Avoid Schengen Visa Rejection (Tourism): Step-by-Step Guide for Visit Friends & Family in Europe

Are you planning to visit friends or family in Europe from India but worried about your Schengen tourism visa application getting rejected?

????Note: Subtitles are available in English & Hindi

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???? DOCUMENT LINKS:
Schengen Visa Checklist (Visit Friends & Family):
https://india.diplo.de/in-en/2674162-2674162

Declaration on true and complete information:
https://india.diplo.de/in-en/2673186-2673186

VFS Global website:
https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/index.html

VFS Travel Insurance page:
https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/travel-insurance.html

Approved Indian Travel Insurance companies:
https://india.diplo.de/in-en/service/1984578-1984578

Schengen Visa photo rules:
https://schengeninsuranceinfo.com/schengen-visa/requirements/photo/

Videx online form:
https://videx.diplo.de/videx/visum-erfassung/videx-kurzfristiger-aufenthalt

???? Other related links:
1. https://india.diplo.de/in-en/service/1908750-1908750
2. https://www.immihelp.com/schengen-visa-application-form/
3. https://www.axa-schengen.com/en/visa/requirements/documents
4. https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/germany/india/kolkata/english/pdf/germany-form-fillup.pdf
5. https://www.vfsglobal.com/austria/brazil/pdf/NOC-letter.pdf
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The Schengen visa application process often feels daunting, especially with the increasing number of rejections faced by Indian travelers. This video (originally in Hindi with subtitles) is designed to demystify the entire process, focusing specifically on the “visit friends and family” category, and aims to equip you with all the essential steps, tips, and examples needed for a successful application.

The Schengen Visitor Visa (Type C), which permits short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in any of the 27 Schengen countries. It’s crucial to select “Visiting Family or Friends” as your purpose of travel on the application form, as this determines the specific documents and process required. Unlike the general tourist visa, this category requires additional proof of relationship and an invitation from your host.

The application process starts with identifying the correct consulate or embassy, usually of the country where you’ll spend most of your time or first enter the Schengen area, in this case it is Germany. Gathering the right documents is the next critical step. These include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, and a formal invitation letter from your host in Europe. The invitation letter should clearly state your host’s details, your relationship, the intended period of stay, and a brief itinerary. You’ll also need to provide your host’s legal status in Europe, travel insurance covering at least €30,000, proof of accommodation (either your host’s address or hotel bookings), round-trip flight reservations, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay.

After compiling your documents, pay the standard visa fee and submit your application at the designated Visa Application Center. Accuracy is paramount; even minor inconsistencies can lead to rejection. During your interview, be prepared to discuss your travel plans, your relationship with the host, and strong ties to India such as employment, property, or family, which demonstrate your intention to return.

The video highlights common mistakes that often result in visa rejections. These include unclear travel purposes, inconsistent or incomplete documentation, weak ties to the home country, and submitting fake or unverifiable bookings. For example, if you claim to be visiting family but provide hotel bookings instead of an invitation letter, your application may be questioned. Always ensure that all supporting documents are genuine and verifiable.

The ideal timeline for applying—at least 2 months before travel, but no earlier than six months in advance, as processing times can vary from 15 to 20 business days. By following these instructions and avoiding common pitfalls, applicants can significantly improve their chances of approval.

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Music Credit:

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