Since the application procedure might take some time, starting the application process early ensures not only that there will be ample time for documentation and flexibility in choosing travel dates, but also that travelers won't miss the many events that are taking place over Christmas.

Make your list and check it twice, beginning with your visa application, regardless of whether you're daydreaming about a winter wonderland in Germany, the romantic streets of Paris, or the Christmas markets in Austria, Czechia, and Poland, among other places.

It is crucial to decide which nation you intend to visit or spend the most time in before beginning to compile the necessary documents for the Schengen visa application.

You may submit an application as a traveler who needs a Schengen visa up to six months before the start of the proposed visit, according to EU Helpers. A Schengen visa is required for entry into the Schengen Area.

However, given the short window of time before Christmas and the lengthy wait times for appointments, it is suggested that you get started on your paperwork as soon as possible.

Schengen visa applicants have recently expressed frustration over how difficult it has become to locate open appointment times, claiming that they are quickly booked, making it impossible for them to schedule their trip.

Additionally, applicants have expressed frustration at the protracted wait before hearing back on their visa application, claiming that the processing period actually takes longer than the authorities claim. To minimize disappointment, it is therefore preferable to handle the application as soon as feasible.

While there are still issues, it is anticipated that if digitalization is implemented, Schengen visa processing times would dramatically increase.

Anitta Hipper, the EU's spokesperson for home affairs, earlier told EU Helpers that the digitalization of the visa application process would help shorten processing times, indicating that there won't be any more protracted wait times for a decision.

It was also underlined that the Commission had previously urged the Member States to enhance their operational capabilities and release more appointments, particularly during the Christmas season.

There are a number of documents that applicants must submit when applying for a Schengen visa. In addition to the completed and signed visa application form, they must also provide their passport, two recent photos, a roundtrip flight schedule, proof of lodging, and proof that they have obtained travel insurance.