List of Schengen Countries and Visa Requirements

For avid travellers from India with Europe on their minds, the Schengen Zone offers an irresistible draw with its seamless border crossings between a diverse array of countries. Understanding the nuances of the Schengen Visa and the plethora of destinations it unlocks is essential for planning a hassle-free European adventure. In this blog, we will navigate through the essentials of the Schengen Visa for Indian passport holders, demystifying the process and helping you step confidently onto European soil.

What is a Schengen Visa from India?

A Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows the holder to travel freely within the 26 countries of the Schengen Area for a period of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For Indian citizens dreaming of exploring the enchanting landscapes, historical sites, and diverse cultures of Europe, obtaining this visa is the first step.

Key Features of Schengen Visa:

1. Unrestricted Movement:
With a Schengen Visa, travellers from India can move freely across the participating countries without facing border checks at every international boundary, making travel swift and hassle-free.

2. Single Visa for Multiple Countries:
Rather than applying for individual visas for each country, Indian travellers can explore multiple European destinations with just one Schengen Visa, simplifying the application process and making multi-country travel accessible.

3. Short-Stay Permit:
The Schengen Visa is ideal for short stays, typically allowing for 90 days of travel within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

4. Streamlined Application:
Indian applicants can apply for a Schengen Visa through the consulate or embassy of the country that constitutes the primary destination of their European trip.

Understanding the basics of the Schengen Visa is foundational for Indian travellers planning their European trip!

The Full Schengen Countries List

The Schengen Area comprises 26 European countries that have agreed to allow free movement of their citizens within this zone, abolishing passport and other types of border controls at their mutual borders. Here’s the complete list of Schengen countries:

Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland

Note that while these countries are part of the Schengen Zone, the visa policies might slightly differ from one country to another. It is essential to check specific requirements for each country you intend to visit during your trip.

Eligibility Criteria for Schengen Visa from India

Indian citizens must meet specific eligibility criteria to successfully apply for a Schengen Visa:

1. Valid Passport:
Applicants must hold a valid passport with at least two blank pages and a validity of three months beyond the intended stay in the Schengen Area.

2. Purpose of Visit:
Clearly define the purpose of your visit, whether it’s for tourism, business, family visit, or transit. The documentation and process may slightly vary based on the purpose.

3. Financial Sufficiency:
Provide proof of financial stability to sustain during your stay in the Schengen countries. This can include bank statements, salary slips, or an income tax return.

4. Travel Itinerary:
Submit a detailed travel plan, including flight bookings (or reservation), accommodation arrangements, and a schedule of your activities in the Schengen countries.

5. Travel Insurance:
Possess travel insurance with coverage of at least 30,000 Euros to cater for any medical emergencies, accidents, or repatriation while in the Schengen Area.

6. Photographs:
Provide recent photographs as per the specified format and size laid out by the Schengen visa requirements.

7. Visa Fee:
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.

Important Points to Note:

The eligibility criteria might have slight variations depending on the specific Schengen country you plan to visit first or stay the longest during your trip. Always refer to the respective embassy or consulate's official guidelines.

Your Schengen Visa application should be lodged at least 15 days before the intended visit, and not earlier than six months before the start of the planned trip.

Each Schengen country might have additional requirements or exceptions, so it’s crucial to check and prepare accordingly to ensure a smooth application process. 

What to Know Before Applying for a Schengen Travel Visa?

Before embarking on the process of applying for a Schengen Visa, there are several critical points that you should be aware of:

1. Determine Your Main Destination:
If your plan includes travelling to Schengen countries (that is, more than one Schengen country), apply through the embassy or consulate of the country where you’ll spend the most time.

2. Application Timing:
Submit your visa application at least 15 days before your intended departure date and not earlier than six months before you travel.

3. Visa Type:
Identify the type of visa you need—whether it’s a tourist, business, student, or other types of visa.

4. Travel Insurance:
Having travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover at least €30,000 of medical costs and emergencies, including repatriation for medical reasons. Go can buy travel insurance directly from any insurer’s website or from a comparison portal such as InsuranceDekho.

5. Appointment Booking:
Applicants must book an appointment online with the respective embassy or consulate to submit their application.

6. Visa Fee:
Visa fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied, so ensure that you have all your documentation in order.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India?

The application process for a Schengen Visa from India is straightforward, and it involves the following steps:

1. Complete the Application Form:
Fill out the Schengen Visa application form accurately and completely. The form can usually be found and submitted online.

2. Gather Necessary Documentation:
Compile all required documents, which typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, flight reservation, proof of financial means, and visa fee.

3. Book an Appointment:
Schedule an appointment with the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit first. This appointment is when you’ll submit your application and required documents.

4. Attend the Visa Interview:
On the day of your appointment, attend a visa interview where you’ll answer questions about your trip. Be prepared to discuss your travel plans, accommodations, and how you plan to fund your trip.

5. Pay the Visa Fee:
There’s a non-refundable visa application fee that all applicants must pay. The cost may vary slightly from one Schengen country to another.

6. Wait for Processing:
After submission, your application will be reviewed, which can take up to 15 days. In some cases, processing might take longer, so apply well in advance of your planned departure date.

7. Receive the Visa:
If approved, you'll receive a visa sticker in your passport. Check the visa for any errors, and if you find any, report them to the consulate or embassy immediately.

Schengen Visa Requirements for Indians

Understanding the visa requirements is imperative for a smooth application process. For Indian citizens, the Schengen visa requirements are detailed yet straightforward, facilitating hassle-free planning for your European adventure.

General Schengen Visa Documents

For all Indian applicants, the following general documents are necessary:

Visa Application Form: Completely filled and signed.
Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area, with at least two blank pages.
Passport-sized Photos: Two recent photos with a plain background.
Travel Itinerary: Detailed plan, including dates, places, and accommodation details.
Travel Insurance: Valid in all Schengen countries, covering at least €30,000 of medical emergencies and repatriation.
Flight Reservations: Round trip flight reservations with dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen area.
Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings, rental agreements, or invitation letter from a host.
Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, payslips, or proof of income tax return that shows you can financially sustain during your stay.
Visa Fee: Payment receipt of the non-refundable application fee.

Schengen Visa Documents for Minors

For minors travelling to the Schengen area, additional documents are needed to ensure their safety and legal clearance:

Birth Certificate: An original birth certificate of the minor travelling.
Parental Consent: A notarised parental authorization signed by both parents or guardians if the minor is travelling alone.
Passports of Parents: Photocopies of the parents’ or legal guardians’ passports.
Application Form: The application form must be signed by a parent or a legal guardian.
Family Court Order: In cases of single-parent custody, an official court order for the applicant minor is required.
Key Considerations:
Ensure that all documents are either in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
Each Schengen country might have slight variations in their requirements, so always check the specific embassy or consulate's guidelines where you’ll apply.
Always provide genuine documents. Submission of fraudulent documents can result in visa denial and future visa application complications.

Schengen Visa Fee for Indians

For Indian citizens applying for a Schengen Visa, there is a standard fee structure in place, although it may slightly vary based on the specific Schengen country you are applying to. The visa fee is non-refundable and is required to be paid at the time of the application submission. Below are the general costs:

Adults: €80

Children (6-12 years): €40

Children under 6 years: Free of charge

Fee Waivers or Reductions:

Certain applicants may qualify for fee reductions or waivers:

Students & Teachers: Individuals travelling for the purpose of study or educational training may receive a fee reduction.
Researchers: Those travelling for scientific research purposes.
Charitable Organisations: Representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, or educational events.

It's crucial to check with the specific embassy or consulate for the exact fee details, as there might be additional service or processing fees involved.

Types of Schengen Visa Available for Indian Citizens

There are various types of Schengen Visas available, catering to different travel purposes:

1. Uniform Schengen Visas (USV):
Type A (Airport Transit Visa): Allows the holder to transit through the international zone of Schengen country airports without entering the Schengen Area.
Type C (Short-Term Visa): Grants the holder short-term stay access for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. Limited Territorial Validity Visas (LTV):
For individuals who don’t possess a valid travel document yet have to travel to a Schengen area for an emergency. It's only valid in the Schengen State that issued it and, in some cases, in other Schengen States that have given their consent.

3. National Visas (Type D):
Granted to individuals who are studying, working, or permanently residing in one of the Schengen countries.

Select Based on Your Need:
Tourist Visa: For individuals planning to travel for holidays, sightseeing, or experiencing the country.
Business Visa: For engaging in business-related activities without being employed in the Schengen Zone.
Student Visa: For students who wish to attend an educational institution in the Schengen Area for a short period.
Working Visa: For taking up employment in a Schengen country.
Transit Visa: For transiting through a Schengen country to reach a non-Schengen destination.
Important Consideration:
Understanding the type of visa you need based on your travel purpose is essential. Each visa type has specific requirements and documentation, so be aware of these while preparing your application. Proper research and preparation will pave the way for a seamless application process and a delightful European adventure.

Schengen Visa Processing Time for Indians

The processing time for a Schengen Visa for Indian citizens generally varies:

Standard Processing: The average processing time is around 15 calendar days from the day the consulate receives the application.

Extended Processing: In some cases, the processing can take up to 30 days if there are more details required or in peak travel seasons.

Exceptional Cases: For applicants who need to submit additional documentation or undergo further processing, the period can extend to a maximum of 60 days.

It’s advisable to start the application process well in advance of your planned departure to accommodate any unforeseen delays.

Schengen Visa Validity for Indians

The validity of a Schengen Visa for Indians depends on the type of visa issued and the duration of stay granted:

Short Stay: A short-stay Schengen Visa allows travel through or stay in Schengen Area countries up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Multiple Entries: If granted, a multiple-entry visa allows the holder to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa’s validity period.

Validity Based on Travel Itinerary: The validity of your visa will often align with the travel dates specified in your itinerary. However, it's common to receive a few extra days to allow for changes in your plan.

Always check the visa sticker affixed in your passport for the visa’s validity period and adhere to it strictly to avoid issues.

Schengen Visa and Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for Indians applying for a Schengen Visa:

Minimum Coverage: Travel insurance must cover at least €30,000 (>$35,000) worth of medical expenses and repatriation in case of medical emergencies or death.

Validity: Insurance should be valid throughout the duration of your stay in the Schengen Area, covering all countries you plan to visit.

Insurance Providers: The policy can be purchased from any approved and recognized travel insurance company. Numerous providers offer various plans, so select one that best suits your travel needs and requirements.

Comprehensive Plans: Consider plans that also cover trip cancellations, loss of baggage, travel delays, and other travel-related incidents for comprehensive protection.

Being well-acquainted with the processing time, validity period, and travel insurance requirements is crucial for a stress-free and successful Schengen Visa application process. Knowledge and timely action are your allies in securing your visa efficiently, paving the way for an enchanting European holiday! 

FAQs

1. Can I use my visa to enter more than one Schengen country?

Yes, you can travel freely between the 26 Schengen countries with a Uniform Schengen Visa without requiring a different visa for each.

2. When is the best time to apply for a Schengen Visa?

It is best to apply no earlier than six months before the trip, but at least 15 days in advance of the date you plan to travel.

3. Does obtaining travel insurance entail obtaining a Schengen visa?

It is true that obtaining a Schengen Visa requires having travel insurance with at least €30,000 in coverage for medical costs and repatriation.

4. What arises from the rejection of my Schengen visa?

A rejection letter outlining the grounds for the denial will be sent to you. You can file an appeal with the decision or make the necessary corrections and reapply.

5. I'm in Europe; may I stay longer with my Schengen visa?

Visa extensions are uncommon and are only permitted in the event of an emergency or unanticipated occurrence, such as a natural disaster or a medical problem.

6. For what length of time is a short-stay visa valid in the Schengen Area?

You can spend up to 90 days in the Schengen Area with a short-stay visa during a 180-day term.

7. Do I have to submit my biometrics when applying for a visa?

Yes, as part of the application process, first-time candidates must submit biometric information—specifically, their fingerprints.

8. How long should my passport be valid for when I apply for a Schengen visa?

Your passport must have two blank pages and be valid for at least three months beyond the day you intend to leave the Schengen Area.

9. Can someone with a Schengen Visa work in Europe?

A regular Schengen visa does not allow for work. A special work visa is required in order to begin employment in Europe.

10. In the event that my application is denied, are the visa payments refundable?

The Schengen Visa application fees are not refundable, regardless of the application's outcome.