A Schengen visa opens up 29 European countries on a single visa — Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and more. Getting it right the first time means applying to the right country, at the right time, with the right documents. Here is how it works for travellers from Lucknow.
What is a Schengen visa?
A Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) lets you visit Schengen countries for tourism or business for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. One visa covers travel across all member countries during its validity.
Schengen visa fees in 2026
- Adults (12 years and above): €90
- Children aged 6 to 11: €45
- Children under 6: no fee
The fee is paid in rupees at the prevailing exchange rate, along with a separate service charge at the visa application centre. Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Where to apply from Lucknow
VFS Global runs a joint visa application centre in Lucknow at the Alambagh Bus Terminal, which accepts Schengen applications for selected countries. The list of countries handled in Lucknow changes from time to time, and applications for other countries go through Delhi. Our visa desk confirms the right centre for your destination before you book an appointment.
Which country should you apply to?
Apply to the country where you will spend the most nights. If your nights are split equally, apply to the country you will enter first. Applying to the wrong embassy is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
When to apply
You can apply up to six months before travel. Standard processing is about 15 calendar days, but it can extend up to 45 days in some cases. For summer holidays, we recommend applying six to eight weeks ahead — appointments fill quickly from March onwards.
What the application includes
- Passport and photos: a passport issued within the last 10 years and valid beyond your return, with blank pages.
- Travel plan: a day-wise itinerary, flight reservation and hotel bookings for every night.
- Travel insurance: medical cover of at least €30,000 valid across the Schengen area.
- Financial proof: recent bank statements and income tax returns.
- Ties to India: a leave letter from your employer, or business registration documents if self-employed.
Each embassy has its own detailed checklist. Ask our visa desk for the exact list for your destination.
Common rejection traps
- Bank balances that jump just before applying, with no explanation.
- An itinerary that doesn't match the hotel bookings or flight dates.
- Insurance that doesn't cover the full trip or the minimum €30,000.
- Applying to the wrong country for your itinerary.
The easier route: visa plus a Europe package
When you book a Europe tour package from Lucknow with us, your itinerary, hotel bookings and flights are already confirmed and consistent — exactly what embassies want to see. Our visa desk then prepares your file, books your appointment and arranges insurance, backed by 19+ years of handling visas for Lucknow travellers.
Fees, centres and rules are as of October 2026 and can change. Confirm with our visa desk before you apply.
Planning Europe? Request a quote on sheeraz-tours.com or WhatsApp our visa desk — we'll check your documents and guide your Schengen application from start to finish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a Schengen visa in Lucknow?+
Yes, for selected countries. VFS Global's joint visa application centre in Lucknow is at the Alambagh Bus Terminal. Applications for other countries are handled in Delhi.
What is the Schengen visa fee for Indians in 2026?+
€90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6 to 11. Children under 6 pay no visa fee. A separate service charge applies at the visa centre.
How long does a Schengen visa take from India?+
Standard processing is about 15 calendar days, but it can extend up to 45 days. Apply six to eight weeks before travel in peak season.
How early can I apply for a Schengen visa?+
Up to six months before your travel date.
Is travel insurance mandatory for a Schengen visa?+
Yes. You need travel medical insurance of at least €30,000 valid across the Schengen area for your entire trip.