The honest, current version: what it costs, what they ask for, and how long it really takes. Checked June 2026.
Tourist
What it isShort stay Schengen visa (sticker), apply at the consulate of your MAIN destination, via VFS/BLS
Fees€90 + VFS/BLS service fee (~₹1,800 to 3,500)
Takes~15 calendar days (apply up to 6 months ahead; biometrics)
ValidityUp to 90 days in any 180-day period
Apply viaVFS Global / BLS (depends on country), main destination consulate
Good to knowApply to the country with the most nights (or first entry if equal). Travel insurance ≥ €30,000 mandatory.
The document checklist
Passport, valid 6+ months with 2+ blank pages, plus copies of the bio data page & all old visas
Visa application form, completed & signed
2 recent passport photos (per the country's spec)
Confirmed return / onward flight booking
Hotel / accommodation bookings for the whole stay
Day by day travel itinerary
Travel medical insurance (where required)
Personal bank statements, last 3 to 6 months (bank attested)
Income Tax Returns, last 2 to 3 years
Salary slips / proof of income
Employment letter or leave sanction (business proof if self employed)
PAN card
Travel medical insurance, min €30,000, entire Schengen stay
Cover letter, purpose & itinerary
Business
What it isShort stay Schengen visa (sticker), apply at the consulate of your MAIN destination, via VFS/BLS
Fees€90 + VFS/BLS service fee (~₹1,800 to 3,500)
Takes~15 calendar days (apply up to 6 months ahead; biometrics)
ValidityUp to 90 days in any 180-day period
Apply viaVFS Global / BLS (depends on country), main destination consulate
Good to knowBusiness visit, Apply to the country with the most nights (or first entry if equal). Travel insurance ≥ €30,000 mandatory.
We do this end to end
Forms, appointment, the exact photo spec, a personal document checklist in your travel wallet, and a human who has filed this exact visa before. You pack, we paper.