visit and reside within its political borders for a pre-approved reason and period.
Therefore, it is mandatory to hold a valid visa for entering a foreign country.
In June 1985, a handful of European countries mutually decided to abolish the requirements
of country-specific visa within themselves. As this historic treaty was signed in
the town of 'Schengen' at Luxembourg, the member countries were referred to as Schengen
countries.
The Schengen Treaty has proved to be conducive to trade and tourism; it has new
takers every year as more European countries join hands as members. Here are some
FAQs about visas issued by Schengen countries:
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa is a common visa issued by one member country for and on behalf
of other Schengen member countries. Currently 26 European countries form a part
of the Schengen area, they are:
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1. Austria
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10. Hungary
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19. Norway
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2. Belgium
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11. Iceland
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20. Poland
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3. Czech Republic
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12. Italy
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21. Portugal
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4. Denmark
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13. Latvia
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22. Slovak Republic
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5. Estonia
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14. Liechtenstein
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23. Slovenia
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6. Finland
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15. Lithuania
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24. Spain
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7. France
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16. Luxembourg
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25. Sweden
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8. Germany
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17. Malta
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26. Switzerland
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9. Greece
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18. Netherlands
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What is the benefit of a Schengen Visa?
The key benefit of a Schengen Visa is less paperwork and hassle-free travel. The
Schengen zone mostly consists of neighboring countries. Schengen Visa makes intra-zone
travel from one country to another easy, as one does not need multiple visas. Hence,
backpackers wanting to explore Europe need to apply for a single visa allowing them
to visit all the countries within the Schengen zone.
Do Indian citizens need to obtain a Schengen Visa?
Yes, any Indian travelling to the Schengen area is required to obtain a Schengen
Visa. Note: These rules differ for citizens of other countries.
Is insurance mandatory for obtaining a Schengen Visa?
Yes. Insuring health and travel risks is one of the pre-requisites for obtaining
a Schengen Visa. Whether one travels for business, studies, or leisure, the European
Council mandates adequate medical insurance for all. The following are the specific
requirements for Schengen Visa:
- Minimum medical insurance coverage amount of 30,000 Euros
- Physical presence of the insurance provider in the Schengen zone
- Valid travel insurance policy for the traveler's entire duration of stay
- Emergency Medical Treatment
- Emergency Medical Evacuation to India
- Repatriation of Remains to India
Are there any other benefits of purchasing a travel insurance plan?
A travel insurance plan safeguards you from monetary losses that may arise due to
accidents, sickness, or other exigencies during your stay abroad. A few of the expenses
covered are:
- Cashless Hospitalization
- Loss of Checked in Baggage
- Loss due to Delayed or Missed Flights
- Reissuance of a Lost Passport
- Legal Liability to Third Parties
Besides protecting you from financial catastrophes, a travel insurance plan provides
you peace of mind. It is always wise to opt for travel insurance while planning
to go abroad.
Quick Notes:
- Geographical Zone:The Schengen zone should not be misinterpreted
as Europe or European Union. UK and Ireland are not a part of the Schengen zone.
- Insurance Period: Your travel insurance should match or preferably
be longer than the duration of your Schengen Visa.
- Insurance Sub-limits: The travel insurance plan that you have shortlisted
should ideally not have sub-limits.
All travel insurance plans are not recognized by the council for Schengen countries.
Get acquainted with the insurance policy and your embassy guidelines prior to applying
for a Schengen Visa.