Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Saving you time: We queue for you, we apply on your behalf, we call and travel many times to follow up on your applications and then collect once ready. Usually, we receive documents much, much faster than if you had applied alone, especially if you are based outside of South Africa. You save masses of time using our services.

Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Experience and know-how: We are a reputable firm with an extensive track record. Other providers are typically back-street operators or single operators – be aware as your personal documentation is at stake. If your documentation has errors, we attempt to have this corrected, usually at no extra cost.

Apostil – Where are we based?

Apostil.co.za has various office addresses in the Western Cape and Gauteng. You can only courier them to us, please enquire for the address (depends on your requirement). We also offer a delivery and collection service within SA and globally, through DHL, The Courier Guy and other companies. To reiterate, we only accept documentation, couriered, to our addresses.

5-year Schengen visa NOW possible for South Africans

In a major development for frequent travellers, multiple European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Greece, and Belgium, have joined forces to offer a five-year Schengen visa option that caters to multiple entries. While this sounds like a dream come true for many South Africans, there’s more to the story than the headlines suggest.

So, what does this mean, who qualifies, and how can South Africans actually get their hands on this elusive long-term visa? Here’s what you need to know, minus the fluff.

What’s all the buzz about the 5-year Schengen visa?

In April 2024, the European Commission confirmed an update to the Schengen Visa Code that allows for long-term multiple-entry visas of up to five years. The move is part of the EU’s efforts to strengthen travel relations with well-travelled, high-trust applicants from countries like South Africa, India, and several others in Africa.

The 5-year visa is not new in principle. What’s new is that more countries are now actively issuing these longer-term visas in line with the Schengen Visa Code’s so-called “cascade system.” The difference now is that countries like France, which previously issued mostly short-stay Schengen visas, are beginning to adopt this system.

But wait, has France officially started issuing them?

This is where things get murky.

Despite media reports stating that France has joined the 5-year visa club, local embassies and visa service centres are still waiting for official confirmation. According to a reliable source at VFS Global in South Africa, there has been no formal instruction from the French Embassy as of early July 2025.

“Nope, nothing from the embassy yet,” said a VFS representative when asked about the new visa policy. “They’ll probably start issuing 5-year visas to people who qualify. The process will most likely still be the regular Schengen application, and then they’ll look at your travel history to decide if you get a long-term one or not.”

Capago, which handles French visa applications in South Africa, has also not issued any new guidance. So while the framework is in place, the practical rollout may take some time.

What is the cascade system, and how does it help with the 5-year Schengen visa?

The “cascade system” is a rule-based approach within the Schengen Visa Code that lets consulates issue longer visas based on your previous visa history and compliance. It works like this:

If you’ve had and properly used two Schengen visas in the past three years, you may be eligible for a 1-year multiple-entry visa.
If you’ve had and properly used a 1-year visa, you could get a 2-year visa.
If you’ve had and properly used a 2-year visa, you may be granted a 5-year multiple-entry visa.

In short, you earn trust over time by travelling to the Schengen area, returning on time, and submitting strong applications.

Who qualifies for the 5-year Schengen visa?

Let’s be clear: not everyone qualifies, and there’s no checkbox for “5-year visa” on the application form. The decision is entirely up to the consulate, and they’ll consider the following:

Travel history: Have you travelled to the Schengen area multiple times over the past few years?
Visa compliance: Did you overstay or stick to the rules?
Purpose of travel: Are you a tourist, business traveller, academic, or visiting family?
Economic ties: Do you have stable employment, sufficient income, and strong ties to South Africa?
Application history: Have your previous applications been complete, accurate, and well-documented?

If all of this aligns, your application might be considered for a long-term visa. But it’s not guaranteed.

How do you apply for a 5-year Schengen visa as a South African?

There is no special 5-year visa application form. You follow the standard Schengen visa process. Here’s what that looks like:

Step 1: Choose your destination wisely

Apply through the country you will spend the most time in. For example, if France is your main destination, apply via Capago. If you’re visiting multiple countries for equal time, apply through the first country you will enter.

Step 2: Gather your documents

Standard requirements include:

Completed Schengen visa form
Passport with at least two blank pages
Two colour passport photos
Proof of travel insurance
Return flight bookings
Proof of accommodation
Proof of sufficient financial means
Proof of employment/self-employment/income
Previous Schengen visas (if any)

Step 3: Book your appointment

Use VFS Global (for most countries) or Capago (for France) to schedule your biometric appointment.

Step 4: Include a cover letter

This is your chance to make a case for a long-term visa. Briefly explain:

Why you travel often
Why you’re applying now
Your strong travel history
That you request a multiple-entry visa for [X] years

It won’t guarantee success, but it helps support your request.

What does the 5-year Schengen visa actually allow?

A 5-year Schengen visa does not let you live in Europe for five years. It allows:

Multiple entries into the Schengen area
Stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Travel across all 27 Schengen countries

You must still return to South Africa after each 90-day window unless you’re applying for a different residence permit.

What does it cost?

At the time of writing:

The standard Schengen visa fee is €80 for adults (about R1,550)
VFS or Capago service fees apply (around R350–R400)
Courier fees, SMS updates, and premium lounges are optional extras

There’s no extra cost for requesting a longer visa, but again, it’s not guaranteed.

Final thoughts: Should you apply now or wait?

If you’re planning a trip soon, go ahead and apply as normal. Don’t wait for the 5-year visa news to be “official.” You can always include a request in your cover letter. If you’ve had multiple Schengen visas and a good track record, you may already be eligible.

The worst that can happen? You’ll get the standard 90-day visa. The best? You’ll be granted a multi-year pass to Europe.

And that’s worth the application.

Get in touch with us today to begin your journey with peace of mind. Whether you’re planning a vacation, studying abroad, or exploring new career opportunities, we’re here to make your visa application process seamless and stress-free. Contact us to learn more about our services and start your visa application journey today.