How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in Delhi - Simplest way
Applying for a Schengen visa from Delhi can feel like a daunting process, but with the right guidance, it becomes a streamlined experience. Each year, millions of Indians travel to Europe for tourism, business, study, and other purposes.
In 2023, over 600,000 Schengen visa applications were submitted from India, with Delhi being one of the top cities for visa submissions.
The overall success rate for Indian applicants stands at around 87%, but at BTW Visa Services, we’re proud to have a 99% visa success rate, making us one of the most reliable and experienced visa consultancy services in India.
If you’re planning to visit any of the 27 Schengen countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, or Switzerland, the first step is obtaining a Schengen visa. Here's everything you need to know about how to apply from Delhi, including crucial tips and numbers that can help improve your chances of approval.
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Schengen visas are primarily short-term visas valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Depending on the purpose of your travel, you’ll need to select the appropriate visa type:
- Tourist Visa: For vacations and sightseeing.
- Business Visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or business activities.
- Student Visa: For short-term study programs or research within Schengen countries.
In Delhi, the most common visa type applied for is the Schengen Tourist Visa, accounting for over 50% of all applications from India.
Step 2: Know Where to Apply
You’ll need to apply at the consulate of the Schengen country where you plan to spend the majority of your time. If you’re visiting multiple countries, apply at the consulate of the country where you will enter first or spend the most days. Key consulates and visa centers in Delhi include those for France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, which handle a large number of applications every year.
BTW Visa Services can help you determine which consulate to apply at, ensuring your application is submitted to the correct office, reducing the chances of rejection.
Step 3: Gather the Necessary Documents
To apply for a Schengen visa from Delhi, you will need the following documents:
- Completed visa application form (available on the consulate’s website).
- Passport-sized photos (as per the Schengen specifications).
- Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from Schengen).
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings, accommodation, etc.).
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing a balance of at least INR 4-5 lakhs).
- Travel insurance covering at least EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies.
- Cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip.
BTW Visa Services ensures that all your documents are thoroughly checked, reducing the risk of incomplete submissions—a common reason for visa rejections.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
As of 2024, the Schengen visa fee for Indian applicants is €80 (approximately INR 7,000). Children between 6-12 years pay a reduced fee of €40 (approximately INR 3,500). There may also be additional service fees depending on the consulate or visa application center.
Step 5: Schedule Your Appointment
You will need to schedule an appointment at a visa application center (such as VFS Global) or the relevant consulate in Delhi. The wait time for an appointment can range from 15 to 30 days, especially during peak travel seasons, so it’s advisable to book your slot well in advance.
At BTW Visa Services, we help expedite this process by providing expert advice on when and how to book your appointment to avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 6: Attend Your Visa Interview
During your interview, be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, financial situation, and accommodation details. Consular officers are trained to assess the credibility of applicants, and ensuring you have all required documents will help expedite this process.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
The average processing time for a Schengen visa from Delhi is around 15 calendar days. However, this can vary based on the consulate and the time of year. Delays are more common during peak travel seasons (April-June and September-December).
BTW Visa Services tracks your application status to provide updates and ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
Step 8: Collect Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you can collect your passport from the visa center or opt for home delivery. In rare cases, additional documents or a second interview may be required, which could extend the processing time.
Why Choose BTW Visa Services for Your Schengen Visa Application in Delhi?
At BTW Visa Services, we specialize in making the visa process hassle-free for travelers from Delhi. Here’s why over 50,000 satisfied clients trust us with their visa needs:
- 14+ years of experience in handling Schengen visa applications.
- A 99% success rate, higher than the national average for Schengen visa approvals.
- India’s most-reviewed visa consultancy with thousands of 5-star reviews.
- Dedicated assistance with documentation, interview preparation, and appointment scheduling.
- Transparent and affordable service packages are designed to fit all kinds of travellers.
How to contact BTW Visa Services?
There are three ways by which you can reach out to us.
- Directly calling on- 020-49027000 / 020-25550000 [ Most recommended- To get the quick response and avoid delay ]
- Send your enquiry to us by email at inquiry@btwvisas. com
- By visiting our Contact Us page and filling out the application form.