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New Schengen Visa Rule for Indians planning a trip to Europe

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indians 2025

Planning a trip to Europe? The European Union EU has introduced new Schengen visa rules for Indians that are more favorable for Indian travelers.

The European Union has updated Schengen visa rules for Indian travelers. Indians can now apply for five-year multiple-entry visas, similar to "visa-free nationals". This allows frequent travel without re-applying each time.

What’s Changing in the Rules?

The latest Schengen visa policy allows Indians to apply for five-year multiple-entry visas. This upgrade places Indian travelers in a favorable position, similar to "visa-free nationals," eliminating the need to reapply frequently.

The "Cascade" system grants two-year multi-entry visas to Indians who have held two Schengen visas within three years. Those who continue to meet criteria may later qualify for five-year visas.

If a traveler has used two Schengen visas within three years, they qualify for a two-year multi-entry visa. Those who continue meeting requirements can later apply for a five-year visa, ensuring frequent travel without repeated applications.

Schengen Visa Guide for Indians traveling to Europe

New Schengen Visa Rule for Indians: EU eases Schengen visa rules for Indians

European Union EU is digitalizing the visa process. Online applications and electronic visas aim to streamline approvals.

Now processing time takes around 15 days. While the cost for adults is Rs 7,200 and Rs 3,600 for minors. A proposed fee hike could increase this amount to Rs 8,000 for adults and Rs 4,000 for minors.

This new Schengen Visa rules for Indians simplifies the visa process and offers more flexibility to frequent travelers. 

Centralized & Digital Visa Processing

The European Union is moving toward a fully digital Schengen visa system. Soon online applications and digital visas will replace traditional paperwork, making submissions easier with improved security.

Additionally, visa processing is now centralized through VFS Global centers across India. Travelers can submit their applications at any center regardless of their place of residence. Previously visa submissions depended on jurisdiction with limited accessibility.  
However these changes do not apply to national visas such as student or employment visas. 

Schengen visa Highlights  

Schengen visa Highlights 

Cascade System 

Indians can get a two-year multi-entry Schengen visa after using two visas within three years. 

Digital Visa Processing 

The EU is working on a fully digital visa application system to streamline approvals and improve security. 

Processing Time 

Typically 15 days but could take longer in some cases. 


Cost Updates and Visa Fees for Schengen visa

Currently the Schengen visa fees for adults is ₹7200 and for minors ₹3600.  
A new proposal seeks to raise fees to ₹8000 for adults and ₹4000 for minors, while the approval is still pending. Children under six remain exempt from visa charges. 

Category 

Old Fee (Current) 

New Fee (Proposed) 

Adults 

₹7,200 

₹8,000 

Minors 

₹3,600 

₹4,000 

Children under 6 

Exempt 

Exempt 

Applicants using visa service centers may incur additional fees depending on the consulate.

Processing time of Schengen visa

The processing time for a Schengen visa is from 15 days to 60 days depending upon various factors such as the applicant's nationality and workload of the consulate. Typically, it takes around 15 days for Indian passport holders to process Schengen visa. However, during peak travel time when demand is high or if further investigation on application is needed, then processing time can extend to 30 - 60 days. With recent relaxations in visa rules now the processing time may be reduced and potentially speeding up visa acquisition for Indian travelers.  

Pro Tip: Applicants can submit their visa applications six months before their travel date.

Which countries are under the Schengen area?

Whether your Europe trip is for tourism, business or visiting family. Schengen visa serves as a one stop solution to explore Europe without worrying about crossing borders between member countries of the Schengen Area.

The Schengen Area comprises of 27 European countries:

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Croatia.

What this means for Indian Travelers

These changes ensure a smoother and more flexible travel experience for Indians visiting Schengen countries. With multi-year visas, centralized processing and digital applications, European travel will be more accessible than ever.

Excited to explore Europe? These simplified visa rules make it easier than ever to plan your next adventure!

How Scoutabroad Can Help Indian Tourists for Schengen Visa

Scoutabroad is the Top Visa consultancy offering personalized guidance to streamline the Schengen Visa process. Services we provide:  

  • Expert Advice: Consultants clarify requirements, ensuring you meet study abroad visa criteria.  

  • Document Review: They double-check your paperwork to avoid errors.  

  • Interview Prep: Mock interviews boost confidence for consulate questions.  

  • Time Saving: Focus on your studies while experts handle the logistics.  

  • Recommended Consultancies: Look for trusted firms with experience in student visas for Europe. 

Conclusion 
 

 

Details 

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indians (2025) 

Indians can apply for five-year multiple-entry visas, similar to visa-free nationals. This simplifies travel and removes frequent reapplications. 

Cascade System 

After using two Schengen visas within three years, Indian travelers qualify for a two-year multi-entry visa. Those meeting further criteria may apply for a five-year visa. 

Centralized Processing 

Visa applications can be submitted at any VFS Global center in India. Previously, applicants were restricted by jurisdiction. This change does not apply to student, employment, or family reunion visas. 

Digital Visa System 

The Schengen visa process is shifting to online applications and digital visas. This streamlines approvals and enhances security. 

Processing Time 

Typically 15 days, but could take longer depending on individual cases. 

Cost Updates 

Current fees: ₹7200 for adults and ₹3600 for minors  
Proposed fees: ₹8000 for adults and ₹4000 for minors  

Impact on Travelers 

Easier visa access, longer validity, more flexibility, centralized submissions, and a future digital system make Schengen travel smoother for Indians. 


Ready to make your study abroad or travel dreams come true? Contact us to book a free consultation with our visa experts and start your European journey today!
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