When planning a trip to Europe, understanding the Schengen visa fee for Indians is a crucial step in the visa application process. For Indian travellers, the Schengen visa opens doors to explore 29 European countries with just one visa. This blog looks into the Schengen visa application fee India, breaking down the costs and offering insights to make your application smoother.

What is the Schengen Visa Fee for Indians?

The Schengen visa fee for Indians is the amount you need to pay to process your visa application. This fee is mandatory and must be paid during the submission of your application. It ensures that your documents and eligibility are reviewed by the concerned consulate or embassy. However, the fee structure may vary based on factors like visa type and the applicant’s age.

How Much is the Schengen Visa Fee in India?

One of the most commonly asked questions is, "How much is Schengen visa fee in India?" As of 2024, the standard Schengen visa application fee India for adults is approximately ₹8,100 (90 Euros). For children between 6 and 12 years, the fee is around ₹4,050 (45 Euros), while children under 6 years of age can apply for free. Some applicants, like students or researchers travelling for academic purposes, might get a discount or not have to pay at all. Always check the latest fee updates on the StampThePassport website before applying to make sure you have the correct information.

Factors Affecting the Cost for Schengen Visa from India

While the base fee is fixed, several factors can affect the cost of a Schengen visa from India:

1. Visa Type: The fee may vary for short-term tourist visas, business visas, or long-term visas.
    
2. Service Charges: Extra charges may apply. These fees usually range from ₹1000 to ₹2000, depending on the provider.
    
3. Additional Costs: Expenses such as travel insurance, photocopying documents, courier services, and premium services like the premium lounge or On-Demand Mobile Visa (ODMV) service are not included in the base fee but may be required or optional for a smoother application process.
    
4. Exchange Rates: Since the fee is calculated in Euros, changes in exchange rates can impact the final amount you pay in Indian Rupees.

Schengen Visa Cost for Indian Applicants

The Schengen visa cost for Indian applicants goes beyond just the application fee. Here’s a simple breakdown of the extra expenses you might face:

• Travel Insurance: Schengen rules require travel insurance that covers at least €30,000 for medical emergencies. This usually costs between ₹500 and ₹2,000, depending on how long your trip is and the type of coverage you choose.
   
• Document Translation: If your documents aren’t in English or the local language of the country you’re travelling to, you might need to pay for certified translations.
   
• Courier Services: Want your passport delivered to your home? Courier services typically cost around ₹300 to ₹500.

Tips to Save on Schengen Visa Costs

• Plan Ahead: Early planning ensures you have enough time to gather documents and avoid extra costs like expedited services.
   
• Opt for Multi-Entry Visas: If you plan to visit Europe multiple times within a year, apply for a multi-entry visa to save on re-application costs.
   
• Compare Service Providers: If you’re using a visa agency, compare their charges to find the most affordable option.

FAQs

1. How much does a Schengen tourist visa cost in India?
For adults, the fee is €90 (about ₹8,100). For children aged 6 to 12, it’s €45 (around ₹4,050).

2. Can I get a refund if my Schengen visa application is rejected?
Unfortunately, no. The visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is not approved.

3. Are there any hidden charges in the Schengen visa cost for Indian applicants?
Not exactly hidden, but there are extra expenses like service fees, travel insurance, and courier charges that can add to the total cost.

Conclusion

Understanding the Schengen visa application fee in India is important for planning your trip to Europe. While the standard fee gives you a good idea of your expenses, don't forget to consider extra costs like service charges and travel insurance. By being aware of the cost for Schengen visas from India, you can make your application process smoother and avoid any surprise expenses. So, the next time you ask, "How much is the Schengen visa fee in India?" you’ll have all the information you need to plan your dream European vacation with confidence. Make sure your documents are ready, and enjoy your travels!