Is the service fee for the visa application center separate from the official visa fee?

Yes — the service fee charged by the visa application center (such as VFS Global or TLScontact) is separate from the official Schengen visa fee. These are two different payments, and both apply when you submit a visa application. Here’s how it works 👇 💶 1. Official Schengen visa fee (paid to the embassy) This is the standard fee required by the Schengen country you are applying to. Examples: • €90 for adults • €45 for children aged 6–12 • Free for children under 6 • Free or reduced for certain categories (students, researchers, etc.) This fee goes to the embassy/consulate, not to VFS or TLScontact. 🧾 2. Visa Application Center (VAC) service fee This is a separate fee that you pay to the service provider operating the visa center, such as: • VFS Global • TLScontact This fee covers: • Appointment handling • Biometrics collection • Application submission • Document checking • Customer service support The service fee is mandatory unless you are applying directly at the embassy (in many countries this is not allowed). VAC fees vary depending on country and currency. 📦 3. Optional services have additional fees Visa centers also offer extra services (all optional), such as: • Courier return • SMS updates • Premium lounge • Form filling support • Printing, photocopying • Insurance purchase These are not required, but many applicants choose them for convenience. 💡 Outbound Singapore Tip When we support your application, we explain all required fees upfront so you know exactly what to expect — no surprises. We also help you avoid unnecessary optional fees unless they genuinely benefit your case.