Applying for a Schengen Visa? Learn the Essential Points That Indian Travellers Must Know

Planning a trip to Europe is always exciting. From breathtaking scenic beauty to experiencing architectural excellence, you can have it all there. However, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip to the Schengen countries, you must learn about some essential aspects, including the visa process.

Read the blog till the end to find out more.

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7 Tips for Indian Travellers Planning a Schengen Visa Application

Here is a list of 7 tips to learn and understand while applying for a Schengen visa for Indians for your next vacation in European countries:

1.    Understand the Importance of Schengen Visa

With a Schengen visa, Indian tourists can spend up to 90 days in any of 29 European nations for vacation, business, or family trips throughout a 180-day period. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others are among them. For these purposes, bearers of Indian passports need a Type C (short-stay) visa. Travel is made easier with the Schengen visa since it eliminates the need for separate visas for each country, but some restrictions must be adhered to.

2.    Be Sure About the Types of Visa to Apply

Different Schengen visa types exist based on why you are travelling. A Type C visa is necessary for short-term travel and is meant for tourism, family visits, or business travel. However, a separate visa category can be needed if your trip involves working, studying, or attending an academic course. Remember that selecting the appropriate visa is essential to prevent rejections.

3.    Keeping the List of Documents Handy

While going through the application process for a Schengen visa, you need to keep some documents handy. The list of them is discussed in detail below:

General Schengen Visa Documents

The general list of documents required in the Schengen visa application are as follows:

  • Duly filled Schengen visa application form.
  • A valid Indian Passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity from the day of arrival in the Schengen country.
  • Round trip reservations specify the entry and exit from the Schengen country.
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • A travel insurance
  • Proof of current financial status. (payslips, bank account statements, sponsorship letter, Income Tax Return)
  • An official marriage certificate, in case of a spouse.
  • Leave letter from the employer, in case of employed applicants.
  • No Objection Certificate, in case of students.
  • Proof of civil status.

Schengen Visa Documents Requirements for Minors

If you are legal guardian of a minor who is travelling to a Schengen country with you, the following documents are required in the process:

  • Birth certificate of the minor applicant.
  • Duly signed Schengen visa application form by both parents.
  • Certified copies of the passports of both parents.
  • In case the minor is travelling alone, a notarised parental authorisation is required duly signed by both parents.
  • A court order in case one parent has full custody of the minor.

Schengen Visa Photograph Requirements

The photograph requirements for a Schengen visa application are as follows:

  • Two coloured passport-size photos, not older than 6 months.
  • Dimensions should be 35mm x 45mm.
  • 80% of the face should take up the image, with no expressions.
  • The background should be light-coloured and should not match the dress of the applicant.

4.    Prepare for the Interview and Complete Your Biometrics

During the interview, the visa officer might enquire about your intended purpose of visit, itinerary, financial situation, and ties to India. Ensure you have the documentation and are ready to respond honestly to enquiries about your vacation itinerary.

Furthermore, submitting biometric information is required to apply for a Schengen visa. Your fingerprints and a photo must be turned in at the embassy or a Visa Application Centre (VAC). If you reapply within five years, your biometric data will be retained, so there is no need to submit it again.

5.    Travel Insurance is a Must

Having a travel insurance policy is one of the most important eligibility parameters to apply for a Schengen visa, which acts as proof of your financial stability throughout the trip. Ensure that emergency evacuations, medical care, and accidents are all covered by insurance. Also, make sure that the coverage provided by your insurer is sufficient and complies with Schengen requirements.

6.    Show Proof of Your Sufficient Financial

Indian visitors must show that they have enough money to sustain themselves when visiting the Schengen area. If someone else is paying for your expenditures, you can submit proof of sponsorship, pay cheque receipts, or the last three months’ bank statements. The consulate is reassured by this financial evidence that you will not incur debt while visiting any European country. Rejections of visa applications often occur due to insufficient funds, so make sure your financial documents are clear and sufficient.

Final Words

Applying for a Schengen visa requires determining and analysing various factors. However, all these finally lead to a smooth and successful visa application process. Therefore, to increase the chances of your visa approval, you must take the necessary measures and learn about the essential details beforehand. It ensures you get enough time to prepare for the process thoroughly.