Schengen Visa Woes: Why India’s Travelers Are Frustrated and Out of Pocket

For many Indians, the dream of exploring Europe is overshadowed by one of the most demanding and frustrating parts of planning the trip: the Schengen visa process. Despite high enthusiasm for European travel, the Schengen visa process for Indians often feels more like an interrogation than a vacation application, demanding a pile of documents, waiting times that stretch into weeks, and high costs.

As global tourism recovers, Indians are showing an unprecedented interest in international travel. Yet, their enthusiasm is met with a visa process that can feel demeaning and overly restrictive, pushing many to question if visiting Europe is worth the trouble.

Schengen Visa: Mounting Costs and Tedious Requirements Add to Frustration

On June 11, 2024, the European Commission announced a 12% increase in Schengen visa fees, raising costs for Indians to €90 for adults, up from €80. Children aged 6–12 now pay €45, while only those under six are exempt. This fee hike comes alongside a process already laden with requirements: confirmed flight tickets, hotel bookings, detailed travel itineraries, bank statements, payslips, tax returns, and letters from employers. Even the smallest mistakes or insufficient details can lead to rejection.

The expenses and paperwork required can make Indians feel more like suspects than tourists. One frustrated applicant on social media summarized the ordeal, “Tickets, hotels, car rental bookings, bank account, payslip, tax returns, NOC from company, leave letter, passport, biwi, bache (wife, kids)—everything is required for a stupid visa that takes over two weeks to process.”

A Growing Middle-Class Thwarted by Visa Restrictions

India’s middle class, which now comprises 31% of the country’s population, is expected to soar to 60% by 2047. This growth is fueling a boom in outbound tourism, with Indian airlines ordering record numbers of planes to keep up with demand. In 2023 alone, Indian tourists spent a staggering $33.3 billion on international travel, making them a sought-after demographic for many countries eager to boost their tourism sectors.

Recognizing the potential of Indian travelers, some countries have made substantial efforts to simplify visa processes. Japan launched an e-visa for Indian tourists, Dubai introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa, and South Africa is set to implement a more straightforward visa program by 2025.

Malaysia, Kenya, and Thailand have even waived visa requirements altogether for Indians, recognizing the value of hassle-free tourism. However, Schengen countries seem slower to adapt, leaving Indian travelers to endure a painstaking process for the privilege of visiting Europe.

The Cumbersome Documentation Burden

For Indian travelers, the Schengen visa process requires not only the basic travel documents but also financial statements, employer letters, and sometimes even a detailed day-by-day travel itinerary. This can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants who may resort to costly agents to navigate the bureaucratic maze.

Booking accommodations and flights without Schengen Visa confirmation leaves travelers at risk of losing non-refundable fees if the visa is denied or delayed. Even upon approval, travelers may face additional checks upon entry, such as proof of accommodation—a requirement that seems redundant once a visa has already been granted.

Furthermore, processing times can vary widely by consulate, and finding available appointments, especially during peak seasons, can be a challenge in itself. Many applicants report a lack of transparency in decision-making, with some consulates favoring applicants who have previously visited Europe, while others remain strict about financial stability, making it challenging for students or self-employed individuals to qualify.

Inconsistent Visa Rules and Limited Flexibility

The Schengen visa process for Indians also suffers from inconsistencies across consulates, with each applying its own criteria and guidelines. Applicants must submit their application to the consulate of the country where they plan to spend the most time, complicating multi-country trips. Furthermore, the strict 90-day limit within a 180-day period restricts Indians who want to enjoy extended stays for family visits or cultural exploration.

Unlike flexible visa programs offered by other popular tourist destinations, Schengen countries maintain stringent entry conditions and lack of clear options for longer-term stays. The rigidity of this policy, coupled with costly requirements, often leads Indian travelers to choose other destinations with simpler entry requirements and better transparency.

Indians’ Enthusiasm for Travel Tested by Red Tape

India’s booming tourism numbers are evidence of a population eager to explore the world. But increasingly, Indians are looking elsewhere for travel due to the complex and costly Schengen visa process. While Europe remains a cultural and historical magnet, nearby countries like Dubai, Thailand, and Malaysia are becoming more appealing as they offer easier access and a less intrusive schengen visa experience.

Indians, who already face similar bureaucratic struggles with the UK visa process, are turning to destinations that welcome them without excessive paperwork. These alternative destinations not only offer easier entry but also save Indians the hassle and uncertainty of Schengen applications, which have left countless travelers out of pocket and deflated from the ordeal.

Also Read:India-Pakistan Sporting Stand-off Escalates as Visa Denial Impacts Asia Cup Scrabble