You must submit your Schengen visa application at least 15 days and no more than six months before your scheduled departure. In the event that your visa is not approved in time, it is in your best advantage to submit your application at least 15 days before to your departure. Schengen embassies and consulates normally ask visa applicants to book an appointment 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Start the application procedure in advance of your future trip, since the embassy's decision will take an additional two weeks. Again, appointments may be fully booked prior to the summer or winter holidays, so start early. You may submit an application six months in advance.