Schengen Visa for Indians: Types, Cost, Fees

Posted on: Jul 4, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Schengen Visa for Indians: Types, Cost, Fees

Many people from India dream of exploring the charming streets of Europe's Schengen Zone, filled with history, culture, and delicious food. But before packing your bags, it's crucial to understand the ins and outs of getting a Schengen visa, especially the fees involved. This guide delves into the significance of travel insurance for Schengen visa applicants from India, providing valuable insights to ensure comprehensive coverage and peace of mind throughout the travel experience.

Different Types of Schengen Visas for Indians

When planning a trip to the Schengen Zone, it's essential to grasp the nuances of the various visa options available to Indian travellers:

1. Type A Schengen Visa:

• Referred to as the airport transit visa, Type A is essential for individuals transiting through a Schengen airport to reach their final destination.

• This visa permits travellers to remain within the international transit area of the airport for a short period, typically while waiting for their connecting flight.

• It does not grant entry into the Schengen territory beyond the airport premises, making it suitable for travellers with connecting flights, but no intention of leaving the airport.

2. Type C Schengen Visa:

• The Type C visa is the most common choice for short-term visits to the Schengen Area.

• It allows travellers to stay in the Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.

• This visa caters to various purposes, including tourism, business trips, family visits, medical treatment, or attending conferences or cultural events.

• With a Type C visa, travellers have the flexibility to explore multiple Schengen countries within the permitted duration, making it ideal for leisure travellers and business professionals alike.

3. Type D Schengen Visa:

• For travellers planning extended stays in a Schengen country or seeking long-term residency, the Type D visa is the appropriate choice.

• Also known as the national long-stay visa, Type D permits stay exceeding 90 days within a specific Schengen country.

• This visa category is tailored to individuals intending to work, study, join family members, or pursue other long-term commitments in the Schengen Area.

• Unlike the uniform Type A and Type C visas, the issuance and regulations of Type D visas vary according to the immigration laws of the respective Schengen country, necessitating thorough research and compliance with specific requirements.

Understanding the distinctions between these Schengen visa types empowers Indian travellers to select the most suitable option based on the purpose and duration of their intended stay. Whether you're going on a holiday, attending meetings, or moving abroad, understanding the visa process ensures smooth travel in the Schengen Zone.

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Schengen Visa in India?

Schengen visa fees for Indians vary depending on factors such as the type of visa, the applicant's age, and any additional services opted for during the application process. Here's a breakdown of the typical fees involved:

1. Standard Schengen Visa Fee for Adults:

• As to the current guidelines, the standard visa fee for adults is EUR 80 or approximately INR 7120.

• This fee applies to most applicants seeking short-term visas for purposes such as tourism, business visits, family reunions, or medical treatment.

2. Multiple Entry Visa Fee:

• Travellers requiring multiple entries into the Schengen Zone during their visa validity period are subject to an additional fee.

• The multiple-entry visa fee is also EUR 80 or approximately INR 7120, on top of the standard visa fee.

3. Schengen Visa Fee for Children (Above 6 Years Old):

• Children above the age of six are required to pay a reduced visa fee.

• The fee for children is typically EUR 40 or approximately INR 3560.08.

Furthermore, travellers opting for longer-term visas, such as the Type D national long-stay visa, may encounter different fee structures depending on the specific requirements of the Schengen country they intend to visit.

Before initiating the visa application process, Indian travellers should verify the latest fee schedule and any updates from the respective consulate or embassy handling their application. By staying informed about the applicable fees and requirements, applicants can ensure a smooth and cost-effective visa application experience, paving the way for their upcoming adventures in the Schengen Zone.

Schengen Visa Fee Exemption for Indians

While most Indian travellers are required to pay the Schengen visa fee, certain exemptions exist under specific circumstances. These exemptions aim to alleviate the financial burden on certain categories of travellers and facilitate their access to the Schengen Zone. Here are the main exemptions to the Schengen visa fee for Indians:

1. Children Below Six Years Old:

• Children below the age of six are exempt from paying the Schengen visa fee, regardless of the purpose of their visit.

• This exemption recognises the special considerations for young children and aims to promote family travel by reducing the associated costs for families with young children.

2. Event Participants Under 25:

• Participants under the age of 25 attending specific events, such as conferences, seminars, sporting events, cultural festivals, or educational programs in Schengen countries, may be eligible for a Schengen visa fee waiver.

• This exemption is typically granted to individuals actively participating in recognized events and is subject to the discretion of the consular authorities processing the visa application.

• Applicants seeking this exemption may be required to provide evidence of their participation, such as event invitations, registration documents, or letters of acceptance from event organisers.

It's important to note that while certain travellers may be exempt from the Schengen visa fee, they are still required to fulfil other mandatory requirements to obtain a visa. These requirements may include possessing a valid passport, demonstrating sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, providing proof of accommodation, and obtaining comprehensive travel insurance coverage.

Additionally, applicants should verify the specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for fee exemptions with the consular authorities or visa processing centres handling their applications. By understanding and meeting the necessary conditions for fee exemptions, eligible Indian travellers can enjoy streamlined visa processing and reduced financial barriers when planning their trips to the Schengen Zone.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, obtaining travel insurance tailored for Schengen visa purposes is a critical step for Indian travellers planning their European escapade. With coverage extending to medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances, individual travel insurance provides essential protection and peace of mind throughout the journey. By prioritising travel insurance for Schengen visa applicants, travellers can navigate their European adventure confidently, knowing they are adequately prepared for any eventuality.

Disclaimer The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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