Documents Required for a Schengen Visa – Complete Checklist (2025 Guide)
Planning to visit Europe? Whether it’s for tourism, business, or family visits, applying for a Schengen Visa is the first step. The process is smooth — but only if your documents are in order.
This blog will give you a complete, updated checklist of all the documents you need to apply for a Schengen Visa from India in 2025.
✅ What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa allows you to travel to 27 European countries with a single visa. Some popular Schengen countries include:
-
France 🇫🇷
-
Germany 🇩🇪
-
Italy 🇮🇹
-
Spain 🇪🇸
-
Netherlands 🇳🇱
-
Switzerland 🇨🇭
-
Greece 🇬🇷
📌 General Documents Required for Schengen Visa (Tourist)
Here’s the standard checklist:
1. Visa Application Form
-
Duly filled and signed
-
Available on VFS or embassy websites
2. Valid Passport
-
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay
-
Must have 2 blank pages
-
Issued within the last 10 years
3. Photographs
-
Two recent passport-sized photos
-
White background, 35mm x 45mm, matte finish
4. Cover Letter
-
Purpose of visit
-
Travel itinerary
-
Duration of stay
5. Travel Itinerary / Flight Reservation
-
Round-trip flight booking
-
No need to buy actual tickets before visa approval
6. Proof of Accommodation
-
Hotel booking
-
If staying with a friend or relative, an invitation letter
7. Travel Insurance
-
Minimum coverage of €30,000
-
Must cover all Schengen countries and medical emergencies
8. Proof of Financial Means
-
Bank statement (last 3 or 6 months)
-
ITR (Income Tax Return) of 2–3 years
-
Salary slips (for employed)
-
Sponsorship letter (if someone else is bearing the cost)
👔 Additional Documents for Business Visa
-
Invitation letter from the company in Europe
-
Company covering letter from Indian employer
-
Proof of past business dealings (if applicable)
👩🎓 For Student Visa
-
Admission letter from European institution
-
Proof of payment of tuition fees
-
Academic transcripts
-
SOP (Statement of Purpose)
🏡 If Visiting Family/Friends
-
Invitation letter with host’s passport or residence proof
-
Relationship proof (e.g., birth/marriage certificates)
📅 Visa Appointment Tips
-
Book your appointment early (2–4 weeks before travel)
-
Submit originals + photocopies
-
Carry your own pen, photo, and glue (for VFS)
🇮🇳 Schengen Visa Fees from India (as of 2025)
Age Group | Fee (in EUR) | Approx. INR |
---|---|---|
Adults (12+) | €80 | ₹7,200 |
Children (6–12) | €40 | ₹3,600 |
Below 6 Years | Free | Free |
🧾 Sample Schengen Cover Letter (Free Download)
Let us know in comments or contact us on www.mytravelcompany.co.in to get your free cover letter template!
✈ Need Help With Your Visa?
At MyTravelCompany, we provide:
-
End-to-end visa assistance
-
Cover letter + document check
-
Travel insurance & hotel booking
-
Fast appointment slots
📞 Call us or WhatsApp: +91-XXXXXXXXXX
📍Final Tips
-
Double-check your documents
-
Don’t overstay your visa
-
Be honest in your cover letter and application