Schengen Visa Process Simplified

When applying for a tourist visa, people frequently face various difficulties. One of the most common issues is the need for extensive documentation, such as bank statements, travel itineraries, and hotel reservations. In addition, visa applicants may be required to show proof of employment, income, and travel history. Another area for concern is the complication of the visa application process, which can be intimidating for first-time applicants. Imagine planning your honeymoon in Paris with your loved one, and visa rejection spoils the fun. It is not a very rare but a common scenario that can ruin your travel plans.

Visa applicants may be required to attend an in-person interview in some cases, which can be stressful and time-consuming.

Finally, visa applicants may face the disappointment and frustration of rejecting their visa application. Despite these obstacles, careful planning and attention to detail can assist applicants in successfully navigating the visa application process and obtaining the required visa for their travel plans.

Here are some easy steps to make your visa journey simpler - 

Determine the country where you will apply for the visa 

If you intend to visit only one Schengen country, you should apply at its embassy or consulate. If you intend to visit multiple countries, apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most time or where you will make your first entry.

Gather the required documents 

Check the embassy's website to see what documents you'll need to submit with your visa application. 

Documents required for a Schengen visa application typically include:

- Completed visa application form (Download it from the consulate website)

- Valid passport (Valid for a minimum of 6 months and 2 blank pages)

- Passport-sized photo (Check consulate website for exact and latest requirement)

- Proof of travel insurance 

- Proof of accommodation and travel arrangements 

- Proof of financial means (Bank statement of last 6 months or ITR return)

- Cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and your itinerary.

Schedule an appointment 

Many embassies require you to make an appointment in order to submit your visa application in person. To make an appointment, go to the embassy's website.

Generally in India Schengen visa document submission is done at the nearest VFS centre

Submit your application 

Submit your visa application along with all required documents on the day of your appointment. A visa application fee may also be required, if not paid earlier online.

In India Visa applications are submitted at the nearest VFS centre, make sure to arrive 15 minutes earlier than the scheduled appointment time and follow the VFS instructions to submit your documents and pay the fee. 

Processing time for your visa 

The processing time for a Schengen tourist visa varies, but it is usually between 15 and 30 days or as per the website 15 working days. During this time, the embassy or consulate will review your application and decide whether to issue you a visa or not. You might be called in person again to submit any missing documents.

Collecting your visa 

If your visa application is approved, you can pick up your visa at the embassy or the VFS centre. Bring any of the approved identification like an Aadhar card or PAN card and any other required documents when picking up your visa.

Conclusion

The above steps may not be exhaustive and from time to time consulate may change its visa rules for travellers.

In any case, a small mistake in filling up the form or submitting wrong or incorrect documents can lead to the rejection of a visa.

At this stage, dedicated help and support from an expert can help you save time and avoid rejection especially if you are applying for the first time. We at Travel Beyond Boundaries are helping people with their visa approval and maximising their chances of getting a visa. 

Our experts with years of experience can assist you with all your visa queries, right from filling out the application form to booking dummy flight tickets, hotel booking and travel insurance. To assist you better or if you have a doubt feel free to leave a comment or call us on 8800732199. Happy vacations!