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France

France Visa From India: Explained

France gives every travel enthusiast a thousand reasons to go there or even return the second time. Whether to see the majestic Eiffel or admire Monet’s Waterlilies, a trip to France can never disappoint you. It was in the late 1900s that the Schengen agreement was signed in. Since then, one has to apply for a Schengen visa rather than a France visa from India. Applying for a Schengen visa, although not rocket science, but it still does require a layer of processes. 

Indians do have a wrong picture painted in their head that the application process of France tourist visa from India is complicated. It’s not. In this blog, we would look at the essentials of what documents are required, the legal processes and so on. Let’s take a look.

Applying for a visa for the first time? Read: How to apply for Visa? In focus – Schengen visa, H1B visa

Things to know about Schengen visa

In the whole of the European subcontinent, there are 26 member states that require you to carry a Schengen visa. These are the countries who had signed the Schengen agreement in the 1900’s. So, if you apply for a Schengen Visa France, then you can visit Germany, Switzerland or Spain with the same visa. At the same time, if you have an Austrian Schengen Visa, then you can use that to visit France. 

There are specific timelines when you want to visit the Schengen area. First if you are travelling there, you need to apply for a short-term Schengen Tourist Visa. There are two types – Type A and Type C. Depend a lot on the kind of visa you are applying for, the tourist visa gives you a single entry or multiple entry access.

For France Visa from India, you have to apply in the French embassy. The same applies to other countries as well. For Schengen Visa France, it is typically valid for six months and allows a tourist to stay in the country for three months. 90 days to be precise. Typically this is known as Schengen short-stay visa.

Know In Depth: How to get your Schengen visa from India?

How To Apply For France Visa From India?

There’s a France visa application form which you need to download and fill it accurately. Make sure to avoid overwriting, cancellations and anything messy. Handwriting should be crisp and clear. There is also an option for typing out the form. That way you can avoid unnecessary mistakes. But, in the place of a signature, handwrite or give a digitally handwritten signature. More authentic it looks. Then collect all the necessary documents required for your France visa from India and schedule an appointment to submit your application. And also your biometric data. You can submit it either 15 days before your planned dates of visit or even 3 months in advance. That way you would stay way ahead in case of any issues. If you are travelling alone, it would be easier but if it’s in a group, then each person has to submit their own form and schedule separate appointments.

 

Documents Required for your Visa Application

Keeping your France visa documents ready beforehand is the key for a smooth procedure. This should be done at the time you download and fill up the France visa application form. The documents required for France visa from India does depend a lot on the reason for travelling. 

If you are a tourist, then your documents should include:

  • Passport which is valid for at least three months. Expired or cancelled passports need to be carried as well.
  • A cover letter which explains your purpose of travel, a go through of your whole itinerary, and proof of your trip funding. You also need to provide a strong reason behind why you would be returning back to your country post the trip. For those reasons, many aspiring tourists carry documents and proof of their residence while going for the interview. You can also make a separate letter of intent for more proof. The officials would understand the seriousness of your purpose for travel. If your travel is sponsored, you need to mention and explain your relationship with the sponsor. In case, you are not able to provide any required document, do explain why are you not able to do so. Cover letter is the main communication channel for the embassy officials to know you better. If you want a hassle-free trip, keep your communication clear.

Know: Covering Letter For Visa – What it is and how you can make one 

  • Including your finance essentials is the next important document right after the cover letter. Attach your monthly pay slips for the last 3 months, bank statement of 6 months. Make sure that you have a constant bank activity in the last 6 months. These are mainly the reasons why you need to plan your travel well in advance. Also make sure to file an IT for the last three years and attach it along with the other financial documents. If someone else is funding your travel, then show the officials their documents. Ideally that person should be travelling with you. But, if it’s not the case, keep their salary pay slips, bank statements ready.
  • There are many a times when you do not have a properly planned itinerary. But, if you are travelling to France, make sure to write and sketch a proper travel plan. An accurately made itinerary has all the information about your to and fro flight timings, hotel bookings, internal transit details. If you are planning to stay over at a friend’s or relatives, a Proof of Accommodation is required. And that POA need s to be attested from the nearest Government office. Copies of their ID proof, passport, driving license are mandatory.

Also Read: Self Introduction Letter for Visa: All you need to know

  • If you are employed, then a NOC (No Objection Certificate) is a must from your employer. 
  • Adding a travel insurance for France visa from India is a must. You can very well ignore insurance requirements while travelling in India. But, for France, you need to carry one.
  • A confirmation of your travel insurance needs to be shown to the embassy during the interview.
  • Once all these documents for your France visa from India is ready, attach your various ID proofs. Aadhar, Pan Card, Ration card, Birth Ceritficate.

Once all these documents are ready, send them in a neatly done package to the visa office. Once your documents are processed, you would be called for a face-to-face interview. Make sure that your oral information tallies with the ones you have mentioned in all your documents.

Passport Photo Specifications

  • It should be a white, neutral background photo
  • Photo needs to be taken within six months of your visa appointment.
  • The applicant’s face should take up 70-80% of the frame and it should be 35-40mm wide.
  • No crease marks are entertained. The photograph print should be on high quality paper.
  • Applicant face should be clearly visible in the photograph. Hair pulled back, neutral expression and directly looking at the camera.
  • If you wear glasses, make sure to choose a light frame that does not cover your eyes. Tinted glasses are not allowed.
  • Headgear or anything which covers your head is not allowed. In case if it is mandatory or for religious reasons, make sure that it doesn’t cover your forehead, face or create any shadows.
  • For children’s passport photo, no one else should be visible in the frame.

France visa cost from India

If you are a regular tourist, then the French Schengen visa would cost you INR 4348. A service charge of INR 1446 which is additional also needs to be paid. The visa fee has been reduced to INR 2536 for the kids. Service charge remains same though for all. Fees are non-refundable and only accepted by cash, debit or credit while payment. Once your visa is issued, you can collect your passport. A courier fee of INR 300each needs to paid for every passport (in case if you are traveling in a group).

Further Read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

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Countries

New Zealand Tourist Visa for Indians: Explained

New Zealand is known for its tolerant tourist visa policy. The same easy-going policies are applicable for the New Zealand tourist visa for Indians, making the New Zealand visa for Indians easily attainable. However, there is a rigid procedure which must be followed to obtain a New Zealand visa for Indians. The common questions of the New Zealand tourist visa requirements and New Zealand tourist visa process for Indians will be answered through this article.

New Zealand tourist visa requirements

  • A passport which will remain valid for a minimum period of three months following your departure from New Zealand.
  • Two 35mm x 45mm photographs with a white background. If you are applying digitally, ensure the measurements are matched and that the background is as specified. The photo must under all circumstances be recent.
  • Visa application forms accompanied by a covering letter with a clearly stated purpose and duration of the visit. This cover letter will be what allows you to communicate with the embassy and government so be as specific as possible in this document.

Also Read: Covering Letter For Visa – What it is and how you can make one

  • A round trip itinerary and a copy of the air tickets. This is to justify your stay in New Zealand for the respective duration and will be required when you land in the airport as well. Transit flight tickets must be attached as well to give a clear outline of your journey. 
  • Bank statements of the last six months. This will provide clarity on your financial conditions and whether you will be able to sustain your trip.
  • Those travelling while being employed must provide a letter of employment from the employer along with an original leave letter and salary slips for the last month to ensure that they will be able to finance their trip. The presence of a sponsor must also be mentioned with evidence of their financial stability along with your relationship with them.
  • Any previous crime records must be specifically mentioned.

Also Read: Australian Visa For Indians: A complete guide

These are requirements which must be met for the approval of the New Zealand visa for Indians. So, you must be conscious of obtaining and attaching these while applying for the visa.

What is the visa fee for New Zealand in India? 

Another question many applicants will have when applying for the New Zealand tourist visa for Indians is the New Zealand visa cost and the New Zealand visa fees. Many worry it might be too expensive, but the estimated price is Rs.15,390 for a New Zealand visa for Indians for a period of 90 days or 3 months, and for those wondering, yes; it is mandatory for every Indian citizen to apply for the New Zealand visa for Indians regardless of the purpose and duration of travel.

The fees or the cost for the visa is not too high, making the process simpler for applicants. In fact, most agents and agencies offer a rebate for the New Zealand visa fees and New Zealand visa cost. However, your cost also varies depending on the time you specifically state you want the visa in. If you do not mind waiting, you will pay less than if you state you want it earlier.

New Zealand tourist visa process

The New Zealand visa for Indians is quite easy to obtain and the New Zealand tourist visa process is a simple one to follow. You can apply through an agency or through the New Zealand e-Visa system which directly links you to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of New Zealand. All you really need to do is follow the New Zealand tourist visa process of application on the site and enter your information and it will be sent to the government for approval. Due to this transparency, you need to ensure that every detail is fine and correct.

 

Read: Self Introduction Letter for Visa: All you need to know

How long does it take to get New Zealand tourist visa?

The duration of wait which follows the application is dependent on the type of visa you apply for. Since our primary concern is the tourist visa, we will focus on that. It varies from a minimum of 13 days or two weeks and extends to over 40 days or one month. This duration varies on the time of the year and the punctuality with which you submit all your documents through your choice of platform. It is also affected by the efficiency of the government and office.

After receiving the New Zealand visa for Indians, you are free to enter New Zealand at any point of time in the eighteen months following the acceptance of your application. You must keep in mind that, the visa ceases to be valid after the passage of eighteen months. Your period of stay, however, is limited to any nine months in those eighteen months. So, while the document remains valid for more than a year, you cannot stay in New Zealand for that whole period of time.

It is also important to note that New Zealand does not offer a visa on arrival to tourists of any nationality. This is because their tourist visa is both easy to apply and easily accepted. Therefore, the New Zealand visa for Indians needs to be applied for in advance, depending on how quickly you need your tourist visa.

How can I get New Zealand tourist visa from India?

When applying for a New Zealand visa for Indians, you might find the process challenging. While not everyone does, it is alright if you do. This is because, the Consulate offers 24×7 assistance for those who are applying for the first time, or find it challenging to apply online. This makes the New Zealand tourist visa process easier since any doubts you might have will be cleared by a quick phone call or email to the concerned authorities.

The most convenient factor in this whole procedure is, the lack of physical work. The whole process can be completed online even when working with an agent. You are no longer required to go to the nearest New Zealand Embassy or Consulate to get your visa approved. The entire procedure is digital, time-efficient and cost-effective. However, if you are unfamiliar and uncertain about the procedure, you can visit an application center where they will be able to assist you in person.

Is New Zealand tourist visa easy to get?

Do not worry or hesitate when applying. The procedure is as simple as it gets and does not demand much of you in any aspect. It may feel a little confusing in the beginning, worry not, the instructions accompanying it will clear every doubt you have. It is a tad bit challenging to have to gather all the required documents but that is a part of any application process to ensure your credibility. The waiting time can be reduced as per your requirements if you are willing to pay a little extra. In any case, its comparatively inexpensive and hassle-free.

As long as you are obtaining your visa through legal means, you are not likely to endure any difficulties or face any challenges. The bottom line is, the New Zealand visa for Indians – tourist or not – is a must have document to enter the country. Therefore, you need to apply for it if you wish to travel there. The cost is reasonable and just changes depending on how you apply and when you need it. On the whole, it is an uncomplicated procedure which you can follow and travel to New Zealand through. It gives you little stress and the document is valid for a long period too.

Must read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

So, do not let anything hold you back! Reach out to the nearest Embassy or Consulate and apply to make your trip ASAP. After all, there is so much to see and enjoy in New Zealand as a tourist. When offered such a doable way out, what should hinder you? Nothing. Have a safe and happy trip preceded by an undemanding procedure. 

Categories
Australia Countries

Australian Visa For Indians: A complete guide

The smallest continent and one of the largest countries in the world, Australia has a compelling charm of its own. You can relax on pristine beaches, dine at award-winning restaurants, witness fabulous spectacles, study, and work your best in this marvel of a place. As one of the leading countries in the world, Australia has approximately 7.4 million visitors who have visited the country since 2015.

The numbers are only expected to surge in the ensuing years. There is no reason to step back from reaping all the benefits that a visitor is given in this country! To visit this beauty, an Australian visa for Indians is absolutely necessary. For those who aspire to explore the various avenues here, an understanding of the visa formalities is crucial. There are several types of Australian visas, and each of these is suited to match with various individual purposes.

Suggested read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

Here is a guide for obtaining an Australia visa for Indians, with a critical focus on the tourist visa. 

The Australian Visa

As per the guidelines of the Australian government, it is essential for most nationals to have a permit known as the Australian visa to enter the country. There are certain countries, the nationals of which, do not require a visa to enter Australia. However, Indian nationals are required to obtain an Australian visa. Depending upon the length of stay, number of entries, purpose of the visit, and other such requirements, there are several types of Australian visas.

Your passport will not possess a stamp after visa approval as the Australian visa gets linked to the passport once accepted. Australia, like any other country, is very careful about ensuring the safety of the citizens and its land. Strong documents without any loopholes need to be provided for smooth visa procedures. 

The embassy recommends the application of visas online as it is the fastest way to obtain them. The online visa applications belonging to the tourist stream are currently processed within 14 days for Indian citizens. The offline procedures take a longer period of time, usually between 28 to 42 days. It is advisable to initiate the visa application procedure well ahead of your intended travel date.

Indian citizens can apply for an Australian visa directly through the website of the embassy or through authorized visa providers.

 

Before travelling to Australia, ensure to check that your visa is valid and you understand its benefits, conditions, and limitations. Online services can be used to check your visa details and conditions, update passport details, or notify the embassy of any changes regarding your travel plans.  

Types of visas available

  • Tourist Visa 
  • Business Visitor Visa 
  • Transit Visa
  • Australian Declaratory Visa
  • Temporary Activity Work Visa 
  • Student Visa 
  • Temporary Residence Visa 
  • Family-Partner and Prospective Marriage Visa 
  • Family-Child Visa
  • Family-Other Visa
  • Resident Return
  • Medical Treatment Visa
  • Citizenship by Descent Visa

Australian Tourist Visa

The Australian visa for Indians who are visiting the country for tourism and even business purposes is known as Subclass 600 Visitor Visa. Australian visitor visa from India is given for the temporary entry of Indians for tourism purposes. 

Moreover, Australian tourist visa from India enables Indians to visit Australia to holiday or recreation or to visit family and/or friends for a period of three, six or twelve months. This Australian visa could also be used for other short-term, non-work purposes.

Australia visa requirements for Indians

There are certain general criteria to be met to obtain the Australian visa for Indians travelling to the country for tourism purposes. These are general to the other categories of visas as well. However, they could have additional requirements. They are given below: 

  • Existence of a valid passport 
  • Age criterion in accordance with the kind of visa required 
  • Health and character requirements need to be met. Safety standards as per the Australian government will be looked into 
  • A strong financial status with a good bank balance needs to be maintained

Fast-track Service – Priority Consideration

Indians applying for a Subclass 600 Visitor Visa can also utilize the optional fast-track priority service after the payment of an additional fee of AUD 1000 (INR 47954.55). Majority of the priority service applications get finalized by the Australian High Commission within 48 hours of being received. All applicants must satisfy the legal requirements for migration legislation pertaining to the receiving of the Australian visa for Indians. These include relevant health, character, and security checks. It must be noted that there is no guarantee of receiving the visa within the specified 48 hours, for any reason that withholds the Commission. For the applicants that request urgent processing on compelling and compassionate grounds will undergo the same process but will not be required to pay the priority service charges.

How to apply for an Australia visa for Indians?

The collection of documents plays a crucial role in acquiring the visa that meets your requirements. Australian High Commission is responsible for the granting of visas. The Government of Australia has made the visa procedures as simple and hassle-free as possible. Those looking for a visa for Australia from India can apply through either the online or offline procedures. 

The procedure to obtain the Australian visa is very sensitive. Any minor errors in the process could lead to a delay. It is recommended that the work gets done by experts who can seamlessly provide you with the visa according to your requirements. Ensure that you consult an authorized visa provider.   

Details for obtaining the Australian visa for Indians – 

Through the online procedure: 

  • Consult an authorized visa provider online or an IMMI account Australian consulate 
  • Begin by creating an IMMI account online. This refers to registering on the Australian immigration website 
  • In accordance with your purpose of visit, select the category of visa required
  • Once the visa category is chosen, look for the application concerning the same 
  • Fill the form with all the necessary details clearly 
  • Attach the required photographs and necessary supporting documents to the form 
  • Self-verify the details given in the visa application form
  • Re-verify the documents attached
  • Ensure that the bank balance mentioned in the form and documents is correct and no changes occur

Recommendation – Avoid any bank transaction from the mentioned bank account during the period of verification. It increases your financial credibility to sustain in Australia.   

  • Pay the specified visa fee online
  • Submit the filled and self-verified application form and documents 
  • After the submission, provide your biometrics to the embassy
  • If mandated by the embassy, take a health examination      
  • The Australian High Commission will verify your application form and its details

Through the offline procedure: 

  • Consult an authorized visa provider or an IMMI account Australian consulate 
  • Visit the Australian immigration website 
  • Select a visa category in accordance with the purpose of your travel 
  • Find the required visa application form 
  • Print the application form 
  • Fill the form with all the necessary details clearly 
  • Sign the form 
  • Attach the required photographs and necessary supporting documents to the form 
  • Self-verify the details given in the visa application form
  • Re-verify the documents attached
  • Ensure that the bank balance mentioned in the form and documents is correct and no changes occur
  • Submit the visa application form at the embassy 
  • Pay the visa fee during form submission
  • Provide your biometrics to the embassy 
  • If mandated by the embassy, take a health examination     
  • The Australian High Commission will verify your application form and its details

Must Read: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

General visa document checklist – 

  • Pages of current passport showing your photo, personal details, passport issue and expiry dates 
  • National identity card, if available 
  • Proof of a change of name, if any
  • Proof of financial security such as personal bank statements  
  • If you are being invited, proof of the invitation 
  • Proof that you will return to India such as a letter from your employer or schooling institution
  • Character documents 
  • Health documents     

Validity of Australia Visa for Indians – 

  • The validity of the visa depends on the number of days that the applicant plans on staying in the country. 
  • Care must be taken to clearly state the purpose and duration of his or her stay in the country. The decision regarding the duration of the visa is decided by the immigration officials.
  • Any Australian visa is categorized into three categories, such as single entry, double entry, and multiple entry visas.    

The cost of an Australian visa for Indians differs from one category to another. Tourist, Business or Student visas include service and other charges to be given to the Australian High Commission and the visa provider.

The estimated Australian tourist visa fee is given below –   

  • Subclass 600, tourist visa for Australia from India costs INR 7600 for three, six, or twelve months of stay duration (Validity – 1 year)

Please visit here for visa pricing of other categories.

If your visa application gets rejected, the embassy will write to you personally. They will inform you of the reasons why the visa was refused and if you have a right to review the decision of the embassy.

Frequently Asked Questions – Australian visa for Indians

1. How to find out what kind of visa to apply for to visit Australia?

A: The category of visa depends on the purpose of visit to Australia. You can use the Find Visa facility on the website of the Department of Home Affairs. This will assist you in determining the visa category and the requirements for the same. 

2. When to apply for the Australian visa?

A: The visa applications must be lodged as early as possible keeping in mind the processing duration and the intended travel dates. 

3. Is it advisable to purchase airline tickets before traveling? 

A: Non-refundable airline tickets or accommodation must not be purchased prior to the grant of the visa. The embassy recommends to finalize all travel arrangements after visa issue.

4. What is required for a valid visa application? 

A: Applicants must submit the correct visa application form with relevant documents and pay the correct fees as per the chosen visa category.  

5. Do original documents have to be submitted for the Australian visa? 

A: Original documents need to be submitted only on request of the Australian High Commission. The Commission’s website needs to be consulted in order to check for the documents required as per the visa categories.

Recommended: How to get your Schengen visa from India?

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Countries Visa FAQ

How to get your Schengen visa from India?

schengen visa from india

Last year alone, over a million people from India applied for travelling to the Schengen area. Over 90% got approval for travelling to the Schengen visa countries. So, what is the Schengen area? How can you get Schengen Visa from India? How is it the ideal visa for your European vacation? There’s a lot of question, let us help you with a comprehensive guide to obtain a Schengen Visa from India.

Indians are now travelling more than ever. Europe is undoubtedly the first choice for many from India. Ask any avid traveller from India, they would have a bucket list filled with places to see in Europe. If you see by the data, the number of people travelling to Europe from India has doubled since 2014. So how do you travel to Europe? Of course, Indian passport holders are required to obtain Visas from the respective embassies. But there’s a convenient setup among 26 European countries who form the Schengen area of Europe. It is enough for Indian Passport holders to obtain a Schengen Visa to visit all these nations.

Know: How to apply for Visa? In focus; Schengen visa, H1B visa

Basics about the Schengen area

According to a border agreement named Schengen Area Agreement, 26 European countries allow EU citizens to travel freely within the area. And for Non-EU citizens, with proper Schengen Visa, they are allowed to travel freely within the Schengen area for a limited period of 90 days within six months of issue of the Visa. Non-EU citizens with a Schengen Visa can have multiple entries up to the 90 days period out of the 180 days Visa period.

Schengan area

With proper documentation, you can obtain Schengen Visa from India from the embassy of the country which is your entry point to the Europe trip. Alternatively, you can obtain Schengen Visa from India from the embassy of the country where you will spend the maximum days of your Europe trip. Make sure to choose the right type of Visa as per your purpose of travel.

From the magical streets of France to the stunning landscapes of Switzerland, there’s so much magic within the list of Schengen countries. Here’s the list of 26 countries under Schengen Area.

Trivia: Schengen is the name of a village in Luxembourg bordering with both France and Germany. As the historic agreement was first signed at the village, the agreement was named after the village.

Also Read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

List of Schengen countries

  1.  Austria
  2. Belgium
  3. The Czech Republic
  4. Denmark
  5. Estonia
  6. Finland
  7. France
  8. Germany
  9. Greece
  10. Hungary
  11. Iceland
  12. Italy
  13. Latvia
  14. Liechtenstein
  15. Lithuania
  16. Luxembourg
  17. Malta
  18. The Netherlands
  19. Norway
  20. Poland
  21. Portugal
  22. Slovakia
  23. Slovenia
  24. Spain
  25. Sweden
  26. Switzerland

Let’s get to the step by step procedure to apply for Schengen Visa from India

Indian passport holders should apply for a Schengen Visa to travel to any European country in the Schengen area. Let us go through the step by step process to apply for Schengen Visa from India.

Types of Schengen Visa

First of all, it is essential to choose the type of Schengen Visa based on your purpose of travel. Make a note that there are different limitations that apply to a particular Visa type. Let me break down the types of Schengen Visas available for your travel from India to Europe.

1. Uniform Schengen Visas (USV)

This Visa obtained from one of the Schengen countries can be used to travel any Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within 6 months of visa issue. This visa can be obtained in the form of a single entry, double-entry or multiple-entry as per the purpose of travel. Single-entry allows the visa holder to enter the Schengen area only once, while the double-entry visa holder can enter the Schengen area twice within 6 months of issue. Multiple-entry visa allows the visa holder to enter and exit the Schengen area multiple times as long as he adheres to the 90/180 rule. The multiple-entry visa can be applied for 1-year, 3-year or 5-year period with the necessary documentation. But even with longer visa durations, you have to follow the 90/ 180 rule (i.e.) one cannot stay for more than 90 days within 180 days of the visa period.

Note: the number of entries is how many times you can enter the Schengen area as a whole and does not denote the number of countries you are allowed to enter.

schengen visa

2. Limited territorial validity visas (LTV)

This visa allows the holder to visit only the country which has issued the visa or countries which are specifically mentioned in the visa. The visa holder cannot enter the countries in the Schengen area that are not mentioned prior in the visa. This type of visa bars the holder from entering any Schengen state and is a special type of visa issued for peculiar cases.

3. National Visas

This visa is given to students or professionals willing to study or work residing in one of the Schengen countries. This visa is issued in the form of both single-entry and multiple-entry. With multiple-entry National visa, one can enter and exit the particular Schengen country as he/she pleases and also can travel within the Schengen area freely. But this visa is only given to people meeting certain criteria and purpose of travel.

Quick tip: Though the number of entries and time permitted are stamped in the visa, it’s the best to have a clear calculation of how many days you spend in the Schengen area. Because a violation of 90/180 rule leads to deportation and fine, depending on the country you are in.

Based on the purpose of travel, types of visas are divided as follows, make sure you mention clearly the type of visa you need in the application form,

  1. Transit visa: this visa is for people who need to travel through the Schengen country airport without entering the country.
  2. Tourism visa: this visa is for people who travel to the Schengen countries for exploring the place and culture, and spending a holiday there. 
  3. Visa for Visiting Family or Friends: this visa is for people who are travelling to Schengen countries to visit their family or friends who legally reside there. You will need a letter of invitation and some additional documents for this type of visa.
  4. Business visa: this visa is for people who travel for business purposes. It has a benefit as even during peak seasons business visas get quicker visa appointments. 
  5. Visa for Culture and Sports activities or Film crews: This visa is for people who travel to participate in any form of cultural or sports events in the Schengen countries. People belonging to a film crew who has planned a shoot in the Schengen countries can also avail this type of visa.
  6. Visa for Official Visits: This visa is for people who are travelling on fulfilling an official duty from his country.
  7. Study visa: This visa is for students who are willing to take up educational courses in Schengen countries.
  8. Visa for Medical Reasons: This visa is for people visiting any of the Schengen visa countries for medical treatment.

Where to apply for a Schengen visa in India?

  • As mentioned in the basics about the Schengen area, you will have to choose a country in the Schengen area to apply for a Schengen area. 
  • According to the rules, if you are visiting one country alone, you will have to apply to that particular country’s embassy. If you are visiting more than one country, choose either the first country you enter or the country you are going to spend the most days in.

Switzerland embassy in india

  • After you have chosen a Schengen country to apply, visit Embassy World Wide to find a list of embassies and consulates of the respective country in India. So make sure you choose the right embassy/consulate/VAC of the country and double-check if you fall under the jurisdiction of it.
  • Next step is to visit the website of the embassy/consulate you have chosen and download the Visa application form. 
  • Next, you will have to submit the filled Visa application form to the chosen embassy/consulate/VAC. 
  • Check with the website to know where visa submission takes place, as the visa submission process regulations differ with each country. It can be its embassy, consulate or outsourced visa centre acting as visa submission point.

Schengen Visa application: Documents required

Along with your carefully filled Schengen Visa application form, the following documents are mandatory to be carried for Visa submission. This is just a broad list of documents you will need, always make sure to check the respective embassy’s website for specific requirements.

visa application

  • Two Passport-size photographs with exact dimensions as per the requirement the country you apply to.
  • A valid passport with validity for at least 3 months after the date of your return to India. Your passport should have at least 2 blank pages, with copies of old visas and all the previous passports bounded with a rubber band. 
  • For proof of civil status, birth certificate, marriage certificate and national identity documents like Voters ID are required.
  • You will have to provide a personal cover letter stating your purpose of visit and duration of travel.

Know in Depth: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

  • It is essential to furnish the itinerary of your planned travel with clear dates of travel and copies of tickets for flights specifying entry and exit through the Schengen area. Receipt of booking of car rentals, hotel reservations or other accommodation details.
  • A travel insurance policy covering 30,000 euro per person should be provided.
  • Proof of financial means, (i.e.) financial statements that prove that you have the money required to bear the expenses during your period of stay in the Schengen countries.
  • If employed with a company, you will need to provide an introduction letter from the company on company letterhead with information about your position, duration of work and no objection statement for travelling to Schengen countries. In addition, the income statement for the past 6 months and a copy of your Income Tax Return (ITR) will be required.

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  • If you are self-employed, you will need your business registration certificate or partnership deed or proof of proprietorship. In addition to that, the last 3 months statement of personal and business bank accounts and company’s ITR for last 2 assessment years will be required.
  • If you are a student or unemployed, your parents or legal guardians should provide last 3 months personal bank account statement, last 2 assessment years ITR and a confirmation statement with no objection for your travel.
  • If you are retired, you will need a copy of your pension documents or proof of income from property or deposits.

Visa fee structure

Schengen visa fees is a non-refundable administration fee collected to process your application. Schengen visa cost is fixed by the Schengen visa countries and is in the euro. You will have to pay Schengen visa cost in Indian rupees as per the current exchange rate. Schengen visa fees for Indian citizens is as followed,

Schengen Visa Category (Fee in EUR)

  • Adult – 60
  • Child between 6-12 years of age – 35
  • Child younger than 6 years of age – Free

There is no visa fee for holders of diplomatic, official or service passports travelling for official purposes, a family member of an EU/EEA national, researchers travelling to perform scientific research and students on a school trip.

The visa fee is waived for participants of seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events. The participant must be aged 25 or less for the waiver. 

Visa submission process 

  • In many cases, you cannot courier or post the application, you will be required to submit it in person or through your representative or travel agent. 
  • You will have to book an appointment for visa submission and carry all the required documents along with the visa fee to finalize your submission. 
  • To submit your Schengen visa application form with the required documents, you will have to schedule an appointment at the visa application centre. 
  • Based on the country, you can either make appointments through the website or phone or in person. 
  • On your appointment day, you will have to be present on time with the required documents and originals as mentioned above.

On the appointment day

  • You will be given a token and when your turn comes, you will have to provide all the originals, copies and documents required with your application. 
  • Your documents will be scrutinized for authenticity and validity.
  • Next will be a short interview with an embassy official, where you will be questioned about your personal details and purpose of travel. The interview is a crucial part of your visa application. It is essential to be confident and to give out clear, honest answers. Your answers should match the details furnished in the application.

visa appointment

  • Upon a successful interview, your biometrics will be recorded, which will act as your identification during travel. Make sure you don’t have any injury or henna during the biometrics scanning, as your fingerprint may not be clear.
  • You will receive a receipt for the visa fee and service fee paid as an acknowledgement, with an application reference number which can be used for tracking your visa status.

Suggested Read: Australian Visa For Indians: A complete guide

When to apply for a Schengen visa in India?

  • Since visa applications take time to process, there is an appointed period for Schengen visa applications within which you will have to file yours.
  • The earliest time you can file your Schengen visa application in India is 3 months before the planned travel.
  • The latest time to submit your Schengen visa application is at least 15 working days before your travel to these Schengen countries.
  • To have a smooth visa process, it is recommended to apply at least 3 weeks before the planned travel. But always, the earlier the better.

Standard waiting time for processing your visa

  • For Schengen Visa applications submitted in India, the average wait time is a maximum of 15 days. After the interview, you will receive a response as early as 15th day from your interview date. But in some rare cases, the processing time may extend to 30 to 60 days if there are any concerns.
  • You will receive notification about your visa status in your mobile and email provided. You can also check the recent status in visa centre websites using your application reference number or passport number.
  • If your visa is approved, you can collect your visa in person from the centre or you can collect it through a representative. In many cases, the representative should be an immediate family member or one member of the travel group collecting for everyone. If its the representative of a company, he/she should have valid proofs and authorization letter in the company letterhead by the applicant. 
  • Make sure to check the details on your visa sticker for the number of entries permitted and the number of days permitted to stay in the Schengen countries.

Visa application process

Tips for Schengen Visa from India approval without any hassles

  • Make sure you write a comprehensive cover letter explaining the clear purpose of your stay and about your itinerary. It is essential to attach back up documents that support your statements.
  • Have a reliable travel insurance policy and clear bank account statements that show you have required funds to spend your planned travel in the Schengen visa countries.
  • Always provide valid and authentic documents, even a single forged document can put you in great risk. If you don’t have a particular document, mention it in the cover letter with a valid reason, it would help you to get through the process.
  • You will have to show valid bonds in your home country so that the embassy is convinced about your intention to return home after the trip. It will require a confirmation of your absence from your company or guardian.
  • You can always have a right to appeal if your visa is rejected. Make sure you check the reason for rejection and correct it the next time you apply.

Have an eye for detail and a properly planned itinerary and you will get a Schengen Visa without hassles. Happy travelling!

Further Read: New Zealand Tourist Visa for Indians: Explained