Checklist – Everything a US Citizen Needs Before Applying for a European Visa

Introduction

Preparing to move to Europe from the United States? Whether you’re applying for a work, remote, or family visa, organizing your documents correctly is key to a smooth process. This comprehensive checklist outlines everything US citizens need to prepare before submitting a European visa application in 2025.

✅ General Requirements for All EU Visa Types

1. Valid Passport
   
   • Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
     
   • Should have at least 2 blank pages
     
2. Visa Application Form
   
   • Country-specific form (e.g., Germany, France, Spain)
     
   • Complete, signed, and dated
     
3. Biometric Photos
   
   • Typically two recent passport-sized photos
     
   • White background, no glasses, full face visible
     
4. Health Insurance
   
   • Private or public insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses
     
   • Some countries require specific local insurance after arrival
     
5. Proof of Accommodation
   
   • Lease agreement, property ownership, or hotel reservation
     
6. Proof of Financial Means
   
   • Bank statements (3–6 months)
     
   • Salary slips or income documentation
     
   • Country-specific income thresholds apply (see below)
     
7. Clean Criminal Record
   
   • FBI background check (apostilled)
     
   • May require translation and authentication
     
8. Visa Fee Payment Receipt
   
   • Ranges from €75 to €150 depending on visa type and country
     
     

📄 Documents by Visa Type

1. Work Visa or EU Blue Card

• Job offer or contract with salary and role description
  
• University degree (with apostille + translation)
  
• Resume/CV
  
• Employer support letter
  
• Application at embassy or consulate
  

2. Digital Nomad Visa

• Proof of remote employment (contract or employer letter)
  
• Monthly income (e.g., Portugal requires €3,280/month)
  
• Proof of international health insurance
  
• Bank statements showing consistent income
  

3. D7 or Passive Income Visa (Portugal)

• Proof of regular income (rent, dividends, retirement)
  
• Income threshold: €820/month per adult
  
• Portuguese NIF and bank account (can be opened remotely)
  
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
  

4. Non-Lucrative Visa (Spain)

• Proof of passive income or savings (€28,000+/year)
  
• Not allowed to work in Spain
  
• FBI background check (apostilled)
  
• Medical certificate
  

5. Family Reunification

• Marriage certificate (apostilled)
  
• Birth certificates of children (translated)
  
• Sponsor’s visa copy
  
• Proof of income and housing from sponsor
  
• Family health insurance
  

📅 When to Start Preparing

• Begin at least 3–4 months before intended travel date
  
• Some documents (e.g., FBI checks, apostilles) can take weeks
  
• Appointment slots at consulates may be limited
  

📝 Additional Tips

• Translations: Required for all non-English documents. Use certified translators accepted by the destination country.
  
• Apostilles: US documents must be authenticated for international use. Request via US Department of State
  
• Save digital and hard copies of everything
  
• Use a relocation service (like Jobbatical) to simplify each step
  

Downloadable PDF Checklist

Want to stay organized? Download our free printable checklist with all required items based on your visa type.

👉 Download the checklist now

Conclusion

The visa process to move from the US to Europe doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right documentation, timeline, and expert help, you can ensure your application is smooth and successful.

Use this checklist to prepare ahead, and don’t forget: accuracy and timing are everything.

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