"How much bank balance do I need?" is the most-asked Schengen question — and getting it wrong is a top refusal reason.
There's no single magic number
Each country sets its own daily minimum an applicant must show, usually in the range of €50–€100 per day of the trip. A 10-day trip might therefore require roughly €500–€1,000 demonstrably available, plus a sensible buffer. Always check the specific consulate's figure for your destination.
What to submit
- Bank statements for the last 3–6 months, stamped or clearly from the bank.
- A steady, believable balance — not a large deposit that landed days before you applied.
- Salary credits or regular income that match your job letter.
- If someone is sponsoring you, their statements plus a sponsorship letter and proof of relationship.
The mistakes that cause refusals
- A sudden lump sum. Consulates can tell when money is borrowed and "parked" to inflate a balance. Build your balance gradually.
- Funds that don't match your story. A modest salary but a huge balance, with no explanation, raises questions.
- Only a closing balance. Show the transaction history, not just the final number.
- Crypto or cash. These are not accepted as proof of funds.
Show enough to cover your whole trip comfortably, keep it consistent with your income, and avoid last-minute deposits. Clean, steady statements reassure the consulate far more than a single big number.
Frequently asked questions
How much bank balance do I need for a Schengen visa?
There's no universal figure. Most consulates want roughly €50–100 per day of your trip, shown as a steady, available balance plus a buffer.
How many months of statements should I show?
Usually the last 3–6 months, with the full transaction history rather than just a closing balance.
Can I deposit a lump sum before applying?
It's risky. A large last-minute deposit looks like parked money and often triggers a refusal. Build your balance gradually.
