Schengen Visa Checklist for Indian Travellers
A practical Schengen visa document checklist for Indian travellers: passport rules, photos, insurance, proof of funds, and how to book through VFS Global.
A Schengen visa lets Indian citizens visit the Schengen area for tourism, family visits or short business trips, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Most Indian applicants need the short-stay Type C visa. The rules are set at EU level, but each consulate can ask for additional documents, so always check your consulate’s checklist before you apply.
Which country to apply to
Apply to the consulate of the Schengen country that is your main destination, meaning where you will spend the most nights. If you will spend equal time in several countries, apply to the country you enter first. Do not apply to a country just because its appointments are easier to get, because the consulate can ask to see your itinerary.
Document checklist
- Passport: issued within the last 10 years, with at least two blank pages, and valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen area.
- Application form: completed and signed.
- Photos: recent passport photos, 35 x 45 mm, with a light background. Check your consulate for the exact number and rules.
- Travel medical insurance: cover of at least €30,000 valid across the Schengen area for the whole stay.
- Flights: reservations to and from the Schengen area.
- Accommodation: hotel bookings or an invitation with the host’s details.
- Itinerary: a day-by-day plan for your trip.
- Proof of funds: recent bank statements, often covering the last three to six months.
- Employment or business documents: a leave letter, business registration, or income tax returns.
- Cover letter: explaining the purpose of your trip.
Fees and how to apply
The Schengen visa fee for adults is €90, which applies since June 2024. The fee is €45 for children aged 6 to 11, and children under 6 are exempt. Most Schengen consulates in India use VFS Global, which charges a separate service fee that varies by country; published figures range from a few hundred to over three thousand rupees. Book an appointment, submit your documents and biometrics where required, and pay both charges. Confirm the amounts on your consulate’s page because they can change.
When to apply
Under the EU Visa Code you can normally apply up to six months before travel and should apply at least 15 calendar days before. A decision usually takes up to 15 days but can take longer, so plan more time around holidays and peak season.
Common reasons for refusal
- Incomplete or inconsistent documents
- Insufficient proof of funds for the trip
- Missing or non-compliant travel insurance
- Unclear purpose of travel or return plans
Ready to apply? Start your visa application or check your documents at OnlineEVisa.com.
Last verified: 5 November 2026 against the sources linked below. Visa rules change often, so confirm the details on the official link before you book or apply.
Official sources
Found something out of date? Tell us through our corrections policy. This page is general information, not legal or immigration advice: see our disclaimer.
Vinay Patel
Vinay Patel is Managing Director of Visa2Travel (Vinpay Overseas Pvt. Ltd.), based in Anand, Gujarat. He runs visa2travel.news and the Visa2Travel brand, which has served travellers since 2015.
