A Schengen visa is your gateway to experiencing the diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes of 26 European countries. Securing a Schengen visa for Indians unlocks the door to exploring the rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and terrains spread across Europe. Established by the Schengen Agreement in 1985, this unique arrangement eradicates internal borders, enabling seamless travel throughout the member states.
For Indian travellers, acquiring a Schengen visa not only simplifies access to this expansive zone for up to 90 days within any 180 days but also caters to a variety of travel needs including leisure, business engagements, family visits, or engaging in short-term educational and cultural programs. This article provides detailed information on the criteria for obtaining a Schengen visa for Indian citizens, covering various types of visas and the necessary requirements such as travel insurance.
While travel insurance is a mandatory component for Schengen visa applications, its significance is heightened by the extensive coverage it provides. This not only safeguards your journey but also guarantees a stress-free experience.
Explore the list of Schengen countries.
Do Indians need a Schengen visa from India?
Yes, Indians need a Schengen visa to travel to any of the 26 Schengen countries in Europe. This visa is mandatory for Indian citizens wishing to visit countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others, for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. To obtain a Schengen visa for Indians, you must apply at the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit, providing essential documents like a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and travel insurance. The visa allows you to stay within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Types of Schengen visas for Indians
Schengen visa for Indians are categorised differently for different purpose of visits. Know the types of visas available to make visa application based on your purpose of visit:
Type A airport transit visa
This visa is issued for travelers who need to transit through the international airport zone of a Schengen country without entering the country itself.
Type B short-stay visa
This is the most common type of Schengen visa, valid for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is suitable for tourism, business trips, visiting family and friends, or attending short-term events.
Type C long-stay visa
This visa is valid for stays exceeding 90 days up to a year and is typically issued for specific purposes like studies, work, or medical treatment.
Type D multiple entry visa
This visa allows for multiple entries into the Schengen Zone during its validity period, which can range from six months to five years. It is suitable for frequent travelers to the Schengen area for business, studies, or other purposes.
Each visa type dictates the documents required and the application process, tailored to the specific reason for your visit to ensure adherence to Schengen visa policies.
Schengen visa requirements for Indians
The general requirements for a Schengen visa include:
- Valid passport: With at least two blank pages and validity extending beyond three months after your intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Completed application form: Accurately filled with all necessary details.
- Recent passport-sized photographs: Conforming to the visa photo requirements.
- Travel insurance: A travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Proof of financial means: Demonstrating the ability to support yourself during your stay.
- Travel itinerary: Detailed plans including flight reservations, accommodation, and a day-to-day itinerary.
- Purpose of visit: Relevant documents supporting the visa application reason, such as invitation letters for business or event participation.
Essential documents for a minor's Schengen Visa application
To apply for a Schengen visa for Indians under 18 years, the following documents are needed:
- A completed and signed Schengen visa application form by both parents.
- A valid passport of the minor, with at least two blank pages.
- Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Birth certificate of the minor.
- Parental consent letter signed by both parents or legal guardians.
- Copies of both parents' or guardians' passports and visas, if applicable.
- Proof of travel insurance covering the entire Schengen area.
- Evidence of financial support, like bank statements or sponsorship letters.
- Travel itinerary, including flight and accommodation bookings.
These documents ensure compliance with Schengen visa requirements for minors.
How to Apply Schengen Visa Online?
The application process for Schengen visa for Indians involves several steps:
- Apply through the consulate of the country you intend to spend the most time in or where you will enter the Schengen Area.
- Ensure all documents are accurate, up to date and complete.
- Fill out the visa application form available online or from the consulate.
- Schedule a visa interview at the appropriate consulate or visa application centre.
- Bring all required documents and prepare to answer questions about your trip. As of the latest, the standard fee is approximately Rs. 7,000 for adults and Rs. 3,500 for children aged 6-12. Upon paying the Schengen visa fee, Indians will be able to acquire the visa and travel to Europe.
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Schengen Visa Fees from India
Visa Type |
Fee (INR) |
Adult (12 years and above) |
Approx. 8,200 |
Child (6 to 12 years) |
Approx. 4,100 |
Child (Below 6 years) |
Free |
Long-term visas (over 90 days) |
Varies by consulate |
Visa service charges |
Additional fees may apply |
The Schengen visa for Indians includes application fees and other service charges, which may vary depending on the type of visa and the embassy.
Schengen Visa Processing Time in India
The processing time for a Schengen visa for Indians typically ranges from 15 to 30 days from the date of application submission. However, it may take longer during peak travel seasons or due to additional document verification. To ensure timely travel, applicants are advised to apply at least three weeks before their intended departure date. Delays can occur due to incomplete applications, missing documents, or high volume of applications.
Validity of Different Types of Schengen Visas for Indians
The Schengen visa for Indians comes in different types, each with varied validity. A single-entry visa is typically valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A multiple-entry visa can have a validity ranging from one to five years, depending on the applicant’s travel history and the discretion of the issuing authority. The visa validity determines how long you can stay within the Schengen area.
Is there a visa on arrival for Indians in Europe?
Indians are not eligible for a visa on arrival in any of the Schengen countries in Europe. Indian passport holders must apply for a Schengen visa for Indians prior to their travel, at the respective embassy or consulate of their destination country. The application should be submitted well in advance to avoid any delays in processing. Visa exemptions apply only to specific nationalities, and India is not currently included in that list.
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