Schengen Visa From India

Q: Who doesn't need to pay for a Schengen visa?

The visa fee is waived for• Children under six years. • School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training. • Researchers, as defined in Article 3(2) of Council Directive (EU) 2016/801[1], are travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a seminar or conference. • Representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organised by non-profit organisations.

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Schengen Visa From India

Planning a trip to Europe? Awesome! Did you know that if you have a Schengen Visa, you can travel to any of the 29 countries within the European Schengen Area without any hassle or paperwork? We've broken down everything you need to know about the Schengen visa for Indians, including the different types, their validity, how to apply online and much more. Keep reading to find out everything about the Schengen visa application with an Indian passport, and get ready for an amazing European adventure!

Keep reading to learn everything about applying for a Schengen visa with an Indian passport and prepare for an amazing European adventure!

What is a Schengen visa application?

A Schengen visa application is a request for permission to enter the Schengen area for short stays—aka standard Schengen visa—and long stays, for purposes like tourism, business or study. There are currently 29 countries in the Schengen area that share a common legal framework with no checks on the borders.

Schengen Visa Highlights

Details	Information
Visa Type	Schengen Visa (Short Stay – Type C)
Validity	Up to 90 days within 180 days
Covers	29 Schengen countries
Processing Time	15 to 45 days
Mandatory	Travel insurance with €30,000 coverage

Do Indians need a Schengen visa?

Yes, if you are an Indian citizen, you need a visa to visit any of the 29 countries in the Schengen zone. This rule applies to all Indian passport holders, including those who are permanent residents of the U.K., Australia, Canada, or the U.S., as well as Indian Green Card holders. In addition to the visa, it’s mandatory to have travel insurance for Schengen visa applications, as the policy must meet specific requirements set by Schengen authorities. However, keep in mind that the final decision to allow entry rests with the border control authorities in each country.

Schengen Visa Countries List 2025

The Schengen Area now includes 29 countries that allow border-free travel once you obtain a Schengen visa. With Bulgaria and Romania officially joining the Schengen Zone in 2024, travellers can enjoy smoother movement across almost all of Europe.

No.	Country	No.	Country
1	Austria	16	Lithuania
2	Belgium	17	Luxembourg
3	Bulgaria	18	Malta
4	Croatia	19	Netherlands
5	Czechia	20	Norway
6	Denmark	21	Poland
7	Estonia	22	Portugal
8	Finland	23	Romania
9	France	24	Slovakia
10	Germany	25	Slovenia
11	Greece	26	Spain
12	Hungary	27	Sweden
13	Iceland	28	Switzerland
14	Italy	29	Liechtenstein
15	Latvia

Types of Schengen Visas for Indian Passport Holders

Depending on the purpose of the visit, Indians can get different types of Schengen visas. They are:

Tourist Schengen Visa

Purpose: For leisure travel or visiting friends and family in any Schengen country.
Duration: Up to 90 days within a 6-month period.
Restriction: No paid work permitted.

Business Schengen Visa

Purpose: For conducting business activities.
Restriction: Specific limitations may be noted on the visa.

Student Schengen Visa

Purpose: For attending educational programs.
Restriction: Limited to study purposes; permanent residence is not permitted.

Working Schengen Visa

Purpose: For employment in a Schengen country.
Eligibility: Non-EU citizens must apply before entry unless from select countries like the U.S., Canada, or Australia.

Transit Schengen Visa

Type A (Airport Transit): Restricted to airport transit zones, with no exit allowed.
Type B (5-Day Transit): For traveling through Schengen countries en route to a non-Schengen destination.

Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)

Single-Entry: One-time entry; re-entry not permitted.
Double-Entry: Allows two entries within the visa's validity.
Multiple-Entry: Unlimited entries within 90 days over six months

Limited Territorial Validity Visa

Purpose: Travel limited to specific Schengen countries for special circumstances like humanitarian needs.

National Visa (Type D)

Purpose: For long-term activities like studying, working, or research.
Options: Single-entry for specific needs or multiple-entry for activities requiring repeated entry.

Validity of Different Types of Schengen Visas for Indians

The Schengen visa allows you to travel to the Schengen Area for 90 days. This visa is valid for a period of 6 months. If you're planning several trips to and from the Schengen Area, you can apply for the Schengen Multiple Entry visa.

Eligibility Criteria for Schengen Visa from India

You’re eligible to apply for a Schengen Visa from India if you:

Hold a valid Indian passport (valid for at least 3 months after return).
Have confirmed travel and stay arrangements.
Can show financial stability to cover your trip.
Have valid travel insurance with €30,000 coverage.
Clearly state your purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.).

Schengen Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens - Documents

Here are the documents you need while applying for a Schengen visa:

General Schengen Visa Documents

Schengen visa application fully completed and signed.
The passport should be valid for at least 3 more months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area and must have two blank pages.
2 recent passport photos taken within the last 3 months.
Round trip reservation or itinerary with dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen area.
A travel insurance policy with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in case of any medical emergency for the whole Schengen territory.
A document that shows proof of accommodation and where you will be accommodated throughout your stay in Schengen.
Leave letter from your company (if employed).
NOC from your school or university if you're a student.
Proof of civil status, including marriage certificate and birth certificate
Proof of financial means, as evidence that you have enough money to support yourself financially throughout your stay in the Schengen
- Bank account statement – that shows you have enough money in your account for the trip. The statement shall be no older than 3 months.
- Sponsorship Letter – by another person that confirms they will be financially supporting your trip to Schengen. In order for this letter to be valid, it must be accompanied by a bank statement from the sponsor, no older than three months.
- Payslips from the past 3 months or employment contract if you are an employee.
- A copy of your business licence and company bank statement for the latest 6 months if you are self-employed
- Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Form 16 (Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary)
- Proof of paid Schengen visa fee
Proof of paid visa fee
Proof of paid Schengen visa fee
For retirees
- Pension statement for the last 6 months.
If unemployed and married to an EU citizen
- Spouse’s valid passport
- An official marriage certificate
- Confirmation of Employment letter (not older than 3 months) from their spouse’s employer stating the position held within the company as well as the starting date.

Schengen Visa Documents for Minors

If you are the legal guardian or parent of a minor applying for a Schengen visa, you will need to submit further documentation. These documents include:

The minor’s birth certificate
Application form signed by both parents
Family court order if only one parent has full custody of the child
Certified copies of the ID/passport of both parents
A notarised parental authorisation signed by both parents/guardians if the minor will be travelling alone.

*Note the list of documents is changeable and the consular office can ask for more necessary documents.

Schengen Visa Photo Requirements

Here are the key photo requirements you need to follow during your Schengen visa application process.

Two identical photos. No more than six months old.
The dimensions of the photo are 35 mm by 45 mm.
It should be a coloured photo, not black and white.
The head should take up 70-80% of the image.
The background should be light. It is suggested that you use light grey. No patterns.
The applicant should look directly at the camera.
A neutral look on the face. Closed mouth and no smile.
Do not use uniforms or colours that match the background.

How To Apply for a Schengen Visa Online?

Follow these simple steps to apply for a Schengen visa online.

Step 1

Click here and pick the country to visit.

Step 2

Choose the type of visa (tourist, business, etc.)

Step 3

Give information about yourself, like your name, passport number, and the planned dates.

Step 4

Upload documents like your passport, Aadhar card, and passport-sized photographs.

Step 5

Pay the visa fees and book your appointment.

Step 6

Submit biometrics at the nearest VFS Global or embassy centre. The documents will be checked, and your Schengen visa will be sent to the specified email address.

Schengen Visa Fees from India

The table below lists some basic Schengen visa costs for Indians, which you will need to pay at the time of application.

Applicant Category	Schengen Visa Fee (EUR)	Equivalent in INR (Approx.)
Adult (18 years and above)	€80	₹7,159
Children (12 to 18 years old)	€80	₹7,159
Children (6 to 11 years old)	€40	₹3,579
Children (under 6 years old)	Free	Free

*Note these visa fees may change as per different travel agencies and government guidelines also, they are non-refundable.

Schengen Visa Processing Time in India

The standard processing time for a Schengen visa application is 15 days. However, this may extend up to 45 days if additional review or supporting documents are needed for a more thorough assessment.

Tip: Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to avoid delays.

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

Getting your Schengen Visa rejected can be disappointing, especially when travel plans are set. Understanding why rejections happen can help you avoid common mistakes and improve your chances next time.

Here are the most common reasons for Schengen Visa rejection:

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Application

Missing information, unsigned forms, or inconsistent details between your documents (like name, travel dates, or purpose) can trigger an automatic rejection.

Tip: Double-check all forms before submission.

2. Invalid or Insufficient Travel Insurance

Travel insurance that doesn’t meet Schengen standards (minimum €30,000 medical coverage or invalid dates) can lead to rejection.

Tip: Ensure your insurance covers all Schengen countries and your entire travel duration. Acko’s Schengen Travel Insurance plans already meet these requirements.

3. Lack of Proof of Financial Means

Embassies want to ensure you can afford your trip. If your bank statements, income proof, or sponsorship letters seem insufficient, your visa might be denied.

Tip: Maintain a healthy balance for 3–6 months before applying.

4. Unclear Purpose or Itinerary

If your reason for travel (tourism, business, study, etc.) isn’t clear or your itinerary seems unrealistic, it raises red flags.

Tip: Provide a clear travel plan, including where you’ll stay and for how long.

5. Invalid or Expired Passport

A passport that expires too soon (less than 3 months after your return date) or is damaged can cause automatic rejection.

Tip: Renew your passport before applying if it’s close to expiry.

6. Missing or Forged Documents

Submitting fake documents or missing mandatory ones, such as hotel bookings, ITRS, or invitation letters, is an instant disqualifier.

Tip: Always provide genuine and updated documents.

7. Previous Visa Violations or Overstays

If you’ve overstayed or violated visa conditions in the past (Schengen or otherwise), it can affect your current application.

Tip: Mention past travel honestly and explain any prior issues clearly.

8. Unconvincing Ties to India

Your application may be refused if the consulate feels you might not return (due to a lack of job stability, property, or family ties).

Tip: Attach documents showing strong home-country ties — like employment proof, lease agreements, or family responsibilities.

How to Avoid Rejection for a Schengen Visa?

Getting a Schengen visa can be tricky, and even small mistakes can lead to rejection. To improve your chances of approval, make sure you follow these key steps carefully:

Apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance
Use accurate and verifiable documents
Maintain financial consistency
Get valid Schengen-compliant travel insurance
Provide a realistic travel plan and return proof

What to Do If Your Schengen Visa Is Rejected?

If your Schengen Visa gets rejected — don’t worry! It’s not the end of your European travel plans. Rejections are quite common and often fixable with the right steps. Here’s what you can do next:

1. Read the Rejection Letter Carefully

The embassy or consulate will send you a rejection letter stating the specific reason(s) your visa was refused (e.g., insufficient funds, unclear purpose, missing documents).

Note: Keep this letter safe — you’ll need it if you plan to appeal or reapply.

2. Decide Whether to Appeal or Reapply

You have two options:

Appeal the decision: You can submit a visa appeal letter within 30 days (the timeframe may vary by country). This is useful if you believe your application was incomplete and wrongly assessed.
Reapply: If you realise you made an error or missed documents, simply correct those issues and submit a new application.

Note: Reapplying is often faster and more effective if your situation or paperwork has changed.

3. Fix the Issues Before Reapplying

Before submitting again, make sure to:

Correct any inaccuracies in your form or documents
Provide updated financial proofs and employment details
Purchase valid Schengen-compliant travel insurance
Attach a strong cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and addressing the reason for rejection

4. Reapply Through the Same Embassy (If Applicable)

If you’re applying for the same destination, it’s better to reapply at the same embassy or consulate. They’ll already have your file and can see your improvements.

5. Wait for a Cooling-Off Period (If Required)

Some embassies recommend waiting 30 days before submitting a new application, especially if your previous one was recent. Always check with the relevant embassy or VFS Global centre.

What if You Want to Extend Your Schengen Visa?

Typically, Schengen Visas cannot be extended mid-trip, except in exceptional cases such as:

A serious medical condition requiring hospitalisation
An unforeseen, compelling reason beyond your control

Generally, you’ll need to leave the Schengen Area for a longer stay and reapply for a new visa to continue your visit.

List of Schengen Visa Embassy and Consulates in India

In India, you can apply for a Schengen visa at either a VFS Global application center or directly at the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you wish to visit:

VFS Global Centers

VFS Global has centres in cities including Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jalandhar, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, and New Delhi.

Embassies and Consulates

Most Schengen countries have embassies in New Delhi and consulates in major cities. For instance, the Consulate General of France in Mumbai handles applications from residents of Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and other regions.

Estonian Embassy in New Delhi

Non-Indian citizens who have resided and worked in India for over a year may apply for a Schengen visa at the Estonian Embassy in New Delhi.

Travel Insurance for Your Schengen Visa

So, now that you know you need travel insurance to get a Schengen visa, look for a plan that covers everything that could go wrong while you are abroad, not just medical costs. For a budget-friendly option, check out Acko Travel Insurance for Schengen visa to cover accidents, illnesses or medical emergencies. It will also cover you if you lose your passport, money for your trip, and a lot of other things.

Is a Schengen Visa available on arrival for Indian citizens?

No, the Schengen Visa is not available on a visa-on-arrival basis. As an Indian passport holder, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa.

What are the benefits of applying for a Schengen visa?

Applying for and getting your Schengen visa approved allows you to travel to any of the 26 Schengen countries, whether you're going to work, study, or enjoy a holiday.

Can I apply Schengen visa online?

Yes, you can apply for a Schengen visa online through ACKO. All you need to do is fill out the Schengen visa application form, provide your details, and pay the Schengen visa fee.

Where do I submit a Schengen visa application in India?

You can submit your Schengen visa applications to be processed at your destination country's embassy or consulate in India. In addition, if you live in Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, or Kolkata, you can submit your visa applications at any VFS centre. The visa application will be forwarded to the relevant Consulate General for a decision.

How long can I stay with a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Type B visa allows you to travel to the Schengen Area for 90 days. This visa is valid for a period of 6 months. If you're planning several trips to and from the Schengen Area, you can apply for the Schengen Multiple Entry visa.

Is it possible to extend the Schengen Visa?

In order to extend your visa, you must meet the following conditions

Your stay in the Schengen Area must not exceed 90 days in total.
If you stay longer than 90 days, you must explain why you need to extend your stay.

Can I travel to more than one country with a Schengen Visa?

Yes, you can travel on a Schengen visa to all countries in the Schengen area. However, you always have to apply at your destination country's consulate to travel.

Who doesn't need to pay for a Schengen visa?

The visa fee is waived for

Children under six years.
School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
Researchers, as defined in Article 3(2) of Council Directive (EU) 2016/801[1], are travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a seminar or conference.
Representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organised by non-profit organisations.

Can a minor apply for a Schengen visa?

Yes, minors can apply for a Schengen visa with their parents or legal guardians. Or a parent of a minor applying for a Schengen visa, you will need to submit further documentation. These documents include:

The minor’s birth certificate
Application form signed by both parents
Family court order if only one parent has full custody of the child
Certified copies of the ID/passport of both parents
A notarised parental authorisation signed by both parents/guardians if the minor will be travelling alone

Who can apply for a Schengen visa in India?

All Indian passport holders are eligible to apply, along with submitting their relevant documents, travel insurance and sufficient funds for their travel and accommodation.

If my application for a Schengen visa is rejected, will I get a refund?

No, the application fee is non-refundable.

What will happen if I extend my stay beyond my visa's validity?

Overstaying your visa's expiration date may result in severe penalties, and you may also be denied entry into the country in the future.

How many months prior to the trip should I apply for a Schengen visa?

You should apply at least one to two months before the date you want to travel to any of the Schengen countries.

Is it mandatory for Indians to get travel insurance for a Schengen visa?

Yes, having travel insurance is compulsory when applying for a Schengen visa from India

Is there a visa on arrival for Indians in Europe?

No, a visa on arrival for an Indian passport is still not available for any European countries. However, you can apply for a Schengen visa online and easily visit most European countries.

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