if it’s rejected, you will focus on going back to your work/studies/other activities in your home country. You must convince them that you have other commitments in the country. You will also have to mention these commitments. 

Where do you reside in the country?

There should not be any hesitation in mentioning your place of stay in your country. This may include the complete address of your house. 

Are you married? Is your spouse/partner travelling with you? Why/why not?

This is a ‘yes or no’ answer. However, if your spouse is/isn’t travelling with you, you must be able to explain the reason. For example, you can state that they aren’t accompanying you because they have other commitments in the country, or if they are accompanying you, you may say that you are on a honeymoon, vacation, or other reasons. 

Do your parents/in-laws live with you?

You must answer this with a ‘yes or no’. If they live with you, you can also list out the individual members living with you. 

Do you have any children? If Yes, How old are they, What do they do?

Again, it is a simple ’yes or no’ question. Be sure not to hesitate while answering or provide a delayed response. You must answer spontaneously. You should also provide details on their current educational/employment or any other status. 

Do you have any family member or friends living in the Schengen area?

Answer with just a ‘no’ if you do not have any family/friends in the area. If you do possess family members or friends living in the country, you must also mention your relationship with them as well as mention a few basic details about them. 

Do you have any relation with any involved person in latest terrorist activities?

Reply to this truthfully and without any hesitation whatsoever. If possible, you must also explain your stand against such activities. 

Have you booked or bought the flight ticket?

You should answer this accordingly, as well as provide show the official proof of these as well. 

Do you have a leave approval letter from your employer?

If you are employed, you must answer this with a ‘yes’ as well as show the document to the official. If you aren’t employed, a simple ‘no’ will suffice. 

When was the last time you paid your income tax?

You must answer this by providing the exact details as well as providing them with supporting documents. This is to state you as a responsible citizen who pays taxes. If tax is not applicable to you (studying, unemployed, etc), you may mention the same. 

When you will travel to Schengen area?

You should answer this with exact details of your intended travel date and time. Note that this date should be at least 15 working days from your visa interview date. Along with this, you should provide your flight/travel bookings. 

Who will take care of your property/business when you are on your holiday?

Provide basic details of the person who will be in charge of your property/business. You must also state your relationship with them.

I don't think you will come back, what's your comment?

To this, your response must be my stating that you will and have to come back to your home country. You must try to strengthen your argument by stating your commitments in the home country such as property, family, job, studies, etc. You may also have to show documents that prove the same. 

Note:- The above questions most likely will not be asked using the same words or pattern. As a result, you must be ready for any variations as well. Additionally, be sure to answer any personal questions honestly and spontaneously as well. 

Tips for a good Schengen visa interview

Now, knowing the questions asked in Schengen visa interview and the answers to them alone are not sufficient. What matters more is how you answer them as well as the way you present. Let us first take a look at certain points you must focus on while attending a visa interview. 

• Punctuality - Ensure that you reach the interview on time. While being called for the interview, you will be provided with the exact time and date. Make sure to meet this. 
• Be prepared - You must be prepared to answer any question regardless of the topic. Also, ensure that your answers do not sound like they have been memorized. 
• Answer honestly - Do not skip any questions as well as make sure that you answer truthfully. Skipping questions can make the official feel that you are hiding the truth or lying. This will affect your application. Also, the embassy has the right and means to crosscheck any of your answers. 
• Appearance - Ensure that you attend the interview dressed and presented appropriately. Take care of your posture and eye contact during the interview as well. 
• Provide all supporting documents - If any of the questions can be complemented by respective documents, you must show these to the officials as well. 
• Answer to the point - Make sure that all your answers to the Schengen visa interview questions are short and simple, You must not provide exaggerated answers. The answers you provide must be directly related to the question.
• Avoid being nervous - Being nervous during the interview will absolutely crush your chances of getting a Schengen visa. A nervous candidate is usually lying, and this will easily tip off the officials. The diplomatic officials are usually well-adept in noticing all these factors.
• DO NOT argue with the official - In any case, do not argue with a higher tone and language with the officials. In case you have any discrepancies, make sure you convey your emotion using a calm tone and a good vocabulary.

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Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Answers and How to Prepare for it

Questions related to your travel

• Questions about you and your family or friends

Questions related to your studies or work

• Question about your finances

Unless you are using a service, like our premium Schengen visa processing service (and you have been informed that your attendance is not required), you will need to attend in-person to submit your Schengen visa application . …Which leads to the inevitable question that is usually going through your mind: “ What Schengen visa interview Questions and answers will happen at the submission? “

The hardest part of the Schengen Visa application is attending the visa interview. It is a face to face interaction with the Diplomatic Officials who will scrutinise not only your documents but also check the consistency of your answers where they will base their decisions on whether you will be granted a visa or not.

The visa interviewer needs to determine that you are a genuine tourist who will follow the territory's rules and has no questionable motives while staying in the Schengen Area. These are personal probing questions so you should be able to provide detailed answers.  

To confidently answer the visa interviewer, you should plan ahead and be prepared with the possible Schengen visa interview questions and answers. Here are the compiled routine questions and some tips on how to answer these questions. Be aware that not all questions below will be raised during the interview.

What is the purpose of your trip?

This is the most common question and you should be ready with your answer. You should be confident in answering this question by mentioning your plans during your stay as a tourist, a business traveler or visiting a family member. It would be great if you can provide specific details. 

Is someone traveling with you?

If you indeed have a companion during the trip, be sure to clarify the relationship you have with your companion(s). You can also mention the name, age and employment of the people you are with if you are travelling as a group.

How long are you planning to stay in the Schengen Zone?

Make sure that your answer coincides with your application form. You can mention the time of departure and your scheduled return to the country. You can also mention your future plan to travel at another time within a six months period (supporting document may be requested). Keep in mind that your visa will be issued depending on the time you plan to stay in the Schengen Area .

If you are applying for a long-term visa, explain how the work you’ve planned to undertake needs time to be completed. You need to reassure the interviewer that you will come back before the visa expires.

Can you shorten your trip? Why do you require a visa for such a long period?

This is intended to agitate you so do not panic. Tell your interviewer your plans and interest to sightsee different tourist destinations within the Schengen Area which may require more time but assure them that you will return before your visa expires. Also mention that you are ready to reschedule your plans and shorten your trip if required.

When will you be traveling?

You should be able to provide the exact date and clear return plan to show that you will not overstay your welcome in the Schengen Zone.

Where will you stay during your trip?

State the places you plan to stay and show that you have booked these places. It would be better if you can name the establishments. You can also mention if your accommodation has been prepaid. If you are going to multiple countries, then mention this to your interviewer so they can issue the number of entries needed during your travel.

Have you secured your flight tickets?

Simply state yes or no. This will support the purpose of your trip and your intention to return before the visa expires.

Is this your first time in the Schengen Area?

A yes or no question but you can state why you plan to travel now and the places you plan to visit.

Have you visited any other Schengen country before?

Simply say yes or no. If yes, you enumerate the countries have previously visited and also mention the dates. Try to be exact with the information you provide. You also state why you want to travel to the Schengen Zone again.

Tell me about the country you are visiting.

Mention specific places found in the Schengen Area that you plan to visit and why you chose the specific country for your visit. Mentioning bits and pieces of the place you will be visiting is a brownie point for you. You can also mention that due to freedom of movement you plan to visit multiple countries if possible

How will you travel from one place to another?

This is a quite an important question as this would convince your interviewer that you are a genuine tourist and have considered your options before visiting the country. Check out public transportations available and you can also read through travel blogs to get concrete ideas. 

Why should we grant you a visa?

Explain why you want to visit and that you are fascinated with the culture of the different Schengen Member States and want to personally experience it. Also mention that you are financially able to support yourself during this trip.

How do I know you will return to your home country?

Mention your family members, ongoing studies, current job position, business, or properties. You can also mention that you have already booked your return trip. 

Schengen Visa Interview Questions and Answers about you and your family or friends

Where do you live .

Provide details of the address of your residence. Mention if you are staying at a temporary/permanent residence or have a secondary residence elsewhere. This will prove that you will return to your country of origin.

Are you married?

If you are married, make sure to commit to memory the exact marriage details. Any incorrect answer on years of marriage might be seen as a dubious motive.  If not married, you can simply say you are unmarried.

Do you have any children?

If you have children, state their names, gender, and age. You can also provide if they are studying or working and if they will accompany you on the trip. If you do not have kids then simply say no.

Do you have any family members or friends in the Schengen Area? When did you last contact them?

If yes, then ensure that you have a list of names beforehand otherwise the embassy may consider it an attempt to skip the answer. It is important to give the interviewer details about the person’s place of residence, employment details, and visa specifications.

If the purpose of your travel is a vacation, assure the interviewer that you are only visiting the country on travel and not on business. But, if you do intend to work with your relative in the Schengen country, provide the details as well.

Do you intend to work during this trip?

If you are not in an official business trip, then reassure the interviewer you do not plan to look for a job. Stick to the purpose of your travel indicated on your application form.

Are you related to or have you ever been involved with any terrorist activities?

Reassure the official that you belong to a respectable family and that neither you nor any of your relatives and friends have any relation to terrorist or anti-social elements of any kind. Show the official you are completely against such awful acts and individuals who commit them.

Are you a student? Are you on a scholarship there? 

If you are a student, state the name of the college/university, give the interviewer the address of the institution. Also mention a bit why you choose this college/university. If you’re there on scholarship, mention the institution that issued the scholarship and explain the terms and duration. 

If you are working, state the number of years working for the current company.

If you are self-employed, provide details of the company’s registration, address, employee statistics, and partner/s details.

Do you have any relatives or acquaintances studying at this University?

If you are applying for a student visa, declare the names and relationships with the relatives or friends that are currently studying in the same university.

Have you applied to other universities?

Mention the names of the universities where you applied for admission to and state the status of admission.

Do you plan to pursue higher education?

State your plans and mention that there is a possibility for you to consider this opportunity in the long-term future.

If you are employed, do you have proof that you are on temporary leave from your employer?

You will need to submit a signed Leave Approval Letter from your employer.  This is an essential document to prove you will be returning to your country of origin.

What is your role in the company?

Mention the name of your company and general information about your work. Do not provide sensitive information.

How long are you employed with your current company?

Mention the number of months/years you are with the company. Mention that this is continuing employment so you have a reason to return.

Questions about your finances

Who will fund your trip.

Do not hesitate to provide your bank statement. If it’s your father/mother/spouse/sponsor who is financing your trip, then give his/her contact details and his/her income statement. This will show that you can sustain yourself while you travel. 

How much do you earn? 

For employees state your monthly income. 

If you are self-employed then state the net earnings.

How much will this trip cost you?

This will show you are a convincing candidate and you have anticipated how much you will spend during your travel and is able to deal with them during your stay. You need to calculate your budget before and after your arrival in the Schengen Area

When was the last time you paid your income tax?

This is an important question meant to test your financial background and your honesty. Additionally, you might provide evidence to show that you are a responsible citizen who pays its taxes.

Odd questions you might be asked during an interview

“Why are you travelling alone?” – asked to a solo traveller “Why not take your husband's last name?” – asked to a married woman “Are you a spy?” – asked to a frequent traveller “Why do you have a lot of stamps on your passport?” – asked to a frequent traveller “How many wives do you intend to bring?” -asked to a Middle East businessman

These questions may sound absurd to you but this helps highlight cultural differences. Rule of thumb as a traveller is to respect the other cultures.

Aside from preparing for the visa interview questions, you should also pay attention to how you behave before and during the interview. You should be in the visa center/embassy 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment and do not forget to bring the necessary documents. It is only normal to be nervous during interviews so take a few deep breaths and stay calm.  Remember to be consistent with your answers and give it your best shot.

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What Are The Common Schengen Visa Interview Questions?

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Austria Schengen Visa Interview

If you are applying for an Austria Schengen visa, you will likely have to attend a visa interview at the final stage of your application process. This blog will present an overview of the Austria Schengen visa interview questions, including general Schengen visa frequently asked questions, and specific tourist visa interview questions and answers. Like most countries around the world, Austria entry restrictions in response to coronavirus have increased. At the moment, all foreign travelers to Austria will need to comply with mandatory testing and quarantine obligations. If you are thinking about applying for a Schengen visa from Austria, please keep in mind Austria entry restrictions in response to coronavirus and familiarize yourself with all the related Austria entry requirements. 

Schengen Visa Interview

• All Schengen visa applicants, regardless of where they are from or what country they are applying to, must fulfill the Schengen visa requirements in order to be eligible for a Schengen visa. 
• In addition to submitting all of the required documents and materials, paying the Schengen visa fee, and submitting their biometric information (fingerprints and photos), most applicants will be asked to attend a Schengen visa interview. 
• The purpose of the Schengen visa interview is for the consular authorities who are processing your application to meet you in person and ask you questions related to your upcoming trip to Austria/the Schengen area. 
• Most interviews last less than 20 minutes. 
• Schengen visa interviews take place at the embassy or consulate (or visa application center affiliated with the embassy/consulate) closest to you; if you are applying for an Austria Schengen visa, you will attend your Schengen visa interview at the Austrian Embassy or Austrian consulate (or visa application center affiliated with either entity) closest to you. 
• Ultimately, you will attend your Schengen visa interview at the place where you apply for your Schengen visa. 
• Your Schengen visa interview will likely be scheduled to coincide with your Schengen visa appointment, where you will formally submit your Schengen visa information, have your biometric information collected (unless you have recently submitted it on a previous Schengen visa application, in which case it’s already in the system), and pay your Schengen visa fee (unless you have already paid it online).
• Please note that while certain countries require all applicants to come in for an in-person visa interview, you may be exempt from this general requirement if you have previously been approved for a Schengen visa and make frequent trips to the Schengen area. 

Austria Embassy Interview Questions

• What is your purpose for travelling to Austria?
• Why do you want to go to Austria?
• Why do you need to spend so much time in Austria?
• What do you want to see in Austria?
• Do you know anyone in Austria? 
• Do you know where you will be staying in Austria once you arrive? 
• Keep in mind that the purpose of many of these questions is to determine whether you have a specific reason for traveling to the country, and that the reason matches the purpose for travelling that you provided on your written Schengen visa application. 
• In addition to the above, you will likely be asked specific questions relating to the specific purpose that you gave as your reason for traveling to Austria. 
• For example, if you are applying for a Tourist Schengen visa to Austria, there will be  specific Tourist visa interview questions and answers that you will be asked. These will naturally differ from what would be asked of an applicant who is applying, say, for a Medical Schengen visa. 
• Your Austria Schengen visa interview questions will likely be oriented around the cost of living in Austria. Because your interviewer has an idea of what things cost in Austria, they will be checking to see if your objectives match your salary; indeed, if you can afford your trip at all! Being able to afford your trip is one of the key factors in your being approved for an Austria Schengen visa. Be open about how much money you make. Try to demonstrate an awareness of what things cost in Austria, so you can integrate that information into answers about your budget. This will help the interviewer determine that your finances are secure and that you won’t run out of money in Austria and be stranded there. 

Biographical Questions 

• Where are you from?
• Where do you live currently? 
• What do you do for a living?
• What is your monthly salary?
• What is the highest level of education that you have achieved?
• Have you ever been affiliated with a terrorist organization?
• Have you ever been arrested for a crime?
• Do you live alone? With a partner? 
• Are you married?
• Do you have children?
• Are your parents still alive?
• In asking these questions, the interviewer is firstly attempting to determine whether the information on your written application matches your verbal answers. Secondly, she is trying to determine whether or not you have significant ties that bind you to your home country. 
• Applicants who are considered to have strong social, financial, and/or educational ties to their country of residence will be considered less likely to try to overstay in Austria/seek asylum there. 
• Consequently, an applicant who is married with children, is close to his parents, has a significant job with a good salary, and owns his own house/apartment will be considered a “better” candidate than a single man who rents an apartment, lives alone, and does not seem to have a significant career or educational background.  
• Of course, if you are young and single you should not lie about this fact. However, whenever you respond to biographical questions, you can still make an effort to  highlight the importance of any relationships that you do have with friends, classmates, etc—and to your home country generally.
• If asked about any possible criminal/terrorist background, do not be alarmed. This is a standard question many applicants are asked for security purposes. Above all, your interviewer wants to make sure that you will not present a criminal/security threat to the Schengen area. In responding to this question, simply assure your interview of your lack of criminal history. 
• Finally, if you are applying for a Schengen visa as a minor (and especially if you are traveling to Austria unaccompanied), please note that Austrian visa requirements for minors are different from those for adults. If you are a minor, your Austria embassy interview questions will be more focused on who you will be staying with, who is financially supporting you, etc. (Keep in mind that Austrian visa requirements for minors mean that minors must present additional documents and materials not required of adults, such as the passport information of both their parents).  

Schengen Visa Frequently Asked Questions

• Do you know how long your visa is valid for?
• Do you know where you can go on your visa?
• Do you know what happens if you overstay your time in Austria?
• When are you entering the country?
• In asking the above questions, you interviewer is trying to determine whether or not you understand where you can go and how long you can stay in Austria/the Schengen area on your visa. 
• In responding to questions about your visa, you should attempt to highlight your awareness of the fact that all Schengen visas are valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, which means that your stay in Austria is limited to 90 days.  
• In addition, you should try to demonstrate your awareness of the fact that a Schengen visa allows you universal access to the entirety of the Schengen area—all 26 Member States (an exception to this is the Limited Territorial Visa, which if you receive one for Austria, will limit your access exclusively to that country). 
• Talk about how you are aware of the penalties for overstaying your time in the Schengen area (possible deportation, the threat of having subsequent Schengen applications rejected), and stress that you have no intention of overstaying in Austria.  
• Give specific reasons why you need to be back in your country of residence by a certain date. Talk about a wedding you must attend, an exam you have to take, etc. Even if you haven’t yet purchased a ticket home, talking about reasons why you need to ultimately return to the Schengen area will put your interviewer at ease about the fact that do not intend to overstay. 

If you are applying for a Schengen Visa, Travel Medical Insurance is mandatory. To simplify your application process, Insurte, partners with leading European Insurance Companies operating under EU regulations provide Travel Medical Insurances. If you wish to proceed, please click below: