Dreaming of a Eurotrip—sipping coffee in Paris, exploring the history of Rome, or hiking the Swiss Alps? A single visa can unlock 29 countries for you, but getting it requires careful preparation.
Before you book that flight, you must understand the requirements for Schengen tourist visa applications. The process involves strict documentation and specific fees that change periodically.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the cost of Schengen tourist visa in 2025, the essential documents you need, and expert tips to ensure your Schengen holiday visa is approved without delay.
What is a Schengen Tourist Visa?
A Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C) allows you to visit any of the 29 Schengen member countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is designed for tourism, visiting family/friends, or short business trips.
Which Country Should You Apply To?
- If visiting one country: Apply at that country’s consulate (e.g., France).
- If visiting multiple countries: Apply at the consulate of your main destination (where you will stay the longest).
- If staying equal time in multiple countries: Apply at the consulate of the first country you will enter.
Breakdown: Cost of Schengen Tourist Visa (2025)
The Schengen tourist visa fees are standardized across all member countries, but the total cost involves more than just the visa fee.
1. Official Visa Application Fee (Government Fee)
As of the mid-2024 update (effective in 2025), the fees are:
- Adults: €90 (approx. ₹8,200 – ₹8,500 depending on exchange rates).
- Children (6 – 12 years): €45 (approx. ₹4,100).
- Children (Under 6 years): Free.
- Nationals of countries with visa facilitation agreements (e.g., Armenia, Azerbaijan): €35.
2. Service Fees (VFS Global / BLS)
Most countries outsource visa collection to agencies like VFS Global or BLS International.
- VFS Service Charge: Approx. €15 – €40 (₹1,500 – ₹3,800) per application.
- This fee is mandatory if you apply through a visa application center.
3. Additional (Hidden) Costs
- Travel Insurance: Must cover at least €30,000 (~₹27 Lakhs). Cost: ₹1,000 – ₹3,000.
- Courier Fees: Optional service to have your passport delivered home (~₹500 – ₹900).
- SMS Alerts: Optional updates (~₹200).
- Premium Lounge: Optional luxury service (~₹3,000 – ₹5,000).
Total Estimated Cost: For one adult, budget approximately ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 for the entire process.
Essential Requirements for Schengen Tourist Visa
Missing a single document is the #1 reason for refusal. Use this checklist to ensure your application is watertight.
1. Application Form
- Fully completed and signed Schengen Visa Application Form.
- Ensure data matches your passport exactly.
2. Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Must have at least 2 blank pages.
- Issued within the last 10 years.
3. Photos
- Two recent (last 6 months) passport-sized photos.
- Specs: 35x45mm, white background, 80% face coverage, no glasses/headgear (unless religious).
4. Travel Itinerary & Flight Reservations
- Flight Tickets: Confirmed round-trip flight reservations (do not buy actual tickets until the visa is approved).
- Internal Travel: Proof of train/flight bookings between Schengen countries (e.g., Eurail pass or flight from Paris to Rome).
5. Proof of Accommodation
- Hotel Bookings: Confirmed reservations for every single night of your trip.
- Sponsorship: If staying with friends/family, an official invitation letter (attested by their local town hall) is often required.
6. Travel Health Insurance
- Coverage: Minimum €30,000 (approx. $33,000 USD).
- Scope: Must cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation of remains.
- Validity: Valid for the entire Schengen area and duration of stay.
7. Proof of Financial Means
You must prove you can afford the trip (approx. €60-€120 per day depending on the country).
- Bank Statements: Last 3-6 months (stamped/signed by the bank).
- Income Tax Returns (ITR): Last 3 years.
- Payslips: Last 3 months (if employed).
- Sponsorship Letter: If someone else is funding you, a notarized sponsorship letter + their financial proof.
8. Proof of Socio-Professional Status (Ties to Home)
This proves you will return to your home country (GTE requirement).
- Employees: Leave sanction letter from employer (on company letterhead) + Employment contract.
- Self-Employed: Business registration (GST/MOA) + Company bank statements.
- Students: No Objection Certificate (NOC) from school/university + ID card.
- Retirees: Pension statements.
9. Cover Letter
A personal letter explaining:
- Purpose of visit.
- Dates of travel and detailed itinerary.
- List of documents submitted.
- Explicit statement of intent to return home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- “Visa Shopping”: Applying to the “easiest” country (e.g., France) but spending all your time in another (e.g., Switzerland). This can lead to refusal or border issues.
- Insufficient Funds: Showing a large, sudden deposit without explanation.
- Gap in Accommodation: Missing a hotel booking for even one night of the trip.
- Expired Insurance: Buying insurance that ends a day before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are Schengen tourist visa fees refundable?
A: No. The government fee (€90) and service charges are non-refundable, even if your visa is rejected.
Q: How early can I apply?
A: You can apply up to 6 months before your trip. The latest recommended time is 15 days before, but during peak season (summer), apply at least 4-6 weeks in advance.
Q: Do I need an interview?
A: First-time applicants usually need to appear in person for biometrics (fingerprints). Interviews are rare for tourists but can happen if the consulate needs clarification.
Q: Can I extend my Schengen holiday visa?
A: Generally, no. Extensions are only granted in extreme force majeure cases (e.g., medical emergency, pandemic lockdowns).
Start Your European Adventure
Applying for a Schengen holiday visa can be tedious, but with the right preparation, it’s a smooth process. Ensure your requirements for Schengen tourist visa are perfectly met to avoid delays.
Need Help with Your Application?
Don’t let paperwork ruin your holiday plans. At Ausizz Migration Consultants, we review your itinerary and documents to maximize your chances of approval.
Contact Us for Visa Assistance:
- Website: www.ausizzmigrationconsultants.com
