Hey there, fellow traveller! So, you’re planning to visit Europe and need a multiple-entry Schengen visa? Whether you're visiting several countries in one trip or know you'll be travelling multiple times, this guide will help you understand how to get one. Let’s break it down in simple steps.
The Schengen Area is a group of 29 European countries that have abolished border controls between them. A Schengen visa lets you travel freely between these countries with just one visa. A multiple-entry Schengen visa allows you to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within its validity period.
Yes, as an Indian passport holder, you can apply for a multiple-entry visa! However, it's not granted automatically—you must prove you're a reliable traveller. Let’s look at the requirements.
To qualify for a multiple-entry Schengen visa, you need to meet a few key requirements:
If you've already travelled to Schengen countries or other countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia, and you didn’t overstay your visa or break any rules, this works in your favour. If this is your first time applying, it might be a bit harder, but not impossible.
You’ll need to prove that you can support yourself during your stay in Europe. This includes providing bank statements for the past 3 months, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance.
You must have a clear reason for your travel. This could be for tourism, business, or visiting family or friends. You’ll need to submit supporting documents like a travel itinerary, invitation letters, or booking confirmations.
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the Schengen area and should have at least two blank pages for stamps and visas.
You’ll need to show that you’ll return to India. This could be a return ticket or evidence of ongoing travel after your trip.
Writing a brief cover letter can help. Explain why you need a multiple-entry visa and how often you plan to visit. This personal touch can strengthen your application.
Now that you know the requirements, here's how to apply:
Apply through the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most nights. If you plan to spend an equal number of nights in multiple countries, apply through the country of your first port of entry.
The Schengen visa application form is available online for most countries. Complete it carefully—it's straightforward!
You’ll need your passport, travel itinerary, bank statements, accommodation proof, travel insurance, and any other documents required.
Most embassies require you to book an appointment to submit your documents and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photographs). Make sure to schedule your appointment early to secure your desired date, as slots can fill up quickly.
Visa processing usually takes around 10–15 days, but this can vary depending on the embassy or consulate handling your application. To avoid any last-minute issues, you can apply up to 6 months in advance of your planned travel date.
If all goes well, you’ll receive your multiple-entry Schengen visa. This will typically be valid for 1–5 years, allowing you multiple entries during that time.
There are several common reasons for rejection:
But don't worry! If rejected, you can always reapply by addressing the issues that led to the refusal.
Navigating the multiple-entry Schengen visa process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At StampThePassport, we specialize in helping travellers like you. From organizing documents to filling out the application and preparing for the interview, we’ll guide you step-by-step.
Don’t stress over the details—reach out to us today, and let’s make sure you get your visa with confidence!
Happy travels to Europe! 🌍✈️