Indians still need a Schengen visa to visit Europe in 2026. What changed this year is mostly what happens at the border, plus some relief for transit passengers.
What’s new for Indian travellers
- Biometric border checks (EES). Since 10 April 2026, the EU’s Entry/Exit System is fully live at every Schengen border. At your first entry, officers take your fingerprints and a face photo instead of stamping your passport. Allow extra time at immigration.
- ETIAS is not for you. ETIAS is an online travel authorisation for visa-exempt nationalities. Indians need a full Schengen visa, so ETIAS does not replace it, now or later.
- India-EU Mobility Pact. Signed on 27 January 2026, it commits both sides to simplifying mobility, talent exchange and visa processing over time. It does not remove the visa requirement.
- Airport transit visa relief. Spain, France and Germany have removed the airport transit visa for Indians transiting to a non-EU country, effective 4 March, 10 April and 3 June 2026 respectively. Check the rules for your airline and airport before you book.
How to apply
- Pick the right country. Apply to the country where you will spend the most days. If your days are split evenly, apply to the country you will enter first. See our guide to the main destination rule.
- Book a visa application centre appointment. Most Schengen countries use VFS Global in India; check which centre your destination uses. You can apply up to 6 months before travel. For Christmas and New Year trips, book now; slots fill fast in November.
- Submit documents and biometrics at the appointment.
- Track and collect your passport.
Fee: €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6 to 11, plus the visa application centre’s service charge.
Documents checklist
- Passport issued within the last 10 years, valid 3 months beyond your return
- Signed application form and recent photos
- Return flight booking and day-by-day itinerary
- Hotel bookings for every night
- Travel insurance with at least €30,000 medical cover for the whole Schengen area
- Bank statements for the last 3 to 6 months and recent income tax returns
- Employer leave letter, or business registration if self-employed
For fees, timing and country rules, see our Schengen visa guide.
Tips to improve approval
- Make the money story consistent. Large unexplained deposits just before applying raise questions.
- Book refundable flights and hotels until the visa comes through.
- Build your travel history. Indians with two Schengen visas used correctly in the last three years can qualify for longer multiple-entry visas under the EU’s cascade rules for India.
- Follow your itinerary. Entering through a different country than you applied to, without a good reason, can hurt future applications.
Frequently asked questions
No. You need a Schengen visa; ETIAS is only for visa-exempt travellers.
Your first entry takes longer because your biometrics are registered. Later trips should be quicker.
As soon as you have bookings. Applications open 6 months before travel.
The standard fees are largely unchanged; check your visa application centre for the current service charge.
Sources
- Visa2Fly: New Schengen visa rules for Indians in 2026
- TripProf: Schengen visa for Indian travellers, EES and ETIAS
- Wikipedia: Visa requirements for Indian citizens (2026 changes)
Disclaimer: Visa rules, fees and processing times can change. Confirm the latest details on the official embassy, consulate or immigration website before you book or apply.