If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit family or friends in any of the 29 Schengen countries, you’ll need to submit a well-prepared short-stay (Type C) visa application. Whether visiting a spouse, child, or close relative residing in Europe, it’s essential to include all necessary documents and ensure accuracy. The application is typically submitted via VFS Global or directly at a German Mission in India. All original documents must be submitted along with photocopies. Originals may not be returned unless copies are also provided.
You must complete the Schengen Visa Application Form online using the VIDEX system, then print and sign it. Along with this, two signed declarations are needed—one confirming that all information provided is true, and another confirming valid travel insurance coverage. A valid passport is required, which must have been issued within the last 10 years, be valid for at least three months beyond your intended return date, and have a minimum of two blank pages. Copies of the biometric page, address page, and last page (in case of an Indian passport) must also be submitted. One recent biometric passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background, with 70–80% face coverage) must be included. A personal covering letter should also be submitted, clearly stating the reason for travel, travel dates, and a brief itinerary.
If you are being invited by family or friends in the Schengen area, a signed invitation letter from your host is necessary. This should mention your stay duration, purpose of visit, host’s address, and contact information. Additionally, include a copy of the host’s passport or national ID, and if the host is not an EU citizen, their valid residence permit. Proof of your relationship with the host, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or OCI card, should be included, depending on the nature of your relationship. Accommodation details must be provided. If you’re staying with the host, a written confirmation of stay, along with their ID and proof of address, is needed. If you’re staying elsewhere, hotel bookings or rental confirmations should be attached.
Financial proof is also essential. If you’re self-funding the trip, include your personal bank statements for the last three months (with bank stamps) and ITR/Form 16 for the previous two years. If someone in India is sponsoring the trip, a sponsorship letter, bank statements, ID proof, and proof of relationship are required. If a person in Europe is sponsoring your trip, include a sponsorship letter, their passport or residence permit, a formal sponsorship certificate known as Verpflichtungserklärung, and proof of relationship.
Applicants must also show evidence of their economic status. For employed individuals, submit salary slips for the last three months, an employment letter, leave approval, ITR/Form 16, and bank statements. If self-employed, provide company registration documents, GST registration, tax returns, and bank statements. Students must attach an enrolment letter, a no-objection certificate from their educational institution, and financial statements. Retired or unemployed individuals should provide proof of pension or rental income, or personal bank statements demonstrating financial capability.
You must also submit relevant civil status documents such as marriage, divorce, birth, or death certificates if applicable. A round-trip flight reservation must be attached to indicate your travel plans. Travel insurance is mandatory and must provide coverage across the Schengen zone with a minimum value of €30,000. This policy must be from an approved Indian insurance provider.
For minor applicants, special documentation is needed. This includes a signed application form by both parents, the child’s birth certificate, passport copies of both parents, and their visa copies if one or both are traveling. If the child is traveling alone, notarised consent from both parents and custody documents, if applicable, must be included.
Additional documents that support or strengthen your application are welcome. If your application is being submitted by someone else, include an authorization letter and their ID proof. If your biometric data was collected in the past 59 months, provide the date or at least the month and year. If not, your fingerprints will be taken during the submission process.
To avoid delays or rejection, always refer to the official websites of the German Missions in India or VFS Global for the most up-to-date and accurate requirements. Ensure that all documents are complete, valid, and consistent with your travel plans.
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