Planning Europe Trip This Summer? Here's A Guide To Schengen Visa For Indians

Last Updated:March 12, 2025, 14:38 IST

At first, obtaining a Schengen Visa may seem difficult, but it can be easy if you follow the correct procedures and get some clear guidance.

A Schengen visa allows holders to travel to 29 Schengen and EU nations.

Millions of people from all over the world have made Europe their top tourism destination for decades. Nearly 90 million international travellers visit France annually, making it the most visited country in the world (with Spain coming in second).

Meanwhile, dozens of other European countries, including France, Germany, and Spain, are also Schengen Zone members. If you are also planning a trip to Europe soon, you will probably need to apply for a Schengen visa beforehand.

A Schengen Visa: What Is It?

A Schengen visa is a temporary travel permit that is granted by Schengen member countries’ authorities. For up to 90 days throughout 180 days, it allows citizens of non-EU/EEA nations to enter and move freely within the Schengen Zone. Typically, this visa is used for short-term stays like business or vacation.

The following nations are part of the Schengen Zone: Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Romania, Slovakia, Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Why is a Schengen visa required for Indians?

– Indian passport holders cannot enter the Schengen Zone without a visa.

– One visa allows entrance into every Schengen nation.

Types of Schengen Visas for Indians

– Tourist Visa: For travel and sightseeing

– Business Visa: For work-related events and meetings

– Family Visit Visa: For travelling to Schengen nations to see family

– Transit Visa: For flights that connect at Schengen airports

Schengen Visa: Where do Indians need to apply?

– If visiting one nation, apply at that country’s Embassy/Consulate using VFS Global.

– If you are visiting numerous countries, apply to the country where you will spend the longest.

– If the stay duration is equal: Apply to the nation of first entry.

Schengen Visa: Fee, Processing Time and Validity

Fees for Visas (effective 2025)

For Adults: €80 (about Rs 7,200).

For Children (6-12 years): €40 (around Rs 3,600)

It is important to note that children under six years old are free.

VFS Processing Fee: €20-25 (approximately Rs 1,800-Rs 2,200).

Validity and Processing Time

– The standard processing time is 15–30 days.

– Ideally, applications should be submitted 45–60 days before departure.

– The validity of the visa is 90 days out of 180 days.

Schengen Visa: List of documents needed

A passport that is valid for at least six months and has two blank pages

The filled-out and signed Visa Application Form

New passport-sized photographs (per Schengen requirements)

Reservations for flights (tickets do not need to be purchased before approval)

Hotel Reservations/Invitation Letter (If staying with friends or family)

Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for unexpected medical expenses

ITR returns and bank statements (proof of adequate finances)

A cover letter outlining the schedule and reason for the trip.

News world Planning Europe Trip This Summer? Here's A Guide To Schengen Visa For Indians