Europe is one of the most desired destinations for Indian travellers. Whether you dream of exploring Paris, strolling through Rome, or enjoying the canals of Amsterdam, you’ll first need a Schengen visa. For many first-time applicants, the biggest question is: What is the Schengen visa cost in India?
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visa fees, service charges, documents, payment methods, and practical tips to make your application smooth and stress-free.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel freely across 27 countries in the Schengen Area. These include popular countries like:
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Switzerland
Greece
Netherlands
With one visa, you can move across borders without separate permits. This is especially beneficial for Indian tourists who want to cover multiple European destinations in a single trip.
Schengen Visa Cost in India – Standard Fees
The cost of a Schengen visa is set by the European Union and remains the same for all member countries. As of now, the charges are:
Adults (12 years & above): €80 (~₹7,200)
Children (6–12 years): €40 (~₹3,600)
Children under 6 years: Free
? These fees are payable at the time of application, usually in Indian Rupees, converted as per current exchange rates.
Additional Costs Beyond the Base Visa Fee
While the official Schengen visa fee looks straightforward, there are extra expenses that travellers should keep in mind:
VFS/Service Center Charges – Around ₹1,000–1,500 per applicant.
Travel Insurance – Mandatory coverage of at least €30,000 (around ₹2.5 lakh). Premium depends on duration and provider.
Courier Charges – For passport delivery.
Biometrics Fee – Included in service charges, but some centers may bill it separately.
Document Preparation Costs – Translation, notary, or printing expenses if required.
So the total Schengen visa cost in India for one traveller may go up by ₹2,000–3,000 in addition to the base fee.
How to Pay the Schengen Visa Fee in India
Payment methods vary by embassy/consulate, but most allow:
Debit/Credit Cards
Cash (at VFS centers)
Demand Drafts (rare but accepted by some consulates)
Always check the official website of the embassy you’re applying to, since policies differ slightly from one country to another.
Documents Required for Schengen Visa Application
Here’s the essential checklist for Indian applicants:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond travel date)
Completed Schengen visa application form
Recent passport-size photos (as per Schengen specifications)
Travel insurance policy (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Flight reservations and hotel bookings
Proof of financial stability (bank statements, salary slips, ITR)
Cover letter explaining travel purpose and itinerary
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Processing Time for Schengen Visa
Normal Processing: Around 15 working days
Peak Travel Season: May extend to 20–30 days
Early Application: Recommended at least 30–45 days before travel
Some Schengen states may allow priority or express processing at an extra cost, but this depends on individual embassies.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Your Application
Though the visa fee is fixed, your total Schengen travel budget can vary depending on:
Exchange Rate: Since fees are charged in Euros, INR value may fluctuate.
Number of Travellers: Families and groups multiply the cost.
Duration of Stay: Longer trips mean higher travel insurance costs.
Visa Type: Standard short-stay vs. long-term visas (student, work) may have different charges.
Tips to Save Money on Schengen Visa Application
Book refundable flights and hotels – prevents financial loss if visa is delayed.
Purchase group travel insurance – cheaper than individual policies for families.
Submit accurate documents – avoids reapplication fees.
Apply early – prevents the need for costly priority services.
Compare service centers – some may offer cheaper courier or additional services.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting incomplete application forms.
Not meeting photo specifications.
Purchasing invalid/low-coverage travel insurance.
Applying too close to the travel date.
Giving unclear or conflicting itineraries.
Each of these mistakes can lead to rejection, meaning you’ll have to pay the fee again for a new application.
Conclusion
Getting a Schengen visa is the first step toward fulfilling your European travel dreams. While the Schengen visa cost in India is fixed at €80 for adults, the overall expense can be higher once you factor in service charges, insurance, and other add-ons.
By preparing the right documents, applying early, and budgeting wisely, you can avoid hidden costs and enjoy a smooth visa approval process.
So, start planning today, get your paperwork in order, and soon you’ll be exploring Europe with a valid Schengen visa in hand.
