How to Apply for a Visa and Travel to Europe from India

Planning to travel to Europe for tourism, work, study, or migration? Europe is one of the world’s most visited and most desirable continents, offering historic landmarks, strong economies, and diverse cultures. But before planning your journey, you must understand the visa requirements for Indian citizens.

Below is a complete guide on European visa types, Schengen visa steps, and long-stay visa options for Indians.

Types of Visas for Europe

Europe is a continent made up of many countries—each with its own visa rules. However, most European nations are part of the Schengen Area, which allows border-free travel between 26 member countries.

What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel to 26 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
This includes most EU countries plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Countries not in the Schengen Zone include:

• UK

• Ireland

• Cyprus

• Croatia

• Bulgaria

• Romania

To visit these countries, a separate visa is required.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India (Step-by-Step)

Indian travelers visiting Europe for tourism, business, or family visits must apply for a Schengen short-stay visa. This is commonly called a Europe Tourist Visa.

You must apply at:

• The embassy/consulate of the country you will spend the most time in,
  or

• The country where you will enter first (if spending equal time in multiple countries)

Step 1: Check Requirements

Visit the official embassy or consulate website to review updated visa rules.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Main documents include:

• Valid passport

• Filled visa application form

• Passport-size photos

• Flight reservation

• Hotel bookings

• Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)

• Proof of funds

• Travel itinerary

• Additional documents depending on purpose

Step 3: Book an Appointment

Schedule online or by phone at the embassy or Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Attend your appointment with:

• Required documents

• Visa fee

• Biometric data (fingerprints + photograph)

Visa Fee:

• Adults – €80 (~₹7,200)

• Children (6–12 years) – €40 (~₹3,600)

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

Processing time usually:

• 15 days

• Sometimes 30–60 days (peak seasons or complex cases)

You can track your application via the VAC or embassy portal.

Step 6: Collect Your Passport

Once approved, check:

• Visa validity

• Duration of stay

• Number of entries

• Personal details

Other Types of Europe Visas

If you are traveling to non-Schengen countries or staying longer than 90 days, you will need a National Visa (D Visa) or a country-specific visa.

1. National (D) Visa

For stays longer than 90 days in a specific European country such as:

• Study

• Work

• Family reunion

• Long-term residence

This visa may also allow short visits across the Schengen Area.

2. EU Blue Card

A Europe-wide work permit for highly skilled professionals.
Valid up to four years and renewable.
A valid job offer from an EU employer is required.

3. Student Visa

For long-term education in a European university or college.
May include permission for part-time or full-time work depending on the country.

4. Family Reunion Visa

Allows joining a spouse, partner, parent, or child living legally in Europe.
Applicants must provide:

• Proof of relationship

• Financial capacity

• Accommodation details

• Health insurance

Tip: The Netherlands is one of the most popular and immigrant-friendly European countries. A Netherlands Schengen Visa allows short-term entry into the country.

How to Apply for Long-Stay European Visas from India

The procedure is similar to the Schengen visa but includes additional steps.

1. Review Eligibility and Requirements

Check the specific rules for the country and visa category on official embassy websites.

2. Prepare Required Documents

These may include:

• Passport

• Visa forms

• Photos

• Proof of purpose (job offer, university admission)

• Proof of funds

• Accommodation details

• Medical insurance

• Language proficiency (if applicable)

3. book an appointment

Schedule online at the relevant embassy.

4. Submit Application + Biometrics

Pay the visa fee (varies by country and visa type).

5. Wait for the Decision

Long-stay visas take more time than Schengen visas.

6. Collect Your Visa

Verify that your details, validity, and entry permissions are correct.