Schengen vs UK visa: differences, costs and processing times
Since Brexit, a trip combining the UK and Schengen Europe needs two separate visas for many nationalities. They have different costs, different photo specifications, different processing times and different application portals. This guide compares them and explains the practical implications of needing both.
Quick answer
Different visas, different photos, different processes
A Schengen visa (€90, 35 × 45 mm photo, 27 countries, 90 days per 180) does not cover the UK. A UK Standard Visitor visa (£127, 45 × 35 mm photo, 6 months per visit) does not cover Schengen. A trip including both needs both — separate applications, separate appointments, separate fees.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Schengen visa (Type C) | UK Standard Visitor visa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | €90 | £127 (about €148) |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days | 3 weeks standard |
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 45 × 35 mm (different orientation) |
| Photo background | Plain light grey or off-white | Plain light grey or cream |
| Photo collection | Upload + biometrics at VAC | Upload + biometrics at VAC |
| Max stay per visit | 90 days in any 180-day period | 6 months per visit |
| Multiple entry | Available for €90 single up to 5-year multi | 2-year, 5-year or 10-year multi available |
| Countries covered | 27 Schengen states | UK only (England, Scotland, Wales, NI) |
| VAC operators | VFS Global, TLScontact, BLS | VFS Global, TLScontact |
| Biometrics retention | 59 months in VIS | 10 years in UKVI |
When you need both
A trip including the UK and any Schengen country needs both visas if your nationality requires them. Examples: Russia, China, India, Egypt, Vietnam, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh nationals need both for a London + Paris trip. UK and Schengen-state nationals never need either.
Which to apply for first
Apply for whichever has the longer processing time in your country (often Schengen for India, China, Pakistan; UK for Russia, Iran). Both can be applied for in parallel — there is no rule requiring sequential applications. Submit both well in advance of travel to absorb any delays.
Why are the photos different sizes
The UK uses 45 × 35 mm (portrait orientation, head taller than wide) while Schengen uses 35 × 45 mm (the same numbers in the other order). Practically the photos are the same physical size but oriented differently and printed differently. Do not reuse the same printed photo for both — the orientation is rejected.
Frequently asked questions
Can the same digital photo file work for both?
Not quite — the head ratio and background shade tolerances are slightly different. The Anfas.Pro tool can export both formats from one source portrait.
Is the UK in the Schengen Area?
No. The UK never joined Schengen, even before Brexit. The Common Travel Area between the UK and Ireland is separate.
Can I do a UK trip on a Schengen visa?
No. A Schengen visa is not valid for UK entry. You need a separate UK visa (or be visa-free for the UK, like US, Canadian, Australian nationals).
Does the UK visa biometric retention apply to children?
Yes for over-5s. Under-5s typically do not give fingerprints but their biometric photo is captured. Retention period is the same.
Related guides
Prepare both photos in one session
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