Step-by-Step Guide to Schengen Visa Application from India (2025)

Step-by-Step Guide to Schengen Visa Application from India (2025)

Thinking of a vacation in Europe? A Schengen Visa is your golden ticket to explore 27 beautiful countries in the Schengen Zone with a single visa. Whether you're traveling for tourism, business, education, or visiting family, this guide walks you through how to apply for a Schengen Visa from India—step by step.

Need help right away? Get expert assistance with documentation, appointment booking (VFS/BLS), and application review from our Schengen Visa services in Bangalore.

What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa is a short‑stay visa that allows Indian citizens to travel to any of the Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within a 180‑day period. With one visa, you can visit multiple European countries without applying for separate visas.

List of Countries Under the Schengen Visa

Here are some of the Schengen countries you can visit with one visa:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France

For the full list, see: List of Countries in Schengen Visa for Indian Travelers.

Documents Required for Schengen Visa from India

Here’s the basic documentation checklist:

• Valid Indian Passport (issued within the last 10 years & valid for at least 3 months beyond your return)
• Completed Schengen Visa Application Form
• Passport‑size Photos (as per specifications)
• Travel Itinerary (flight bookings)
• Proof of Accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
• Travel Insurance (coverage of at least €30,000)
• Proof of Financial Means (bank statements, ITRs)
• Employment Proof (letter from employer or business registration)
• Cover Letter stating travel purpose and details

Ensure your Aadhaar, PAN, and other personal documents are accurate and updated before applying. If you need corrections, check our Personal Document Services.

Types of Schengen Visas Indian Citizens Can Apply For

• Tourist Visa: Leisure travel and sightseeing.
• Business Visa: Meetings, events, or conferences.
• Student Visa: Short‑term courses or academic visits.
• Family/Friends Visit Visa: Visiting relatives or friends in the Schengen area.

Need help with your passport renewal? DocuPro can help.

Step‑by‑Step Schengen Visa Application Process from India

Step 1: Identify the Main Destination Country

• Apply through the country where you will spend the most time, or
• The country that is your main purpose of visit.

Important: If your trip involves multiple Schengen countries with equal length of stays, you should apply at the embassy/consulate of the country of first entry when entering the Schengen Area.

Step 2: Fill Out the Schengen Visa Application Form

• Visit the official website of the embassy/consulate or their partners VFS Global or BLS International for your destination country.
• Fill the application form carefully.
• Print and sign it.

Step 3: Book an Appointment

• Schedule an appointment at the VFS/BLS/Embassy center in your city.

Pro Tip: Book at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date to avoid delays.

Step 4: Pay the Schengen Visa Fees

Here’s the typical Schengen Visa cost for Indians:

Age Group	Visa Fee (EUR)	Approx. INR*
Adults	€80 – €90	₹7,200 – ₹8,500
Children (6–12)	€40 – €45	₹3,600 – ₹4,300
Children (<6)	Free	Free

Step 5: Submit Documents at VFS/BLS and Give Biometrics

• Carry original documents and photocopies.
• Provide biometrics (photo + fingerprints).
• Pay the applicable service charge (if any).

Step 6: Wait for Visa Processing

Processing Time: Usually about 15 working days; may be longer in peak season. Track your application online via VFS/BLS portals.

Step 7: Receive Your Schengen Visa

You’ll receive your passport by courier or collect it from the visa center. Check visa validity and number of entries carefully.

With a Schengen Visa, Where Can You Travel?

Wondering, “With a Schengen Visa, where can I travel?” Here are some popular combinations:

• France + Italy + Switzerland
• Germany + Austria + Czech Republic
• Spain + Portugal

One visa. Many countries. One unforgettable European journey.

Pro Tips to Get Your Schengen Visa Approved

• Don’t buy non‑refundable flight tickets before approval (use refundable holds).
• Attach a clear cover letter explaining your plan and purpose.
• Avoid errors in dates or accommodation details.
• Show strong financial proof with bank statements officially sealed and stamped.
• Be honest and consistent across all documents.

Why Choose DocuPro for Your Schengen Visa?

• End‑to‑end support: From documents to appointment booking.
• Local expertise: Bangalore‑based assistance and embassy coordination.
• Transparent pricing: No hidden fees.
• Fast turnaround: Application tracking and updates.

Need PAN or Aadhaar updates before applying? We can help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is a Schengen Visa valid?

A Schengen visa is typically granted for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180‑day period. Validity can vary and may be issued only for your specific travel dates.

Can I enter multiple countries on a Schengen Visa?

Single‑entry visas allow only one entry to the Schengen area. After you exit, the visa becomes invalid even if the dates remain valid. For multiple entries, ensure you apply for a multiple‑entry visa if your itinerary needs it.

What is the best time to apply for a Schengen Visa?

Ideally 30–45 days before your travel date (earlier in peak seasons).

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes. You must have insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 valid across the Schengen area.

---

Ready to Apply? Let DocuPro Help

Get expert support for your Schengen visa application from Bangalore. We’ll guide you through every step.