How to Get Schengen Visa in 2026? Complete Guide for Students

What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa is a temporary travel permit, enabling an individual to explore 27 countries in Europe. These nations fall under the Schengen Area, where persons can travel with a single visa. Moreover, by using this visa, you can visit between the Schengen countries in Europe without any restrictions or passport control for 90 days in a period of 180 days.

It is primarily issued for short-term courses, business, tourism and family visits. Therefore, individuals looking for short courses in Europe apply for this visa. It is categorised into different types based on the travel purpose, which are as follows:

Types of Schengen Visa

• Airport Transit Visa (Type A) – It is an Airport Transit Visa that allows individuals to pass through the global transit region of any Schengen airport, such as when changing planes.
• Uniform Schengen Visa (Type C) – It is the most common visa, also known as “tourist” or “short-stay” visa. So, if you get this visa, it means you can travel freely in any Schengen country. However, the residents of India, China and Russia apply for this visa.  
• Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV) -  A LTV Schengen visa is a short-stay permit limiting the visit strictly to the country where the visa is issued. Hence, it does not enable you to travel in the entire Schengen Area.

These are further divided into –

• Student Visa – This is provided to students who need to visit a Schengen country for a course that lasts up to 90 days.
• Business Visa – This visa allows a person to visit the European Schengen countries for professional work, with a duration of 90 days.
• Tourist Visa – Those who want to visit Schengen countries for a trip or meet family members can apply for a tourist visa. However, they cannot extend their stay beyond 90 days.
• Medical Visa – To apply for this visa, you will need to provide details of your medical treatment, including its duration.

What is the Schengen Area?

After coming through the above details, you must have understood about the Schengen Visa and how it helps in making travelling hassle-free. But do you know which these areas are?

The Schengen area consists of 27 countries located in Europe and has agreed to abolish border and passport controls at their shared borders. The agreement was signed in 1985 in Schengen, which is a small village in Luxembourg. However, the countries that are part of this area include:

Also Read - Top Countries to Study Abroad

Why Students Should Apply for a Schengen Visa?  

• Academic Exposure – This visa enables Indian students to visit 27 Schengen countries in Europe, which boast several prestigious research institutions and colleges. Thus, students can pursue short courses, summer schools and exchange programs after obtaining this visa. It helps students experience different teaching methods and cutting-edge research facilities.
• Personal and Cultural Development – Studying within these countries in Schengen visa exposes learners to diverse languages, traditions and cultures. It enhances their adaptability, global awareness and communication skills. Such exposure fosters confidence, personal growth and independence in students. These qualities are essential for academic growth and a professional career.
• Access to Multiple Countries – Another key reason to apply for this visa is the freedom that it provides to students. They can explore diverse European countries with one visa without stressing about long documentation procedures. From historical landmarks to cultural heritages and museums, everything is accessible with a Schengen Visa.
• International Work Opportunities – Most of the Schengen countries provide part-time work opportunities to international students during their courses. Moreover, they can use this prospect to build essential skills and create a strong resume.
• Global Networking Prospects – Travelling within the Schengen countries in Europe allows Indian students to participate in international seminars, networking events and career fairs. Moreover, they can meet experienced professionals, peers and researchers, helping students to create a strong global network. It also helps them to gain insights into the international career pathways.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India?

Many students struggle to apply for a Schengen visa, as they fail to meet the basic requirements and follow all the required steps correctly. Hence, here is a step-by-step guide that will help you obtain a Schengen Visa for Indians. Have a look:  

Determine the Embassy

First, select the country where you want to apply. If you need to travel to one Schengen country, apply to the embassy of your chosen destination only. However, if you are travelling to multiple nations, then make sure you apply at the embassy of that nation where you will stay for the maximum number of days. If the period is equal for each country, apply for the city where you will enter first. You can also consult a reputable visa consultancy to know about this procedure.

Select Visa Type

Now, once you identify your preferred country, look for a suitable Schengen visa category. The most appropriate visa for students is Type C, which allows them to pursue short-duration courses in these European countries. Further, take an appointment with VFS Global, which is an authorised visa application provider. Appointments are essential for paying fees and submitting biometrics that may take up to two weeks or one month.

Collect Documents

The next step requires you to prepare and collect all the essential documents needed for a Schengen visa, including a valid passport and application form. However, the documents for students may differ from those for tourists. So, make sure you collect all the required records if you are applying for a student Schengen visa. Avoiding these requirements can lead to visa rejection.

Interview and Biometrics 

Now you will need to visit the visa centre or embassy on the appointment day with all the gathered documents. Submit the application and provide biometric details, including a photograph and fingerprints. Next, you will need to answer a few basic questions that typically revolve around your reasons for travelling in the city. At this time, you will also be required to pay your Schengen visa fee, which is INR 9,890.

Collect Passport

After submitting all documents, you will receive a reference number that you can use to monitor your application. The usual Schengen visa processing time is 10 to 15 working days. You will know about the approval or rejection within this period. If your visa gets approved, you can either collect your passport from the embassy or receive it via courier. Don’t forget to check the details of your visa once you receive it.

Also Read - Cheapest Country to Study for Indians

Documents Required to Apply for Schengen Visa

Here is a list of all the documents that you will need to meet all the Schengen visa requirements, have a look:

• Valid Passport – It must be issued within the previous 10 years and valid for three months after your return date. Additionally, the passport must contain 2 blank pages.
• Passport Size Photographs – You will require two photographs, covering 80% face with a minimum width of 35 to 40mm, taken within the previous 6 months.
• Form of Visa Application – A fully completed form with the signature of the Embassy on it. Moreover, the form should include details regarding your personal information and contact number.
• Travel Insurance – Another key document is travel insurance for Schengen visa, including a minimum coverage of €30,000 for any medical emergencies while you are in any Schengen country.
• Financial Proof – You can add your bank statements or salary slips to meet this requirement.
• Receipt of Visa Fee –Individuals will need to provide a receipt of visa application payment.

These were the basic documents required for Schengen visa that individuals need when applying for it. However, if you are looking for a student Schengen visa, then here are a few additional documents that you will require:

• Valid ID Card– The student must show a valid ID proof that confirms their enrolment in any reputed educational institution.
• Enrolment Certificate – They will likely need to show this document as a confirmation of their academic status from the European Institute.
• Accommodation Proof– Students need to show a proof of accommodation that shows where they will stay during their education period in Europe. It includes their tenancy agreement.

Top 5 Schengen Countries for Indian Students

There are 25+ countries that students get access to after acquiring a Schengen visa, but the top countries include Finland, Spain, Germany, France and the Netherlands. Studying in these nations allows them to obtain an international degree and work experience. Here are the top Schengen countries list with key reasons that show why these are the best study abroad destinations for Indian students.  

1. Finland

Finland is one of the most popular Schengen visa countries, with a student visa success rate of 90 to 95%, attracting ample Indian students. Plus, its high-quality teaching system helps scholars to learn within student-centred universities. These institutions focus on practical and research skills, instead of just conceptual knowledge. Moreover, the annual fees of studying in Finland range between €8,000 to €20,000, making it affordable.

2. Germany

Being among the top study abroad destinations across the globe, it draws the attention of many Indian students as well. It has many public institutions, offering highly demanding and globally valued degrees at low or zero tuition cost. Germany is highly considered by students who are planning to pursue their graduation in technology, research or engineering fields.

3. Spain

Spain is among the highly preferred Schengen countries in Europe, especially by students. This city appeals to students because of its reasonable education costs, diverse colleges and advanced courses that are taught in English. Therefore, 1000+ Indian students are enrolled in Spanish universities currently. The country also boasts a rich culture and relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs, offering a comfortable life to students.

4. France

With a student visa success rate of 85%+, France is becoming popular among aspirants looking for study abroad destinations. Additionally, its prestigious universities, such as Sorbonne University and Université PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres), help students to obtain globally valued qualifications. These recognised institutes offer highly sought-after management, fashion, science and arts degrees. The country further provides a robust research setting, offering students the opportunity to enhance their career opportunities. 

5. Netherlands

The Netherlands is known as one of the best Schengen visa countries, with the highest English-taught courses in Europe. Students will find 2000+ programs offered in the English language. In addition, the education costs in this country are more affordable in comparison to other parts of the UK. These features help Indian students to secure a prestigious qualification at minimal cost.

Conclusion

To sum up, obtaining a Schengen Visa may feel complicated, but all you need is the correct guidance and complete details about the application process. It helps you collect all the required documents in advance and meet all the requirements crucial to apply for the visa. However, the vital and most challenging part is applying with a reliable channel, and that’s when Gradding comes into play. This platform is highly trusted by study abroad aspirants. From visa procedures to documentation, it helps students at every step of their overseas education journey. Here, the study abroad consultants will offer personalised assistance to ensure your visa gets approved on your first application. 

FAQs:

1. How Long Can I Stay in The Schengen Area with This Visa?

You can stay for 90 days within a period of 180 days in any Schengen area by obtaining a standard visa Type C. This rule remains the same for both multiple-entry and single-entry visas.

2. How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?

A Schengen Visa usually cost around €90 (INR 9890) for adults, while for children between the ages of 6 and 11 it costs up to €45 (INR 4940).

3. Can I Travel to Multiple Countries with One Schengen Visa?

Yes, by obtaining a standard Schengen visa, you can travel to 27 European countries, but they should be a part of the Schengen Area. Moreover, it only allows travel freely across these countries for 90 days.

4. Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for A Schengen Visa?

Yes, travel insurance is a crucial and mandatory requirement for securing a Schengen visa. The policy should provide a minimum of €30,000 as coverage for emergency hospitalisation and medical treatment.

5. What Are the Types of Schengen Visas Available?

Schengen visas are primarily categorised into two types: Type C (short-stay) and Type A (airport transit), for business, education or family travel of 90 days. Moreover, they are further categorised into single-entry, double-entry and multiple-entry visas.