Many people apply for a Schengen visa a second time expecting a longer visa automatically, then are surprised to receive a visa covering only their trip. The reason is that visa length is not decided at random: it is governed by European rules known as the “cascade”, which differ depending on your nationality and how you used your previous visas. The most important news for Saudi citizens is that they are now eligible for a 5-year visa from their first application, while residents and applicants from Egypt usually follow the general rules, which progress from one year to two years and then 5 years.
A 5-year Schengen visa for Saudis from the first application
In April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific cascade rules for citizens of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman, making an applicant who resides in their own country and applies from there eligible for a 5-year multiple-entry visa, even on their first application. Kuwait has its own cascade rules granting the same length, while UAE citizens are exempt from the visa altogether.
But eligibility does not mean automatic approval. To receive the full length, you must:
- Meet the normal Schengen visa conditions: a clear purpose, financial means and insurance that meets the requirements.
- Have enough passport validity, because the visa is not issued for longer than your passport is valid. If your passport expires within one or two years, renew it before applying.
- Choose “multiple entry” on the application form.
The final decision rests with the embassy, which may grant a shorter visa if it sees a reason, such as a weak financial file or a previous violation.
General cascade rules for residents and other nationalities
Under the amended EU Visa Code, embassies grant long multiple-entry visas in three stages:
| Stage | Condition | Visa length |
|---|---|---|
| First | You obtained and lawfully used 3 visas within the last two years | One-year multiple entry |
| Second | You lawfully used the one-year visa within the last two years | Two years |
| Third | You lawfully used the two-year visa within the last 3 years | 5 years |
“Lawful use” means three things: you actually travelled on the visa, you respected the 90/180-day rule, and you left before it expired. A visa you did not use does not count towards the cascade. Some nationalities have easier rules issued by the Commission in separate decisions, so check its website for what applies to your nationality.
What changes in a second application?
The core documents are the same as in our Schengen visa requirements list, with additions that support a request for a longer visa:
- Copies of previous visas and entry and exit stamps: your direct proof of lawful use.
- Your old passport: if you have renewed your passport, attach the old one or copies of its visa pages.
- A short cover letter: listing your previous trips and explaining why you need a longer visa, such as regular family visits or business trips.
- An equally strong or stronger financial file: an unexplained decline raises questions.
Your fingerprints remain in the VIS system for 59 months, so you may not be asked for them again, but most centres still require you to attend to hand in your file.
Do you have to apply to the same embassy as before?
No. Always apply to the embassy of the main country on your new trip, and previous visas from any Schengen country count towards the cascade. However, if you previously obtained a visa from one country and never entered it, this may count against you in the new application, because it suggests your previous application did not reflect your real travel plans.
The 90/180-day rule with a multiple-entry visa
Even with a 5-year visa, you cannot stay more than 90 days in any rolling 180-day period. With the European Entry/Exit System (EES) in operation, every entry and exit is recorded electronically, so any overstay, even by one day, shows up immediately and can lead to your current visa being cancelled and future applications refused. Count your days before every trip, especially if you travel often.
Mistakes that stop you getting a longer visa
- Not using your previous visa, or using it for a country other than the one that issued it without a reason.
- Overstaying the permitted period.
- A passport valid for less than the required length.
- Choosing “single entry” on the application form.
- Inconsistent bookings and documents in the new application.
A multiple-entry visa needs the same documents as your first trip. Order your flight and hotel bookings and Schengen insurance with matching dates from Travelosca.
Frequently asked questions
Do Saudis get a 5-year visa automatically?
They are now eligible for one from the first application if they reside in Saudi Arabia, apply from there and their passport validity allows it, but the final length is the embassy’s decision.
Does a second application guarantee a one-year visa?
No. The general rule requires 3 visas used within two years to get one year, unless your nationality has easier rules.
Can I apply while my current visa is still valid?
Yes. You can apply for a new visa before the current one expires, within 6 months of your next trip.
How do I prove I used my visa if the stamps are unclear?
Attach boarding passes or tickets and hotel invoices from your previous trip; the embassy can also see your visa history in the VIS system.
Sources
- European Commission – Visa policy and cascade decisions
- EU Visa Code 810/2009 as amended by Regulation 2019/1155 (Article 24)
