Planning your Europe trip? The Schengen Visa opens the door to 27 (soon 29) European countries allowing you to travel freely across their borders for short stays. If you’re applying from India (or similar non-EU country), here’s everything you need to know — costs, documents, timelines, tips to avoid rejection, and more.

What Is the Schengen Visa?

A short-stay permit that lets you travel among Schengen Area countries (most of Europe) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It covers tourism, family visits, business, or transit. For longer stays (study, work, etc.), there are separate visa types.

Who Needs It

If you’re not from an EU or visa-free country, and plan to visit any Schengen country for tourism, visiting family, business, or transit, you’ll need this visa. Applicants from India, Pakistan, many Asian, African, and Latin American countries must apply before travel.

Latest Schengen Visa Rules & Changes (2025)

• Starting October 12, 2025, the EU will implement the new Entry/Exit System (EES). Non-EU travellers will undergo biometric collection (fingerprints, photo) instead of passport stamping.

• Passport stamps may phase out gradually; biometric data stored for defined period.

• Some cost increases for service fees via VFS Global in early 2025.

Validity & Stay Duration

• You may stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period under a short-stay visa.

• Visa validity, number of entries (single vs multiple), depends on your itinerary, travel history and reason.

Schengen Visa Fees for Indians (2025)

• For adults (ages 12 and over): €80 (≈ ₹7,200)

• Children between 6-12 years: €40 (≈ ₹3,600)

• Children under 6: free

• Additional service charges via VFS Global have increased in 2025. Some examples: Austria (~₹2,649), France (~₹2,202), Germany (~₹1,933), Greece (~₹3,025), Netherlands etc.

Documents Required

When applying, you’ll need:

• Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your return date and at least two blank pages.

• Completed visa application form (Schengen Visa Application Form) correctly filled.

• Recent passport-size photographs per Schengen specs.

• Proof of travel itinerary: confirmed flight reservations.

• Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letters).

• Travel insurance covering at least €30,000 medical emergencies including repatriation.

• Proof of financial means: bank statements, income proofs, sponsor documents if required.

• Cover letter explaining purpose of travel, day-to-day plan.

Processing Time & When to Apply

• Normal processing time is 15-30 calendar days for most short-stay visa applications.

• During peak travel seasons (May-Aug, Dec-Jan), delays are common — could stretch up to 45 days in worst case.

• It is recommended to apply at least 45-60 days before intended travel.

Risks, Rejections & Tips to Avoid Them

• In 2024, India saw over 1.65 lakh Schengen visa applications rejected, costing applicants approx. ₹136 crore in non-refundable fees.

• Common reasons for rejection: incomplete documents, doubt over financial stability, missing travel insurance, or weak ties to home country.

• Tips: check all required documents, detailed itinerary, proof of return, credible financial proof. Dress appropriately, attend visa center punctually.

How to Apply – Step by Step

1. Figure out which Schengen country’s embassy or consulate you’ll apply to (often the one where you first enter or stay longest).

2. Book appointment via embassy or authorized centre (like VFS Global).

3. Fill application form, prepare all documents, get travel insurance.

4. Attend appointment: submit papers, provide biometric (fingerprints/photo).

5. Pay visa fee + service charge.

6. Wait for processing. Once approved, collect passport with visa.

Why Choose MusafirBaba for Schengen Visa Assistance

• Experts who keep up with latest rules and embassy requirements.

• Guidance and document review to minimize rejections.

• Help in selecting fastest processing Schengen country when needed.

• Transparency in fees, no hidden charges.

• Support throughout — from appointment scheduling to follow-ups.

A Schengen Visa allows 90 days’ stay in 180-day period in Europe for tourism, business or transit. From India in 2025, expect to pay about €80 (~₹7,200) for adults, €40 for children 6-12, and nothing for under-6s. Plan ahead: 15-30 days processing, but more during peak seasons. Complete documentation, good travel insurance and applying through fast embassies can help avoid delays and rejections.