What biometrics and VIS actually are
Biometrics for Schengen visas usually consist of ten fingerprints and a facial photograph collected at the visa centre. They are stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) and can be reused in later applications within a defined period, depending on the visa authority's rules.
When biometrics are collected
- Biometrics are normally collected during your visa appointment.
- First-time applicants typically must attend in person.
- Repeat applicants may sometimes be exempt if recent biometric data exists.
Previous biometrics and previous Schengen visas
If you already applied for a Schengen visa in the past, you may already have biometric data in VIS. Depending on how recent that data is and the rules applied by your visa authority, your new application may or may not require fresh biometric collection. Only the visa authority can confirm this.
What about the BioNET receipt?
A BioNET or biometric receipt is typically generated during or after the appointment / biometrics process. It is not a document you need to obtain in advance.
- If you already have a BioNET receipt from a previous application, you can upload it as optional supporting context.
- If you do not have one, you do not need to chase it before your appointment.
What HelpMyVisa does and does not do
- We help you organise and upload any previous biometric or BioNET receipt you already have.
- We do not determine official VIS validity.
- We do not guarantee exemption from biometric collection.
- The visa authority decides whether biometrics will be taken again.