Travelers who require a Schengen visa must apply before traveling to the Schengen Area. The exact requirements and application procedure can vary depending on the country you plan to visit.
For Indian applicants, it is important to check the specific requirements of the Schengen country you intend to visit before starting your application.
How to Get a Schengen Tourist Visa?
If you want to get a Schengen tourist visa, the process is fairly straightforward when you understand what needs to be done. Here are the main steps to follow.
Step 1: Determine the Correct Schengen Country to Apply To
Start by looking at your travel itinerary and identifying the country that is responsible for your application.
You should generally apply through the country where you will spend the longest part of your trip. If you plan to spend an equal amount of time in more than one Schengen country, follow the applicable first-entry rule.
This is an important step. You should not simply choose a country because you think it may be easier to get a visa from there.
Step 2: Check When You Can Apply
You can submit a Schengen visa application up to 6 months before your planned journey. Applications should generally be submitted at least 15 days before your intended travel date.
While 15 days is the general minimum timeframe, applying earlier is a better approach. It gives you enough time to organize your documents and deal with any unexpected delays.
Step 3: Complete the Schengen Visa Application Form
Complete the application form required by your destination country.
Some Schengen countries use online application systems. For example, Germany uses the VIDEX system for certain applications.
Take your time when completing the form. Your information should be accurate, complete and consistent with the documents you submit. Sign the form wherever required.
Step 4: Gather the Required Documents
Once the application form is ready, prepare your supporting documents.
Your documents should clearly support the purpose of your trip, your travel arrangements, your financial situation and other relevant details about your application.
Keep in mind that the exact checklist can differ from one Schengen country to another. Always check the requirements that apply to your destination.
Step 5: Book a Visa Appointment
After preparing your application and documents, book an appointment through VFS Global or the designated visa application service provider for your destination country.
The appointment procedure is not necessarily the same for every Schengen country, so follow the instructions provided for your specific destination.
Step 6: Submit Your Application and Biometrics
Attend your appointment in person as required.
Depending on your application, you may need to:
- Submit your completed application form
- Provide your supporting documents
- Give fingerprints
- Provide a photograph
- Answer basic questions about your trip, if required
Make sure you arrive prepared and carry all the documents required for your appointment.
Step 7: Track Your Application
After submitting your application, you can track its progress through the relevant visa application centre or service provider.
Keep your application reference details safe so you can check the status when needed.
Step 8: Receive and Check Your Passport
Once your application has been processed, you can collect your passport from the visa application centre or receive it through the available courier service.
When you receive your passport, check the visa details carefully. Make sure your name, passport number, validity, number of entries and permitted duration of stay are correct.
Schengen Tourist Visa Documents Checklist
Having the right documents is one of the most important parts of applying for a
Schengen tourist visa. A basic checklist may include the following: