Schengen Priority & Express Services (2025)

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current Schengen visa processing policy. You can confirm service options through Our Schengen Visa Guidance.

When applying for a Schengen Visa, most applications are processed within 15 days. However, if you require a faster decision due to urgent travel, business, or humanitarian reasons, you may be able to request a Priority or Express visa service. These services are available through select Visa Application Centres (VFS or TLS) across the Schengen Area.

What Are Schengen Priority and Express Services?

The Priority Service offers faster processing than the standard 15-day timeframe, typically within 3–5 working days, depending on the embassy or consulate. The Express Service is an accelerated option where available, often offering decisions within 24–48 hours for specific urgent travel cases.

Who Can Use the Priority or Express Service?

Eligibility for faster processing varies by country and local visa centre. Generally, applicants may use Priority or Express services if they:

• Have an urgent need to travel for business, medical, or family reasons.
• Have previously held a valid Schengen Visa with a clean immigration record.
• Submit all required documents and biometric data without errors or omissions.

Priority services are not guaranteed to all applicants, and approval remains at the discretion of the consulate handling your application.

How Much Do Priority Services Cost?

Priority and Express fees are set by each visa centre and embassy. As of 2025, average costs are:

• Priority Service: €40–€80 in addition to the standard visa fee.
• Express Service: €90–€150 in addition to the standard visa fee.

Check with your chosen Visa Application Centre for country-specific pricing and service availability.

How to Request Priority or Express Processing

During your online visa application, you may be able to select the “Priority” or “Express” option. If this option is not available, contact your chosen visa centre before booking your appointment to confirm availability. You must pay the relevant upgrade fee at the time of application or during your biometric appointment.

1. Complete your online Schengen Visa form.
2. Select the service level (Standard, Priority, or Express).
3. Book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre.
4. Submit your biometric data and documents.
5. Pay the visa and service fees as instructed.

Important Information

Choosing a faster processing service does not guarantee visa approval. All applications are still subject to review by the relevant embassy or consulate. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may still be refused or delayed, even if the Priority or Express fee has been paid.

Related Guidance

• Schengen Visa Processing Times (2025)
• Biometric Enrolment (2025)
• Digital Document Upload Guide
• Visa Refusals & Reapplications (2025)

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: November 2025