The Indian travelers have their dream of saving money and having a European vacation and the most significant step to make the dream come true is to apply to the Indian Tourist Schengen Visa. The Schengen region of Europe comprises 29 countries and, once you have received one visa, you can move freely across the borders. You may be seeking the historical marvels of France, the artistic heritage of Italy, the modern cities of Germany or the scenic marvels of Switzerland, but with the Tourist Schengen Visa in India, you are the one who is going to have a hassle free time of your life.

It might seem that applying to the visa is a daunting task initially due to the fact that all the details including the preparation of the documents and the financial evidence should be correct. This is why it is important to understand the process in order to apply Schengen visa in India without rejection or time wasted. By being ready you have a better chance of being accepted and you will be less stressed. Gokite Tours is also a trusted travel consultant to many travelers who seek their help when they would rather have a stepwise and error free application process.

What Is a Schengen Visa?

Schengen visa is a short term visa that permits foreign nationals to move freely within 29 European nations without internal border inspections. The visa is granted as either a tourist visa, business visa, family visit visa, short course visa or transit visa. The visa is a necessity to Indian travelers as there are no other ways of Indian passport holders gaining entry into those countries without prior permission.

In case you are using Schengen visa India you have the option to use single, double or multiple entry visa based on the frequency at which you intend to travel in and out of the Schengen zone in the course of your visit. In the case of tourism, the single-entry visa is usually the preferred applicant of most, except when the travel itinerary of the applicant involves a visit to other non-Schengen countries in between.

Why the Schengen Region is the favorite place to do tourism by Indians.

Europe continues to be among the most popular destinations among the Indian tourists due to a number of reasons:

• The historical cities include Paris, Rome, Vienna, and Prague.

• The natural marvels such as the Alps, fjords, and coast.

• Various food and culture.

• Good transport systems.

• Good holiday packages by the travel companies.

• World-class infrastructure, safety and cleanliness.

Indian travelers are able to visit many countries in a single trip with one visa and therefore Europe is very convenient and economical.

Who does not need a Tourist Schengen Visa?

Every Indian passport holder visiting any Schengen country on tourism is required to apply to this visa unless they possess:

• A genuine Schengen residence permit.

• EU granted visa/exemption under certain categories (rare)

You are required to acquire the Schengen visa in India in case you are an Indian citizen.

Indian Schengen Tourist Visas.

1. Type C – Short Stay Visa

• Not exceeding 90 days in 180 days period.

• Commonly used for tourism

2. Single Entry Visa

• Cross the Schengen zone once.

• Cannot return once you exit

3. Double Entry Visa

• Permits different two entries.

4. Multiple Entry Visa

• Flexible entry and exit

• Convenient with a traveller.

Schengen Visa Procedure Tourist Visa Schengen Visa Document Checklist to Indians.

The following is the entire checklist needed when applying Schengen visa in India.

1. Mandatory Documents

• Valid Indian passport (issued not older than 10 years) and 3 months before departure.

• This is a duly filled and signed Schengen visa application form.

• Six new passport photographs.

• Cover letter: Purpose of visit, dates of visit, countries to visit.

• Round trip flight reservation.

• Proven accommodation or booking in a hotel.

• Travel plan including day-to-day itinerary.

• Travel insurance covering 30,000 on medical cover.

• The past 36 months bank statements.

• Last 2 years Income Tax Returns (ITR)

• Evidence of employment (salary slips, job letter) or Company registration.

• Letter of employer leave approval where necessary.

2. Financial Proof Requirement.

To travel, the applicants have to demonstrate that they have enough funds. Common requirements are:

• Savings bank statement

• Fixed deposits

• Credit card limit proof

• Letter of sponsorship in case you are financed by another person.

3. Other Documents By Category.

• Self-employed: GST certificate, company bank statement.

• Students: ID card, no-objection letter of the institution.

• Retirees: pension documents

• Minor travelers: parental consent letter.

To avoid rejection because of the minor mistakes, a professional agency like Gokite Tours is usually helpful in making the traveler group acquire and confirm these papers.

Application of Tourist Schengen Visa in India (Step-by-Step Guide).

Step 1: Determine Your Major Destination.

Below is an application at the country where you are to spend the most days.

In case you visit the countries equally, use the country where you move in first.

Step 2: Complete Visa application Form.

Complete the online form with caution. Precision is also necessary because any errors will lead to delays.

Step 3: Make a Reservation at VFS.

It is through VFS Global that most of the Schengen tourist visa applications by Indians are made.

Step 4: Prepare All the necessary papers.

Ensure that documents are within your travel dates.

This is any required documents, financial evidence and supporting documents.

Step 5: Complete Your Application.

On the day of the appointment:

• Submit documents

• Fingerprints and photo (biometrics)

• Pay visa fees

Step 6: Track Application

You are able to view your status in the application through your reference number.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport

Upon approval, VFS will confirm you. You will be able to pick it up personally or to use the courier.

Indian Costs of Tourist Schengen Visa.

The visa charge normally covers:

• Schengen Visa Fee: €90 for adults

• VFS Service Charges: Country specific.

• The services are optional: Premium lounge, SMS updates, courier.

The total amount may vary between INR 7,000 -12,000 based on the fees charged by the Schengen country and other optional services.

India Schengen visa processing time.

The mean processing time will be:

• 15 to 45 working days in seasons of normal working.

• Period 60 or more days (April- June and October-December) during peak travel periods.

It is highly suggested that it should be applied at least 4560 days before travel.

Reasons why Visas are usually rejected.

In spite of full documents, applications can be rejected because of:

• A lack of financial evidence.

• Inconsistent travel plans

• Suspicious itinerary

• Missing documents

• Wrong insurance coverage.

• Lack of strong ties to India

• Poor travel history

You may reapply having corrected your mistakes.

Who should you Be to Enhance your Visa Application.

Follow these essential tips:

• Maintain a clear travel plan

• Demonstrate a high level of financial stability.

• Give valid accommodation evidence.

• Append professional cover letter.

• Make sure that the documents are in accordance with your travel dates.

• Avoid last-minute changes

Indians Visiting the Schengen Region Travel advice.

1. Plan Transport in Advance

Due to the popularity of rail, low-cost airlines, and buses, Europe can be explored by this means.

2. Weather Preparation

The weather is rapid in Europe. Check forecasts and pack layers.

3. Currency Management

Carry a mix of:

• Cash euros

• Forex cards

Debit/credit cards used in the international arena.

4. Local Rules and Safety

• Always countercheck train tickets where necessary.

• Observe safety in tourist places.

• Always use photocopies rather than the original of the passport.

5. Mobile Connectivity

Take into account local SIM cards or international roaming packages.

When is the best time to visit Schengen Countries.

• Spring (March-May): nice weather, less tourists.

• Summer (June-August): high season, and best in festivals.

• Autumn (SeptemberNovember): Picturesque landscapes, pleasant travelling.

• Winter (December- February): Christmas markets, snow adventures.

Conclusion

Applying to obtain a Tourist Schengen Visa to people in India is a significant move to any person planning to have a holiday in Europe. The process itself is certainly not that simple, but with the appropriate information, documents, and guidance, it becomes a lot easier. No matter whether you are dreaming about seeing historical cities or enjoying the European culture or you are just in love with beautiful landscapes, you will be allowed to visit 29 beautiful countries with only one permission with the help of the visa. Knowing the most important of the requirements and getting your paperwork organized is the way so that once you are confident in the idea of using Schengen visa from India without any concern about delays or refuses.

The Schengen visa of India is famous as it gives the freedom of movement in most countries and Europe is one of the preferred places to visit by the Indian citizens. Having good planning, good financial base and a well-organized itinerary, you have a high chance of being approved. Travel service providers such as Gokite Tours normally assist applicants to make the process easier by assisting them in documentation, appointments and travel planning. Being a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, the correct preparation will make the process smooth.