Are you planning to travel to Europe for a holiday or to visit your loved ones? If yes, then you must know about the Schengen tourist visa. A Schengen tourist visa allows an individual to travel to 26 countries in Europe without any restrictions. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Schengen tourist visa India.
What is a Schengen Tourist Visa?
A Schengen tourist visa is a short-term visa that allows an individual to travel to the Schengen area for the purpose of tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings. The Schengen area consists of 26 countries in Europe, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
The Schengen visa is issued for a maximum of 90 days and is valid for six months from the date of issue. The visa holder is allowed to enter and exit the Schengen area multiple times during the visa’s validity period.
If you are an Indian citizen, you need a Schengen tourist visa to travel to the Schengen area. You can apply for the visa at the embassy or consulate of the country that is your main destination or the country where you will be staying the longest.
Types of Schengen Tourist Visa
There are two types of Schengen tourist visa:
1. Single Entry Visa
A single entry visa allows the visa holder to enter the Schengen area only once. If you leave the Schengen area, you cannot re-enter it with the same visa. If you plan to travel to a country outside the Schengen area and return, you must apply for another visa.
2. Multiple Entry Visa
A multiple entry visa allows the visa holder to enter and exit the Schengen area multiple times during the visa’s validity period. This type of visa is suitable for travelers who need to travel to countries outside the Schengen area and return.
Documents Required for Schengen Tourist Visa
When applying for a Schengen tourist visa, you need to submit several documents. These documents include:
- A valid passport
- A completed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of travel arrangements, such as flight tickets and hotel bookings
- Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, salary slips, and income tax returns
- Travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros
- An NOC from the employer (if employed) or a letter from the educational institution (if a student)
You may also need to provide additional documents, depending on the country you are applying to and your travel plans.
Application Process for Schengen Tourist Visa
The application process for a Schengen tourist visa involves the following steps:
1. Gather Documents
Collect all the necessary documents required for the visa application.
2. Book an Appointment
Book an appointment with the embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to. You can do this online or by phone.
3. Submit Application
Submit your visa application form and all the required documents to the embassy or consulate on the day of your appointment.
4. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the visa fee at the embassy or consulate. The fee may vary depending on the country you are applying to.
5. Wait for Processing
Wait for your visa to be processed. The processing time may vary depending on the country you are applying to. It usually takes about 15 days to one month for the visa to be processed.
Tips to Increase the Chances of Getting a Schengen Tourist Visa
Here are some tips to increase your chances of getting a Schengen tourist visa:
- Apply for the visa well in advance of your travel date
- Provide all the necessary documents and information accurately
- Ensure that all the documents are genuine and not forged
- Provide a cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit and your travel plans
- Show strong ties to your home country, such as employment, property, or family
Conclusion
A Schengen tourist visa is a must-have for Indian citizens who wish to travel to the Schengen area. To apply for the visa, you need to gather all the necessary documents and submit them to the embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to. Ensure that you apply well in advance of your travel date and provide all the necessary documents accurately and genuinely. With a little preparation and effort, you can get your Schengen tourist visa and enjoy a hassle-free trip to Europe.
