Track Your Schengen Visa Application
After submitting your Schengen visa application, you can track its progress online. This guide shows you exactly how to track through VFS Global, TLS Contact, and BLS International, what each status message means, typical timelines, and what to do if your application seems stuck.
How to Track Your Application
The tracking method depends on which visa application centre processed your submission:
VFS Global Tracking
For applications submitted through VFS Global (Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Austria, etc.):
- Visit vfsglobal.com and select the country you applied to
- Click “Track Your Application”
- Enter your reference number (found on your receipt) and date of birth or surname
- The system shows the current status of your application
TLS Contact Tracking
For applications submitted through TLS Contact (France, Switzerland, Belgium):
- Visit tlscontact.com and log into your account
- Your application status is displayed on your dashboard
- You will also receive email and SMS notifications at key stages
BLS International Tracking
For applications submitted through BLS International (Spain, Portugal):
- Visit the BLS website for the specific country (e.g., blsspainvisa.com)
- Enter your reference number to check status
What Each Status Means
| Status | What It Means | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Application Received | Your documents have been received by the visa centre | None — wait for processing |
| Submitted to Embassy/Consulate | Your application has been forwarded to the embassy | None — the embassy is reviewing |
| Under Process | The embassy is actively reviewing your application | None — normal processing |
| Additional Documents Required | The embassy needs more information or documents | Respond immediately with requested documents |
| Processed / Decision Made | The embassy has made a decision | Collect your passport or await courier delivery |
| Ready for Collection | Your passport is available for pickup | Visit the centre with your receipt and ID |
| Dispatched | Your passport has been sent by courier | Track the courier using the provided tracking number |
Important: The tracking system does NOT reveal whether your visa was approved or refused. You will only know the outcome when you receive your passport back.
Typical Processing Timelines
Standard Processing
- Target: 15 calendar days from biometric appointment
- Typical: 10-15 working days for most countries
- Maximum: 45 calendar days in exceptional cases
Factors That Affect Speed
- Peak season (April-August): Processing takes longer due to high volumes
- Country: Some embassies are faster than others. Netherlands and Portugal are often quick. Germany and France can be slower.
- Completeness: Missing documents cause delays. Submit everything at once.
- Nationality: Some nationalities undergo additional security checks, adding 1-2 weeks.
What to Do If Your Application Is Delayed
Before 15 Calendar Days
This is within the standard processing window. No action needed. Continue checking the tracking system.
After 15 Calendar Days
- Contact the visa application centre by phone or email
- Ask if additional documents have been requested
- Check your email (including spam folder) for correspondence from the embassy
After 30 Calendar Days
- Contact the embassy directly (find contact details on their website)
- Reference your application number and appointment date
- Ask for an update on expected decision date
- If your travel date is approaching, mention this explicitly
After 45 Calendar Days
Under EU regulations, a decision should be made within 45 days. If you still have no response, you may have grounds for a formal complaint. Contact the embassy and the relevant visa application centre in writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I track my Schengen visa application by passport number?
Most centres require your reference number (from your receipt) rather than your passport number. Keep your receipt safe as it contains the tracking reference.
Does the tracking system show if my visa is approved?
No. The tracking system only shows processing stages. You will only know the outcome (approved or refused) when you receive your passport back.
My status has not changed for days. Should I be worried?
Not necessarily. It is normal for the status to remain unchanged for several days, especially during the embassy review stage. Only be concerned if more than 15 calendar days have passed.