Your complete checklist for a successful schengen visa application

Europe is a dream destination for many, and the Schengen visa is your gateway to exploring any of the 29 countries. Whether you plan to enjoy coffee in front of the Eiffel Tower or ski in the Swiss Alps, obtaining a Schengen visa is the first step. However, the application process can be complex and daunting if you are unprepared. Therefore, it is essential to check the necessary criteria before applying.
This guide outlines a comprehensive checklist to assist you in the application process for a Schengen visa.

7 Points to Check Before Applying for a Schengen Visa

The following checklist can help Indians obtain a Schengen visa hassle-free:

1. Check the Type of Schengen Visa You Need
   Before applying, determine the purpose of your visit to the Schengen area. The common categories of Schengen visas are:
   ● Category A: This is a transit visa or airport visa that allows you to pass through a Schengen country from a non-Schengen country to another non-Schengen country.
   ● Category B: This visa allows you to transit via a Schengen country to a non-Schengen one with a travel duration of no longer than five days.
   ● Category C: This visa can be of three types: single entry, double entry, or multiple entry, for purposes such as tourism, business, or education.

2. Gather the Required Documents
   A complete set of documents is vital for a successful Schengen visa application. Below is the essential checklist:
   ● Valid National Passport: Your passport must have been issued within the last ten years and remain valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure.
   ● Schengen Visa Application Form: A correctly completed visa application form is required to avoid processing delays or visa rejection.
   ● Photographs: Two passport-sized photographs with a white background, taken within the last six months, are needed.
   ● Personal Covering Letter: Write a cover letter specifying the duration and purpose of your visit.
   ● Travel Insurance: A Travel insurance for Schengen visa with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros is mandatory per person to cover emergencies. 
   ● Proof of Finances: Submit your salary slips for the past three months and your personal bank account statements for the same period.
   ● Flight Reservation: Include your flight tickets, train itineraries, and car rental details in the application.

3. Book Your Visa Interview Appointment
   Applicants must submit their Schengen visa applications at the designated embassy. After submission, book an appointment and attend the interview on time with the required documents to avoid visa rejection. Prepare well to answer interview questions, as this is your opportunity to justify why you should be granted a Schengen visa.

4. Check Visa Fees and Payment
   The fees for obtaining a Schengen visa are generally non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Ensure you check the processing fee beforehand and pay it using the approved mode (cash, card, or bank transfer) at the time of application. Note that this fee does not include travel insurance.

5. Submit Your Visa Application
   If you are travelling to the Schengen area with your family, all visa applications must be submitted together. The head of the family needs to provide personal income tax returns, bank statements, and flight booking details. Submit all supporting documents along with the application form.

6. Provide Biometric Data
   All applicants aged 12 years and above must provide their biometric details. When applying for a Schengen visa, the consulate requires this data, which is stored for five years. If you have previously submitted your biometric data, you will not need to provide it again.

7. Track and Collect Your Visa
   Many consulates offer a tracking service to check the status of your visa application online. You will be notified when your visa is ready for collection or if it is being returned by post. Once your visa is authorised, verify the details on your visa, such as your name, dates, and other crucial information.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Schengen visa may seem complex, but with the right preparation and documentation, you can avoid delays or rejections. Whether you are applying for a Schengen visa as an Indian or from any other country, following this checklist will help ensure you meet all requirements. Do not forget to purchase travel insurance, as it is not included in the visa processing fee. Remember, a well-prepared application is the key to a delightful European vacation with your loved ones.