Understanding the structure of Schengen visa fees for Indian citizens is crucial for effective planning and budgeting. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Schengen visa fees for Indians, helping you navigate the financial aspects of your travel preparations smoothly.

Cost of Schengen Visa from India

This table provides a quick overview of the standard Europe visa cost from India, particularly for the Schengen countries. These Schengen visa application fees in India are associated with applying for a Schengen visa from India. 

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Note that additional service fees may apply depending on the processing centre and any optional services selected.

List of Schengen Countries

Who Are Exempt from Paying the Visa Fees for Schengen Visa from India?

Certain Indian applicants are exempt from paying the Schengen visa fees. Besides Indian children under the age of six years, the following categories of Indian applicants are also exempt from paying the Schengen visa cost for Indian citizens:

• Diplomatic, Official, or Service Passport Holders: Indian passport holders with diplomatic, official, or service status travelling to Europe for official purposes are exempt from visa fees.

• Students and Their Children: Indian graduate and postgraduate students, as well as their children, who are travelling to Europe for educational training and studies, do not need to pay the visa fee.

• Researchers: Indian researchers travelling to Europe to conduct scientific research are exempt from paying the Schengen visa fees.

• Family Members of EU/EEA Nationals: Under Directive 2004/38, close relatives of EU/EEA nationals, including spouses and dependent children, are exempt from the visa fee.

What is a Multiple Entry Schengen Visa?

A multiple-entry Schengen visa allows travellers to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa's validity period. Unlike single-entry visas, which permit only one entry, multiple-entry visas offer greater flexibility for frequent travellers.

Key features of this visa type include:

• Flexibility: Holders can travel in and out of the Schengen Area as often as needed without applying for a new visa each time.

• Validity Period: Depending on the traveller's needs and history, a visa can be issued for different durations, ranging from 6 months to 5 years.

• Stay Duration: Regardless of the visa's validity, travellers can stay up to 90 days within any 180 days in the Schengen Zone.

• Travel Purposes: Suitable for business travellers, tourists, and individuals with family or other commitments in Schengen countries.

A multiple-entry visa is ideal for those who frequently visit Schengen countries, providing convenience and reducing the hassle of repeated visa applications.

Types of Schengen Visa from India

Understanding the different types of Schengen visas is crucial for planning your travel to Europe. Each visa type caters to specific travel needs and durations, ensuring that travellers have the appropriate permissions for their intended activities and length of stay. This will also help you understand the Europe country visa price and requirements better. 

Below are the main categories of Schengen visas:

Type A Schengen Visa (Airport Transit Visa)

The Type A visa allows travellers from non-Schengen countries to transit through the international zone of an airport in a Schengen country, waiting for their connecting flight to another non-Schengen destination. It is mandatory for those connecting flights in the airport of a Schengen country but does not permit entry into the Schengen country itself.

Type B Schengen Visa

The Type B visa, previously for journeys lasting fewer than five days, has been replaced by the Type C visa with the condition "transit."

Type C Schengen Visa (Short Stay Visa)

The Type C visa is the most common short-stay Schengen visa issued by the embassies, consulates, or appointed external providers of Schengen countries. It allows the holder to stay or travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within 180 days. Depending on the purpose of the trip, it can be issued as:

• Single-entry visa ("1" on the visa sticker): Allows one entry into the Schengen Area. Once you leave, the visa expires, regardless of its remaining validity.

• Double-entry visa ("2" on the visa sticker): Permits two entries into the Schengen Area during the visa's validity. After the second exit, the visa expires.

• Multiple-entry visa ("MULT" on the visa sticker): Allows unlimited entries and exits during the visa's validity, with a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180 days.

Type D Schengen Visa (National Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D visa is for extended stays in a Schengen country exceeding 90 days and up to one year. It is mandatory for foreigners wishing to study, work, or reside in a Schengen country for more extended periods. 

This visa also allows the holder to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180 days during its validity. The Type D visa can be granted for various purposes, such as:

• Tourism or private visits

• Professional activities

• Study, training programs, or internships

• Family reasons

Issued by the consular authorities of the intended Schengen country, the Type D visa requires compliance with that country's specific conditions and formalities. Depending on the circumstances, it can be granted as either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for a Trip to Schengen Countries

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for anyone applying for a Schengen visa. The insurance must cover medical expenses up to a minimum of EUR 30,000, including emergency medical treatments, hospitalisations, and repatriation in case of illness or accident. This requirement ensures that you are protected against unexpected medical costs during your stay in the Schengen Area.

Travel medical insurance for Schengen visa from India provides peace of mind by covering not only medical emergencies but also other potential issues such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays. It is an essential part of your travel preparations, ensuring that you are financially safeguarded against unforeseen events.

For comprehensive and reliable Schengen travel insurance, consider Reliance General Insurance. We offer two different types of Schengen travel plans tailored to meet your budget and the Schengen visa requirements.

Our plans offer extensive coverage for medical emergencies and other travel-related incidents. Reliance General Insurance ensures you have the right protection for a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Europe.

Get in touch with our travel insurance experts today to find a plan that best suits your travel needs.

Conclusion

Knowing the Schengen visa fees for Europe from India is essential for Indian travellers heading to Europe. The fees differ based on factors like age and visa type, with specific exemptions available for certain groups. Being aware of these costs helps streamline the application process and aids in financial planning for your trip.

By staying updated on the requirements and associated fees, you can ensure a hassle-free experience as you explore the Schengen countries.

Enjoy your journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the difference between a single-entry and a multiple-entry Schengen visa?

A single-entry visa allows one entry into the Schengen Area, whereas a multiple-entry visa allows unlimited entries and exits within the visa’s validity period.

• What documents are required to apply for a Schengen visa?

Required documents typically include a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient financial means, among others. Please ensure you are aware of the detailed list of documents before applying for a Schengen visa.

• Do I have to pay additional service fees when applying for a Schengen visa?

Yes, additional service fees may apply, depending on the processing centre and any optional services you choose.​