Indian Traveller Secures 5-Year Schengen Visa in Just 4 Working Days

For many Indian travellers, getting a long-term Schengen visa can seem complicated and uncertain. However, recent changes in European Union policy, along with real-life success stories, show that with careful planning and the right approach, it’s possible to secure a five-year, multiple-entry Schengen visa—sometimes in just a few working days. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the entire process, what to expect at each stage, and practical advice for maximizing your chances, especially when applying through the French Consulate.

Understanding the Schengen Visa and the Cascade Regime

The Schengen visa allows Indian travellers to visit 27 European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It does not give the right to work in the Schengen area. Since April 18, 2024, the European Union introduced the “cascade” regime, which rewards travellers with a strong Schengen history by offering longer visa validity:

• If you have held two Schengen visas in the last three years, you can qualify for a two-year, multiple-entry visa.
• If you have used a two-year visa during that period and your passport is valid long enough, you may be eligible for a five-year, multiple-entry visa.

The final decision always rests with the visa officer, who looks at your travel history, documents, and the strength of your application.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before starting your application, make sure you meet the basic requirements:

• For a two-year visa: You must have held at least two Schengen visas in the past three years.
• For a five-year visa: You must have used a two-year Schengen visa in the last three years and have a passport valid for at least five years from your planned travel date.

If you don’t meet these criteria, you can still apply for a regular short-term visa, but your chances for a longer validity visa are lower.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

A strong application is built on complete and consistent documentation. Here’s what you need:

• Original passport with at least two blank pages and enough validity for the requested visa duration.
• Scanned copies of all previous Schengen visas and the pages in your passport showing entry and exit stamps.
• A clear, polite cover letter that explains your travel history, references the cascade regime, and requests longer validity. Mention your previous visas and attach proof.
• Completed Schengen visa application form. Make sure to tick the “multiple entry” box. There is no separate field to request a specific duration.
• Standard supporting documents: These include travel insurance, proof of accommodation, flight bookings, proof of financial means, and your travel itinerary.

For the official Schengen visa application form and requirements, visit the France-Visas portal.

Step 3: Book Your Appointment and Submit Your Application

All Schengen visa applications for France must be submitted through VFS Global. Walk-ins are not allowed, so you must book an appointment online. Here’s what happens next:

• Visit your nearest VFS Global centre on the scheduled date.
• Submit your documents in person. If you are 12 years or older and haven’t given biometrics in the last 59 months, you’ll need to provide fingerprints and a photo.
• Pay the visa fee and VFS service charge in Indian Rupees. The VFS service fee cannot exceed €45 per application.
• Get a receipt and tracking number to follow your application status online.

Step 4: Processing and Waiting Times

Processing times can vary depending on the time of year and the consulate’s workload:

• Typical processing time: 7–15 working days for most French Consulate applications.
• Peak season (April–July): Processing can take up to 45 days due to high demand.
• Fastest approvals: In rare, well-prepared cases, visas have been granted in as little as four working days, as seen in a recent case at the French Consulate in Bengaluru.

About 90% of French visa applications from India are processed within 15 days. Delays usually happen because of missing or incorrect documents.

Step 5: Decision and Passport Collection

Once a decision is made, you’ll be notified by VFS Global. You can collect your passport in person or have it delivered by courier, depending on the option you chose during your application.

• If approved: Check the visa sticker for the validity period and number of entries. Even if you qualify for a longer visa, the final duration is always at the consular officer’s discretion.
• If refused: You’ll receive a written explanation. Common reasons include incomplete documentation or doubts about your travel intentions.

Choosing the Right Embassy and Timing

Visa policies and approval rates can differ between Schengen countries. For Indian travellers, some embassies have higher approval rates and faster processing. In 2025, Belgium, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland had approval rates between 88% and 91%. The French Consulate in Bengaluru is known for efficient processing, especially for well-prepared applications.

Apply 30–60 days before your planned travel to avoid last-minute stress and give yourself time to respond to any additional document requests.

Practical Tips for Indian Travellers

• Build a strong travel history: Frequent, trouble-free visits to Schengen countries improve your chances for longer visas.
• Prepare a detailed cover letter: Clearly state your eligibility under the cascade regime and politely request extended validity.
• Submit both original and scanned documents: Consistency and completeness are key. Discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.
• Track policy changes: The Entry/Exit System (EES) launching in October 2025 and ETIAS authorization (expected in 2026) will change border procedures for Indian travellers.
• Stay updated: Visit official sources like the France-Visas portal for the latest requirements and forms.

What to Expect from Authorities

• Consular discretion: Even if you meet all criteria, the visa officer has the final say on the duration and type of visa granted.
• Biometric data: All applicants aged 12 and above must provide fingerprints and a photo unless they have done so in the last 59 months.
• Communication: Most updates will come through VFS Global. For questions, contact their helpline or email.

Recent Success Story: Five-Year Visa in Four Days

A recent case shared on r/SchengenVisa showed how an Indian traveller secured a five-year, multiple-entry Schengen visa from the French Consulate in Bengaluru in just four working days. The applicant:

• Had three previous Schengen visas in two years.
• Submitted both original and scanned copies of all visas.
• Wrote a clear cover letter referencing the cascade regime.
• Did not specifically request a five-year visa but ticked “multiple entry” and let the documents speak for themselves.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, this case highlights the importance of a strong travel history, complete documentation, and a thoughtful approach.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Changes

• Entry/Exit System (EES): From October 2025, this system will automate border checks and track overstays, making it even more important to follow visa rules.
• ETIAS: Expected in 2026, this will require Indian travellers to get pre-travel authorization before visiting the Schengen area.

Final Takeaways

Indian travellers can improve their chances of getting a long-validity Schengen visa by:

• Building a solid travel record.
• Preparing documents carefully.
• Writing a clear, polite cover letter.
• Applying through consulates with strong approval rates, like the French Consulate.

Remember, while eligibility rules are clear, the outcome depends on the quality of your application and the discretion of the visa officer. Stay informed, plan ahead, and approach the process with care for the best results.

Learn Today

Schengen Visa → A visa allowing travel to 27 EU countries for up to 90 days within 180 days without work rights.
Cascade Regime → EU policy rewarding travellers with prior Schengen visas by granting longer-duration multiple-entry visas.
Biometrics → Fingerprints and photo data required from applicants aged 12+ unless provided in past 59 months.
Multiple-Entry Visa → A visa allowing entry to Schengen countries multiple times during the visa’s validity period.
VFS Global → An authorized visa application center handling submissions and biometrics for Schengen visas in India.

This Article in a Nutshell

Indian travellers can now obtain long-term Schengen visas under the EU’s cascade regime. Careful preparation, strong travel history, and applying through French consulate enable fast approvals, sometimes within four days, making extended Europe visits easier and more accessible for frequent visitors from India.
— By VisaVerge.com