As summer approaches, Indian travellers planning a European getaway are facing an increasingly familiar challenge—not the paperwork, but the struggle to secure a Schengen visa appointment. While visa processing typically takes around 15 business days post-appointment, the real hurdle is getting one in the first place, especially during peak travel months.

Embassies across the country are already reporting packed schedules and limited appointment availability. The seasonal surge in demand has made the initial step—booking a visa appointment—a stress test in itself.

According to Condé Nast Traveller, France is currently among the more efficient options, offering relatively quicker appointment turnarounds of 2–3 weeks in cities like Chandigarh, Cochin, and Puducherry. Meanwhile, Switzerland’s first available appointment in Mumbai is April 29, and Germany’s next open slots in Gurgaon and Chennai fall on May 21.

Italy, on the other hand, poses more significant challenges. No appointments are currently available in Delhi, Bengaluru, or Hyderabad, with the earliest possible slot in Ahmedabad on May 16. However, applicants with prior Schengen visas may benefit from expedited appointment access.

There are still a few bright spots. France and Finland are offering earlier appointments—as soon as April 25 in Chennai and Hyderabad, according to VFS Global. Hungary and Norway are also seeing relatively quicker booking windows.

Spain has opened up appointment slots across major cities for May, with BLS International reporting a shorter processing time of just seven working days. Notably, Sweden stands out as the fastest option, offering next-day appointments across all Indian visa application centres.

For those dreaming of sipping espresso by the Colosseum or exploring lavender fields in Provence, early planning and flexible destination choices will be key. As the race for Schengen visas heats up, those who act swiftly will have the best shot at a seamless summer abroad.