Schengen Tourist visa cost is one of the first things Indian travellers want to know before planning a European holiday. If you are preparing to visit France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Greece, Austria, or another Schengen destination in 2026, understanding the complete cost can help you create a realistic travel budget.
The official Schengen visa fee for adults is currently €90, while children aged 6 to under 12 pay €45. The European Commission increased the standard adult fee from €80 to €90 effective 11 June 2024.
However, the Schengen Tourist visa cost is not limited to the government visa fee. Applicants may also need to budget for travel insurance, photographs, document preparation, transportation to the visa application centre, optional courier services, flight reservations, accommodation arrangements, and other travel-related expenses.
For Indian applicants, understanding the difference between the official Schengen Tourist visa fees and additional application expenses is particularly important. The amount may also vary depending on the country where you submit your application and the service provider handling applications for that destination.
This detailed guide explains the Schengen Tourist visa cost, expected expenses, documents, application process, and practical budgeting tips for Indian travellers in 2026.
What Is the Schengen Tourist Visa Cost from India in 2026?
The standard adult Schengen Tourist visa cost is €90 for a short-stay Schengen visa. Children aged 6 to under 12 generally pay €45, while children below six years are generally exempt from the standard visa fee.
The €90 amount is the government visa fee, not necessarily the total amount an applicant will spend during the entire application process.
Standard Schengen Tourist Visa Fees
Applicant | Standard Government Fee |
Adults | €90 |
Children 6 to under 12 | €45 |
Children under 6 | Generally free |
Certain exempt categories | May be free |
The European Commission confirms that an additional fee can apply when an application is submitted through an external visa service provider.
Therefore, when calculating Schengen Tourist visa fees, applicants should separate the official visa fee from other costs.
How Much Is €90 in Indian Rupees?
The exact INR equivalent of €90 changes according to the exchange rate and, in some cases, the payment method or applicable consular conversion rate.
For example, if €1 is approximately ₹100, €90 would be around ₹9,000. If the applicable rate is higher or lower, the INR amount will change.
Therefore, applicants should check the current payment instructions of the relevant consulate or official visa application centre before making payment.
Why Did the Schengen Tourist Visa Fee Increase?
The standard Schengen Tourist visa cost increased from €80 to €90 on 11 June 2024. The European Commission explained that visa fees are periodically reviewed using objective criteria, including inflation and other economic factors.
This means that travellers using older online articles may still see the previous €80 figure.
For applications in 2026, Indian travellers should use the current official fee information rather than relying on outdated blog posts.
Schengen Tourist Visa Fees: Government Fee vs Total Application Cost
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is assuming that Schengen visa fees represent the complete cost of applying.
They do not.
Your total application budget can include:
- Government visa fee
- Visa application centre service fee
- Travel insurance
- Passport photographs
- Document printing and photocopying
- Translation, if required
- Courier charges
- Transportation to the application centre
- Optional premium services
- Professional consultation, if you choose one
The European Commission specifically notes that an additional fee may apply when applications are submitted through visa service centres.
Government Visa Fee
The first and most important component of your Schengen Tourist visa cost is the official €90 adult fee.
This fee is generally paid when submitting the application.
It is important to understand that paying the visa fee does not guarantee visa approval.
Visa Application Centre Service Fee
Depending on the Schengen country, applications may be handled through an external service provider.
The service provider can charge an additional service fee. The amount is not necessarily identical for every country or application centre.
For example, VFS Global’s Italy information for India currently lists a VFS service charge in addition to the €90 visa fee.
Because service fees can change, applicants should always check the official application-centre page for their destination.
Schengen Tourist Visa Cost from India: Other Expenses You Should Budget For
The Schengen Tourist visa Cost from india application process involves more than paying the visa fee.
Let’s examine the major expenses one by one.
1. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an important part of a Schengen application.
The European Commission lists medical insurance covering emergency medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation among the requirements for a Schengen visa application.
The cost of insurance depends on:
- Trip duration
- Applicant’s age
- Coverage level
- Destination
- Number of travellers
- Policy provider
For many short European holidays, travel insurance may be relatively inexpensive compared with flights and accommodation.
However, travellers should not select a policy based solely on price. They should ensure it meets the applicable Schengen requirements.
2. Passport Photographs
Applicants may need recent photographs that comply with the applicable visa photograph requirements.
The Schengen Tourist visa cost from india application can therefore involve a small photography expense.
Although this is usually a minor cost, incorrect photographs can create unnecessary problems.
3. Printing and Photocopying
The Schengen Tourist visa documents package can contain multiple pages.
You may need copies of:
- Passport
- Previous visas
- Bank statements
- Employment documents
- Leave approval
- Hotel bookings
- Flight itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Income-tax documents
- Financial evidence
- Cover letter
- Other supporting documents
Printing and photocopying costs are generally small but should be included in your preparation budget.
4. Transportation to the Visa Centre
The Schengen Tourist visa cost also depends on where you live.
If the relevant application centre is located in another city, you may need to pay for:
- Train tickets
- Flights
- Bus tickets
- Local transportation
- Hotel accommodation
This can become a significant expense for applicants travelling from smaller cities.
5. Courier Charges
Some visa application centres offer passport delivery or courier services.
Courier services may be optional or mandatory depending on the destination and centre.
Before assuming courier charges are included in the Schengen Tourist visa fees, check the current instructions for your application location.
6. Translation Charges
Some applicants may need documents translated into the required language.
Translation requirements differ by destination and individual circumstances.
If translation is required, the price depends on:
- Number of pages
- Language pair
- Translator
- Certification requirements
- Urgency
Applicants should verify whether translation is actually required before spending money unnecessarily.
Schengen Tourist Visa: How Much Should You Budget?
The total Schengen Tourist tourist visa cost application budget depends on your individual circumstances.
A simple example for an adult applicant could look like this:
Expense | Approximate Budget |
Government visa fee | €90 |
Application centre fee | Varies |
Travel insurance | Varies |
Photographs | Varies |
Printing/copies | Varies |
Transportation | Varies |
Courier/optional services | Varies |
Professional consultation | Optional |
The important point is that €90 is the official adult visa fee, not a guaranteed all-inclusive application price.
Is the €90 Schengen Tourist Visa Fee Refundable?
Generally, applicants should treat the visa fee as a non-refundable application charge.
If the visa application is refused, the fee is generally not returned simply because the visa was not issued.
This is one reason applicants should carefully prepare their Schengen visa Tourist documents and supporting evidence before submission.
Schengen Tourist Visa Documents: What Do You Usually Need?
Strong documentation is one of the most important elements of a successful application.
The European Commission states that applicants need supporting documents relating to the purpose of their stay, financial means, accommodation and intention to return to their home country.
Common Schengen Tourist visa documents can include:
Passport
Your passport should meet the applicable validity requirements and contain sufficient blank pages.
Visa Application Form
The application form should be completed accurately and consistently.
Photograph
A compliant visa photograph may be required.
Travel Insurance
Insurance should meet the applicable Schengen requirements.
Flight Itinerary
Applicants may need evidence of their intended travel arrangements.
Accommodation Proof
Hotel bookings or other acceptable accommodation evidence may be required.
Financial Documents
Financial evidence can help demonstrate that you can support yourself during the trip.
Employment or Business Proof
Employees may provide documents such as:
- Employment certificate
- Salary slips
- Approved leave letter
- Bank statements
Business owners may provide:
- Business registration
- Company documents
- Tax records
- Business bank statements
Income Tax Documents
Income-tax documentation can help support your financial profile where relevant.
Cover Letter
A well-structured cover letter can explain:
- Purpose of travel
- Travel dates
- Destinations
- Employment/business status
- Funding arrangements
- Return plans
Schengen Tourist Visa Application Process from India
Understanding the application process can help applicants avoid unnecessary expenses.
Step 1: Identify Your Main Destination
You should determine the appropriate Schengen country for your application based on the applicable rules and your actual itinerary.
Do not simply choose a country because someone claims it has an easier approval rate.
Step 2: Check Current Requirements
Review the official requirements for your destination.
This includes checking the current Schengen Tourist visa fees, documentation requirements, appointment process and service-centre charges.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Organise your Schengen Tourist visa documents carefully.
Make sure information across your documents is consistent.
Step 4: Complete the Application
Complete the relevant application form accurately.
Avoid unexplained differences between your application, bank statements, employment records and travel plans.
Step 5: Book Your Appointment
Applicants may need to schedule an appointment at the designated visa application centre.
Step 6: Submit Biometrics and Documents
Depending on your circumstances, fingerprints and other biometric information may be collected.
The European Commission confirms that fingerprints are collected when applicants submit their applications, subject to applicable exemptions.
Step 7: Pay the Applicable Fees
Pay the official Schengen Tourist visa cost and any applicable service charges according to the instructions provided by the relevant application centre.
Step 8: Wait for the Decision
The normal processing time is generally 15 days, but the European Commission notes that it can be extended to up to 45 days when a more detailed examination or additional documents are required.
How to Reduce Unnecessary Schengen Visa Expenses
While the government fee cannot normally be negotiated, applicants can avoid unnecessary spending.
Prepare Your Documents Correctly the First Time
Poor preparation can result in additional trips, document corrections or unnecessary professional expenses.
Avoid Unnecessary Premium Services
Premium lounges, SMS notifications, courier options and other value-added services may be available, but they are not always necessary.
Compare Travel Insurance Policies
Choose suitable coverage rather than automatically selecting the cheapest policy.
Organise Your Application Before Your Appointment
Having everything ready can reduce last-minute printing, transportation and document-related expenses.
Use Reliable Information
Avoid paying unofficial individuals who promise guaranteed appointments or guaranteed visa approvals.
No genuine consultant can guarantee that a consulate will approve your visa.
Can a Visa Consultant in Delhi Help With a Schengen Application?
For applicants who are unfamiliar with the process, a visa consultant in delhi can provide assistance with application preparation, documentation and general procedural guidance.
A professional visa consultant in delhi may help applicants understand:
- Application requirements
- Document organisation
- Cover letter preparation
- Travel itinerary presentation
- Financial documentation
- Appointment preparation
- Common application mistakes
However, applicants should understand the difference between consultancy assistance and government decision-making.
A visa consultant in delhi cannot guarantee approval because the final decision belongs to the relevant consulate or competent authority.
Why Choose Zyan Immigration?
Zyan Immigration assists clients with visa-related guidance and documentation support.
If you are searching for a visa consultant in delhi for a European holiday, Zyan Immigration can help you understand the application process and prepare your documents according to the requirements applicable to your destination.
The goal should always be to create an accurate, transparent and well-organised application rather than simply submitting as many documents as possible.
Schengen Visa from India: Common Mistakes That Increase Risk
Applicants applying for a Schengen Tourist visa cost from india should pay close attention to consistency and credibility.
Inconsistent Information
Your itinerary, hotel bookings, leave letter and financial documents should tell a coherent story.
Weak Financial Evidence
Submitting unexplained transactions or insufficient evidence of funds can create concerns.
Unrealistic Travel Plans
An itinerary covering too many countries in a short period may require additional explanation.
Incorrect Documentation
Missing or outdated Schengen visa documents can delay or complicate an application.
Fake or Misleading Documents
Never submit fraudulent documents.
A genuine application is always safer than trying to manipulate financial or employment evidence.
Schengen Visa Cost for a Family
If a family of four adults applies for a Schengen visa, the standard government fee alone would be:
€90 × 4 = €360
If the family includes children aged 6 to under 12, the applicable standard fee is €45 per eligible child.
Children under six are generally exempt from the standard visa fee.
However, the family’s total Schengen Tourist visa cost can be higher after adding service fees, insurance, photographs, transportation and other expenses.
Schengen Visa Fees for Children
The standard European Commission fee structure provides:
- Adults: €90
- Children aged 6 to under 12: €45
- Children under 6: generally no standard visa fee
Parents should still check the current requirements for their specific application because supporting documents and service charges may differ.
Is Schengen Visa Cost the Same for Every Country?
The standard government fee is generally harmonised under the Schengen Visa Code, but the total application cost may differ.
Why?
Because applicants may encounter different:
- Application-centre service fees
- Courier charges
- Optional service costs
- Document requirements
- Translation needs
- Travel requirements
For example, official VFS information for Italy in India shows the €90 visa fee separately from an application-centre service charge.
Therefore, do not compare destinations only by looking at the €90 government fee.
Can You Get a Schengen Tourist Visa Without Paying the Standard Fee?
Certain categories can qualify for fee waivers under applicable rules.
The European Commission lists categories that may be exempt, including children under six and certain students, researchers, eligible representatives of non-profit organisations and qualifying family members of EU/EEA citizens under the relevant rules.
However, eligibility depends on the applicant’s circumstances.
Do not assume that an applicant qualifies for a waiver without checking the applicable rules.
Schengen Tourist Visa Planning: Application Cost vs Trip Cost
It is important to separate two different budgets.
Visa Application Budget
This may include:
- €90 government fee
- Service-centre fee
- Insurance
- Photographs
- Printing
- Courier
- Transportation
- Consultancy, if applicable
Europe Holiday Budget
Your actual holiday may additionally include:
- Flights
- Hotels
- Food
- Local transportation
- Attractions
- Shopping
- Intercity trains
- Emergency funds
The visa fee is therefore only a small part of the overall cost of a European holiday.
How Zyan Immigration Can Help
Preparing a Schengen Tourist tourist visa application can feel complicated, particularly for first-time travellers.
Zyan Immigration can assist applicants with general visa guidance, document organisation and application preparation.
If you are looking for a visa consultant in delhi, professional guidance can help you understand what documents are relevant to your profile and how to present your travel purpose clearly.
The focus should be on a genuine application supported by authentic documentation.
A visa consultant in delhi can assist with preparation, but the final decision remains with the appropriate visa authority.
Final Checklist Before Paying Your Schengen Visa Fees
Before submitting your application, check:
- Passport validity
- Completed application form
- Recent photograph
- Travel insurance
- Flight itinerary
- Accommodation evidence
- Bank statements
- Employment/business documents
- Income-tax documents where applicable
- Cover letter
- Travel itinerary
- Previous travel history, where relevant
- Appointment confirmation
- Government visa fee
- Application-centre service fee
- Additional applicable charges
Careful preparation of your Schengen Tourist visa documents can help you avoid preventable mistakes.
Final Thoughts on Schengen Tourist Visa Cost from India 2026
The Schengen Tourist visa cost for an adult applicant is currently based on an official government fee of €90. Children aged 6 to under 12 generally pay €45, while children under six generally do not pay the standard visa fee.
But your complete application budget can be higher because of visa-centre service charges, travel insurance, photographs, document preparation, transportation and optional services.
If you are planning a European holiday from India, do not focus only on the headline visa fee. Prepare a complete budget and verify the latest requirements for the specific Schengen country where you will apply.
For applicants who want professional assistance, Zyan Immigration can provide guidance throughout the preparation process. If you are searching for a visa consultant in delhi, make sure you choose a service provider that emphasises transparent procedures, genuine documentation and realistic expectations rather than guaranteed approvals.
Plan carefully. Prepare honestly. Budget realistically. And get ready to experience Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schengen Tourist Visa Cost
What is the Schengen Tourist visa cost for Indians in 2026?
The standard adult Schengen Tourist visa cost is €90. Children aged 6 to under 12 generally pay €45. Additional service-centre charges may apply.
Is the Schengen visa fee €90 in 2026?
Yes. The standard Schengen short-stay visa fee for adults is €90 under the current fee structure.
How much are Schengen visa fees for children?
The standard fee is €45 for children aged 6 to under 12. Children below six generally do not pay the standard visa fee.
Is €90 the total cost of a Schengen visa?
No. €90 is the standard adult government visa fee. Additional application-centre and other expenses can apply.
What other expenses should I consider?
Applicants should consider insurance, photographs, printing, transportation, courier services and any applicable visa application-centre charges.
