Applying for a tourist visa to travel to Europe can feel confusing if you are doing it for the first time. When I applied for my Schengen tourist visa, I remember how overwhelming it felt to gather all the documents — I didn’t know which documents were mandatory and which ones were optional. I kept checking and re-checking guidelines to make sure everything was correct.
To save you the stress, I’ve put together a complete and updated list of required documents for a tourist visa, especially if you’re applying for a Schengen visa from India.
This checklist works for most European embassies including France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Greece, Portugal, Belgium, and more.
🧾 Required Documents for Tourist Visa (Complete Checklist)
Here is the complete list of documents you must prepare before you attend your visa appointment:
Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date
- Must have a minimum of 2 blank pages
- Include copies of previous passports and visas (if any)
Visa Application Form
- Correctly filled and signed
- Each traveler requires a separate form (including children)
Recent Passport Size Photos
- Size: 35mm x 45mm
- White background, matte finish
- Must follow Schengen photo guidelines
Travel Flight Itinerary
- A reserved (not necessarily confirmed) return flight ticket
- Should show entry and exit from the Schengen area
Hotel Booking or Proof of Accommodation
- Complete booking details for entire stay
- Airbnb reservation / Invitation letter if staying with friends or family
Travel Itinerary / Trip Plan
- A detailed day-by-day plan including cities, dates, hotels, and activities
- Shows your intention to follow a structured travel plan
Travel Medical Insurance
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 (30 lakh INR approx.)
- Must be valid in all 27 Schengen countries
- Should cover emergency medical care and repatriation
Cover Letter (Personal Letter to Embassy)
- Explains purpose of travel
- Duration of stay
- Financial capability
- Return commitment to India
- List of included documents
A strong cover letter increases approval chances.
Financial Proof
- 6-month bank statement (stamped)
- Salary slips for last 3 months (if employed)
- Income Tax Returns (ITR) for last 3 years
- Credit card statements (optional)
- Bank balance ideally above ₹1.5 – ₹2 lakh per person
Employment or Business Proof
If employed:
- Employment letter / NOC from employer
- Leave approval letter
If self-employed:
- Business registration certificate
- GST papers / Income proof
If student:
- College ID & NOC
If retired:
- Pension statement / Retirement proof
Proof of Ties to Home Country
- Ownership documents or rent agreement
- Family proof / dependents (optional but strong)
🧒 Documents for Minors
- Birth certificate
- Parents’ ID & passport copies
- Consent letter signed by both parents
- If traveling with one parent → notarized authorization letter
💸 Visa Fees
Schengen tourist visa fee for Indians:
- €80 for adults
- €40 for children aged 6–12
- Free for children under 6
Additional VFS service charges apply.
💡 Expert Tips for a Strong Tourist Visa Application
✔ Submit documents in an organized order
✔ Avoid fake flight or hotel bookings
✔ Keep bank balance stable — don’t deposit large sudden funds
✔ Be honest and confident about your reason for travel
✔ Apply at least 6 to 8 weeks before your trip
❓ Common Questions About Tourist Visa Documents
Do I need confirmed flight tickets?
No — temporary reservation or blocked tickets are accepted.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, it is compulsory for Schengen visa approval.
Can someone else sponsor my trip?
Yes, a family member or friend can provide a sponsorship letter and financial documents.
Do I need an interview?
Not usually — only biometrics and document submission at VFS.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Preparing required documents for a tourist visa may seem complicated at first, but once you know exactly what is needed, the process becomes much easier. A complete and carefully organized file increases your chances of approval significantly.
I hope this updated checklist helps you feel more prepared and confident.
If you have any questions about documents or process, feel free to comment below — I’d love to help!
✈️ Planning a Europe trip soon?
Explore more articles like:
- How to Apply for a Schengen Visa from India
- Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection
- Best Budget Europe Itineraries for First-Time Travelers
Stay tuned — more travel guides coming soon on EuropeVisa.in 🌍💙