Do you know there is a visa that can unlock 29 European countries for you? That is a Schengen visa. If you’re an Indian passport holder and you’re dreaming of exploring Europe, the Schengen visa is your golden ticket.
With millions of Indians making Europe their top travel destination, the first step to turning your European dream into reality is understanding the Schengen visa process.
Whether you’re worried about document requirements, afraid of rejection, or simply don’t know where to start, this complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully apply for your Schengen visa from India. Let’s dive right into the guide.
What is a Schengen Visa?
Schengen area is like a single train pass that works in 29 cities. Therefore, a Schengen visa is a short-term visa that lets you enter 29 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area. With this visa, you can stay there for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It’s perfect for tourists, business travellers, studies or those visiting friends and family.
With just one visa, you can travel freely between countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and many more without needing separate visas for each. However, there are some countries which are not part of the Schengen area, so it is important to check the list below before applying for a visa.
List of European Countries that Lies in Schengen Area
If you’re planning a Europe trip and thinking about visiting multiple countries, then it will be advisable to know which country falls under your Schengen visa. With a valid Schengen visa, you can easily enter 29 European countries listed below:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
What are the Four Types of Schengen Visas?
By knowing the different visa types, you can understand which is the right type of visa for you based on your travel needs. Choosing the correct visa type can make your application process smoother and help you avoid delays and rejections. Here are the four types of Schengen visa:
| Visa Type | Description | Duration | Purpose | Who Needs It |
| Type A (Airport Transit Visa) | The most common visa allowing travel within the Schengen Area. | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period | Tourism, business, family visits | Visitors on short-term trips |
| Type C (Uniform Schengen Visa) | Valid only for specific country or countries listed on the visa. | Varies | Special cases where travel is restricted | Travellers with restricted entry |
| Type D (National Visa) | For longer stays in one Schengen country, often for work, study, or family reunification. | Over 90 days | Work, study, family reunion | Long-term residents or students |
| Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV) | Required when transiting through a Schengen airport without entering the country. | Short transit duration | Airport transit only | Transit passengers not leaving the airport |
What Documents are Essential for Schengen Visa Application Process?
We had a client name Rhea. She had applied for Schengen visa on her own. She carefully filled out the form and booked her flights and hotels. However, her visa was rejected. Why? Because she forgot to attach her travel insurance.
After that we helped her in understanding what went wrong and guide her in every step. Her second attempt? Approved.
This shows that even missing a single document can lead to visa delays or worse rejection. So, to avoid it checkout the list given below and gather your document according to it:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after you leave the Schengen Area. It should have at least two empty pages for a visa. Don’t use a damaged or expired passport.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out the application form carefully and accurately. Errors or missing information in your form can cause delays or rejection.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Usually, two recent photos are required. The photos should have a plain white background, show your full face clearly, and be the correct size, typically 35×45 mm.
- Flight Itinerary: Submit a confirmed round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary. This document shows your entry and exit dates, helping to prove your travel intentions.
- Proof of Accommodation: Provide hotel bookings, rental agreements, or an invitation letter if staying with family or friends. This confirms where you will stay during your visit.
- Travel Insurance: Insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation is mandatory. It should be valid for your entire stay in the Schengen Area.
- Proof of Financial Means: You need to show that you can cover your expenses while in Europe. This can include recent bank statements, salary slips, income tax returns, or sponsorship letters.
Additional Tip: You should submit your Schengen visa application documents at least 15 days before your travel date but not more than 6 months before.
Yes, it may seem like a lot of work, but once you prepare this set, it becomes much easier for future trips.
If you’re nervous about missing something on your application, we’re working on a free Schengen Visa Checklist for Indian travellers. If you want it first then DM us.
What are the Key Steps to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India?
Now that you know what documents you have to gather for your visa, let’s talk about the step-by-step process to apply on how to apply for your visa.
Whether it’s your first time applying for this visa or you are reapplying after visa rejection, these steps will help you avoid mistakes in your visa application.
1. Choose Your Main Destination
Determine the country where you will spend the most time during your trip. This is important because you need to apply through the embassy or consulate of that country.
But here’s a catch: if you’re staying the same number of days in two or more countries, then apply to the country that you’ll first enter. This is important to remember because many people do this wrong, and it can seriously blow up your travelling plans.
Pro Tip: You can use the official Schengen calculator to make sure your travel dates stay within the 90/180-day rule.
2. Schedule an Appointment
Book your appointment online with the embassy or visa application centre that handles the visa process for your chosen country. Appointments can fill quickly, especially during busy travel periods, so try to book as early as possible.
3. Gather Your Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents listed above that you’ll need for your visa. To avoid rejection, triple-check your documents, be honest in your application, and ensure your travel and financial plans are realistic and verifiable.
4. Attend the Visa Interview (If Required)
Some applicants may be asked to attend a brief interview. Be prepared to explain your travel plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country. Answer all the questions clearly and honestly.
5. Provide Your Biometrics
When you visit the visa application centre, your fingerprints and photographs will be taken. This is a standard part of the process for most applicants.
6. Pay the Visa Fee
After submitting all your application forms, documents and biometrics, you have to pay the visa fee. The amount is given in the next section of the blog.
7. Wait for the Decision
After submitting your application, the processing usually takes between 15 and 30 days. Times may vary depending on the embassy and the time of year. Applying early helps avoid stress and last-minute issues.
Some Additional Tips
- Be sure to apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before your trip, especially during busy times like summer and winter holidays.
- Keep copies of all documents you submit and your appointment confirmation.
- If your visa application centre offers tracking, use it to monitor your application status.
How Much Does Schengen Visa Cost from India?
After submitting your visa application at the embassy or the visa centre, you have to pay the visa fee in your currency. The visa fee is straightforward, with no hidden fees if you go through the official process. Here is how much you have to pay for your Schengen visa as per the 2025 data:
| Category | Visa Fee |
| Adults | €80 (Approx. ₹7,833) |
| Children (6-12) | €40 (Approx. ₹3,916) |
| Children (under 6) | Free |
What is the Processing Time of Schengen Visa?
Once you send in your Schengen visa application, the waiting game begins. Usually, the processing time takes around 15 working days. However, it can change depending on the embassy, the volume of applications, and the time of the year.
In peak travel seasons, like summer vacations or Christmas holidays, the processing time can go up to 30-60 days. That’s why it’s always a good idea to apply at least 30 days before your planned travel date.
Submitting early gives you breathing room in case any additional documents are requested or unexpected delays occur.
5 Schengen Visa Myths That Cost Indians Their Applications
Everyone has ‘that friend’ who swears by a certain visa hack or horror story. There is a lot of misinformation circulating around it. But Schengen rules are pretty straightforward if you know where to look.
Many people have unknowingly fall for these common myths, and it often leads to delays, rejections, or last-minute panic. So, to avoid that, here are some of the myths about Schengen visas:
1. You Must Book and Pay for Flights Before Applying
Many think you need to buy flight tickets before applying for a visa. That’s not true. You only need to show a flight itinerary or reservation, which can be refundable or a dummy booking. It’s best not to buy non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved.
2. Meeting All Document Requirements Means Your Visa is Guaranteed
Even if you submit every required document, approval is not guaranteed. Visa officers look at your travel history, reason for visit, and ties to India. If they feel your intentions or finances are unclear, your application can still be rejected.
3. Paying for Premium Services or Using Agents Helps Get Visa Approval
Some believe that paying extra for premium visa centre services or hiring agents with “contacts” will improve approval chances. This is false. No extra service or agent can influence the decision.
Beware of the fraud agents saying that they can “guarantee” visa approval. Using dishonest agents or fake documents can lead to rejection or a ban.
4. No Previous Travel or a Past Rejection Means Automatic Denial
Not having travelled abroad before or having a previous visa rejection doesn’t mean you will be denied again. It may take more time, but a strong application with clear reasons can still get approved.
5. You Cannot Apply Again After Being Rejected
If your visa is rejected, you can still apply again. Just make sure you understand why your application was refused and improve your documents and information before reapplying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you still have doubts about the Schengen visa process, hopefully, this section will help you in finding your answers. Below are common questions asked by Indian travellers while applying for Schengen visa:
1. Do Indians get a Schengen visa easily?
Yes, especially if your documents are in order and you have a strong travel history. If you’re a first-time applicant, you should ensure all your paperwork is accurate and complete.
2. How do I choose the right European country to apply through in India?
To determine the best European country, consider your primary destination, the duration of your stay and visa approval rates. Apply through the country where you plan to spend the most days. If days are equal in multiple countries, apply through the one you enter first.
3. What are the differences between short-stay and long-stay Schengen visas for Indian travellers?
Short-stay visas (Type C) allow up to 90 days of travel within 180 days. Long-stay visas (Type D) are for purposes like work, study, or family reunions and typically last more than 90 days.
4. How much money do you need to show for Schengen visa from India?
The requirement can vary depending on the country, your itinerary and accommodation. The money should be in your bank account for the last 3 to 6 months. Generally, on average, it can come around:
- €45–€100 per day (approx. ₹4,000–₹9,000 day) depending on the country.
- For a 10-day trip, show at least €1,000–€1,500 (approx. ₹90,000–₹1,35,000).
5. Is there an interview for a Schengen visa?
In many cases, yes. It’s usually short and focuses on your travel plans, financial status, and ties to India to ensure you will return.
6. How early should I apply for Schengen visa in India?
You can apply as early as 6 months before your trip, and it’s best to apply at least 30 days before your trip.
7. Which country gives the quickest Schengen Visa?
Switzerland, Spain, and Iceland are known for quick visa processing. Switzerland usually takes 5 to 15 days. Spain takes about 7 working days. Iceland takes 15 to 30 days to process a visa.
Final Thoughts
Planning a Europe trip from India can be a memorable experience, and getting your Schengen visa sorted is the first step. While the process might seem a bit detailed, a little preparation goes a long way. Stick to the checklist, apply early, and stay informed about any new updates.
If you’re worried about messing up the visa process and need help with your Schengen visa, contact Immivoyage Consultants. Here we have handled countless of visa application and helped many people in making their abroad travel plan a reality.
So, if you want to be one of them WhatsApp us to get a free consultation and kickstart your Schengen visa process with our experts.
