Schengen Visa Requirements – Everything You Need Before You Fly
Get a clear, step-by-step checklist for Tourist & Business visas – updated documents, photo rules, and expert support for hassle-free approval.
Recommendation: Apply 1 month before travel
Schengen Visa Overview
The Schengen visa allows travellers to enter and move freely across 27 European countries within the Schengen Area for tourism, business, family visits, medical travel, or short-term study. Applicants must apply through the embassy or visa centre of the country they plan to visit first or stay the longest. The process requires a valid passport, confirmed travel itinerary, accommodation proof, €30,000 travel insurance, financial evidence, and purpose-specific documents. A Schengen visa typically permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, making it the most convenient way to explore multiple European countries on a single visa.
Key Highlights of the Schengen Visa
- Single visa access to 27 European countries
- Stay allowed up to 90 days within a 180-day period
- Multiple-entry visas available for frequent travellers
- Biometrics required for most applicants (valid for 5 years)
- Standard processing time: 10–15 working days
- Ideal for tourism, business, family visits, and medical travel
Why This Matters?
Understanding the Schengen visa process helps prevent delays, refusals, and unnecessary complications. With proper documentation—especially insurance, financial proof, and itinerary—you boost your chances of quick approval.
Who Should Apply?
Anyone travelling to Europe for tourism, business meetings, family visits, medical treatment, or short-term study must apply for a Schengen visa unless visa-exempt. This includes travellers planning multi-country trips, cruise passengers, event participants, and those visiting relatives living in the Schengen Area.
When to Apply?
It is recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before your travel date to avoid delays. Schengen applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance, giving applicants plenty of time to prepare documents, attend biometrics, and complete verification—especially during peak travel seasons.
Documents required for Schengen Visa
Original Passport with at least 6 months validity and minimum 3 blank pages + all old passports if any
Schengen Visa Application form
2 recent colour photographs (Photo Specification mentioned below)
Personal Covering letter (For Employed - Plain paper/ For Self-Employed – Company Letterhead)
Original updated Bank Statement (last 6 months)
Income Tax Returns/Form 16 for last 3 years
Confirmed return flight tickets
Hotel reservation
Day wise Itinerary
Travel Insurance (minimum coverage of EUR 30000)
Invitation Letter on Schengen company letter head
Covering Letter on Indian company letter head
1. If Employed:
Original Leave sanctioned certificate with company seal and signature; Last 3 months salary slip.
2. If Self Employed:
Business Registration License / MOA / Partnership deed; Company’s updated bank statement of last 6 months; Company’s IT returns for last 3 years.
3. If Retired:
Proof of retirement like pension book, statement etc.
4. If Student:
School / College / Institute ID Card; Bonafide certificate.
5. If Minor:
Birth Certificate No Objection Certificate from the parents / non-accompanying parent on Rs 100/- stamp paper; ID proof of parent like passport or PAN card.
6. If Visiting friend or relative:
Invitation letter; Inviter’s ID proof like Passport or Resident Permit; Address proof like any Electricity bill, any Utility bill etc.
7. If Sponsored:
Sponsorship letter; Sponsor’s national ID proof like Passport, PAN card or Resident permit; Updated bank statement of last 6 months;
Process Note
1
Collect Documents
2
Get Documents Verified
3
Send via Courier
4
Submission by Authorized Agent
5
Verification Call from Embassy
6
Collection After Approval
7
Return Courier Delivery
1
Collect Documents
2
Get Documents Verified
3
Send via Courier
4
Submission by Authorized Agent
5
Verification Call from Embassy
6
Collection After Approval
7
Return Courier Delivery
Visa Fee
Visa fees include verification and processing, with total costs varying based on service levels.
Processing Time
Processing usually takes 3–5 working days, with slight delays possible during busy periods or additional verification.
Visa Validity & Stay Duration
A Schengen e-Visa usually permits a stay of up to 30 days, with validity extending up to 2 years based on approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Europe with a Schengen visa?
You can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period, regardless of how many Schengen countries you visit.
How long does Schengen visa processing take?
Processing usually takes 10–15 working days, but may take longer during peak travel periods.
Do Indians need a Schengen visa?
Yes, Indian citizens must apply for a Schengen visa before travelling to any Schengen country.
Which country should I apply to for my Schengen visa?
Apply to the country where you will stay the longest, or the first country you enter if stays are equal.
How long can I stay with a Schengen visa?
You can stay up to 90 days in total, regardless of how many Schengen countries you visit.
Are biometrics required for a Schengen visa?
. Can I get a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
Can my Schengen visa be extended?
Extensions are rare and approved only in exceptional cases such as medical emergencies or force majeure.
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