🌍 Schengen Visa for Indian Students: Your Gateway to Traveling Across Europe

Planning to study in Europe and explore the continent during breaks? If you're an Indian student heading to a Schengen country, the Schengen Visa is your golden ticket to free travel across 29 European countries.

Here’s everything you need to know about getting and using a Schengen Visa as an Indian student.

🌍 What Is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Visa allows you to travel freely across 29 European countries without internal borders. This includes popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, and more.

🎓 Types of Schengen Visas for Students

1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)

For up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Ideal for students attending summer schools, exchange programs, or language courses.

2. Long-Stay Student Visa (National Visa + Schengen)

For students enrolled in degree programs over 90 days.
Issued by the destination country (e.g., Germany, France) but gives Schengen access for travel.
Allows short-term travel to other Schengen countries during your study period.

📝 Documents Required for a Schengen Student Visa (General)

Completed Visa Application Form
Valid Indian Passport (with 2 blank pages, valid for 3+ months beyond stay)
Acceptance Letter from a recognized university
Proof of Financial Means (bank statements, blocked account, scholarships)
Proof of Accommodation
Travel Insurance (covering €30,000 medical expenses, valid in all Schengen countries)
Flight Itinerary
Cover Letter stating the purpose and plan
Visa Fee Receipt

📌 Each country may have slightly different requirements. Always check the official embassy/VFS Global website.

💰 Visa Fees (As of 2025)

Short-stay visa: Approx. €80 (~INR 7,000)
Long-stay student visa: Varies by country (some countries offer free or discounted rates for students)

📅 When & Where to Apply

Apply at least 3–6 weeks before your travel date
Through VFS Global or the embassy/consulate of the country where your university is located

🧭 Tip: If your main course is in Germany but you plan to travel to France and Italy, apply through the German embassy.

✈️ Can You Travel to Other Schengen Countries?

Yes! If you have a valid residence permit or a long-term national visa from any Schengen country, you can:

Visit other Schengen countries for tourism
Travel during semester breaks or weekends
Stay up to 90 days in another Schengen country within a 180-day period

🧳 Travel Tips for Indian Students

🔍 Keep copies of your visa, insurance, and passport when traveling
🏨 Book accommodation and transport in advance, especially during holidays
🚊 Use Eurail or local buses for affordable travel
🛡️ Always carry your residence permit/visa card while crossing borders, even if checks are rare

🇪🇺 Popular Weekend Getaways for Students

From Germany: Austria, Czech Republic, Netherlands
From France: Belgium, Switzerland, Spain
From Italy: Slovenia, Croatia, Monaco

⚠️ Things to Remember

Visa rules are strict—don’t overstay or work illegally
Travel insurance is a must every time you visit another Schengen country
If your visa is multi-entry, you can leave and re-enter the Schengen Zone multiple times

🧠 Final Thoughts

The Schengen Visa not only allows Indian students to pursue world-class education but also opens doors to rich cultural experiences across Europe. With a bit of planning, you can study in one country and explore many others — all under one visa.

So pack your bags, book that cheap Ryanair flight, and start ticking off your European travel bucket list!

🔗 Pro Tip: Use AbroadSaathi to track your visa status, find travel insurance options, and connect with other Indian students across Europe!