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Do Indian citizens need a visa for Schengen Area?
Indian citizens need a regular visa to enter Schengen Area.
Indian citizens need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) before travelling.
At a glance
| Visa type | Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) |
|---|---|
| Maximum stay | 90 days within 180 |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days typical |
| Application fee | €90 / €45 children 6–12 |
| Passport validity required | Valid 3+ months beyond departure |
| Blank pages required | 2 minimum |
| Where to apply | VFS Global / TLScontact / BLS, on behalf of embassy of main destination |
| Apply up to | Up to 6 months before travel |
How to apply, step by step
- Decide main destination.
- Book appointment.
- Gather documents.
- Attend biometrics in person.
- Pay fees.
- Wait 15 days.
Document checklist
- Passport (6+ months, 2 blank pages)
- Visa application form
- Biometric photo
- Travel insurance (€30k+)
- Return flight
- Hotel bookings
- Bank statements (3 months)
- Employment letter
- Cover letter
Frequently asked questions
Which embassy?
The country where you spend the most days. If equal, country of first entry.
What happens if my visa is rejected?
You forfeit the application fee. You can re-apply, but must disclose the prior refusal.
What happens if I overstay?
Fines, possible re-entry bans, and complications for future applications.
About this page
Cross-checked against the official government source linked above and the Wikipedia article on visa policy of Schengen Area. Verified weekly against three independent sources.
See what changed in Schengen Area entry rules in the last 90 days →
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