Hassle-Free Schengen Visa Application
Planning a trip to Europe? That’s exciting! Did you know that with a Schengen Visa, you can travel to any of the 26 countries within the European Schengen Area without the hassle of additional paperwork? In this guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know about the Schengen visa for Indians, including the different types of visas, their validity, how to apply online, and much more. Keep reading to discover all the details about applying for a Schengen visa with an Indian passport, and get ready for an unforgettable 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 (typically up to 90 days) or long stays (for purposes like tourism, business, or study). The Schengen Area consists of 27 countries that share a common legal framework, meaning there are no border checks between them. A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within these countries once your visa is granted.
Do Indians Need a Schengen Visa from India?
Yes, Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to enter Europe or any of the countries within the Schengen Area. This visa allows you to travel to all 27 Schengen countries for various purposes, such as tourism, business, or studying. However, it’s important to note that while you can travel freely within the Schengen Area once you have the visa, border control authorities in each country have the final say in deciding who is allowed entry.
What Are the Different Types of Schengen Visas for Indians?
Depending on the purpose of your visit, there are several types of Schengen visas available for Indian citizens. Here’s a breakdown of each:
Type A: Airport Transit Visa
The Type A Schengen Visa is an Airport Transit Visa, which allows you to transit through or wait for a connecting flight at a Schengen country airport. This visa is required if you’re traveling from a non-Schengen country (such as India) to another non-Schengen country, but you need to pass through a Schengen airport. Note: This visa does not allow entry into the Schengen Area; you can only stay in the international transit area of the airport.
Type B: Transit Visa
The Type B Schengen Visa is another form of Transit Visa. It permits you to transit through multiple Schengen countries on your way to a non-Schengen country. This visa is valid for up to 5 days and is typically used if your journey requires you to pass through more than one Schengen state.
Type C: Short Stay Visa
The Type C Schengen Visa is the most common and is issued for short stays. It allows you to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 6-month period.
- Single-entry visa: If your visa is marked with a 1 on the sticker, you can enter the Schengen Area once. Once you exit, the visa expires, even if it’s within the 6-month validity period.
- Double-entry visa: Marked with a 2 on the visa sticker, this allows you to enter the Schengen Area twice during the 6-month validity period. The visa expires after your second exit.
- Multiple-entry visa: Marked as MULT, this visa allows you to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times, as long as your stay doesn’t exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.
Type D: Long Stay Visa
The Type D Schengen Visa, also known as the National Visa, is for individuals who wish to study, work, or live in a Schengen country for longer periods. It is generally issued for stays exceeding 90 days. The visa can be:
- Single-entry: For those who do not intend to stay in the Schengen Area after the allowed period.
- Multiple-entry: For those who may need to re-enter the Schengen Area multiple times during the visa’s validity.
You may need a Type D visa if you are traveling for:
- Tourism or private visits
- Business or professional activities
- Studying, internships, or training programs
- Other personal reasons
This visa is issued by the specific Schengen country where you intend to stay, and the conditions may vary based on national regulations. You may need to contact the relevant national visa service center for more details.
Validity of Different Types of Schengen Visas for Indians
The Schengen visa allows you to stay within the Schengen Area for 90 days within a 6-month period. If you plan to make multiple trips, you can apply for a Multiple Entry visa, which will allow you to enter and exit the Schengen Area as needed, as long as the total stay does not exceed 90 days in any 6-month period.
Be sure to select the correct type of visa based on your travel plans and duration of stay.
Schengen Visa Processing Time in India
The processing time for a Schengen visa can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates. Typically, once you submit your application, you can expect to wait about 15 days to receive a decision on whether your visa is approved or rejected.
However, in some cases, the process may take longer, and you may have to wait up to 45 days, especially if additional documents or processing steps are required. To avoid any last-minute delays, it’s always best to apply a few weeks ahead of your intended departure.
Schengen Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens – Documents
If you’re planning to apply for a Schengen visa as an Indian citizen, here is a list of the documents you will need:
General Schengen Visa Documents:
- Completed Schengen visa application form: Fully filled and signed.
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area and have at least two blank pages.
- Passport photos: Two recent passport-sized photos (taken within the last 3 months).
- Round-trip reservation or itinerary: This should include your flight dates and numbers, showing entry and exit from the Schengen area.
- Travel insurance: A policy covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies across the Schengen zone.
- Accommodation proof: Documentation showing where you will be staying during your visit to the Schengen area.
- Leave letter: A letter from your employer granting leave for the duration of your trip (if employed).
- NOC (No Objection Certificate): If you’re a student, provide a letter from your school or university.
- Proof of civil status: Include documents like your marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Proof of financial means: Evidence that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in the Schengen area.
- Bank statement: It should show sufficient funds and be no older than three months.
- Sponsorship letter: If someone else is funding your trip, include a letter from them along with their recent bank statement.
- Payslips: The last 3 months’ payslips or an employment contract (if employed).
- Self-employment documents: If self-employed, provide your business license and company’s bank statements for the last six months.
- Income Tax Return (ITR) or Form 16: Proof of your income tax filing (for salaried individuals).
- Proof of visa fee payment: Receipt for the paid visa fee. For Retirees:
- Pension statement: For the last 6 months. For Unemployed Applicants Married to an EU Citizen:
- Spouse’s valid passport.
- Marriage certificate.
- Confirmation of employment: A letter from the spouse’s employer, not older than 3 months, stating position and employment start date.
Schengen Visa Documents for Minors:
If you are the legal guardian or parent of a minor applying for a Schengen visa, the following documents will be required:
- Minor’s birth certificate.
- Application form: Signed by both parents.
- Court order: If one parent has full custody.
- Certified copies of parents’ IDs/passports.
- Notarized parental authorization: Signed by both parents/guardians if the minor will be traveling alone.
Note: The consular office may request additional documents, and the list of required documents may change.
Schengen Visa Photo Requirements:
- Two identical passport photos: Taken no more than 6 months ago.
- Photo size: 35mm by 45mm.
- Color: The photo should be in color (no black and white).
- Head size: The head should cover 70-80% of the photo.
- Background: Light-colored (light grey is recommended), with no patterns.
- Face expression: Neutral expression, closed mouth, and no smile.
- Clothing: Avoid wearing uniforms or clothes that match the background color.
Make sure you follow these guidelines closely to avoid any issues with your visa application!
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa Online
Applying for a Schengen visa online is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps:
- Select Your Destination: Visit the official website and choose the Schengen country you plan to visit.
- Choose Your Visa Type: Select the type of Schengen visa based on your travel purpose (e.g., tourism, business, study, etc.).
- Provide Personal Information: Fill in details such as your name, passport number, and intended travel dates.
- Upload Required Documents: Submit necessary documents like your passport, Aadhaar card, passport-sized photographs, and any other required papers.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Complete the payment for the visa application.
- Receive Confirmation: After submitting your application and documents, they will be reviewed, and your visa will be sent to your specified email address.
Is There a Visa on Arrival for Indians in Europe?
No, Indian passport holders are not eligible for visa-on-arrival in any European countries. However, you can apply for a Schengen visa online to visit most European destinations without any hassle.
Schengen Visa and Travel Insurance
When applying for a Schengen visa, it’s essential to have travel insurance that covers more than just medical expenses. Look for a comprehensive plan that protects you from various risks while traveling abroad. For an affordable option, consider Acko Travel Insurance for your Schengen visa. This plan offers coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and illnesses, and also protects you in case you lose your passport, trip funds, or face other unforeseen situations during your journey.
