🇪🇺 Schengen Visa Application for Indians: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Thinking of traveling from India to Europe? Wondering what the Schengen visa is? It’s the easiest way to visit 27 countries with a single visa sticker. From France to Italy to Spain to Germany, this visa lets you cross borders without hassle — as long as your application is flawless.

In this ultimate guide to the 2024 Schengen Visa for Indian citizens, we explain the entire visa process — from document requirements and appointment tips to mistakes to avoid and reasons for rejection. Whether you prefer to do it yourself or hire a professional visa service like Visa Banana, we’ve got you covered.

What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a type of short-term visa that allows travelers to access 27 European countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. These include popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland.

Who Should Apply?

Indian passport holders who plan to visit one or more Schengen countries for:

• Tourism
• Business
• Visiting family or friends
• Cultural or sporting events
• Airport transit

Where to Apply from India

Apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you’ll spend the most time. If your time is equally divided, apply at the embassy of the country you will enter first.

Example:
4 days in France + 6 days in Italy = Apply at the Italian Consulate

When Should You Apply?

• Earliest: 6 months before your travel date
• Latest: At least 15 business days before your travel
• Ideal: 4 to 6 weeks before departure

Types of Schengen Visas for Indians

• Tourist Visa: For sightseeing and leisure
• Visitor Visa: To visit friends or family
• Business Visa: For meetings and conferences
• Transit Visa: For passing through Schengen airports

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Select the Correct Embassy

Choose the country where you’ll spend the most days during your trip.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Each country has its own application portal:

• France: France-Visas
• Germany: VIDEX
• Italy, Spain: VFS Global

Ensure all fields are filled accurately. Typos and inconsistencies can delay processing.

Step 3: Book Your Appointment

Schedule your appointment via VFS Global, BLS International, or the consulate’s own system. During peak season, appointment slots fill quickly.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Mandatory Documents:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months from return date)
• Two biometric photos (white background, matte finish)
• Signed visa application form
• Cover letter explaining your travel purpose
• Round-trip flight reservations
• Hotel bookings or invitation letter
• Travel insurance (minimum €220,000 coverage)
• Proof of employment or income
• Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
• Income Tax Returns
• Leave letter or NOC (if employed)

For self-employed applicants: Include business registration, recent invoices, or client contracts.

Step 5: Submit Biometrics

Biometric submission is required if this is your first Schengen application or if your previous biometric record is over 59 months old.

Step 6: Pay Visa Fees

2024 Fee Structure:

• Adults: €90 (~₹8,500)
• Children (6–12 years): €40 (~₹3,650)
• Children under 6 years: Free
• VFS/BLS Service Fee: ~₹2,500

Step 7: Attend an Interview (if required)

Some consulates (like Germany or Switzerland) may call you for a short interview. Be honest and consistent with your documents.

Step 8: Wait for Processing

Processing takes 15 business days on average. During peak months (March to July), it may take up to 3–4 weeks.

Tips to Prevent Schengen Visa Rejection

Don’t:

• Submit fake hotel or flight reservations
• Write vague or inconsistent cover letters

Do:

• Use refundable bookings
• Write a detailed cover letter with a daily itinerary
• Use updated information based on consulate trends from October 2023

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

• Insufficient financial proof
• Weak ties to India (no job, no family, no property)
• Lack of valid travel insurance
• Date mismatches in itinerary, hotel, or flights
• Unclear travel purpose
• Previous visa overstays or violations

Why Choose Visa Banana for Your Schengen Visa

Visa Banana takes the stress out of Schengen visa applications. If you’re unsure about documents, booking appointments, or consulate rules, let us help:

• Every file is expert-reviewed — 0 rejections to date
• Personalized document checklist based on your trip
• Guaranteed processing time or full refund
• 24×7 customer support
• Clear and simple pricing

Ready to Explore Europe?

Whether you’re backpacking across Europe or planning a romantic getaway to Paris, the Schengen visa is your gateway to unforgettable experiences.

Don’t risk rejection or delays. Apply for your Schengen visa with Visa Banana for a fast, simple, and guaranteed process.