Plan Your European Getaway Stress-Free With These Visa-Friendly Countries
Thinking of strolling through cobbled European streets, relaxing by alpine lakes, or enjoying ancient town squares? If you’re an Indian passport holder, getting a Schengen visa is your gateway to such adventures — and the process doesn’t have to be complicated.
Some European countries have made it easier, faster, and less stressful for Indians to get approved for a Schengen visa. With higher approval rates, simpler documentation, and friendlier consulates, these 8 countries are ideal starting points.
Why These 8 Countries Stand Out
- Higher Schengen visa approval rates for Indian applicants
- Quicker processing times and smaller queues
- Easier documentation and helpful consular support
- Great destinations for both first-time and seasoned travellers
1. Iceland
Iceland might seem remote, but its visa process is surprisingly smooth for Indians.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: June–August (Midnight Sun), December–February (Northern Lights)
📍 Top Attractions: Gullfoss waterfall, Blue Lagoon, volcanic hikes
2. Romania
Although not yet part of the core Schengen zone, Romania honors Schengen visa holders and offers high approval rates for Indian applicants.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–November
📍 Top Attractions: Bran Castle, Transylvania towns, Carpathian hikes
3. Slovakia
Central Europe’s hidden gem, Slovakia has a tourist-friendly consulate setup and smooth visa processing.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn
📍 Top Attractions: Bratislava, High Tatras, Slovak Paradise National Park
4. Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers a relatively straightforward process with fewer applicants and faster approvals.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Summer for beaches, winter for ski resorts
📍 Top Attractions: Plovdiv, Black Sea coast, Rila Monastery
5. Portugal
Portugal is one of the most welcoming countries for Indian tourists and often grants multiple-entry Schengen visas.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–November
📍 Top Attractions: Lisbon, Algarve beaches, Porto
6. Latvia
Latvia combines easy visa approvals with a rich cultural and natural landscape.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Summer and winter for seasonal contrasts
📍 Top Attractions: Riga, Gauja National Park, Baltic coast
7. Italy
A favorite among Indians, Italy processes visas efficiently and is used to handling a large number of applications.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
📍 Top Attractions: Rome, Venice, Florence, Italian cuisine
8. Estonia
Estonia is known for its high visa approval rates and low processing times.
🗓 Best Time to Visit: May–September
📍 Top Attractions: Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park, ferry to Helsinki
🧾 Schengen Visa Application Tips for Indians
✅Apply 15–30 days before your departure
✅ Ensure all financial documents are consistent
✅ Use valid travel insurance covering €30,000
✅ Book refundable flights and show accommodation proof
✅ Double-check all forms and documentation
Schengen Visa Cost for Indians
| Category | Cost in Euros | Approx. in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | €80 | ₹7,300 |
| Children (6–12) | €40 | ₹3,600 |
| Below 6 years | Free | ₹0 |
Additional charges may apply via third-party services like VFS Global. Budget ₹9,000–₹10,000 total.
Tourist vs Business Schengen Visa
| Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Leisure, sightseeing, visiting friends/family | Most common for Indian travellers |
| Business Visa | Meetings, conferences, work visits | Requires invitation from EU entity |
Key Schengen Visa Requirements for Indians
- Valid passport with 2 blank pages
- Completed application form
- Proof of accommodation & return flight
- Travel insurance covering at least €30,000
- Financial documents showing €50–€70 per day
- Two passport-size photos
Visa Processing Time
Most Schengen visas are processed within 15 working days, but it may vary by consulate and season.
Can Indians Get a Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa?
Yes, especially if you have a strong travel history. Countries like Portugal and Switzerland are more likely to issue multiple-entry visas.
Final Thoughts
If you’re an Indian citizen planning a European vacation, start with countries that make the visa process easier. From Portugal’s warm hospitality to Iceland’s speedy approvals, these 8 countries are excellent choices for stress-free travel planning.
Now that you’re equipped with country-specific tips, costs, and insider guidance, applying for a Schengen visa doesn’t have to be a hurdle — it’s your first step to Europe.
Also Read : Want to Live and Work in Japan? This Visa Might Be Your Answer
