European medicine is of high quality. Not only citizens of the European Union but also foreigners can count on quality service. For this purpose, it is necessary to obtain a special permit, where the purpose of the visit will be specified as receiving medical care.
Purpose and Durations of a Medical Schengen Visa
This paper allows one to stay for treatment for 90 days. If the course lasts longer, the patient must apply for another type of permit to stay legally. My Schengen expert Polly Johnson advises seeking help with visa issues from consulting agencies. Specialists know all about Schengen Visa, including its pitfalls. They can help one find the right solution.
Eligibility and Conditions
Foreign citizens whose countries do not have visa-free relations with Europe are eligible for a permit. The basis for this permit is an established diagnosis and confirmation of an appointment for treatment or rehabilitation in European institutions. In addition to patients needing treatment, accompanying persons can apply for a permit.
The Application Process for Medical Treatment Schengen Visa
The process of obtaining an EU medical visa begins with a detailed study of all the criteria and a collection of papers. A prepared package of documents and a completed application form should be submitted to the consulate no earlier than six months before the trip and no later than 14-15 days.
Required Documents
In addition to the standard papers that need to be prepared for registration, such as an application form, photographs, valid passport, health insurance, and so on, medical clearance is required to provide:
- a certificate of illness;
- a letter from the host clinic or doctor.
The letter should contain confirmation of consent to your treatment, the doctor’s signature with the clinic’s seal, and information about payment for medical services.
Accompanying persons also should provide additional paperwork:
- a letter indicating the need to accompany the patient, indicating the status of the relationship between the patient and the attendant;
- proof of having enough money to stay in the country, to cover expenses, etc.;
- a letter of admission to the clinic, with the attendant’s data included, would be a plus.
It is not difficult to obtain authorization for medical care in Europe by complying with all visa requirements.
How and Where to Apply
To submit the form, you need to define the host country and contact the consulate. In the column of the reason or purpose of the trip, you need to specify medical reasons. It is essential to consider in advance how many times you will need to enter the republic because when the number of entries expires, the paper will become invalid.
Be careful, as each country has its specifics about the application process. Governments may accept application forms in hard copy or on online platforms. Applicants are required to pay visa fees. The last step in processing the permit is an interview at a consulate or visa center.
Interview and Visa Fees
Foreigners receiving a Schengen visa for medical treatment must pay the application fee at the time of application as well as the visa fee. The latter is usually paid directly at the time of the interview at the consulate. It is worth clarifying that these fees are non-refundable.
Planning Your Medical Travel
The standard permit is processed within two weeks. As for medical, in some cases, the application can be processed within 72 hours. Undoubtedly, emergency cases require confirmation of the patient’s severe condition and the need for assistance as quickly as possible. However, if the case is not exceptional, and the medical care is planned, then it is necessary to:
- Get a certificate with a diagnosis from a doctor.
- Find a clinic or a doctor who can help you in the Schengen area.
- Receive a letter confirming an appointment for an examination, treatment, or rehabilitation.
- Collect all the documents, draw up the application form, and submit a package of papers to obtain a visa.
If you cannot deal with these issues yourself, contact the specialists. Specialized companies take complete care of the client at all stages, helping, if necessary, to extend the permit.
Conclusion
European countries occupy a leading position in the field of health care. Therefore obtaining a medical Schengen visa is in demand among foreign citizens. States help to get not only emergency but also planned assistance. For the application to be approved, it is necessary to act according to all requirements. It is possible to get a visa in two weeks. The country makes an exception for emergencies and reviews the application within three days.
