The Schengen visa is one of the most sought-after visas for Moroccans wishing to travel to Europe, whether for tourism, study, or work. However, one of the essential requirements for obtaining this visa is providing a bank statement that proves the financial ability to cover the costs of travel and accommodation in one of the Schengen Area countries. So, how much money should be available in your bank account?
Conditions for Proving Financial Capability
Schengen Area countries require visa applicants to provide documents that prove they have sufficient financial resources during their stay. A bank statement is one of the key documents that shows the movement of funds over the last three to six months, which helps consular authorities verify the applicant’s financial stability.
The Required Amount in the Bank Account According to Each Country
The minimum amount required in the bank account varies from country to country and also depends on the length of stay and the type of visa requested. According to the latest updates, here are some examples of the amounts required in some Schengen countries:
- Spain: The applicant must have at least 90 euros per day, with a minimum of 180 euros regardless of the length of stay.
- France: An amount between 65 and 120 euros per day is required, depending on the type of stay and accommodation arrangements.
- Italy: The amount ranges between 50 and 100 euros per day, depending on the length of stay.
- Germany: The minimum required is 45 euros per day, equivalent to 675 euros for a 15-day stay.
What Should the Bank Statement Include?
To increase the chances of getting the visa, it is recommended that the bank statement includes the following:
- Active Financial Activity: The account should reflect regular financial transactions, such as deposits and withdrawals in the last few months.
- Sufficient Available Balance: It’s not enough for the account to just contain the required amount; it is better to show sufficient liquidity that exceeds the minimum required.
- Translated Bank Statement: It is recommended to submit a bank statement translated into English, French, or the language of the country requesting the visa.
- Income Continuity: For employees, it’s preferable for the account to be linked to a regular monthly salary, while for business owners, the account should reflect stable cash flows.
Can the Visa Be Rejected Due to the Bank Account?
Yes, a visa application can be rejected if the consular authorities deem the bank account insufficient to demonstrate financial stability. Possible reasons for refusal include:
- Lack of regular financial activity in the account.
- Having the required amount only shortly before applying, which might indicate that the funds were deposited specifically for this purpose rather than being part of a sustainable income.
- Submitting a fake or inaccurate bank statement.
Alternatives to Proving Financial Capability
In some cases, the bank statement can be replaced by other documents, such as:
- A sponsorship letter from someone residing in the Schengen Area who commits to covering the accommodation costs.
- A financial guarantee letter from the employer or educational institution if traveling for study or training.
The bank account remains one of the most important factors that influence the acceptance of a Schengen visa application, so applicants are advised to ensure that all financial conditions are met before submitting their application. It is also recommended to check the specific requirements for each country on the official embassy websites to avoid any unexpected surprises.
Source: Fes News Media