Complete 2026 Checklist for European Schengen Tourist Visa

Essential Documents Required for Schengen Visa in 2026

Applying for a tourist visa to Europe requires meticulous preparation. Follow this verified checklist to guarantee visa acceptance:

• Original Indian Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area, with at least two blank pages.
• Completed and signed Schengen Visa Application Form.
• Two recent biometric photographs (35mm x 45mm, 80% face coverage, white background).
• Verifiable round-trip dummy flight reservation showing exact transit dates.
• Confirmed hotel booking vouchers covering every single night across all European countries.
• Original 6-month bank statements with bank seal and signature, showing minimum balance of €100 per day of stay.
• Last 3 years' Income Tax Returns (ITR-V) or Form 16.
• Employment letter with NOC/Leave approval on company letterhead.
• Overseas travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage valid across all Schengen states.