Schengen Tourist Visa for Indians: How To Apply & Requirements

If you're an Indian citizen, you can apply for this short-stay visa to make your European adventure a reality. This visa allows you to visit 27 countries in the Schengen Area. The duration of your stay under this visa is subject to the 90/180 rule, allowing you to enjoy up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

What is a Schengen Tourist Visa?

A Schengen tourist visa, categorised as "C," falls under the short-term visa classification. This type of visa permits the holder to stay within the Schengen Area for a specific duration based on the visa's validity. The "C" category includes three subtypes depending on the number of entries allowed:

• Single-Entry Visa

• Double-Entry Visa

• Multiple-Entry Visa

Choosing a Schengen visa is like picking the right ticket for your trip. There are three types: single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry. The one you need depends on where you're going and why. But you must follow the 90/180 rule regardless of your ticket.

Required Documents for a Tourist Schengen Visa

The specific documents required for a Schengen tourist visa can vary slightly depending on the country you're applying to and your individual circumstances.

However, here is a general list of documents commonly required for a Schengen tourist visa application:

1. 1

   Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the official application form of the specific Schengen country you plan to visit.

2. 2

   Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages and a validity that extends beyond your intended stay in the Schengen Area.

3. 3

   Passport-sized Photos: Recent passport-sized photos meet the Schengen visa photo requirements.

4. 4

   Travel Itinerary: A detailed travel itinerary of your trip, including flight reservations, accommodation details, and planned activities.

5. 5

   Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation or a letter of invitation if you're staying with friends or family. Generate a Schengen invitation letter effortlessly by filling in the blanks using this tool.

6. 6

   Proof of Financial Means: Provide proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements or an official letter from a sponsor indicating financial support to cover your expenses during your stay.

7. 7

   Travel Insurance: Proof of travel insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 in medical expenses and repatriation for your stay.

8. 8

   Proof of Employment or Student Status: Employment letter or enrollment certificate if you're a student.

9. 9

   Schengen Visa Fee: Payment of the visa application fee. The amount can vary by country and visa type for Schengen.

10. 10

    Additional Documents: Depending on your situation, additional documents may be required, such as a No Objection Certificate from your employer, proof of ties to your home country, or a marriage certificate, if applicable.

It's crucial to check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit, as there may be variations in the documentation needed. Always apply well before your intended travel date and follow the guidelines provided by the consulate or embassy.

How To Apply for a Tourist Schengen Visa?

Applying for a Tourist Schengen Visa involves several steps. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Determine the Schengen Country to Apply To

Begin by identifying the primary Schengen country you intend to visit, usually based on the duration of your stay or your initial entry point into the Schengen Area. This country will be the focus of your visa application.

Step 2: Check Visa Requirements

Visit the official website of the embassy or consulate of your chosen Schengen country to review specific visa requirements. Familiarise yourself with the list of necessary documents and any additional conditions for a successful application.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Download and diligently fill out the Schengen visa application form from the official embassy or consulate website. Ensure all details are accurate and complete; this information is crucial for visa processing.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents as outlined in the visa requirements for Schengen. This typically includes your passport, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and travel insurance. Thoroughly prepare these documents to support your application.

Step 5: Schedule an Appointment

Check if the embassy or consulate requires appointments for visa submission. If an appointment for a Schengen visa is necessary, schedule one well in advance to secure a convenient time to submit your documents.

Step 6: Attend the Appointment

On the scheduled day, attend the embassy or visa application centre appointment. Submit all the required documents, pay the visa fee, attend a visa interview, and, if necessary, provide biometric data. This step marks the official submission of your visa application.

Step 7: Pay the Visa Fee

Ensure the payment of the Schengen visa fee using the specified methods accepted by the embassy or consulate. This fee covers the processing costs associated with your application.

Step 8: Wait for Processing

After submission, patiently wait for the processing of your visa application. The duration can vary but typically takes a few weeks. Use this time to track the status of your application if the embassy provides a tracking service. Upon completion, collect your passport, now stamped with the Schengen visa if approved, and review its validity dates. Always adhere to the guidelines provided by the embassy or consulate throughout the application process.

Applying for a Schengen tourist visa with Atlys is like taking the express lane through the visa application journey. Forget about the confusing paperwork and complicated steps – Atlys simplifies everything.

Everything You Need To Know About Tourist Schengen Visa From India

How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?

The Schengen visa fees for Indian nationals remain constant, regardless of the visa's validity. Here's a breakdown of the fees:

• Standard Visa Fee: The regular Schengen adult visa fee is €80 (around INR 7258).

• Children Aged 6 to 12: If your child is between 6 and 12, the fee is reduced to €40 (approximately INR 3629). Children under 6 don't need to pay any visa fee.

Please be aware that the visa fees mentioned in INR are subject to change based on fluctuations in the exchange rate.

When Should You Apply For A Tourist Schengen Visa?

Submit your Tourist Schengen Visa application at least 15 calendar days before your journey to the Schengen Area.

This is the latest you can file your application. On the other hand, the earliest you can apply for a Tourist visa to the Schengen Zone is three months before your trip.

How Long Does It Take To Receive the Visa?

According to the Schengen Visa Code, processing a Schengen visa takes 15 calendar days. It’s advisable to schedule your visa application submission well in advance. You can apply up to six months before your planned trip.

Depending on the situation, proceeding might take up to two months if there is something extraordinary with the individual case or if any unusual political situation is on the go.

How Long Is the Tourist Visa Valid For?

It's crucial to adhere to the 90/180 rule, ensuring that your stay in the Schengen Area does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

To cater to various travel scenarios, especially for those exploring multiple Schengen countries, selecting the "multiple entry" option in the application form is recommended.

This strategic choice allows travellers to enter and exit the Schengen Zone as needed within the specified visa duration, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Can I Extend a Tourist Schengen Visa for Indians?

Extending a tourist Schengen visa is generally not permitted, as the 90/180 rule establishes the maximum allowable stay.

If you need more time in the Schengen Area, you may need to exit the Schengen Zone and re-enter only after completing the 180-day period, during which you've spent a maximum of 90 days.

Tips For Ensuring A Successful Schengen Visa Application

Ensuring a successful Schengen visa application involves careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

• Start Early: Begin the application process well before your planned travel date. This allows time for any unforeseen delays or additional documentation requirements.

• Choose the Right Embassy or Consulate: Apply at the embassy or consulate of the main Schengen country you plan to visit or the country of your first entry.

• Understand the Visa Type: Select the correct visa type based on the purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism, business, family visit). Each type has specific requirements.

• Review and Prepare Documents: Thoroughly review the required documents and ensure they are complete, accurate, and up-to-date. Common documents include a passport, visa application form, photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and travel insurance.

• Provide a Detailed Itinerary: Present a comprehensive travel itinerary, including details of your stay, accommodation, and planned activities. This adds credibility to your application.

• Proof of Financial Means: Demonstrate your ability to cover the costs of your trip by providing bank statements, sponsorship letters, or any other evidence of financial stability.

• Travel Insurance: Obtain travel insurance that meets Schengen requirements, covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses and repatriation.

• Book Refundable Flight Tickets: Consider booking refundable flight tickets. You can cancel the tickets without significant financial loss if your visa is denied.

• Show Ties to Home Country: Highlight your ties to your home country, such as employment, property ownership, or family commitments, on your Cover letter. Easily generate your Schengen cover letter using this tool.

Keep in mind that everyone's situation is different. Customise your visa application according to your own circumstances and the rules of the embassy or consulate you're dealing with. Check the most recent guidelines and, if necessary, get advice from professionals to ensure you're on the right track.

Conclusion

In conclusion, getting a Schengen Tourist Visa for Indians means carefully following the steps and rules. If you're an Indian looking to explore the beautiful countries in the Schengen Area, you must plan ahead and ensure you have all the required documents.

You can choose the type of visa based on your travel plans, whether it's a one-time entry, two-time entry, or multiple entries.

Remember, you can't stay for more than 90 days within any 180-day days. Stay updated on any changes in rules or guidelines, and you'll be ready to embark on an exciting journey through Europe.

Government sources

At Atlys, we want to ensure we give you the right information. Hence, our blog only uses the official details provided on the Schengen government website. The information in this blog is written using the following:

• European Union

Just keep in mind that government rules and fees can change. Before you apply for your Schengen visa, it's a good idea to check the official website for the latest information.

That way, you'll have the most up-to-date details.