To apply for a Schengen visa from India, you must follow these steps:

• Figure out which Schengen visa type you need. There are different Schengen visa types depending on your purpose of travelling from India to Europe.
• Find out where you need to apply for a Schengen visa in India. Pay attention to the embassy/consulate / VAC of which country you need to apply at, as well as under the jurisdiction of which you fall.
• Decide when to apply for a Schengen visa in India. The earliest time you can lodge your Schengen visa application in India is 3 months before your planned trip while the latest time to file your visa application is at least 15 working days before you intend to travel to Europe.
• Collect the required Schengen visa documents for Indian citizens.
• Appoint an interview at the visa application centre in India. Depending on the country, you may make an appointment online, by phone, or in person. Below in this article, you can find more information for each EU embassy/consulate located in India.
• Attend the interview on the day of your appointment. Show up on time and try not to be nervous. Remember that the interview is a crucial part of your visa application.
• Pay the visa fee. All Schengen states have fixed and synchronized visa fees. For more information check Schengen visa fees for Indian citizens.
• Wait for the processing of your visa. After the interview, you will have to wait for at most 15 days, for a response on your application.

Schengen Visa Requirements for Indian Passport Holders

When applying for a Schengen visa in India, you will have to submit a number of required documents. These documents are crucial; therefore, you really need to be careful when collecting them. Make sure they all comply with the standards set by the embassy where you are applying. To apply for a Schengen visa in India, you need to submit the following documents:

• Fill the Visa Application form completely and with sincerity. You can also fill the Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy.
• Two recently taken photos must be attached. The photos should be of passport format – a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
• A valid Indian passport or other travel documents. No older than 10 years, with a validity of at least 3 more months beyond your planned date of leaving Europe.
• Evidence of legal residence in India. – as a national ID card, or residence permit.
• Travel Insurance for Schengen visa in India – You can book online through the Europ Assistance website or via any travel insurance company in India that meets the following requirements: Medical coverage of at least Euro 30,000. Medical evacuation/ repatriation must be covered.
• A cover letter stating the purpose of the visit and itinerary.
• Flight itinerary reservation from India to Europe and back. Including dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the specified state/states.
• Proof of accommodation for the whole duration of the intended stay.
• Proof of civil status. (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, ration card if applicable)