Dreaming of a European getaway? For travellers from non–visa-exempt countries, the Schengen visa is the key that unlocks seamless travel across 29 nations, allowing you to move freely for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

However, before you can pack your bags, the most crucial step is preparing a comprehensive and accurate set of documents for your visa application. Submitting the right paperwork not only strengthens your chances of approval but also prevents delays or rejections that could disrupt your travel plans.

One of the biggest hurdles applicants face is securing a visa appointment. With high demand and limited slots, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s where Atlys makes things easier by assisting you in booking appointments within the promised timeframe, ensuring your application moves forward smoothly and stress-free.

What documents are required to apply for a Schengen tourist visa?

To successfully apply for a Schengen visa, one must prepare a well-documented application that meets the standards set by the embassies and consulates of the Schengen countries. Here is an expanded and detailed explanation of each document required:

• Original and Old Passports

• Copies of Passport Pages

• Completed Visa Application Form

• Appointment Confirmation Letter

• Cover Letter (Signed by the Applicant)

• Passport-Sized Photographs

• Aadhaar and PAN Card Copies (for Indian Passport Holders)

• Proof of Accommodation

• Return Flight Tickets

• Travel and Medical Insurance

• Day-by-Day Itinerary

• Financial Documents
  
  Find out the details about the documents below:

1. Original and Old Passports

• Current Passport: Applicants must submit their original passports to the visa application centre. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from the Schengen Area and should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

• Old Passports: Applicants should also provide all available old passports to help demonstrate their travel history. These documents will be used to verify previous travel and serve as proof of lawful travel behaviour.

2. Photocopy of Passport Pages

• Please provide photocopies of the front and last pages of your current passport. These copies help verify the applicant’s identity and personal details.

• Additionally, copies of all stamped passport pages, including any pages with visas or exit and entry stamps, must be submitted, as this records the applicant’s travel history.

3. Completed Visa Application Form

The Schengen visa application form must be filled out and signed by the applicant. It is crucial to provide accurate information that matches other supporting documents to avoid delays or rejection.

4. Appointment Confirmation Letter

An appointment confirmation letter must be presented at the visa application centre on the day of document submission. This appointment will be for document submission and collecting biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

5. Cover Letter (Signed by the Applicant)

A cover letter should be addressed to the consulate, explaining the purpose of the visit, the itinerary, and details about accommodation during your stay. It should specify details such as travel dates, places to be visited, and information about the applicant's intent to return to the home country after the permitted stay.

Here are some sample Schengen cover letters, curated by our visa experts:

Italy
France
Switzerland
Spain

6. Passport-Sized Photographs

Applicants are required to submit two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specific Schengen visa photo requirements:

• Size: 35mm x 45mm.

• Background: White background, ensuring there are no shadows.

• Facial Proportion: 70-80% of the photograph must include the applicant's face.

• Quality: The photo should be printed on matte or semi-matte paper with no reflections or blemishes.

To avoid any issues with the application, the photograph must be recent, taken within the last six months, and adhere to the required specifications.

7. Aadhaar and PAN Card Copies (for Indian Passport Holders)

• Aadhaar Card: A copy of your Aadhaar card is required as proof of residency. This helps validate the applicant's address details and provides an additional form of identification.

• PAN Card: A copy of your Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is also required. The PAN card helps identify applicants and is particularly useful for verifying financial stability when reviewing other documents (e.g., bank statements and tax returns).

Note: The above-mentioned documents are additional, and it’s better to keep them.

Additional Mandatory Documents for Schengen Visa Application

In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must submit travel-related documents. 

8. Hotel Reservation

• Proof of Accommodation: All applicants must have a confirmed hotel reservation. This reservation must cover their intended stay in the Schengen Area, proving they have a place to stay during their visit. You can easily book fully refundable accommodations through booking.com - it's the most convenient way to provide the required documents for your application.

• Details Required: The reservation should include the hotel's name and address, as well as your booking details, including check-in and check-out dates. If you plan to stay at multiple locations, you must provide reservations for each hotel.

• Alternatives: If you are staying with friends or family, an invitation letter from your host, along with their proof of residency, is required as proof of accommodation.

9. Flight Tickets (Including Internal Transportation)

• Round-Trip Flight Reservation: Submit a reservation for your flight tickets, including entry to and exit from the Schengen Area. This document demonstrates your intended arrival and departure dates, ensuring you plan to leave the Schengen Area within the permitted timeframe.

• Internal Travel Tickets: If applicable, provide reservations for any internal flights or train tickets that are part of your trip. For example, if you plan to travel between different countries or cities within the Schengen Area, the consulate requires proof that all trip segments are well-planned and pre-booked.

Note: It is not always necessary to purchase confirmed flight tickets before the visa is approved. Many travellers make refundable bookings or use flight reservation services to provide the required documentation without fully committing to non-refundable purchases.

10. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential requirement for obtaining a Schengen visa. The policy must provide a minimum coverage of €30,000 and cover medical emergencies throughout your stay in the Schengen Area, including illness, accidents, and repatriation.

11. Day-by-Day Itinerary

• Detailed Travel Plan: A day-by-day itinerary is required to give a clear picture of your activities and travel plans during your stay. This itinerary should outline how you intend to spend each day, including planned sightseeing activities, meetings, accommodation locations, and transportation details.

• Information to Include: The itinerary should include dates, locations, key attractions or activities, and even your mode of transportation if travelling between locations within the Schengen Area. A thorough, well-prepared itinerary reflects thoughtful planning and increases the likelihood of visa approval.

You can check out our detailed guide on how to write a travel itinerary for Schengen visa applications.

12. Financial Documents

Requirements for Salaried Traveller

• Last 3 months' salary slips.

• NOC with leave approval on the company letterhead, including stamps and signatures.

• For the last three months, the salaried account statement has been issued with a bank stamp and signature (dated within the last week).

• Additional savings account statements (if applicable) for the last 3 to 6 months, recently issued with a bank stamp and signature (not older than one week).

• For Indian Passport Holders: Personal ITR acknowledgement for the last 3 years. (If submitting only two years of ITR, the applicant must provide a notarised consent letter (by a CA or lawyer) explaining the reason for the limited submission.)

• Optional additional financial documents (FD, mutual funds, etc.).

Note: An Employer ID card may be required only if you're retired and don’t have any official documents from your previous employer.

Requirements for Self-Employed Business Owners: 

• GST certificate (all pages).

• Company and personal ITR for the last 3 years.

• Company and personal bank statements for the last 3 months, stamped and signed (not older than one week).

• Optional additional financial documents (FD, mutual funds, etc.).

• A cover letter should be on the company letterhead with stamps and authorised signatures.

For Business Partners:

• Partnership deed copy.

For Company Directors:

• MOA of the company.

For Freelancers:

• Earnings statement for the last 6 months (month-wise).

• The savings account statement for the last three months is stamped and signed (dated within the last week).

• Personal ITR acknowledgement for the last 3 years (for Indian passport holders).

Requirements for Student:

• Bonafide Certificate or NOC from the school/institution.

• Student ID card copy.

If Retired:

• Retirement proof.

• Pension slip for the last 3 months.

If Sponsored/Invited:

• Provide proof of sponsorship or private accommodation, along with a completed national form and sponsorship letter from a Schengen State.

Submitting these documents ensures that the Schengen authorities have comprehensive information about the applicant’s background, identity, and financial capabilities.

Important Things to Know About the Schengen Visa Documentation

• Complete documents are essential
  Your application is primarily evaluated based on the strength and accuracy of your documents. Missing or inconsistent paperwork is one of the most common reasons for visa refusals.

• Originals and copies are required
  Most consulates require the presentation of original documents (such as passports, financial records, and consent letters) along with photocopies. Ensure you carry both sets.

• Financial proof must be genuine
  Bank statements should show steady transactions for the past 3–6 months. Sudden large deposits without explanation can raise red flags.

• Travel insurance is non-negotiable
  You must submit insurance that covers at least €30,000 for emergencies, valid across all Schengen countries and for the entire duration of your trip.

• Consistency matters
  Your name, dates, bookings, and itinerary must match across all documents, from the application form to hotel and flight reservations.

• Tailored requirements apply
  Each consulate may ask for specific additional paperwork (like ITRs in India or notarised consent letters for minors). Always check the local checklist before applying.

Applying for a Schengen visa may seem overwhelming at first, but the process becomes much easier when you prepare thoroughly. Every document you submit plays a crucial role in demonstrating the purpose of your visit, your ability to finance your trip, and your intent to return home on time. Missing or inconsistent paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections, which is why maintaining a complete and accurate file is crucial. I recently applied for my Sweden Schengen Visa and had a smooth process, so trust me when I say that documentation is important.

With the right documents in place, you not only increase your chances of approval but also set the stage for a smooth and stress-free journey across Europe.