Requirements for a Schengen Visa
1. Valid Indian Passport
Not Older Than 10 Years:
- Ensure your passport was issued within the last 10 years from the date of your planned entry into Croatia.
- Example: If planning to enter Croatia on January 1, 2024, your passport should not have been issued before January 1, 2014.
Valid for at Least 3 Months Beyond Intended Stay:
- If your intended stay in Croatia (or the Schengen Area) is until August 31, 2024, your passport should be valid until at least November 30, 2024.
At Least Two Blank Pages:
- Ensure your passport has a minimum of two completely blank pages for the visa sticker.
Action Item:
- Check your passport’s expiration date and issue date.
- Verify you have enough blank pages.
- Renew Your Passport if it doesn’t meet these criteria.
2. Filled and Signed Schengen Visa Application Form
Download from Official Croatian Embassy/Consulate Website:
- Visit in.mvep.hr for the most current form.
Fill the Form Carefully:
- Use a computer to fill out the form to ensure legibility.
- Do not leave any sections blank; use "N/A" if not applicable.
Sign the Form:
- The applicant must sign the form in the designated area.
- For minors, a parent or legal guardian must sign.
Action Item:
- Download the latest Schengen Visa application form.
- Fill it out accurately and completely.
- Sign the form as required.
3. Recent Photos (2-3)
Specifications:
- Size: 35x45 mm
- Background: White
- Face Orientation: Straight, full-face view
- Expression: Neutral
- Glasses: Avoid heavy frames, no tinted lenses
- Headwear: Only for religious or medical reasons, not obscuring the face
Recency:
- Photos should be recent, ideally taken within the last six months.
Action Item:
- Get recent photos that meet all specifications.
- Ensure they are of good quality and not damaged.
4. Travel Insurance
Coverage:
- Minimum €30,000 for medical, hospital, and repatriation expenses.
Policy Duration:
- Should cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area.
Policy Requirements:
- Check if the policy covers you for the entire Schengen Area.
- Ensure it explicitly mentions the coverage for medical and hospital expenses, and repatriation.
Action Item:
- Purchase travel insurance that meets the minimum coverage requirement.
- Verify the policy covers the entire duration of your stay.
5. Proof of Financial Means
Daily Amount:
- Approximately €30-50 per day for the entire stay in Croatia.
Acceptable Documents:
- Bank statement (showing sufficient funds)
- Sponsor letter (with proof of sponsor’s financial means)
- Other financial guarantees (e.g., proof of income, traveler’s cheques)
Action Item:
- Calculate your total financial requirement based on your stay duration.
- Gather documents that prove you have sufficient funds.
6. Proof of Accommodation
Hotel Reservation:
- Confirmed booking with hotel details (name, address, check-in/check-out dates).
Certified "Obrazac 1a" Form:
- For stays with friends/family, this form must be certified by the relevant Croatian authorities.
- Your host must obtain this certification from the local police station or municipal office.
Action Item:
- Book your hotel and obtain a confirmed reservation.
- If staying with friends/family, ensure your host gets the "Obrazac 1a" form certified.
7. Flight Itinerary
Showing Entry and Exit:
- From Croatia (or the Schengen Area), indicating your travel dates.
Acceptable Documents:
- Flight tickets
- Flight reservations
- Travel agency vouchers (including flight information)
Action Item:
- Book your flights or obtain a confirmed reservation.
- Ensure the itinerary shows both entry and exit from the Schengen Area.
8. Purpose of Visit
Tourism:
- Travel itinerary
- Tourist agency voucher (if booked through an agency)
Business:
- Invitation from a Croatian company
- Employment certificate
Action Item:
- Depending on your visit purpose, gather the required documents.
- Ensure they clearly state the purpose and, if applicable, the inviting party’s details.
Application Process
1. Check Latest Requirements
- Website: in.mvep.hr
- Frequency: Check just before applying to ensure you have the most current information.
2. Submit Application
In Person:
- Location: Croatian Embassy in New Delhi.
- Appointments: Might be necessary; check with the embassy.
Through Authorized Representative:
- Permission: Required from the embassy/consulate beforehand.
- Documentation: Ensure your representative has all necessary documents.
3. Pay Visa Fee
Schengen Visa Fee: Currently €60 (approximately INR 4,800; check current exchange rate).
Service Fee (If Applying Through VFS):
- Additional Fee: Check with VFS Global for the exact amount.
- Payment Methods: Vary, but usually include cash, credit/debit cards, or bank transfers.
Fees
Schengen Visa:
- Adults: €60
- Children (6-12 Years): Reduced fee
- Children Under 6: Free
- Students and Researchers: Possibly reduced or free, depending on the specific circumstances
VFS Service Fee (If Applicable):
- Varies: Check with VFS Global for the current fee.
