Europe is a dream destination for many Indian travelers. Whether it’s for tourism, business, family visits, or cultural exploration, the Schengen visa opens doors to 27 European countries. The 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa for Indian citizens is a golden opportunity to explore Europe freely without the hassle of repeated applications.
Here’s everything you need to know to apply in 2025.
What Is a 5-Year Multiple Entry Schengen Visa?
A 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa allows the holder to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times over five years. While you can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period, you don’t have to reapply for a new visa during that 5-year window.
✔ Access to 27 Schengen countries
✔ Valid for tourism, business, or family visits
✔ Ideal for frequent Indian travelers to Europe
Why Indians Should Consider the 5-Year Schengen Visa
Indian travelers are increasingly opting for long-term Schengen visas for convenience and cost-efficiency. Here’s why:
- Avoid repeated visa fees and embassy appointments
- Travel flexibility across Europe
- Build travel history for other visa applications (like US, UK, Canada)
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens
Not every applicant qualifies for a 5-year Schengen visa. The issuing consulate typically considers the following:
- Strong travel history (prior Schengen, US, UK, or Canada visas)
- Valid reason for frequent visits (business, family, etc.)
- Stable financial condition
- Clean immigration and legal record
Required Documents for Indian Travelers
To apply for a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa, Indian applicants must provide the following:
- Valid Indian passport (issued within last 10 years, valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay)
- Schengen visa application form
- Recent passport-size photos
- Proof of previous travel history (old visas)
- Travel insurance covering €30,000
- Financial proof (bank statements, ITR)
- Employment letter or business registration
- Purpose of visit (invitation letter, tour itinerary, hotel bookings)
How to Apply from India (2025)
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown for Indian passport holders applying for the 5-year visa:
- Choose the country you’ll visit first or spend the most time in.
- Schedule an appointment at the respective consulate or VFS center.
- Submit your documents and biometric data.
- Pay the visa fee (approx. ₹7,000).
- Wait for processing (usually 15–45 days).
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Here are some best practices to increase your approval odds:
- Apply through countries like France, Spain, or the Netherlands (known for issuing long-term visas)
- Show strong ties to India (employment, family, property)
- Submit a detailed cover letter explaining the need for long-term access
- Provide solid evidence of prior travel history
Cost Breakdown for Indian Applicants
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | ₹7,000 |
| VFS Service Charge | ₹1,500 |
| Travel Insurance (1 year) | ₹1,000–₹2,000 |
| Flight & Hotel Bookings (dummy) | ₹500–₹1,000 |
| Total | ₹10,000–₹12,000 |
Validity and Duration
- Validity: 5 years
- Stay duration: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- Entries: Unlimited within validity
Learn more from the EU Immigration Portal
FAQs
Can I apply for a 5-year Schengen visa without prior travel history?
Answer: It’s unlikely. Prior travel to the Schengen Area or similar regions is generally a requirement for long-term visas.
Which countries are more likely to issue a 5-year visa?
Answer: France, Spain, Netherlands, and Italy are known for issuing longer-duration visas to Indian travelers with solid documentation.
Does the visa guarantee entry every time?
Answer: No. Border authorities can still deny entry even with a valid visa, though this is rare with proper documentation.
Can I work or study on this visa?
Answer: No. This is a short-stay visa intended for tourism, business, or family visits — not for employment or education.
Final Thoughts
The 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa for Indian citizens in 2025 offers a hassle-free way to explore Europe over the long term. While it’s not guaranteed for everyone, building a strong application can significantly improve your chances. If you’re a frequent traveler from India with a clean history and financial stability, now is the time to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.
Written by Asif, an experienced researcher helping People’s to navigate visas and work abroad opportunities.
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