Procedures for issuing visas

Visa applications must be submitted in writing, giving all the details required on the special visa application form which must be signed by the applicant, and accompanied by one passport-size photograph.

As a rule, aliens applying for visas must visit the diplomatic or consular offices in person to be interviewed on the reasons and circumstances of the visit.

Applications must be accompanied by a valid travel document on which it is materially possible to appose the visa, together with any supporting documents that may be required.

This documentation, depending on the type of visa requested or which the Mission deems it can issue, is obliged to state:

• the purpose of the visit
• means of transport and return
• means of support during travel and sojourn
• accommodation arrangements.

Once the visa application is accepted on the basis of the documentation produced by the applicant and the results of the interview, which is normally conducted directly and personally, the diplomatic mission carries out the statutory preliminary security checks. This involves line accessing the SIS (Schengen Information System) through the "world visa network", to consult the list of aliens to be refused admission into the Schengen area.