Schengen Visa Documents for Saudis and Residents 2026 — And How Much Bank Balance Do You Need?
By Mohammed Al-Ahdal — founder of Smooth Travel · Last updated 2026-09-24
Summary
A Schengen file = identity + financial capacity + a reason to return + a clear trip. Every document below serves one of these four.
Documents for Saudi Citizens
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid 3 months after your return (6 preferred), issued within the last 10 years, two blank pages |
| Two photos | 3.5×4.5 cm, white background |
| Salary certificate | In English and addressed to the embassy — private sector attested by the Chamber of Commerce |
| Bank statement | 3–6 months, in English, stamped by the bank |
| Travel insurance | €30,000 coverage, all Schengen countries, all days of the trip *(included in our file)* |
| Flight and hotel booking | Round-trip flight and accommodation for every night *(included in our file)* |
| Application form and cover letter | *(included in our file)* |
Additions for Residents of Saudi Arabia
- A valid iqama (residence permit) for at least 3 months after the return date
- A work contract or commercial registration
- An exit-and-re-entry visa
Family and Children
- Everyone's passports + the sponsor's ID + the family card
- A black-and-white copy of every document for each person
- For non-working dependents (wife/children): a sponsorship letter from the guardian
- A child travelling with someone other than their parents: the guardian's consent
How Much Bank Balance Do You Need?
There is no single official figure for all countries; the practical standard is: SAR 15,000 or more, or ~SAR 1,500 for each day of stay. More important than the number:
- Regular activity (salary deposited every month)
- No large, sudden deposits before applying
- A balance proportionate to the trip length and the number of travellers
What Is the Full Cost of a Schengen Visa?
| Item | Amount | Paid to |
|---|---|---|
| File preparation | 199 ريال | Smooth Travel |
| Embassy appointment booking | 150 ريال | Smooth Travel |
| Visa fee — adult | €90 | Visa centre on biometrics day |
| Visa fee — child 6–12 | €45 | Visa centre |
| Under 6 years | Free | — |
The visa centre's fees are collected in riyals at the centre's exchange rate, with the centre's service fee added on top.
FAQ
Does the bank statement have to be in English? Yes, and stamped by the bank. Can I use my spouse's/father's bank statement? Yes, with a sponsorship letter and proof of the family relationship. How long does file preparation take? 24 hours from receiving the passport and ID.
Official sources: Visa fees — European Commission
Related links: Schengen rejection reasons · Certified translation · Start your Schengen application
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Last updated: 2026-09-24