Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa to visit any of the 27 Schengen countries. Explore the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the canals of Amsterdam—a Schengen visa unlocks many European adventures. Apply well in advance.
🕓 Last updated May 2026
🛂 Verified against official embassy sources
🇮🇳 Built in Guntur, India · UDYAM-AP-04-0126855
Visa Type
Visa Required (Schengen)
🛂
Passport validity: Your Indian passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure. Ensure you have at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.
① How to Apply
- Gather documents. Prepare all required documents including passport, financial proof, employment letter, and travel itinerary.
- Fill the application form. Complete the visa application online or at the embassy/VFS centre.
- Book appointment. Schedule a biometrics/interview appointment at VFS or the embassy.
- Submit and pay. Submit your application with all supporting documents. Pay the visa fee (~~₹8,900 (EUR 80)).
- Wait for processing. Processing takes 15-45 days. Track your application status online.
- Collect passport. Once approved, collect your passport with the visa stamp from VFS or the embassy.
📋 Documents Required
- ✓ Valid passport (2 blank pages)
- ✓ Schengen form
- ✓ Biometrics
- ✓ Travel insurance (€30K min)
- ✓ Flight itinerary
- ✓ Hotel bookings
- ✓ Bank statements (3-6 months)
- ✓ Employment letter
💰 Cost Breakdown
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|
| Visa fee | ~₹8,900 (EUR 80) |
| VFS service charge (if applicable) | ~₹1,500-₹2,500 |
| Biometrics fee (if applicable) | Included or ~₹1,200 |
| Passport photos (4 nos.) | ~₹100-₹200 |
| Travel insurance (recommended) | ~₹500-₹2,000 |
| Estimated total |
~₹11,900+ |
✨ Why Indians visit Schengen / Europe
- Explore the canals of Amsterdam by boat
- See the Eiffel Tower sparkle in Paris at night
- Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome
- Ski the slopes in the Swiss Alps
- Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich (September/October)
💡 Good to Know
- → Single visa covers 27 Schengen countries
- → Apply at main destination embassy
- → 90-day stay in 180-day period
- → Popular route: Paris → Switzerland → Italy
- → Apply 3-6 months before travel
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
General
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Schengen countries?
Yes, Indians need a Schengen visa to visit any of the 27 Schengen member states. This visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or visiting family. Apply at the embassy or consulate of your main destination.
Which countries are part of the Schengen area?
The Schengen area includes Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. With one visa, you can travel between them.
Can I work or study in the Schengen area with a tourist Schengen visa?
No, a tourist Schengen visa does not allow you to work or study. You need a specific work or student visa for those purposes, which require a different application process.
Eligibility
What are the eligibility requirements for an Indian to get a Schengen visa?
You must have a valid Indian passport, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, a clear travel itinerary, and confirmed hotel bookings. Travel insurance is also mandatory.
Can I apply for a Schengen visa if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but it may lead to a more thorough review of your application. Provide all required information honestly.
Documents
What documents do Indian applicants need for a Schengen visa?
You need a valid passport (with at least three months validity beyond your planned stay and two blank pages), a completed Schengen visa application form, passport-sized photographs, a cover letter stating your travel purpose, a detailed flight itinerary, proof of accommodation (hotel bookings), travel insurance (minimum coverage of €30,000), and bank statements for the last 3-6 months.
Do I need to provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from my employer?
Yes, if you are employed, you typically need to provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer, stating that you are authorized to take leave and that your job will be available upon your return.
Cost
How much does a Schengen visa cost for Indians?
The standard Schengen visa fee is approximately ₹8,700 (EUR 80) for adults. Children aged 6-12 pay a reduced fee, and children under 6 are usually exempt. VFS or other application centers may charge additional service fees.
Is the Schengen visa fee refundable if my application is rejected?
No, the Schengen visa fee is generally non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Plan your application carefully to avoid rejection.
Processing
How long does Schengen visa processing take?
Schengen visa processing can take between 15 to 45 days, depending on the embassy and the time of year. Apply at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date, especially during peak season.
Can I track the status of my Schengen visa application?
Yes, most embassies and consulates, as well as VFS Global, provide online tracking services. You will receive a reference number to check the status of your application.
Where should I apply for my Schengen visa?
Apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time. If you plan to spend equal time in multiple countries, apply at the embassy of your first point of entry.
📌 More on Schengen / Europe
Disclaimer: Visa rules change frequently. This page was last updated May 2026 and is for general guidance only.
Always confirm current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Schengen / Europe before applying.
FareEagle does not process visa applications and is not responsible for visa outcomes.
