Imagine having the opportunity to explore three-fourths of Europe with a single visa – it's not just a claim, but a reality. The Schengen visa allows you to travel to multiple European countries affiliated with the Schengen Agreement. In this guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Schengen visa and its details.
A Schengen Visa enables passport-free travel across the affiliated countries within the European Union's Schengen zone, streamlining the process of exploring multiple nations in a single trip.
This versatile visa serves various purposes, such as tourism, business engagements, and family visits, and grants travellers the freedom to cross borders without undergoing additional passport checks.
It remains valid for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period, offering convenience and flexibility to international visitors.
The Schengen Visa is not uniformly offered across all European countries, and this list comprises the countries falling within the Schengen region:
Austria |
Greece |
Malta |
Belgium |
Hungary |
Netherlands |
Czech Republic |
Iceland |
Norway |
Denmark |
Italy |
Poland |
Estonia |
Latvia |
Portugal |
Finland |
Liechtenstein |
Slovakia |
France |
Lithuania |
Spain |
Germany |
Luxembourg |
Switzerland |
Slovenia |
Sweden |
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Additionally, several non-Schengen countries acknowledge and accept a valid Schengen visa for entry. The nations that currently recognize Schengen visas include:
Albania |
Serbia |
Montenegro |
Bulgaria |
Andorra |
Romania |
Kosovo |
Georgia |
Turkey |
North Macedonia |
Croatia |
Bosnia and Herzegovina |
Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Turkey.
Indian travellers applying for a Schengen Visa have access to different types of visas, each with its own specific features and limitations:
Type of Visa |
No of days |
Valid |
Specifications |
USV |
90 |
Single Entry, Double Entry, Multiple Entry |
Allows the holder to enter and stay in the Schengen Area for a single period of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, two periods of up to 90 days each within a 180-day period, or multiple periods of up to 90 days each within a 180-day period, respectively. |
ATV |
90 |
Applicable for travellers from certain countries who need to change flights at a Schengen airport. |
Allows the holder to stay in the international transit area of a Schengen airport for up to 90 days. |
LTV |
90 |
Issued for specific Schengen countries |
Allows the holder to enter and stay in the Schengen countries specified on the visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. |
Each of these Schengen visa types serves different purposes and offers various degrees of flexibility, allowing Indian travellers to choose the one that best suits their travel plans.
When it comes to obtaining a Schengen Tourist Visa, Indian passport holders have several choices within the Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) category. Each category serves a specific purpose and offers varying levels of flexibility, allowing travellers to select the most suitable option for their travel plans:
This category is ideal for travellers planning to enter the Schengen region once and complete their entire tour without leaving and re-entering. It's a suitable choice for those with straightforward itineraries.
For travellers who intend to exit the Schengen region during their tour and return to complete their journey, the Double Entry Schengen Visa is the appropriate option. This provides the flexibility to briefly step out and then re-enter the Schengen area.
The Multiple Entry Schengen Visa is the most flexible choice, allowing tourists to enter and re-enter the Schengen region multiple times during the visa's validity period. It's a convenient option for those planning a multi-country or extended European tour.
Selecting the right category of Schengen Tourist Visa depends on your travel plans, including the number of times you intend to cross Schengen borders during your trip.
Long-term Schengen visas are available for individuals who plan extended stays in Schengen countries. Here are two options for obtaining a long-term Schengen visa:
Schengen countries issue national visas, also known as long-stay visas, for stays exceeding 90 days. These visas are typically required for extended visits to a specific Schengen nation, such as for work, study, family reunions, or other purposes.
Travellers who frequently visit Schengen countries can apply for a European Union visa, which remains valid for up to 5 years.
It's worth noting that, even with a multiple-entry EU visa, you must adhere to the rule of not exceeding a 90-day stay within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area. This rule remains applicable to ensure compliance with Schengen visa regulations.
Obtaining a Schengen visa from India involves several steps, and it's essential to have a well-structured travel plan in place. Here is a detailed guide on how to apply for a Schengen visa:
Step 1: Complete the Schengen Visa Application Form
Start by filling out the Schengen Visa application form, which is available on the website of the respective Schengen country's embassy or consulate. Ensure that you accurately provide all the required information.
Step 2: Schedule a Visa Appointment
After completing the application form, schedule a visa appointment at the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit. Be aware that it may take up to 30 days to secure a confirmed appointment, so plan accordingly.
Step 3: Attend the Biometrics Appointment
As part of the application process, you will need to attend a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, your fingerprints and a photograph will be taken. Biometrics help establish your identity and are an essential component of the visa application.
Step 4: Verify All Required Documents
It's crucial to double-check that you have all the necessary documents, including your completed application form, passport, photographs, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, financial documents, and any additional documents required by the specific Schengen country's embassy. Ensure that your documents meet the visa requirements.
Step 5: Pay the Schengen Visa Fee
Pay the Schengen visa fee, which is non-refundable, at the designated bank or payment centre. The fee may vary depending on the type of visa and your age. Keep the payment receipt as proof of payment.
Completing these steps in a thorough and organised manner is essential to ensure a smooth Schengen visa application process from India. Always check the specific requirements of the Schengen country you plan to visit, as they may have additional requirements or variations in their application procedures.
VFS, or the Visa Facilitation Service, has established its presence in key Indian cities, providing convenient access to visa-related information and services based on your travel plans.
Here are the VFS office locations in major Indian cities:
City |
Address |
Chennai |
Third Floor, TOWERS-C, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008 |
Delhi |
Mezzanine Level Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001 |
Mumbai |
3rd Floor, Urmi Axis Building, Behind Famous Studio, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai 400 011 |
Bangalore |
Gopalan Innovation Mall, Bannerghatta Main Rd, Sarakki Industrial Layout, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076 |
Hyderabad |
Unit 1, Lower Concourse, Panjagutta Metro Station, 8-2-340/1, Punjagutta Rd, Punjagutta Officers Colony, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana 500082 India |
These VFS offices serve as important resources for individuals seeking information and assistance with their visa-related needs, ensuring a smooth and well-informed application process.
The cost of a Schengen visa for Indian travellers varies depending on the age of the applicant. Here is the breakdown of the visa fees:
These fees are subject to change, so it's advisable to check with the specific Schengen country's embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for the most up-to-date visa fee information.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free Schengen visa application process, it's vital to be well-prepared and informed about the necessary documents you'll need. Here is a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the document requirements:
When applying for a Schengen visa, having appropriate travel insurance is crucial, especially for safeguarding your health and well-being during your trip. Medical insurance for a Schengen visa should adhere to the following essential criteria:
- Your insurance policy must provide coverage for all Schengen Area countries, ensuring that you are protected throughout your travels in this region.
- The insurance should cover various medical expenses, including costs associated with return for medical reasons, immediate medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, or coverage in the unfortunate event of a traveller's death.
Meeting these criteria is essential to ensure that you have suitable medical insurance in place when applying for a Schengen visa. It provides you with the necessary protection and peace of mind during your travels within the Schengen Area.
Obtaining a Schengen visa can often be a complex and time-consuming process. For those seeking the fastest and most streamlined way to obtain this visa, it's advisable to seek assistance from a reputable travel agency.
At Pickyourtrail, our team of experts is dedicated to providing visa assistance, allowing you to entrust the process to professionals and ensuring a smoother and more convenient experience. With our support, you can relax and let us take care of the details, helping you achieve your visa goals efficiently.
Understanding visa approval and rejection rates is essential for travellers. Here is a breakdown of Schengen visa approval and rejection percentages for Indian applicants in 2022:
Schengen Visa Rejection Rates
- Estonia: 56%
- Malta: 45%
- Slovenia: 44.5%
- Switzerland: 13%
- France: 19.9%
- Spain: 18.5%
- Austria: 24%
- Greece: 34.7%
- Portugal: 29.9%
- Sweden: 18.7%
High Schengen Visa Approval Countries
- Germany
- Italy
- Hungary
These statistics provide insights into the varying approval and rejection rates among Schengen countries, helping travellers make informed decisions when applying for a Schengen visa.
What is the Schengen visa?
The Schengen visa is a travel document that allows you to enter, travel within, and leave the Schengen Area, which comprises 26 European countries without the need for multiple visas.
Which countries are part of the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area includes 26 European countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and more. These countries have abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders.
Do Indian passport holders need a visa to visit the Schengen Area?
Yes, Indian passport holders typically need a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen Area. However, the exact requirements and procedures may vary depending on the purpose of your visit.
How do I apply for a Schengen visa as an Indian passport holder?
You can apply for a Schengen visa through the embassy or consulate of the Schengen Area country you plan to visit. The application process involves providing required documents, attending an interview, and paying the necessary fees.
What are the different types of Schengen visas available for Indians?
There are various types of Schengen visas, including tourist visas, business visas, and transit visas, depending on the purpose of your visit. Choose the one that corresponds to your travel intent.
How far in advance should I apply for a Schengen visa?
It's recommended to apply for a Schengen visa at least 3-4 months before your intended travel date, as processing times and appointment availability can vary.
What documents are typically required for a Schengen visa application?
Commonly required documents include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial statements, travel insurance, and a no-objection certificate from your employer or educational institution.
What is the processing time for a Schengen visa for Indians?
The processing time for a Schengen visa can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the country and the time of year. It's advisable to apply well in advance to ensure timely processing.
Step1: Complete the online application by providing your passport details.
Step2: Submit payment online using a credit card.
Step3: Monitor your email for confirmation of payment and receipt of your eVisa, which will be sent electronically.