Schengen Visa from India: Requirements, Fees & Application Guide
Requirements, Fees, Documents & Application Guide
Planning a trip to Europe? If you hold an Indian passport, you will generally need a Schengen visa for short visits to most European countries for tourism, business meetings or visiting family and friends.
A Schengen short-stay visa allows eligible travellers to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, subject to the visa issued and applicable entry conditions.
TravelOnCall provides Schengen visa assistance in India, helping travellers understand application requirements, prepare genuine supporting documents and review their applications before submission.
Whether you are planning your first European holiday, attending a business meeting or visiting relatives, our team can guide you through the application process and help you understand the requirements of your destination country.
TravelOnCall provides visa assistance, not visa approval. The final decision rests solely with the relevant consulate or competent authority.
Schengen Visa from India: Quick Facts
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa requirement for Indian passport holders | Generally required for short stays |
| Maximum permitted stay | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period |
| Schengen Area | 29 countries |
| Adult visa fee | €90 |
| Children aged 6–11 | €45 |
| Children under 6 | Generally exempt from the visa fee |
| Standard processing time | Normally 15 calendar days |
| Extended processing | Up to 45 calendar days in certain cases |
| Application window | Up to 6 months before travel, generally no later than 15 days before the trip |
| Travel medical insurance | Generally required, with at least €30,000 coverage |
| Application submission | Through the relevant consulate or its designated visa application centre |
Visa application centre fees, insurance premiums and other optional services are charged separately. Fees and requirements may change, so confirm the latest information on your destination country’s official visa website.
For more information, visit the European Commission’s Schengen visa application guide.
Which Schengen Country Should You Apply To?
Choosing the correct country is an important step in your application. You cannot simply select the country with the earliest appointment if it is not the correct destination under the Schengen rules.
Visiting one Schengen country: Apply through that country’s competent consulate.
Visiting multiple Schengen countries: Apply through the country where you will spend the longest time.
Spending equal time in multiple countries: Apply through the country you intend to enter first.
Your itinerary should reflect your genuine travel plans. Applying through the wrong consulate can lead to delays or other application complications.
TravelOnCall can help you review your itinerary and identify the appropriate country for your application.
Before applying, confirm the relevant requirements on the destination country’s official website. Useful starting points include:
Types of Schengen Visa Assistance We Offer
TravelOnCall can help you understand the documentation and application requirements for different short-stay travel purposes.
1. Schengen Tourist Visa
Planning a European holiday, sightseeing trip or leisure visit? A tourist visa is generally appropriate for eligible short-term tourism.
We can help you understand the document checklist, travel itinerary requirements, accommodation evidence, financial documents and travel insurance requirements.
2. Schengen Business Visa
Travelling to Europe for business meetings, conferences, trade fairs or professional events?
We can guide you on the supporting documents commonly required, including invitation letters, employer letters, business correspondence and evidence explaining the purpose of your visit.
3. Schengen Family and Friends Visit Visa
If you plan to visit relatives or friends in Europe, your application may require an invitation letter, host details, accommodation information and evidence of your relationship.
The exact requirements depend on your destination country and individual circumstances.
4. Schengen Multiple-Entry Visa
If you travel to the Schengen Area regularly, you may be eligible to apply for a multiple-entry visa.
Under the special visa cascade rules adopted for eligible Indian nationals, qualifying applicants may be considered for longer-validity multiple-entry visas. Eligibility and the final validity remain subject to the applicable conditions and the consulate’s decision.
5. Schengen Airport Transit Visa
Some travellers need an airport transit visa when passing through the international transit area of a Schengen airport without entering the Schengen Area.
Requirements depend on nationality, destination, airport, travel documents and applicable exemptions. Check the official rules for your specific transit route.
Please note: Long-stay, employment and study visas are generally national visa categories and are outside the scope of this short-stay Schengen visa guide.
Schengen Visa Fees for Indians
The standard Schengen visa fee for short-stay applications is:
Adults: €90
Children aged 6–11: €45
Children under 6: Generally exempt from the visa fee
The amount payable in India is usually collected in INR at the applicable exchange rate and payment terms.
Additional costs to consider
Your total application budget may include:
Visa application centre service fee
Travel medical insurance
Passport photographs, where required
Courier or passport delivery charges
Optional application centre services
Translation or document-related expenses, where applicable
Professional visa assistance fees, if you choose to use a service provider
Optional services are not a substitute for the official application process. Visa fees are generally non-refundable if an application is refused.
TravelOnCall service charges: We explain the applicable assistance charges before you make a payment. Government visa fees and application centre fees are separate from our professional service charges.
For the latest official fee information, consult the European Commission and your destination country’s visa application website.
Schengen Visa Documents Checklist for Indian Applicants
Your document checklist depends on your destination country, travel purpose, employment status and personal circumstances. The following is a general guide, not a substitute for the official checklist issued by your destination country’s consulate or visa application centre.
Essential documents
1. Valid passport
Your passport should generally be valid for at least three months after your intended departure from the Schengen Area. It must also meet the applicable passport issuance, condition and blank-page requirements.
2. Completed visa application form
Complete the relevant Schengen visa application form accurately. Ensure your personal details, travel dates and supporting documents are consistent.
3. Recent passport photograph
Provide a photograph that meets the applicable Schengen and ICAO photograph requirements.
4. Travel medical insurance
Your policy should meet Schengen requirements, including at least €30,000 in medical coverage and coverage for emergency medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation, as applicable.
5. Travel itinerary
Prepare a clear itinerary showing your intended destinations, travel dates and planned activities.
6. Accommodation evidence
Provide appropriate hotel reservations or accommodation documents, or host-related documents where applicable.
7. Proof of financial means
Submit genuine financial evidence demonstrating how you will fund your trip. The appropriate amount depends on the destination, duration, accommodation arrangements and whether someone is sponsoring your expenses.
8. Evidence of your intention to return
Depending on your circumstances, this may include employment, business, family, educational or other relevant commitments in India.
Additional documents that may be requested
Applicants commonly prepare the following documents where relevant:
Cover letter explaining the purpose and details of the trip
Day-by-day travel itinerary
Flight reservations or other travel arrangements
Recent bank statements, often covering the previous six months where required
Income tax returns, where relevant
Salary slips and an employment letter
Business registration and business financial documents for self-employed applicants
Student identification or enrolment proof
Invitation letter and host documents for family or business visits
Sponsorship letter and supporting financial documents, if another person is funding the trip
A larger bank balance alone does not guarantee visa approval. Your financial evidence should be genuine, understandable and consistent with your circumstances and travel plans.
Documents for different applicant profiles
Salaried employees: Employment confirmation, leave approval, salary evidence and financial documents may be relevant.
Self-employed applicants and business owners: Business registration, business activity evidence, financial records and personal financial documents may be requested.
Students: Enrolment proof, travel funding evidence and sponsor documents, where applicable, may be needed.
Retired applicants: Pension evidence, savings and other relevant proof of financial means may support the application.
Sponsored travellers: The consulate may require evidence of the sponsor’s identity, relationship with the applicant, financial means and willingness to cover expenses.
Children and minors: Additional documents, parental consent or guardian-related documents may be required depending on the circumstances and destination country.
TravelOnCall can help you understand the checklist relevant to your applicant profile. Always confirm the final requirements with the appropriate official authority.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India with Travel On Call
Planning a trip to Europe? Travel On Call helps you navigate the Schengen visa application process from India. From understanding visa requirements and preparing documents to guiding you through appointments and application submission, our team helps make the process more organised and convenient.
Step 1: Share Your Travel Plans with Travel On Call
Tell Travel On Call about your destination, intended travel dates, purpose of visit and approximate duration of stay. Our team will help you understand the next steps for your Schengen visa application.
Step 2: Get Guidance on the Correct Visa Application
Based on your itinerary, Travel On Call will help identify the appropriate Schengen country to apply through, following the applicable visa rules.
Step 3: Get Your Document Checklist
Travel On Call will guide you on the documents required for your application, including passport details, financial proof, travel itinerary, accommodation arrangements, travel insurance and other supporting paperwork, as applicable.
Step 4: Let Travel On Call Assist with Your Application Form
Our team will assist you with completing the Schengen visa application form and reviewing the information to help ensure that your details are accurate and consistent with your supporting documents.
Step 5: Get Assistance with Appointment Booking
Travel On Call will guide you through the relevant appointment booking process and official visa application centre requirements. Depending on your destination, the designated provider may be VFS Global, BLS International or TLScontact.
Step 6: Prepare for Document Submission and Biometrics
Travel On Call will explain the document submission procedure, applicable fees and biometric requirements. You will receive guidance on attending your appointment and completing the required formalities.
Step 7: Track Your Schengen Visa Application
Once your application has been submitted, Travel On Call can guide you on how to track its progress and respond appropriately if additional documents or information are requested.
Step 8: Receive Your Passport and Check Your Visa
When your passport is returned, carefully check the visa validity dates, permitted duration of stay, number of entries and other conditions before travelling. Travel On Call can guide you on understanding these details.
Why Choose Travel On Call for Your Schengen Visa?
Application Assistance: Get guidance throughout the Schengen visa application process.
Document Support: Understand the documents required for your intended destination.
Form-Filling Guidance: Get assistance with reviewing your application details.
Appointment Guidance: Understand the appointment and submission procedures.
Step-by-Step Support: Receive guidance from the initial preparation stage through application tracking.
Apply for Your Schengen Visa with Travel On Call
Make your European travel preparations easier with support from Travel On Call. Contact our team to discuss your travel plans and get guidance on the Schengen visa application process from India.
How Long Does a Schengen Visa Take?
The normal processing period for a Schengen short-stay visa is approximately 15 calendar days after the application is lodged. In certain cases, processing can extend to 45 calendar days if additional examination or documents are required.
Keep in mind that appointment waiting time is separate from visa processing time. Your overall preparation may take longer depending on appointment availability, document collection and the consulate’s workload.
Apply well in advance where possible. Applications can generally be submitted up to six months before the intended journey and should normally be lodged no later than 15 calendar days before departure.
TravelOnCall can help you organise your documents and understand the application steps, but we cannot guarantee appointment availability or a particular decision date.
The Schengen Visa Cascade Rule for Indian Nationals
In April 2024, the European Commission adopted more favourable visa cascade rules for eligible Indian nationals who reside in India and apply for a Schengen visa in India.
Under the applicable framework:
Applicants who have lawfully used two Schengen visas within the previous three years may qualify for a two-year multiple-entry visa, subject to the relevant conditions.
A subsequent five-year multiple-entry visa may be available to qualifying applicants, subject to the applicable rules and sufficient passport validity.
Lawful use generally means complying with the visa’s conditions, including permitted travel dates and duration of stay.
These rules do not mean every applicant automatically receives a long-validity visa. The consulate assesses each application and retains the authority to decide the visa’s validity and conditions.
Read the official announcement from the EU Delegation to India for details.
Why Are Schengen Visa Applications Delayed or Refused?
A visa application may face delays or refusal if the consulate cannot establish that the applicant meets the relevant requirements.
Common issues include:
Applying through the wrong country’s consulate
Missing documents or an incomplete application form
Insufficient or unclear evidence of financial means
An itinerary that is inconsistent or inadequately explained
Unclear purpose of travel
Inconsistencies between the application and supporting documents
Insufficient evidence relevant to the applicant’s circumstances
Inadequate travel medical insurance
Previous overstays or other immigration violations
Suspected false information or fraudulent documents
No single document or financial amount guarantees approval. The consulate assesses the application as a whole.
What if your Schengen visa is refused?
If your application is refused, read the refusal notice carefully. It should explain the grounds for refusal and provide information about the available appeal procedure.
Depending on the circumstances, you may consider addressing the identified concerns before submitting another application or pursuing an appeal where available.
There is no guarantee that a reapplication or appeal will succeed. Check the applicable procedure and deadline for the country concerned.
Genuine Documents Only: Apply Honestly
All documents submitted with your Schengen visa application should be genuine, accurate and consistent with your actual travel plans.
False hotel bookings, fabricated bank statements, misleading invitation letters or other fraudulent documents can lead to refusal and potentially more serious consequences.
TravelOnCall does not provide fake documents, false financial evidence or fabricated travel arrangements.
If you are unsure how to demonstrate your financial situation, employment status, accommodation or travel purpose, we can help you understand the legitimate supporting evidence that may be appropriate for your circumstances.
EES at Schengen Borders: What Indian Travellers Should Know
The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) became fully operational on 10 April 2026, according to the European Commission.
The system records entry and exit information for covered non-EU travellers on short stays and uses biometric information, including facial images and fingerprints, as applicable. It replaces the traditional passport-stamping process for travellers covered by the system.
The EES does not replace the Schengen visa application process. Allow sufficient time for border formalities and follow the instructions provided by border officials.
For official updates, visit the European Commission’s EES page.
Do Indians need ETIAS?
Indian passport holders who require a Schengen visa for their intended short stay do not need ETIAS authorisation for that same trip. ETIAS is designed for eligible travellers who are visa-exempt.
Be cautious of websites claiming that Indian travellers who need a Schengen visa must purchase ETIAS authorisation as an additional visa requirement.
Check the official ETIAS information page for current eligibility and implementation updates.
Why Choose TravelOnCall for Schengen Visa Assistance?
Preparing a visa application can feel complicated, especially if you are travelling to Europe for the first time.
TravelOnCall helps Indian travellers understand the process and organise their applications with greater clarity.
Our assistance may include:
Guidance on identifying the appropriate destination country’s application process
Help understanding the relevant document checklist
Review of application information for completeness and consistency
Guidance on preparing a genuine cover letter and itinerary
Information about travel medical insurance requirements
Guidance on official appointment procedures
An explanation of our service charges before payment
The precise scope of assistance depends on the service agreed with you.
TravelOnCall is an independent private visa assistance company. We are not an embassy, consulate, government authority or official visa application centre. You remain responsible for providing accurate information, and the relevant consulate makes the visa decision.
Planning Other International Trips?
TravelOnCall also provides information and assistance for travellers planning trips to other destinations.
Singapore Visa from India — Explore Singapore visa requirements and application guidance for Indian travellers.
Dubai Visa from India — Learn about visa arrangements for trips to Dubai and the UAE.
Vietnam E-Visa — Review information about Vietnam’s electronic visa process.
Dubai Visa Consultant in Gurgaon — Find information about TravelOnCall’s Dubai visa assistance in Gurgaon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schengen Visas
Everything you need to know about our services. Can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our team.
Get Schengen Visa Assistance from TravelOnCall
Planning your first European holiday or preparing for another trip to the Schengen Area?
Share your intended destination, travel dates, purpose of travel and applicant profile with TravelOnCall. We will help you understand the applicable requirements, organise your document checklist and explain our service charges before you make a payment.
Contact TravelOnCall today.
Information review date: 19 October 2026. Visa rules, fees and procedures can change. Please confirm the latest requirements with the relevant official authorities before applying.
TravelOnCall is an independent private travel and visa assistance company and is not affiliated with any embassy, consulate, the European Union or any government. Visa decisions are made by the competent authorities. We do not guarantee visa approval.
