Schengen Visa
SCHENGEN COUNTERS
A Schengen Visa is an official permit issued by any of the 26 Schengen member countries allowing travelers to move freely within the Schengen zone without feeling border checks or passport control. It is valid for both tourism and business purposes. With a Schengen travel visa. You can stay for up to 90 days within six months.
The Schengen visa from India is widely sought after by travelers visiting European nations. The Schengen region includes Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
Additionally, a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa enables travelers to visit non-Schengen countries like Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania without wanting another visa provided the visit is for tourism.
The Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) is divided into three types:
- Single-entry visa – Allows one-time entry into the Schengen Area. Once you exit, re-entry is not permitted.
- Double-entry visa – Permits two entries within its validity but after the second exit. You cannot return.
- Multiple-entry visa – Grants unrestricted entries and exits as long as the visa remains valid.
For those applying, understanding the Schengen visa fee in India and the Schengen visa cost is essential. Various visa companies assist in obtaining the visa hassle-free. Proper planning ensures a smooth and pleasant European trip.
Schengen Visa Application Procedure: What You Need to Know:
1. To apply for a Schengen Visa, you must first fill out the application form.
2. Once completed, you will need to make an appointment to submit your application and supporting documents.
3. At the appointment, you will be required to provide biometric data and verify the authenticity of your documents.
4. Finally, you will need to pay the visa fees before your application can be processed.
In case you intend to visit multiple countries and allocate equal time to each, you must apply at the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the most time. However, if you plan to spend equal time in two or more countries, such as five days in France and five days in Germany, you should apply at the embassy of the country where you will arrive first.
Documents for Schengen Visa
Original Passport with at least 6 months validity and minimum 3 blank pages + all old passports if any;
Schengen Visa Application form;
2 recent colour photographs (Photo Specification);
Personal Covering letter (For Employed - Plain paper/ For Self-Employed – Company Letterhead);
Original updated Bank Statement (last 6 months);
Income Tax Returns/Form 16 for last 3 years;
Confirmed return flight tickets
Hotel reservation.
Day wise Itinerary;
Travel Insurance (minimum coverage of EUR 30000).
Supporting Documents for Schengen Visa
1. Heading:
Original Leave sanctioned certificate with company seal and signature;
Last 3 months salary slip.
2. If Self Employed:
Business Registration License / MOA / Partnership deed;
Company’s updated bank statement of last 6 months;
Company’s IT returns for last 3 years.
3. If Retired:
Proof of retirement like pension book, statement etc.
4. If Student:
School / College / Institute ID Card;
Bonafede certificate.
5. If Minor:
Birth Certificate;
No Objection Certificate from the parents / non-accompanying parent on Rs 100/- stamp paper;
ID proof of parent like passport or PAN card.
6. If Visiting friend or relative:
Invitation letter;
Inviter’s ID proof like Passport or Resident Permit;
Address proof like any Electricity bill, any Utility bill etc.
7. If Sponsored:
Sponsorship letter;
Sponsor’s national ID proof like Passport, PAN card or Resident permit;
Updated bank statement of last 6 months;
Income tax returns of last 3 years.
8. For Business Visa:
Invitation letter from host Company stating purpose of trip, business details etc;
Covering letter from Indian company on company letterhead.
Kindly note:
The Govt is very strict on the photograph requirement; please ensure that your photos are as per the specifications.