Thinking about travelling to one or more of the 27 countries in the Schengen Zone?

If yes, you need to acquire a Schengen visa, especially if you hold an Indian passport or are an Indian who lives in the U.K., Australia, Canada, or the U.S. Here are some helpful details for your Schengen visa application.

Types of Schengen Visas for Indians

Schengen visas are divided into various categories for different purposes of visits. You must know each type to identify which one is valid for your upcoming trip.

1. Type A Airport Transit Visa

The type A visa allows travellers to transit through a Schengen country airport without entering the country. It is required for certain nationalities during a layover at a Schengen airport.

2. Type B Short-stay Visa

Type B is an extended version of type A Schengen visa. It covers short transit stays of up to 5 days. 

3. Type C Long-stay Visa

This is the most commonly applied visa for tourists, businesspeople, or family members. It permits stays not exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period in any of the Schengen countries.

4. Type D-Multiple Entry Visa

The type D Schengen visa authorises long-term stays over 90 days, such as for study, work, or residency purposes. It allows multiple entries and stays in Schengen countries during its validity.

The application process is similar for the citizens of most countries. However, the documents needed will vary based on the type of visa you require for travelling. 

Schengen Visa Fee for Indians

Since May 2008, all types of Schengen visas cost Rs. 5,587.86. The visa fee for children between 6 and 12 years of age is Rs. 3,259.59. 

However, for long-stay visas (exceeding 90 days), you must pay Rs.9,219.97. 

Note: Children under six years of age, representatives of non-profit organisations, researchers travelling for scientific projects, and pupils accompanying teaching staff on educational trips do not need to pay anything for the visa. 

Essential Documents Required for a Schengen Visa Application

To approve a visa request, Schengen countries usually ask for the following documents:

• A duly filled-in visa application form
• A passport-size photograph of the applicant
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of your passport with two minimum two blank pages, and it should have at least 3 months of validity
• Flight itinerary showing the flight numbers and dates
• Proof of sufficient funds to sustain your trip
• Proof of accommodation
• A copy of your travel insurance policy

It is mandatory to purchase travel insurance online before applying for a Schengen visa. If your visa application is turned down, the insurer will refund your amount.

For minor applicants, the list of documents varies as follows:

• A copy of the birth certificate
• Signatures of both parents on the visa application form
• Photocopies of specified ID proof documents of the parents
• Copy of the court order if either of the parents has acquired full custody
• A notarised authorisation for instances where the minor will be travelling by themselves. This document has to be signed by the minor’s legal guardian.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India?

Read on to learn how to apply for Schengen visa from India and the steps you must follow:

• Consider applying via the consulate of a Schengen country where you plan to spend most of your time during your stay in the Schengen Area.
• Next, note the needed documents and arrange them accordingly. Also, ensure all the documents are complete and updated.
• Fill out the application form for a Schengen visa online or from an application centre.
• After this, you must attend a visa interview at the appropriate centre on the date provided.
• When you visit the visa application centre, ensure that you bring all the original documents along with the standard visa fee. 

You will be asked questions about your trip at the centre, so you must be comfortable sharing the necessary details.

Tips to Remember for a Smooth Visa Approval

The implementation of the following measures will enhance the likelihood of your Schengen visa approval:

• Travel itinerary: It’s an added advantage if you can provide a clear travel itinerary with confirmed accommodation and round-trip flight bookings.
• Travel history details: If you’ve previously travelled to other countries, consider including the visas and stamps to demonstrate your travel history and credibility.
• Financial statements: You must be ready to submit all recent financial statements showing sufficient funds to cover expenses during your trip.
• Travel insurance: Finally, you must obtain a mandatory travel insurance policy to visit Schengen countries. Such a plan helps cover medical emergencies and repatriation and should be valid across all Schengen countries.

Timeframe for Schengen Visa Approval

For most of the Schengen embassies/ consulates in India, you must book a physical appointment. However, it may take 4-6 weeks to get an appointment. Visa applications normally take about two weeks to process. 

However, if you apply during a busy period or depending on the specific situation, you may need to wait one or two months for visa approval. So, ideally, it is suggested that you apply as early as possible, up to 6 months in advance.

Is There a Visa on Arrival Facility for Indians Visiting Schengen Countries?

No, Schengen countries do not offer a visa-on-arrival facility for Indian citizens. Indians must apply for a Schengen visa before travelling. It is recommended that you apply well in advance to avoid unwanted delays. 

To ensure seamless approval, you must ensure all documents are present while applying for your visa. This includes an international travel insurance policy with a minimum coverage of €30,000 (Rs. 27,93,930). This insurance should cover you throughout the entire duration of your trip.

So, is there something else preventing you from travelling across Europe?

Millions of Indians go on trips to Schengen countries every year. Hence, getting a Schengen visa as an Indian is hassle-free. Thus, if you are ready to explore Europe, grab your passport and plan your itinerary for a flawless visa application that will make your European dream travel come true.