Key facts for 2026
- When to apply: no earlier than 6 months and, as a rule, no later than 15 calendar days before your trip. Germany's missions in India only take applications through VFS Global.
- Processing: about 15 days once your file reaches the consulate. The courier from VFS to the consulate adds a few days, and peak season (April to August) adds more.
- Appointments are the real bottleneck. In summer, VFS slots can be booked out for weeks. Book first, then collect documents.
- Visa fee: €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6 to 11, plus the VFS service charge, paid in rupees.
- Airport transit: since 3 June 2026 Indians no longer need an airport transit visa for German airports, if they stay airside and fly on to a non-Schengen country.
- Cascade: after two Schengen visas obtained and used correctly in the last three years, you can generally get a 2-year multiple-entry visa, then a 5-year one.
- 90/180 rule: a Schengen visa allows at most 90 days in any 180-day period. Longer stays need a German national (D) visa.
Common reasons for refusal
- Purpose of the trip not clear, or bookings that don't match the itinerary.
- Not enough money, or large unexplained deposits just before applying.
- Weak ties to India: no fixed job, no leave letter, no ITR.
- Applying to Germany when most nights are in another country. Apply to the country of your main destination.
- Travel insurance below €30,000 or not valid for all Schengen states.
🗓️ Visa appointment prep📋 Documents help🚆 Schengen travel guide🗺️ Schengen map📅 First 30 days (longer stays)
Sources: German Missions in India: airport transit facilitation · EU Delegation to India: cascade regime · EU Visa Code (Regulation 810/2009) · German Missions in India: visa.