5 Year Multiple Entry Schengen Visa: How to Get It from the UAE

What Is a 5 Year Multiple Entry Schengen Visa?

A 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa lets you travel to the Schengen area many times over five years. You can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period each time you enter. Unlike a single-entry visa (one trip) or a double-entry visa (two trips), this visa gives you more freedom to travel often without reapplying each time.

This guide is designed for UAE residents planning to apply for a 5 year multiple entry Schengen visa from UAE. Let’s explore the key details and eligibility criteria.

Who Can Apply for a 5 Year Schengen Visa from the UAE?

UAE residents who travel often, have a strong travel record, have held Schengen visas before, or regularly visit Europe for business can apply for a 5-year Schengen visa.

You must also show financial stability and a clear reason for travel, such as business or tourism.

Key applicant profiles

• UAE residents with good travel history: Expats with a valid UAE residence visa who have visited Schengen countries before can apply. 
• Frequent international travelers: Those who regularly travel to Schengen states or other major destinations and hold multiple-entry visas. 
• Previous Schengen visa holders with a clean record: Applicants who used past Schengen visas properly, without overstaying or breaking rules, are more likely to get a long-term visa. 
• Business professionals visiting Europe often: Those who frequently travel to Europe for business meetings, conferences, or partnerships.

These people can travel to Schengen countries without reapplying for a visa each time. A 5-year Schengen visa offers many benefits to frequent travelers.

Key Benefits of the 5-Year Schengen Visa

• Travel easily across 29 Schengen countries: You can move freely between Schengen member countries without long stays or new visas each time. 
• No need to reapply for every trip: With a 5-year visa, you don’t have to submit new applications whenever you travel. 
• Save time and money: A long-term visa helps you avoid paying multiple fees and saves time on paperwork. 
• Use for business, family visits, or holidays: The visa works for different travel purposes, giving you flexibility for work or personal trips.

Required Documents for a 5 Year Multiple Entry Schengen Visa (UAE Residents) 

Here are the documents needed to apply for a 5-year multiple Schengen visa. 

• Proof of financial stability: Show that you can afford your trip and stay. 
• Clear travel purpose: Explain your reason for travel, like business, tourism, or visiting family. 
• Ties to the UAE: Prove that you plan to return, for example, through a job, business, or property. 
• Valid documents: Submit the filled application form, photos, and a cover letter. 
• Travel insurance: Get medical insurance that covers the entire Schengen area.

If you want to get complete details in a simple and precise manner, refer to the table.

Schengen Visa Application Routes in the UAE

In the UAE, VFS Global, BLS International handle most Schengen visa applications. They have offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In some cases, you can apply directly at the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit. Choose the visa center based on your main destination in the Schengen area.

If you want to know how to apply for a multiple-entry visa, here is a step-by-step breakdown of the process.

5-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa Application Process

The process for getting a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa is almost the same as a regular short-stay (Type C) visa. However, you must show that you travel often to the Schengen area and that you plan to return to your home country.

Steps to Apply 5 year Schengen visa: 

1. Find Your Main Destination:
   Apply to the Schengen country where you will spend the most time. If you plan to spend equal time in several countries, apply to the one you will enter first. 
2. Prepare Your Documents:
   Gather all required documents for a Schengen visa, like your passport, completed application form, photos, flight and hotel bookings, proof of funds, travel insurance, and a cover letter explaining why you need a 5-year multiple-entry visa. You can find the full list on the official embassy or consulate website. 
3. Book an Appointment:
   Schedule an appointment with the correct embassy, consulate, or visa center, such as VFS Global, BLS International, Check the embassy website, for details on how to book. 
4. Attend the Appointment:
   Visit the center in person to submit your documents. You may need to give biometric data (fingerprints and photo) if you haven’t done so in the last 59 months. 
5. Pay the Visa Fee:
   Pay the standard Schengen visa fee. Some visa centers may also charge a small service fee. You can check the latest fee details on the European Commission website. 
6. Wait for the Result:
   Processing time depends on the country and season. You’ll be informed once your visa is approved or if more information is needed.
   

For more details, check the official European Union visa website. For personalized help, you can contact The Visa Guy.

Schengen Visa Fees and Processing Time (2025 Update)

As of 2025, the standard fees for a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) are:

These fees are non-refundable and may change, so always check with the embassy or a service provider like VFS Global or TLScontact before applying.

Some countries have a visa facilitation agreement with the EU (for example, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus), which can reduce the fee to €35. However, this discount does not apply to all nationalities.

Schengen Countries Covered by the 5-Year Visa 

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a 5-Year Schengen Visa

Getting a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa means showing that you travel reliably and need to visit the Schengen area often. While the consulate makes the final decision, these tips can strengthen your application.

Build Your Travel Credibility

• Follow visa rules: Always return on time and never overstay on any previous visas. 
• Show a travel history: Previous Schengen visas, especially a two-year multiple-entry visa in the last three years, prove your reliability. 
• Be a frequent traveler: Provide evidence of regular trips to Schengen countries for business, family, or tourism to justify a long-term visa. 

Strengthen Your Documents

• Write a strong cover letter: Clearly explain why you need a long-term multiple-entry visa, your past travel history, and your future travel plans. 
• Show ties to your home country: Submit proof of employment, business, property, or family responsibilities to show you will return after each visit. 
• Prove financial stability: Provide recent bank statements, salary slips, and other proof that you can support yourself during travel. 
• Ensure complete documents: Make sure all forms and supporting documents are accurate and consistent. Missing or incorrect papers can lead to delays or rejection. 

Streamline the Process

• Apply at the correct consulate: Submit your application to the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time, or the first country you enter if stays are equal. 
• Choose the multiple-entry option: Select this option on the Schengen visa application form. 
• Provide valid travel insurance: Show medical travel insurance covering your first visit. Insurance must cover at least €30,000 and all future trips. 
• Apply in advance: Submit your application at least 15 days before travel, and no earlier than six months in advance. 
• Be ready for biometrics: First-time applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo. This data is usually valid for five years and may not be needed for future applications within that period.
  

Ready to Apply for a 5-Year Schengen Visa from UAE?

In short, getting a 5-year Schengen visa from the UAE is possible for frequent, responsible travelers. You need to understand the eligibility rules, gather all required documents carefully, and submit them correctly to avoid Schengen visa rejection.

Visa rules can be tricky, so consulting visa experts can help you prepare your documents and complete the application smoothly. 

FAQS

How long can I stay in Europe with a 5-year Schengen visa?

You can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period each time you visit the Schengen area.

Does holding a 5-year visa guarantee entry to Europe?

No. Border officers decide entry, even if you have a valid visa.

Can I get a 5-year visa on my first Schengen application?

It’s unlikely. Consulates usually approve long-term visas for travelers with a proven Schengen travel history.

Can UAE citizens apply for a Schengen visa?

Yes. UAE residents and citizens can apply for a Schengen visa for business, tourism, or family visits.

Can I apply for a 5-year Schengen visa if my UAE residence visa is valid for less than 5 years?

Yes, but your visa duration may be limited to match your residence visa validity.

Which Schengen country is easiest to get a 5-year visa from UAE?

There’s no official “easiest” country. Approval depends on your travel history, purpose, and documentation.

What if my 5-year visa application is rejected?

You can appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the reason for rejection.