A Schengen visa lets Indian citizens travel to 27 European countries for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180 days). To apply, you need a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of funds and accommodation, and an itinerary. The visa fee is around €80–90 plus VFS service. Apply 30–60 days before travel, prepare all documents carefully, and craft a strong cover letter to improve approval chances.
What Is a Schengen Visa?
- It allows free movement across member states with a single visa.
- The Schengen area includes most EU countries and some non-EU states.
- For Indians, it’s usually a short-stay visa (Type C), valid for up to 90 days within any 180-day window.
Schengen Visa Requirements for Indians
Here are the key eligibility requirements you need to meet to apply for a Schengen visa from India.
Valid Passport
- Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
- It should have at least two blank pages.
Visa Application Form
- Complete the official Schengen visa application form for the country you’re applying to.
Photographs
- Passport-size photos as per Schengen guidelines
Travel Itinerary
- Confirmed flight reservations (round trip) or proof of onward journey.
- Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Europe.
Travel Insurance
- Mandatory: Must cover all Schengen countries for your entire trip.
- Minimum coverage: €30,000 for medical emergencies.
Financial Means
- Bank statements, income tax returns, or proof of fixed deposits.
- Sometimes a “sponsor” letter if someone in Europe is supporting your trip.
Cover Letter
- Explain the purpose of your trip, your day-by-day itinerary, and why you will return to India
Proof of Ties to India
- Documents showing a job, business, property, or family in India to prove you’ll return.
- Some embassies may require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer.
Costs & Fees for Schengen Visa (India)
Understanding costs is important. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll likely pay when applying for a Schengen visa from India (as of 2025):
Note: These fees can change, and many are non-refundable even if your visa is rejected.
Document Checklist: What to Submit
Here’s a consolidated list of all the documents you typically need for a Schengen visa application (for Indians):
Additional documents as per the embassy (for example, for students or business travellers)
- Passport (valid + blank pages)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Flight reservation
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Travel insurance certificate (≥ €30,000)
- Bank statements/financial proof
- Income Tax Returns (ITR) or salary slips
- Cover letter/trip itinerary
- Proof of employment or business (salary certificate, company letter)
- Proof of residence in India (utility bills, property papers)
- Additional documents as per the embassy (for example, for students or business travellers)
Tips to Improve Your Schengen Visa Approval Chances (for Indians)
To maximize your chances of getting approved, follow these expert (and E-E-A-T backed) tips:
Apply Early
- Book your visa appointment 30–60 days before travel. Waiting too long means a last-minute rush and risk of rejection.
Be Honest & Consistent
- Write a clear cover letter with realistic details.
- Ensure your travel itinerary matches your financial capacity.
- Keep your documents truthful — inconsistency can lead to rejection.
Strong Financial Proof
- Submit 3–6 months of bank statements.
- If someone sponsors your trip, provide a sponsor letter + their bank statements.
Travel History Helps
- If you’ve travelled abroad before (especially to visa-friendly countries), mention it.
- Provide old visas and stamped passports as proof.
Careful with VFS Optional Services
- You don’t need a premium lounge, courier, or SMS tracking unless it’s essential.
- However, ensure that you pay all mandatory service and biometric fees properly.
Prepare for an Interview
- Some embassies may call you in for an interview (especially for France, Germany).
- Be ready to answer questions about your trip, income, and intent to return.
Double-Check Everything
- Before submitting, ensure your application form, passport, and supporting documents are all filled out correctly.
- Small mistakes (dates, names) can cause delays or rejections.
Why Use Travelexie for Your Schengen Visa?
At Travelexie, we specialise in providing fast, reliable visa support for Indians travelling to Europe. Our visa services include:
- 🎓 Student Visa
- 🧳 Tourist Visa
- 💼 Business Visa
- 🏢 Corporate Visa
- 👨👩👦 Sponsor Visa
- 📅 VFS Appointment Assistance
- ⚡ Fast-Track Visa Processing
We guide you on the required documents, help you book appointments, and ensure everything is in place to maximize your success.
Explore more on our Visa Services page to start your application with confidence.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid ❌
- Submitting incomplete or conflicting documents
- Applying too close to your travel date, less than 15 working days, is risky.
- Weak cover letter without a clear travel plan
- Insufficient or unverified proof of funds
- Choosing expensive optional services without matching benefits
- Not having valid travel insurance for the full duration and all countries
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Schengen visa from India with the right documents, enough financial proof, and a well-prepared application, increases your chances of success way up. Use the tips above, and consider professional help, such as Travelexie, to streamline your process. Once approved, you’ll be free to explore the breathtaking countries of the Schengen zone — with peace of mind.
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