schengen tourist visa germany from india

What are you looking for?

A step-by-step guide to apply for a schengen visa.

File your Schengen visa application at your Visa Appication Centre in three easy steps.

Duly completed application forms may be submitted three months prior to the intended travel date. As application numbers peak during the months of April through September, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well in advance of their actual travel dates. This will help towards the smooth organization of your trip. Please note that it can take up to two weeks to process your Schengen visa , and even longer in individual cases.

File your Schemgem visa application at your Visa Application Centre in three easy steps:

Prepare the necessary documentation for your visa application using the following checklists: If you are planning to visit Germany as a tourist: Checklist for a Tourist Visa If you are planning to visit Family or Friends in Germany: Checklist for a Visit Visa If you are planning to visit Germany for a business trip of less than or up to 90 days: Checklist for a Business Visas If you are planning to visit Germany for a Trade Fair: Checklist for a Trade Fair visa If you are planning to visit Germany for a Training program of less than or up to 90 days: Checklist for a Training Visa If you're visiting Germay as a professional for a cultural, films, sports, or religious event: Checklist for Group Visas If you require an Airport Transit visa: Checklist for Airport Transit Visas

If you are visiting Germany as a Guest Scientist for less than or up to 90 days: Checklist for Guest Scientist Visas If you are visiting Germany to receive Medical Treatment: Checklist for Medical Treatment Visas (Kindly note that your photographs should meet biometric photos requirement . These photos can be obtained, among other things, at the Visa Application Centres.)

Please fill out the online application form , print it out, sign it and submit it along with the other documents. Those applying for a Schengen visa in Mumbai are kindly requested to fill in the online application forms according to VIDEX format, which can be found above. Please ensure that a high quality printout of the barcode is submitted with the application.

Please print out & sign the following declarations in order to complete your documentation: Declaration on True and Complete information Declaration on Health Insurance Additional Contact and Legal Representation information

Now you can schedule an appointment for the submission of your visa application and submit it at the nearest Visa Application Centre.

For further information, please visit the VFS Global Website

Alternatively, after scheduling an apppointment, you may also submit your visa application at the German Mission of your local jurisdiction.

Visa Application Centres

List of Visa Application Centres across India.

How to schedule an appointment?

Find information on how to schedule appointments for Schengen Visa, German National Visa & for attestations.

Travel Medical Insurance

Please note: German Missions accept Indian Travel Medical Insurances only from approved Indian Travel Insurance companies.

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What are you looking for?

Visa information, visa navigator.

Which visa do I need for Germany?

Schengen Visa

A Schengen visa is required if you intend to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for business, visitor or tourist purposes.

Residence Visa

A residence visa is required if you intend to stay in Germany for more than 90 days for work or study or if you intend to move to Germany permanently.

Airport Transit Visa

Citizens of certain countries require an airport transit visa when flying via Germany to their final destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Going to Germany? Take a moment to have a look at our FAQs before you call or contact us.

ETIAS Information

ETIAS travel authorization is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling to any of the 30 European countries. Please note that ETIAS has been postponed until mid-2025. For any and all information regarding ETIAS, please only consult the official website: www.europa.eu/etias

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Home > Blog > Travel > Visa > Germany Tourist Visa from India: A Step-by-Step Guide

Germany Tourist Visa from India: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Germany is one of the most sought-after countries to visit in the Schengen Area for Indians. Obtaining a tourist visa is necessary to witness everything the country and the EU have to offer! Acquiring a German tourist visa from India might seem complex, but it is a straightforward process that involves preparing routine documents with easy-to-follow steps. 

Read further to learn how to get a Germany Tourist Visa and ensure you are well-prepared for your visa interview.

Get ready for an adventure because Germany is calling! This European gem is a top-notch tourist destination, from beautiful art and culture to the legendary Oktoberfest and breathtaking countryside. So, if you’re itching to explore all the must-see sights, here’s a fun and informative guide to help you score your German tourist visa from India

Now, let’s dive into the visa options available. There are various types, like work visas, study visas, and short-stay visas. But since you’re all about sightseeing and experiencing the best of Germany, the German tourist visa is the way to go!

Types of Visas in Germany

A. schengen visa, b. business visa:.

This business visa is for Indian nationals who plan to visit Germany for business purposes. The validity period ranges from 90 days up to 6 months. There is also a provision for a Job Seeker Visa for those finding employment in Germany and a Working Visa for those looking to relocate for work.

c. Student Visa

Eligibility for germany tourist visa.

To test your eligibility for a German tourist visa from India, here is a simple checklist:

• Proof of Indian citizenship or long-term residency in India.
• Valid passport with a minimum validity of six months.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the travel and living expenses during the stay. You must show funding for at least EUR 45 per day of the trip. 
• A detailed cover letter containing the travel itinerary with details of your hotel reservations.
• Travel insurance details cover up to EUR 30,000 (~INR 2,631,510 ). 
• A detailed statement indicating no intention of seeking employment or engaging in unauthorised activities during your visit to Germany. 

Documents Required for Germany Tourist Visa

• An accurately filled visa application form 
• The Declaration of the accuracy of the information you provided in the entire process for the German Tourist Visa from India
• Two passport-sized photos that fulfil Schengen Visa requirements
• >Recent and valid passport, at most ten years
• Personal bank statements from the last three months
• Proof of insurance of at least EUR 30,000
• Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay
• Proof of flight reservations, even those made through travel consultancies
• Proof of funds
• Letter of leave from your place of employment
• No objection from your place of education if you are currently a student
• A cover letter explaining your purpose and intent to visit Germany
• Letter of Invitation from any sponsoring parties in Germany
• Civil status proof- marriage, birth or spouse death certificate
• Driver’s licence or utility bill under your name mentioning proof of residence
• Consent letter by parents or guardians if you are a minor
• Formal invitation letter if you are visiting friends/family and will stay with them

Also read: Travel Insurance to Europe from India

Note: We would like to emphasise the critical importance of submitting truthful and genuine documents when applying for a visa. False or fraudulent documentation can lead to severe consequences, including future permanent disqualification or bans from entering a particular country.

Germany Tourist Visa Application Process

Accurate Form Submission Fill out the visa application form accurately to ensure a smooth process.

• Fill out the visa application form   accurately to ensure a smooth process.
• Make an appointment with the nearest VFS Global Centre .
• Prepare the required documents in the correct order as per the checklist provided.
• Submit the visa application along with the necessary payment.
• Pay the applicable Germany tourist visa fees from India: 
• Short Term – Schengen Visas (Tourism, Visit of Family and Friends, Business, Transit):
• Adults: EUR 80  (~INR 7,100)
• Children (Above 12 Years): EUR 80
• Children (6-12 Years): EUR 40 
• No visa fee for children below 6 years of age.
• Attend the scheduled visa interview at the specified date and time.

Biometrics Submission 

• Provide the required biometrics during the application process.

Visa Status Awaitance

• Wait for the visa status confirmation.

Passport Retrieval 

• Retrieve your passport along with the approval or rejection letter for your German tourist visa.

Germany Tourist Visa Processing Time

• Advance Application: Apply at least six months in advance to guarantee timely processing and arrival of your visa.
• Post-Use Processing: After use, the visa takes 2-4 weeks to process after service, so plan accordingly for subsequent trips.
• Variable Processing Time: Processing time may vary based on factors like peak seasons (e.g., Oktoberfest, sporting events) and high vacation months.
• Inquiries and Clarifications: Any additional inquiries or requests for clarification might cause delays, extending the visa issuance period to 30-60 days.
• Thorough Preparation: Ensure that all required documents and requirements are thorough and complete to expedite the application process.
• Application Methods: Apply either by visiting the nearest German Embassy or by scheduling an appointment online for convenience.

Reasons For Rejection of Your German Tourist Visa

• Insufficient Documentation: If the required documents, such as proof of funds, travel itinerary, or accommodation details, are not provided or are incomplete.
• Financial Insufficiency: Inability to demonstrate adequate financial means to cover the trip, including accommodation, travel, and daily expenses.
• Incomplete Application: Errors or incomplete information in the application form or failure to provide all necessary details and attachments.
• Unclear Travel Plans: If the purpose of the visit or the itinerary appears unclear, inconsistent, or suspicious to the visa officers.
• Lack of Travel Insurance: Failure to provide proof of travel insurance, which is often a mandatory requirement for Schengen visa applications.
• Previous Visa Violations: If the applicant has a history of overstaying visas, violations, or misusing previous visas in Schengen countries.
• Criminal Record: Applicants with a criminal record, especially for offences related to moral turpitude, may face rejection.
• Unstable Political Situations: In cases where an applicant belongs to a country experiencing political unrest or is deemed a security risk.
• Ties to Home Country: Inadequate evidence of strong ties to the home country, such as employment, family, or property ownership, indicating a potential intention to overstay.
• Incorrect Visa Category: Applying for the wrong type of visa or misrepresenting the purpose of the visit can lead to rejection.
• Invalid Travel Documents: Presenting expired or invalid passports or travel documents.
• Inconsistent Information: Discrepancies or inconsistencies in the information provided in the application and during the interview.
• Poor Schengen Visa History: If the applicant has a history of visa rejections within the Schengen area, it might negatively impact future applications.

What To Do in Case of Rejection?

If your German tourist visa gets rejected, it can be frustrating. Visa rejections can have various reasons, but a prevalent cause is often a lack of clarity regarding the applicant’s commitment to returning to their home country after the visa expires.

If you think the rejection is valid, you can try applying again and hope for the best. But if you believe the German embassy’s reasons are unfair, you can challenge the visa denial by submitting an appeal. 

Key Takeaways

• Germany offers various types of visas, including Schengen, Tourist, Business, and Student visas, tailored to different purposes and durations of stay, providing flexibility for travellers from India.
• To qualify for a Germany tourist visa from India, applicants need Indian citizenship, a valid passport (min. 6 months validity), proof of funds (EUR 45 per day), detailed travel plans, travel insurance (EUR 30,000 coverage), and a declaration of non-employment intent.
• >Essential documents for a German tourist visa from India include a filled application form, passport photos, valid passport, bank statements, insurance proof, accommodation details, flight reservations, proof of funds, employment leave letter, educational no-objection certificate (if applicable), cover letter, invitation letter (if sponsored), civil status proof, proof of residence, and consent letter for minors.
• The German tourist visa application process from India involves accurate form submission, appointment scheduling at VFS Global Centre, document preparation, submission with applicable fees, attending a visa interview, biometrics submission, awaiting visa status, and passport retrieval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, having a travel history in Schengen countries can positively impact your visa application. However, each application is considered individually.

Generally, Schengen tourist visas are not extendable. You need to plan your travel dates carefully within the visa validity period.

If your application is rejected, you can reapply after addressing the issues that led to the rejection. Consulting with a visa expert or reevaluating your documentation can improve your chances.

Yes, a Schengen visa allows you to travel within the Schengen area, including other countries, as long as Germany is your main destination or your first port of entry.

There is no specific age limit, but all applicants must meet the visa requirements, including proof of financial means and travel intentions.

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How to apply for Schengen visa from India

European consulates collectively took in over one million Schengen visa India applications last year, making the south-Asian state one of the top source countries for Schengen visas after Russia and China. If you are one of the many Indians interested in travelling to one or more of the 26 countries in the Schengen area , you may have to apply for Schengen visa from India. The following short blog will provide answers to the most common questions surrounding the visa requirements for Indian citizens and residents, with a focus on the documents required for a Schengen visa from India (including the Schengen visa application from India) and the Schengen visa fee for Indian citizens and residents. 

Who can apply for Schengen visa from India?

• Indian citizens and residents who fulfill all of the Schengen visa requirements are eligible to apply for a Schengen visa from India.

What are the Schengen visa requirements for Indian citizens and residents?

• Be in good standing with the law/of good character.
• Present all the required and supplemental documents/materials.
• Pay the Schengen visa fee .
• Credibly establish that you will leave the Schengen area before your visa runs out.
• Be entirely truthful on your application.

Where should I apply for a Schengen visa from India?

• Applications for a Schengen visa from India should be lodged through the embassy/consulate of the country you are applying to. 
• For example, if you are applying for an India Schengen visa to Germany, you should apply via the German consulate/embassy closest to you. 
• In addition to the German Embassy New Delhi, there are four German Embassies in India, in Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai. As an Indian resident, you will likely apply via one of these embassies/consulates.  

When should I apply for Schengen visa from India?

• Indian applicant should apply for a Schengen visa no later than 2 weeks (and no earlier than 6 months) before they intend to travel. 

What are the documents required for a Schengen visa from India?

• All Schengen visa applicants must supply certain basic required documents ( click here to access the full list ). All applicants must provide a passport or other valid travel document, two photos, and proof of travel medical insurance, accommodation, and financial capabilities.  
• In addition to the basic required documents, Schengen visa applicants from India will have to provide additional supplementary materials depending on what type of Schengen visa they are pursuing (i.e. what purpose). 
• For example, Indian applicants who are travelling for medical purposes and are therefore seeking a Medical Schengen Visa should provide a recent medical report. 

What is the Schengen visa fee for Indian citizens and residents?

• Schengen visa applicants from all countries are subject to the same basic Schengen visa fee of €80.  
• This fee may be reduced or eliminated for certain types of applicants, including children students, and holders of diplomatic or service passports.  Click here for a complete breakdown of Schengen visa fees .
• Some consulates/embassies may allow you to pay online, while others will ask you to pay during your visa appointment.  Remember that Schengen embassies/consulates will not begin processing your application until you have paid your Schengen visa fee india .
• Please not that fees for Schengen visa India   applicants are nonrefundable, even in the case of a denied application. 

Where do I access the Schengen visa application form for India?

• In general, the Schengen visa for Indians form can be found online. 
• The harmonized Schengen visa form (i.e. the Schengen visa forms that is universal and may be used by all applicants) is available online  here . Most countries/consulates will accept this form, printed out, filled out by hand, and signed. 
• However, different consulates may have different preferences for application forms. For example, Indian Schengen visa applicants to Germany who live in Kolkota and Mumbai should not print out the harmonized form and are instead instructed to fill out an online version of the form through the German visa application portal known as VIDEX. 
• In summary, you should contact your respective embassy/consulate to determine how to best access your Schengen visa form. 

Do I need to make an appointment at the embassy/consulate in order to apply?

• Depending on the specific country embassy/consulate you are applying from, you may have to make an appointment (at which you will almost certainty have to appear in person) as part of your application. 
• Contact the embassy/consulate you are applying through in order to determine whether you need make an appointment and how you should go about scheduling one. Most appointments can be scheduled online or by emailing/phoning the embassy/consulate.  

Do I need to apply in person for my Indian Schengen visa?

• Many applicants for Indian Schengen visas will be instructed to appear in person at an embassy/consulate or visa processing center in order drop off their application, submit to an interview, and/or give their biometric information (fingerprints and identifying photos). 
• Those who have already given biometric information for a previous Schengen visa application as well as those who travel frequently to the Schengen area may not need to appear in person in order to apply for an Indian Schengen visa. 
• However, even if you have already provided your biometric info and travel frequently, you may still be required to appear in person as part of your application process. 

What do I bring to my Schengen visa appointment?

• Your passport/travel document. 
• A printed out, signed copy of the Schengen visa for Indians form. 
• Copies of all other documents and relevant materials, including your passport. 
• Your Schengen visa fee, as many consulates will require you to pay in person during your appointment. Just make sure you have the correct form of payment prior to your appointment (for example, many places will not accept cash). 

How long does it take to process an India Schengen visa?

• The time it takes to process an India Schengen visa is usually between 14 and 30 days (closer to 14 than 30 in most cases), although on rare occasions 60 days are needed. 

How long is my Schengen visa from India valid for?

• Schengen visas to and from all countries are valid for the same duration: 90 days within a 180-day period. This means you will be able to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. 
• Remember that one of the Schengen visa requirements is that you do not exceed the amount of time you are allowed in the Schengen area. Make sure you plan ahead so that you can get out of the Schengen area before your visa expires!

Where can I go with my Indian Schengen visa?

• Uniform Schengen visas from India are valid for travel within and across all 26 countries in the Schengen area, including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. 
• An exception to this general rule is if you receive a Limited Territorial Schengen Visa (LTV), which would restrict your access to a specific country or countries within the territory. For example, if you receive an LTV for France, you will only be to visit France on your trip to the Schengen area.

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How to apply for a Schengen tourist visa from India (with sample letters)

Adithya Srinivasan

Last updated on

October 9th, 2023

Before moving to Germany for work, I visited on a tourist visa (Schengen visa - Type C) twice from India. In guide, I'll write about how to apply for a German tourist visa and what you need to do to visit your friends or family, or go on a joy trip across Germany.

Applying for the visa

What is the difference between tourist visa and a visit to friends or family visa.

They are essentially the same. The documents you require for these visa's can differ. If you are visiting your friends or family, you should submit a document for sponsorship ( Verpflichtungserklärung ). See below for information on what it is and how to get it.

Where to apply for your Schengen tourist visa

You must send in the application to German Consulate or Embassy which is responsible for your area of residence. For tourist visa,  VFS  handles the application process. See which consulates are more likely to reject your schengen visa application.

You must apply at  New Delhi  if you live in Haryana Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Union Territories of Chandigarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, NCT of Delhi, Lakshadweep including Minicoy and Amini.

You must apply at  Chennai  if you live in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana & Pondicherry

You must apply at  Mumbai  if you live in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Daman and Diu

You must apply at  Bangalore  if you live in Karnataka and Kerala

You must apply at  Kolkata  if you live in West Bengal,  Jharkhand, Orissa, Assam, Bihar, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh

For example, if you are from Andhra Pradesh, you must apply at the VFS center in Chennai.

Note: If you are staying in multiple Schengen countries, you must apply at the country's VFS / Consulate / Embassy where you will stay for the longer period.

Read about my experience of applying for a UK Visa from Germany

What are the required documents for a Schengen Visa?

Here is the list of documents that you should submit. You can see the up to date information  here .

Valid passport

Must be issued within last 10 years

With at least 3 months validity after the scheduled return

With at least 2 empty pages

Must not have observations on the front page

Must provide  1 copy  of your passport’s data page (A4 size copy)

2 passport pictures according to  biometric specifications , not older than 6 months

Application form & declarations duly signed  (see section below on how to fill the form)

Personal covering letter explaining the purpose of your visit

Leave letter of your company (if you are employed)

No-objection certificate of school or university (if you are a student)

Financial proof:

Proof of financial status:

If  employed : Payslips of the last three months / employment contract/Appointment letter

If  self-employed :

Certificate of Proprietorship or other proof of ownership (proof of land title, proof of income from agriculture (sales form) etc.)

(or) Personal bank statement of the last three months with sufficient funds

(or) Last three years Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Form 16 (Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary)

Accomodation proof:

Proof of accommodation for your entire stay in the Schengen area - this is where you will stay during your trip. Hotel bookings, Airbnb, etc., are valid. You can reserve bookings with cancellations, if you prefer.

Flight reservation, (rail tickets, others for travel within Schengen)

Travel health insurance (refer  here  to find out about the travel health insurances accepted)

Proof of civil status: Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, ration card if applicable

If you are invited by someone (your children, partner, friend, etc), they should provide additional proof.

Proof of sufficient funds for the visit:

If sponsored:  Verpflichtungserklärung  (original formal obligation letter) of your sponsor (read below)

Invitation Letter form the inviting person  (you don't need this if you do not have anyone inviting you)

Inviting Person: Passport copy and Resident Permit Copy (daughter and son in law or son and daughter in law)

If self-sponsored: Personal bank statements of the last 3 months with sufficient funds

If you are a minor or accompanying a minor:

For Minors:

Application form and declarations signed by both parents

Consent letter signed by both parents.

Clear Copy of the parent(s)’ passports data page

Birth certificate of the Minor

Sample Cover Letter

Your name Address Phone number Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany Address of your consulate / embassy City, date in dd.mm.yyyy Application for the Schengen Family Visit / Tourist Visa Dear Sir/Madam, We would like to apply for a Schengen family visit visa to travel to Germany from date to date. ---- for family visit ---- We would like to visit our son / daughter / friend and have included the information here: Name of the person Address They will be funding all the expenses for the trip. I have attached the “Verpflichtungserklärung Formular” and the identity documents. ---- for tourist visa ---- We would like to visit Germany and have included the hotel bookings & accomodation information. --- for both ----- Please find the following documents to support our visa application enclosed herewith: - Application Form - Copy of Passport’s data page - Flight tickets - Travel health insurance - Verpflichtungserklärung Formular - Our personal bank statement - Proof of accomodation Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have any questions and clarifications. Thank you very much for your consideration and I look forward to visiting Germany. Sincerely, Your name X

Filling out the Application Form

Once you have chosen which Consulate or Embassy to apply, you must fill in the  application form . Most of the application form requires your personal information and purpose of travel. When filling the form, use the information from your passport as reference.

I'll write down explanations of a few things that might be confusing.

Is your residence in a country other than that of your current nationality? If you're an Indian citizen living in India, choose  yes .

Identification papers and travel documents is  your passport . Issued by is your passport office, you can find this on the first few pages of your passport. My passport says Regional Passport Office, Chennai.

Under travel data, you will see questions about your purpose of visit.

Main purpose(s) of the journey: Choose Tourism, or Visit of family or friends

Member state of first entry: Germany Unless your first entry - where you enter EU and exit - is different. Your connecting flight does not matter. This is where you first leave the airport of a country. If your flight is from Chennai to Dubai to Germany, choose  Germany . If your flight is from Chennai to Paris to Germany, choose  Germany . If your flight is from Chennai to Paris, you exit the airport and take the train / car / bus to Germany, choose France.

Main travel destination(s): Choose the country where you will stay the maximum number of days.

Number of entries requested: Single entry or multiple entry. Single entry means you can enter the Schengen states only once until you leave. Multiple entries allow you to leave Schengen states and come back within the validity of your tourist visa.

Intended date of arrival in the Schengen area: When your flight will reach a Schengen state

Intended date of departure from the Schengen area: When you plan to leave the Schengen states

Duration of the intended stay or transit (number of days): Use a  days calculator .  This is important.  Your visa is most likely granted only for the duration you specify. Include both the start & end date in your calculation.

Have you been issued with a Schengen visa within the last three years? Specify when if you have already gotten a Schengen visa.

Entry permit for the final country of destination, where applicable: fill this if you plan to enter your destination through a different Schengen state

For the  Reference  section: If you are visiting friends or family, use this section to fill their information.

Finding an appointment at VFS

Booking an appointment at VFS can be tricky. Most of the times that I have looked at it, there are no appointments. What helped me was constantly refreshing at different times during the day and eventually finding one.

Create an account  here  and activate it

Click on "Start new booking"

Book schengen visa appointment at VFS

Choose "Visa application center" at your city or the city where you are supposed to apply.

Choose "Schengen visa" as the appointment category.

Choose "tourist" or "visit (family & friends)" depending on your purpose of visit

Appointment selection at VFS

Enter your details as it is in your application form & passport.

Enter your details for the appointment

Choose a date & time

Date & time for the VFS appointment

You  don't  need premium services. Continue with the form and you will receive a confirmation letter. You need to take a  print out  of this to your appointment.

VFS Appointment Day

Go to your appointment 15 minutes early

Show your appointment confirmation printout at the entrance, there is a security check

Once you are done, get a  token number  for your appointment

Wait till your number is called or is on your screen

Go to the case worker at the counter, provide documents including the passport from the checklist

Once all documents are submitted and are ok, you will need to submit your biometrics

Pay the fees by cash or card, get confirmation of your application

Optional service is delivery of your passports. The delivery address can be different from the passport address.

Tracking your application

Once it is submitted, you will receive a tracking number for your application by SMS / Email. You can track it  here .

Enter your reference number

Enter your last name

Enter the captcha

You will see a blue line text under the submit button that shows the status of your application.

Receiving the passport back

If you chose the courier service, your passport will be delivered to the address you provided. If not, you have to go back to the VFS center. Take your confirmation of the application and an ID card.

Approved Visa

Once you get the passport back, check the pages. You should see a visa printed with your details. Congratulations!  Ensure that the details are correct!

My Schengen Tourist Visa from India

Rejected Visa

If your visa has been rejected, you will receive a letter with your passport that has the reasons for your rejection. Most likely cause is the lack of proper documentation. You will have 30 days to appeal back to the consulate / embassy.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the tourist visa valid for? With a tourist (short-stay) visa, you can stay in Germany for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. It is also called a "Schengen visa".

What is the cost of a Schengen visa?

This is per person.

You can see the up to date information  here . * indicates that there could be a change in the amount due to currency conversion.

Can I visit other countries in Schengen area?

Yes, you are allowed to visit other Schengen countries like Germany, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

If you visit other Schengen countries, you do not need a separate visa. The number of days you spend in any of these countries count towards your total allowance of days you are allowed to stay in Schengen area (see duration of stay below).

What is an Verpflichtungserklärung?

If someone invites you to Germany for a short time, they can submit a declaration of commitment for you. This is especially useful if you cannot pay for the cost of your stay in Germany by yourself. The declaration of commitment is generally recognised by German missions abroad for up to 6 months after it has been issued.

Sample Verpflichtungserklärung for my tourist visa

Where to get the Verpflichtungserklärung?

You can request this sponsorship letter at your Ausländerbehörde . For Berlin, you will find appointments and information  here .

Can I get a single Verpflichtungserklärung for multiple people?

Yes, you can invite partners / children of the same family in the same application.

What does a Verpflichtungserklärung cost?

It costs 29€ and you can pay by cash / card at the Ausländerbehörde.

How early can I apply for the visa?

The earliest you can apply is 6 months before your trip starts.

Can I leave the Schengen area and come back?

This depends on your visa. Check your visa on your passport to see if multiple entries are allowed. Next to "Number of entries", it should say " MULT ".

What does the duration of stay mean?

It indicates how long you are allowed to stay in the schengen area within 180 days. If it says 50, then you are allowed to stay 50 days in Schengen area in the 180 day period.

What does the valid from and to mean?

It indicates when you can enter and when you must leave the Schengen area.

What does "Erwerbstätigkeit nicht gestattet" mean?

It means you are not allowed to work - either self-employed or employed - on a Schengen visa. See how to get a  job seeker visa for Germany  or  blue card .

Founder, Arbeitnow

Adithya Srinivasan moved from India to Germany in 2018. He lives in Berlin and works as a Senior Software Engineer. He built the job board Arbeitnow , helps people find jobs and writes about his experiences in Germany.

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European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

Indian Nationals can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date. This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows. 

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU. 

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

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How to get a multi-year Schengen visa on your Indian passport

There's good news for indian passport holders who are planning to visit europe this summer. the eu is easing the schengen visa process for frequent travellers..

Listen to Story

• Visiting Europe is getting easier for Indian passport holders
• A new 'cascade' visa scheme will allow frequent travellers to get a multi-year multiple-entry Schengen visa
• However, you need to meet certain criteria to be able to apply for this 'cascade' visa

There's good news for Indian passport holders who want to visit Europe this year on. The European Union is looking to ease Schengen visa processes for Indian tourists.

• You Are At:

Indian passport holders can get multi-year Schengen visa: How to apply for it?

Adopted on April 18, the new regulations are part of the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which was developed in the framework of "strengthened relations".

What is the Schengen visa “cascade” regime for Indian passport holders?

As per the recently implemented visa "cascade" policy for India, citizens of India are eligible to receive long-term, multiple-entry Schengen visas that are valid for two years, provided they have legally secured and utilised two visas in the preceding three years. If there is still enough validity on the passport, the two-year visa will usually be followed by a five-year visa. The validity period of these visas allows their holders to travel with the same freedoms as citizens of other countries.

This decision is made within the framework of enhanced relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which aims to achieve comprehensive cooperation between the EU and India on migration policy. Given the significance of India as an EU partner, one important aspect of this cooperation is the facilitation of people-to-people contacts. 

How to apply for a multi-year Schengen visa?

• According to the India Today report, if you have applied for and been granted two Schengen visas in the last three years, you are eligible to apply for a two-year multiple-entry visa.
• If your passport's validity permits, a five-year visa will then be issued in place of this two-year one.
• You have the same travel privileges as citizens of countries without a visa to enter the region as long as your Schengen visa is valid.

What are the countries under the Schengen visa?

With a valid Schengen visa, an individual can visit any part of the Schengen region without restriction for up to 90 days out of 180 days. Although the visas have no specific purpose, they do not give the ability to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

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• Now, eligible Indians can get long term Schengen visas as EU adopts 'more favourable' rule for the country

Now, eligible Indians can get long term Schengen visas as EU adopts 'more favourable' rule for the country

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Indians can now stay in Switzerland, Amsterdam for up to 2 years like visa-free nationals. Check details

W ith European Union (EU) adopting favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians, the strength of Indian passport is arguably set to grow with travel to 29 European countries getting seamless and hassle-free. 

Incidentally, Indian passport is currently ranked at 85 , as per Henley Passport Index for 2024 that ranks 199 nations based on the strength of their passports. Our neigbouring country Pakistan is ranked at 106, while Bangladesh at 102.

Under the new Schengen visa regime , Indians will now be able to enter any of these European countries multiple times for two years, which is further extendable by 5 years, and stay there like a visa-free national.  

This is a stark departure from the current practice. Until now, when Indians intend to travel to one or more European countries, they are meant to apply for the much sought-after Schengen visa, which is given for a maximum of three months. 

ALSO READ: Indians can now apply for multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity. Check details

But now, under the cascade regime -- guess what? You can stay in Switzerland, Amsterdam, and/ or any other European countries such as Austria, Hungary, Poland, Belgium, Germany, France, among others, for as long as five years without any hiccups. 

According to a report in Aug 2023, Scandinavian region in Europe saw a substantial growth of 140 percent as of August 2023 in comparison to pre-COVID levels in 2020, according to insights from MakeMyTrip.

Let us understand how this will work:

How will this work?

This is primarily beneficial for those Indians who frequently travel to one or more of European countries. And if you have travelled to Europe on a Schengen visa for two times in the past three years, then you are eligible for this new visa category ‘cascade regime’ under which you will be given two-year multi entry visa and you can travel and stay in any of these countries just like an individual who does not require a visa to be there. 

But the only catch is that you won’t be allowed to work and earn there like a local citizen.

This two-year visa will then be followed by a five-year visa so long as the passport has sufficient validity. For example, if the passport is set to expire three years later, then the visa seeker won’t be able to get the Schengen visa extended by five years. 

"The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals," reads the statement shared by Herve Delphin, Ambassador, Delegation of European Union to India on ‘X’ Platform. 

5-year post-study visa in France 

This Schengen move is testimony to growing partnership between Europe and India. Last year, France also eased its visa rules for inbound Indian students. 

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France in July 2023, the European nation had extended five-year post-study visa to Indian students who had completed their master's degree there. 

Earlier, Indians were given two-year work visa after completing their master's degree.