Schengen Tourist Visa

Embarking on a journey through Europe is an adventure that many dream of, and obtaining a Schengen Tourist Visa is the key to making that dream a reality. The Schengen Area, encompassing 26 European countries, offers travelers the unique opportunity to explore multiple nations with just one visa. Here at Seths Advisory, we understand the intricacies of the visa application process and are dedicated to helping you navigate it smoothly. Here’s what you need to know to start your European adventure:

Understanding the Schengen Visa

The Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa allowing visitors to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Whether you're planning to admire the Eiffel Tower in France, explore the canals of Venice in Italy, or immerse yourself in the rich history of Germany, the Schengen Visa is your ticket to a hassle-free journey across Europe.

Why Choose Seths Advisory?

Expert Guidance: Our team of experienced visa consultants will provide you with personalized assistance, ensuring you understand every step of the application process.

Comprehensive Documentation Support: We help you gather and prepare all necessary documents, from your application form to proof of accommodation and travel insurance.

Application Review: Our experts will meticulously review your application to minimize the risk of rejection, giving you peace of mind.

Interview Preparation: If an interview is required, we offer coaching sessions to help you present your case confidently and effectively.

Key Requirements for a Schengen Tourist Visa

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area and have at least two blank pages.

Completed Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately and completely.

Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos adhering to Schengen visa photo requirements.

Travel Itinerary: A detailed itinerary of your trip, including flight reservations, hotel bookings, and planned activities.

Travel Insurance: Proof of travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000, valid throughout the Schengen Area.

Financial Proof: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Cover Letter: A letter explaining the purpose of your visit and your travel plans.

The Application Process

Determine Your Main Destination: Identify the Schengen country where you will spend the most time, as you will apply for the visa at the consulate of that country.

Gather Documentation: Collect all required documents as listed above.

Submit Your Application: Submit your application at the appropriate consulate or visa application center. Some countries may require you to schedule an appointment in advance.

Attend the Visa Interview: If required, attend an interview at the consulate. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and intentions.

Wait for Processing: Visa processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

This visa allows the holder to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days (in any 180-day period) for the purposes of tourism, business, visiting family, medical treatment, studies, training placements, or volunteer activities that last under 3 months

Documents required to apply for a Schengen Visa from India

To apply for a Schengen Visa from India, you will need the following:

• A Schengen Visa application form
• Two recently taken passport-style photos
• An Indian passport (or other travel documents) no older than 10 years and valid for at least three months after your departure date from the Schengen Area
• One copy of your passport’s data page (A4 size copy)
• A leave letter from your employer and/or employment contract (if employed)
• A copy of your Indian business license and company bank statement (if self-employed)
• A no-objection certificate from your school or university and proof of enrolment (if student)
• A travel and medical insurance certificate (covering you up to costs of €30,000)
• Proof of accommodation (for your entire stay in the Schengen area)
• Proof of your civil status (i.e., marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, ration card if applicable, etc.)
• Proof of financial status:
  • If employed: payslips of the past three months/employment contract
  • If self-employed: Certificate of Proprietorship or other proof of ownership (proof of land title, proof of income from agriculture (sales form), etc.)
  • Personal original bank statement of the past three months with sufficient funds
  • Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Form 16 (Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary)

You may also need to provide proof of a pension or property income (if these are sources of income).

All documents need to be presented in the given order and in their original. Make sure you have copies of all your paperwork (A4 size) — in case you want to keep the originals.

Schengen Visa cost in India:

Schengen Visa costs are universal too.
A Schengen Visa from India for one adult, therefore, costs €80 — or around ₹7,080. The same rate applies to children from 12 to 18 years old.
For children from 6 to 11 years old, the rate is €40.
And for children under 6 years of age, the Schengen Visa is free.
In certain cases, the Schengen visa fee may also be waived for participants (aged 25 years or less) in seminars, conferences, sporting, cultural, or educational events, students and teachers on study or training trips, and researchers traveling for the purpose of scientific research.

Tips for a Successful Application

Plan Ahead: Start the application process at least three months before your intended departure date to avoid any last-minute issues.

Be Honest: Provide truthful and accurate information to avoid any complications.

Stay Organized: Keep track of all documents and correspondence related to your application.

Need travel insurance when applying for a Schengen Visa from India:

Yes. In order to be approved for a Schengen Visa, you will need travel insurance. Your plan must cover you across the entire Schengen region (not only in the countries you plan to visit) and throughout the entire duration of your trip. You’ll also need a minimum coverage of at least €30,000.

How long does it take to process my Schengen Visa from India?

Schengen embassies/consulates in India typically require you to schedule an appointment 4-6 weeks in advance. The applications usually take around two weeks to process. However, during busier periods (and depending on your particular situation) it can take up to a month or two. So it’s best to apply early. You can apply up to 6 months in advance.