Detailed Analysis
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, international travel from India was growing steadily, but it was still seen as a luxury for many. The pandemic brought travel to a halt, but as restrictions eased, there was a dramatic rebound. In 2022 and 2023, Indian outbound travel began to recover, with 2024 seeing a 45.5% increase in visa applications over the previous year. By 2025, the surge has reached new heights, with a 68% year-on-year increase in total visa applications and a 29% rise in Schengen visa applications.
This growth reflects not only pent-up demand but also a cultural shift. Travel is now seen as an essential part of life, especially among young, urban Indians. According to Mohak Nahta, CEO of Atlys, “We’re seeing a surge not only in the number of applications but also in the diversity of destinations Indians are curious about. This uptick reflects a collective desire to explore cultures, try new experiences, and make the most of their vacation time.”
The Schengen Visa Process: Step-by-Step
For Indian citizens planning to visit Spain, Italy, Slovakia, or any other Schengen country, the visa process remains largely unchanged. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide:
- Determine Your Main Destination:
Choose the country where you’ll spend the most time. If your stays are equal, the country of first entry is your main destination. - Complete the Schengen Visa Application Form:
The form is available online or at the embassy/consulate/visa center. You can find the official application form here. Gather Required Documents:
- Valid passport: Issued within the last 10 years, valid at least 90 days after your return.
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings or invitation letter.
- Travel itinerary and flight reservations
- Proof of sufficient funds: Recent bank statements.
- Travel insurance: Must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.
- Proof of employment or student status: If applicable.
- Book an Appointment:
Schedule a visit at the visa application center (such as VFS Global or an authorized partner). Pay the Visa Fee:
The fee for a short-stay Schengen visa is about ₹7,200. Additional service charges may apply.Attend the Appointment:
Submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and all required documents.Wait for Processing:
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days, but delays are common during peak season. Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your planned travel.Collect Your Passport/Visa:
You can pick up your passport or arrange for courier delivery.
For more details on the Schengen visa process, visit the official Schengen Visa Info website.
Practical Effects and Policy Implications
- Longer Processing Times:
Embassies and visa centers are dealing with backlogs. Travelers are advised to apply as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Stricter Document Checks:
With more first-time travelers and higher application volumes, authorities are checking documents more carefully. Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork is the leading cause of delays or rejections.Digital Solutions:
Online platforms and travel agencies like Atlys, Akbar Travels, and Triple I Business Services are helping applicants complete forms, book appointments, and track their applications. This is especially helpful for people applying from smaller cities.Changing Travel Habits:
Indians are booking trips further in advance and considering less crowded destinations like Slovakia. This helps avoid long wait times and increases the chances of visa approval.
Key Stakeholders and Perspectives
- Travelers:
Gen Z and first-time travelers are driving the surge. They prefer experience-rich, shorter trips and are open to exploring new destinations. Travel Agencies:
Agencies are handling record volumes and stress the importance of early planning and complete documentation.Destination Countries:
Spain, Italy, and Slovakia are actively promoting tourism from India, recognizing the value of Indian travelers.Visa Authorities:
Embassies and visa centers are under pressure to process more applications without compromising security or accuracy.
Trends and Patterns
Experience-Driven Travel:
More Indians want to immerse themselves in local culture, food, and experiences, rather than just sightseeing.Rise of Offbeat Destinations:
As traditional hotspots reach capacity, travelers are looking at lesser-known European countries like Slovakia, Hungary, and the Baltics.Digital Transformation:
The use of online platforms for visa applications is making the process faster and more accessible, especially for people outside major cities.
Future Outlook
Continued Growth:
Industry projections suggest that outbound travel from India will grow by 15–20% annually in the coming years.Potential Reforms:
Schengen countries may introduce reforms to streamline visa processing or expand capacity, but no official changes have been announced yet.New Destinations:
As demand for traditional destinations grows, more Indians are expected to explore new countries within the Schengen area.
Practical Advice for Indian Travelers
Apply Early:
Start your visa application at least 6–8 weeks before your planned travel date.Prepare Complete Documentation:
Double-check all paperwork. Incomplete or inaccurate documents are the most common reason for delays.Consider Alternative Destinations:
If your preferred country has long wait times, look at other Schengen countries with shorter queues.Use Reputable Agencies:
Especially if you’re a first-time traveler, a good agency can help you avoid common mistakes.Stay Updated:
Check official government websites for the latest information on visa requirements and processing times.
Official Resources
Schengen Visa Application Centers:
Applications for Spain, Italy, and Slovakia are processed via VFS Global or authorized visa centers in India.Visa Fee:
Approximately ₹7,200 for a short-stay Schengen visa.Processing Time:
Minimum 15 calendar days; apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance during peak season.Official Schengen Visa Information:
Schengen Visa Info
Limitations of the Analysis
Data is Preliminary:
The numbers for 2025 are based on the first half of the year and may change.No Major Policy Changes Yet:
While there is talk of reforms, no official changes have been made as of May 2025.Regional Differences:
Processing times and experiences may vary by city and embassy.
Evidence-Based Conclusions
India’s outbound travel boom in 2025 is reshaping the way people plan and experience international trips. The surge in Schengen visa demand, especially for Spain, Italy, and Slovakia, reflects deeper changes in Indian society—rising incomes, a growing middle class, and a new view of travel as an essential part of life. The practical effects are clear: longer wait times, stricter document checks, and a greater reliance on digital platforms and travel agencies.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the travel industry is adapting quickly, but travelers must also adjust by planning ahead, preparing complete documents, and staying flexible in their destination choices. The future looks bright for Indian outbound travel, with continued growth expected and new destinations on the horizon.
Actionable Takeaways:
- Apply for your Schengen visa as early as possible.
- Double-check all required documents before your appointment.
- Consider less crowded Schengen countries if your first choice is fully booked.
- Use trusted online platforms or agencies for guidance.
- Stay informed by checking official resources like Schengen Visa Info.
India’s travel surge in 2025 is more than just a numbers story—it’s a sign of changing lifestyles, growing confidence, and a new era of global mobility for Indian citizens.
Learn Today
Schengen visa
→ A permit allowing short stays in 26 European countries within the Schengen Area for tourism or business.
Biometrics → Data like fingerprints and photos collected from applicants to verify identity during visa processing.
Visa application center → Authorized locations where visa forms are submitted, biometric data collected, and documents verified.
Processing time → The period taken by authorities to review visa applications and issue decisions, often 15 calendar days.
Pent-up demand → Accumulated desire to travel that increases sharply after restrictions, boosting visa applications.
This Article in a Nutshell
India’s outbound travel is booming in 2025, especially for Schengen visas to Spain, Italy, and Slovakia. Demand rose sharply, causing longer processing times and stricter checks. Travelers should apply early and consider alternative destinations, supported by digital platforms and agencies facilitating applications amid record volumes.
— By VisaVerge.com
