European tourism is losing $1 billion a year from the Indian market because of visa complexity
The cost and complexity of the Schengen zone tourist visa process are losing the European tourism industry an estimated $1 billion a year from the Indian market, preliminary findings from European Tourism Association Visa Impact Survey have revealed. Find out the latest news about visa for Europe for Indians travelers below.
ETOA surveyed members who provide travel arrangements for Indian clients travelling worldwide and found that of those who had travelled in the past 12 months nearly 60 percent had considered the Schengen zone as a destination.
But of those, 55 percent did not complete a visa application with 30 percent changing their mind before applying and 25 percent abandoning the application midway.
The reasons for both were primarily due to cost, perceived practical difficulty and other negative factors associated with the application.
Two-thirds of those who never made or abandoned a Schengen visa application from India still went on a foreign holiday.
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Over a fifth went to a European destination outside Schengen and UK/Ireland.
The European Commission has published new proposals on visa policy in the Schengen Area. The improved visa facilitation is a pre-condition for Europe’s continued success as a long-haul travel destination. With the increasing significance of China and India as source markets, and other Asian visa-requiring markets showing strong growth, the suggested reforms are overdue. ETOA welcomes Schengen Visa reform and urges swift progress.
The price for a Schengen visa for Indian citizens
The price for a Schengen visa for Indian citizens can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of visa, the duration of the stay, and the purpose of the trip.
The cost of a Schengen visa application fee for Indians is €80 (approximately 7000 Indian Rupees). However, this fee may be subject to change, so it’s best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
Additionally, some categories of travelers, such as children, students, and family members of EU citizens, may be eligible for a reduced or waived visa fee. Again, it’s best to consult with the embassy or consulate for specific details regarding visa fees and eligibility.
Find out more about the Schengen visa visa for europe for indians
Indian citizens who wish to travel to Europe must obtain a Schengen visa before their trip. The Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to visit and move freely between the 27 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
To apply for a Schengen visa, Indian citizens must submit an application to the embassy or consulate of the country they plan to visit or the country that will be their main destination. The application must include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and other supporting documents such as a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and travel insurance. The requirements may vary depending on the embassy or consulate and the purpose of the trip.
It’s important to apply for the Schengen visa well in advance of the planned travel dates, as the application process can take several weeks or even months. Applicants should also be aware that the visa may be granted for a limited period of time and that they must comply with the conditions of their visa, including the length of stay, during their trip to Europe.
It’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements and procedures with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit and to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information before submitting your visa application.