Welcome to StampThePassport, your trusted online visa agency! Today, we'll dive into the essential details about the Schengen visa for Indian citizens, shedding light on its significance, coverage, validity, fees, and application process.

The Schengen visa is a travel document that allows individuals to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which consists of 27 European countries. For Indian citizens, obtaining a Schengen visa is essential for travelling to these countries. 

The Schengen visa holds significant importance for Indian citizens who wish to travel to Europe. It not only allows them to visit multiple countries on a single visa but also simplifies the process of cross-border travel within the Schengen Area. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective option for Indians planning to visit multiple European countries.

The Schengen Area comprises 27 European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, among others. A Schengen visa allows Indian citizens to travel freely within these countries, eliminating the need for multiple visas.

List of Schengen Countries:

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

Croatia is the newest addition to the Schengen countries, On 1st jan 2023. 

The validity of a Schengen visa for Indians depends on the purpose of travel and the type of visa obtained. Generally, Schengen visas are issued for a maximum duration of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that Indian citizens can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days from the date of first entry.

Multiple Entries with Schengen Visa

It is important to note that the Schengen visa allows multiple entries, which means that individuals can enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa's validity period. However, the total duration of stay must not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.

Overstaying Schengen Visa

Overstaying your Schengen visa can lead to serious consequences, including fines, deportation, and a ban from entering the Schengen Area in the future. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the visa validity period and ensure that you do not exceed the allowed duration of stay.

The visa fees for Schengen countries can vary significantly based on the country you are applying to. For instance, as of the current year, the visa fee for adults is subject to change based on the specific country: for example, it is ₹10,224 for a France Visa, ₹8,522 for a Switzerland Visa, and ₹8,522 for a Spain Visa. It's important to note that these fees may fluctuate according to currency exchange rates.

Furthermore, the fees for a Schengen visa for Indian applicants also depend on their age and the type of visa they are applying for. As a general guideline, the standard visa fee for adults is a standard fee amount, while children aged 6 to 12 years are required to pay a separate fee amount. However, children under the age of 6 are typically exempt from paying any visa fees. Please keep in mind that these fees and age-based variations can vary from one Schengen country to another, so it's advisable to check the specific fees and requirements for the country you plan to visit.

Additional Charges for Certain Types of Visas

In addition to the standard visa fee, there may be additional charges for certain types of visas, such as the visa fee for a spouse of an EU/EEA national or the visa fee for a family member of an EU/EEA national. It is advisable to check the official website of the respective Schengen country's embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on visa fees.

Fee Exemptions and Reductions

Certain categories of applicants may be eligible for fee exemptions or reductions. For instance, students, researchers, and representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less may be exempt from paying the visa fee. It is advisable to check the official website of the respective Schengen country's embassy or consulate for detailed information on fee exemptions and reductions.

At StampThePassport, we understand that securing a Schengen visa can seem like a daunting task. To make the process smooth and straightforward for Indian travellers, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the application process:

We offer two modules to cater to your specific needs:

Do it Yourself (DIY) Module: With this option, you take the reins. Simply fill out the application form, and we'll handle the rest, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

VisaPro Module: For those seeking expert guidance, choose our VisaPro module. Provide us with your information, and our visa experts will take care of the entire process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa

Visit our website and kickstart your journey by identifying the type of visa that best suits the purpose of your travel. Common options include tourist visas, business visas, and transit visas.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the essential documents needed for your application. This typically includes

A valid passport: 

• Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date
• Your passport should have a minimum of 2 blank pages
• Your passport should have been issued within the last 10 years
• Indian passports with any observations or corrections will not be accepted
• Previously issued passports if you have any

Passport-sized photographs: 

• Two recent coloured passport-size photographs
• Size of the photos: 35mm x 45mm without any border
• Ensure your photos have a white background with 80% face coverage

Travel insurance: The insurance should cover you for your stay in Spain and provide medical coverage, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains. The insurance policy should be valid in all Schengen countries and have a minimum coverage of €30,000.  You can apply for travel insurance through Stampthepassport.com

Proof of accommodation: 

• Verifiable Hotel Booking
• Verifiable Flight Ticket

Proof of financial means: 

• Personal bank statement (last 6 months) with seal and signature of the bank
• Income Tax returns (last 3 years)
• Salary slips (last 3 months)
• Financial documents of sponsor and sponsorship letter (if sponsored)
• GST registration certificate (If self-employed)

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Once you have your documents in order, it's time to schedule an appointment at the relevant Schengen country's embassy or consulate. Our visa expert will book your appointment according to your preferred date range.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

Following the interview, you'll need to pay the necessary visa fee. Typically, this fee can be settled in cash or by credit/debit card, but check with the specific embassy or consulate for their accepted payment methods.

Step 5: Wait for the Visa Decision

With your application submitted and the visa fee paid, patience becomes your ally as you await the visa decision. Processing time can vary as per the embassy or consulate to another, so applying well in advance of your intended travel date is advisable.

If you've submitted your application through StampThePassport, tracking your visa status is a breeze. Simply click on "My Visa" to stay updated. Moreover, we'll keep you in the loop through WhatsApp and email, ensuring you're always up-to-date with the latest visa-related information.

Step 6: Collect Your Visa

Upon approval, you'll receive a notification to collect your visa from the embassy or consulate. Remember to bring along crucial documents, such as your passport and the visa fee receipt, when picking up your visa.

While applying for a Schengen visa, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to the rejection of your application. These may include providing incomplete or incorrect information, failing to provide necessary documents, or not having sufficient financial means to support your stay in the Schengen Area.

Applying for a Schengen visa need not be a daunting experience. With our Visa Experts, you'll be well on your way to exploring the wonders of Europe seamlessly. StampThePassport is here to support you every step of the way!

Conclusion

Obtaining a Schengen visa is an essential requirement for Indian citizens planning to travel to the Schengen Area. Understanding the validity, fees, and application process of the Schengen visa can help make the process smoother and more efficient. By following the steps outlined in this article, Indian citizens can ensure a hassle-free experience when applying for a Schengen visa.

Final Thoughts

The Schengen visa offers a great opportunity for Indian citizens to explore the rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes of Europe. With careful planning and preparation, the visa application process can be a straightforward and stress-free experience. So, start planning your European adventure today!