Travelling to Europe is a dream for most, but getting a Schengen visa for Indians can be challenging as it involves multiple strict guidelines. A minor error in your application can result in rejection, putting your plans on hold.
If you are also planning a trip to Schengen countries, check out the mistakes to avoid for a successful visa application process.
10 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Schengen Visa
Avoiding the following mistakes can help you in a seamless process of applying for a Schengen visa from India:
Making Mistakes in the Visa Application Process
Mistakes in the application form are the most frequent cause of visa rejection. Typos, wrong dates, or mixed-up details are simple enough but can flag the applicant during scrutiny. For example, you have entered a different city as your address in the application form, but your flight schedule reflects another city.
It can cause confusion and give rise to suspicions about your intentions. To prevent this, take the time to read through each part of the application thoroughly before submission. Always double-check that all information is consistent with your supporting documents.
Insufficient Funds to Support Your Trip
Demonstrating financial stability is essential when applying for a Schengen visa for Indians. Most applicants neglect this aspect and do not submit proper bank statements or income evidence, so their applications get rejected.
The consulate will ask you to submit proof that you can afford your visit, e.g., accommodation, food, transport, and other miscellaneous expenses. A general practice is to demonstrate at least €100-120 per day of your visit in your bank records.
Ensure you submit recent bank statements (most likely the last three months) and any other financial documents, such as salary vouchers or sponsorship letters, if your visit is sponsored by someone else. This ensures you have the resources to fund your expenses during your trip.
Invalid Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for Indians to get a Schengen visa. It must cover medical emergencies and repatriation for at least €30,000. Most applicants omit this requirement or purchase policies with low coverage, and their applications are suspended or rejected. Ensure to buy a travel insurance policy that covers all Schengen countries and is effective during the visit.
It should also include medical expenditure cover, emergency evacuation, and repatriation in case of serious illness or injury. Some embassies will require special documents from the insurance company, so it is advisable to include a letter guaranteeing coverage with your policy.
Inadequate Accommodation Proof
Confirmed accommodation bookings are mandatory when Indians apply for a Schengen visa. Some applicants provide unconfirmed bookings or inconsistent accommodation details and travel itineraries, leaving uncertainty regarding travel plans. You should submit hotel confirmations or invitation letters when visiting relatives or friends during the travel dates.
Make the letters legible to show your name, accommodation address, and period of stay. If you stayed in multiple locations, bring evidence of all of them. This strengthens your application and guarantees the consulate that you travel seriously.
Visa Application in the Wrong Embassy
Another common mistake that most applicants make is applying to the wrong embassy. You must apply at the embassy of the country where you’ll be spending most of your time or where you first arrive if your stay is divided equally between more than one country in the Schengen area.
Research well before you apply; an application to the wrong embassy can result in delays or even have your visa application rejected. Embassies follow different verification procedures. So, you must follow the correct procedures based on where you are headed.
Purpose of Travel Not Stated Clearly
Unclear or vague travel purposes may lead to suspicion of your intentions and result in the rejection of your visa application. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business conferences, or studies, it is essential to state your purpose in the application form and back it with documents in a similar manner.
For example, if you are attending a conference, include an invitation letter from the organising body; if you are visiting family or friends, provide an invitation letter along with proof of their residence status in the Schengen area. The clearer and more specific you are about your travel purpose, the better your chances of approval.
Not Preparing for the Schengen Visa Interview
If an interview is part of your visa application process, a lack of preparation can turn against your approval. Most applicants can’t answer simple questions regarding their travel plans and finances during interviews because they haven’t prepared or are nervous.
Prepare yourself with possible questions like “What are your travel dates?” or “How will you take care of yourself while you are there?”. Practising answers truthfully and confidently will prove credibility and preparedness to consular officials who handle applications.
Past Records of Visa Rejection
Past visa rejections can adversely affect new applications unless cleared in later submissions. Most applicants do not mention past rejections when applying again or do not explain how they have overcome the issues that resulted in visa rejection.
It is better to be open about past rejections by submitting a supporting document and explaining how such issues have been resolved. This can be better financial stability or rectified documentation mistakes. Mentioning the reason indicates that you strive towards responsible travel behaviour.
Invalid Passport
Submitting an invalid passport is a common oversight among applicants, and it can lead directly to visa application rejection without further consideration. Your passport must have been issued within the last ten years and have at least three months’ validity beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen area.
Moreover, your passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps. Before submitting any application materials, ensure that all passport details are correct—this includes checking expiration dates—and consider renewing any passports nearing expiration before applying.
Lack of Itinerary
An incomplete or unrealistic itinerary raises doubts about your travel plans and intentions among consular officials reviewing applications. Therefore, providing comprehensive travel plans is essential for approving a Schengen visa for Indians. Your itinerary should align closely with accommodation bookings and flight reservations, detailing daily activities during stays across different European countries.
This could include sightseeing tours booked beforehand, transportation arrangements between cities, etc.
Quick Tips for a Hassle-Free Visa Application Process
Following these quick tips can smooth your visa application procedure:
Begin the application process at least three months before your planned travel date.
Each Schengen country may have slightly different requirements; always refer to their specific checklist.
Ensure all documents are accurate, up-to-date, and consistent.
Opt for your visa appointment in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Provide honest and transparent information during every step of the process.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips, you can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a Schengen visa for Indians. So, arrange the documents accordingly and apply at the right time to avoid chances of rejection.
