Here are 10 key points about the Schengen visa for Indians:
- Mandatory for Indian Passport Holders – Indians need a Schengen visa to enter 29 European countries.
- Single Visa, Multiple Countries – One visa allows travel across the entire Schengen Zone.
- Types of Visas – Options include Tourist, Business, Family Visit, and Transit visas.
- Visa Application Process – Apply at the Embassy/Consulate of the country you’ll stay in the longest or the first entry point.
- Processing Time – The standard processing time is 15-30 days, so apply at least 45-60 days before travel.
- Visa Validity – Allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Visa Fees – Costs €80 (₹7,200) for adults and €40 (₹3,600) for children (6-12 years); under 6 years is free.
- Required Documents – Includes a valid passport, application form, flight & hotel reservations, travel insurance, and passport-sized photos.
- Travel Insurance is Mandatory – Minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies is required.
- VFS Global Handles Applications – Most applications are processed through VFS Global on behalf of Schengen embassies.
Traveling to Europe is a dream for many, but getting a Schengen visa can feel overwhelming at first. The good news? With the right information and proper steps, the process is quite straightforward.
A Schengen visa grants entry to 29 European countries, including popular destinations like France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. If you’re planning a European getaway, here’s a complete guide to help you navigate the Schengen visa process with ease.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-term travel permit issued by Schengen member countries. It allows non-EU/EEA citizens to visit and move freely within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is typically used for tourism, business, or family visits.
Also Read: Top 10 Offbeat Places in India for Solo Travel
Countries in the Schengen Zone:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Why Do Indians Need a Schengen Visa?
- Mandatory for Indian Passport Holders: Indian citizens cannot enter Schengen countries without a valid visa.
- Single Visa, Multiple Countries: A Schengen visa allows you to visit multiple European nations without needing separate visas.
Types of Schengen Visas for Indians
Depending on the purpose of your visit, you can apply for different types of Schengen visas:
- Tourist Visa: For sightseeing and leisure travel.
- Business Visa: For attending work meetings, conferences, or events.
- Family Visit Visa: For visiting relatives in Schengen countries.
- Transit Visa: For layovers at Schengen airports while traveling to non-Schengen destinations.
Where Should Indians Apply for a Schengen Visa?
- Single Country Visit: Apply at the Embassy/Consulate of that country through VFS Global.
- Multiple Country Visit: Apply to the country where you’ll spend the most time.
- Equal Stay in Multiple Countries: Apply to the first country of entry.
Schengen Visa Fees, Processing Time & Validity
Visa Fees (Effective 2025)
- Adults: €80 (Approx. ₹7,200)
- Children (6-12 years): €40 (Approx. ₹3,600)
- Children under 6 years: Free
- VFS Processing Fee: €20-25 (Approx. ₹1,800-₹2,200)
Processing Time & Validity
- Processing takes 15–30 days on average.
- It’s recommended to apply 45–60 days before your planned travel date.
- The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Documents Required for a Schengen Visa
To apply for a Schengen visa, you need the following documents:
✔ Valid Passport (At least 6 months validity & two blank pages)
✔ Completed & Signed Visa Application Form
✔ Recent Passport-Sized Photographs (As per Schengen requirements)
✔ Flight Reservation Proof (No need to buy actual tickets before visa approval)
✔ Hotel Booking Confirmation / Invitation Letter (If staying with friends or family)
✔ Travel Insurance (Minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies)
Final Thoughts
A Schengen visa makes it easy for Indian travelers to explore Europe without the hassle of applying for multiple visas. With proper planning and timely submission of documents, you can secure your visa without any stress.
Ready to plan your dream Europe trip? Start your visa process today!
Also Read: Top 12 Places to Visit in India in March
Check Latest Stories:
