Schengen visa troubles: Check when you should start planning your Europe trip? - CNBC TV18

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Peak summer travel is here and so is the demand for flights, stays, visas and everything tourism-related. Many of us know those seasoned travellers who not only ensure all their bookings are made from a trusted source, that too way in advance, and we know those slackers who wait until the last minute to do everything — be it booking flights, hotels or making all those other arrangements to have fun once you reach the destination.

It doesn't matter which category you fall in. What matters is how soon you should start making your travel arrangements as it could take time for you to get your visa, depending on your destination.

CNBC-TV18 had earlier reported that those planning a trip to Europe may have to delay their travel, given the shortage of Schengen visa interview slots. Find out how many days in advance you should start executing your travel plans to Europe to ensure all arrangements are in place.

Also read: European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

"During peak season, visa appointment availability or visa processing can take longer than anticipated," a VFS spokesperson told CNBC-TV18. "This is common across all geographies and governments. Thus, we [VFS Global] constantly encourage applicants to apply for visas well in advance to avoid peak season-related processing delays."

The spokesperson added that most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days in advance, with Schengen accepting documents up to six months prior to the date of travel. Hence, it is best to apply for a Schengen visa at least 90 days in advance to ensure there is no delay in visa appointment.

Also read: Need a Schengen Visa? Check these criteria first

Additionally, VFS said, "The availability of visa appointments, mandatory documentation, and the visa application decision are entirely at the discretion of the respective governments [of the country you wish to travel to]. Processing timelines are also under their control.

"As a trusted partner to our client governments, VFS Global handles the front-end administrative tasks in the visa application process. This includes collecting application forms and documentation as per the checklist provided by the government, enrolling biometrics where applicable, and ensuring the safe return of passports post the decision-making process by the embassy or consulate [for a visa]."

As of May 16, the next available slot for a visa interview appointment for Germany or Italy is in July 2024. If you wish to travel to the 2024 Paris Olympics, which commences on July 26, you should've started gathering all documents by October 2023.

Given that more and more Indian travellers are looking to explore international destinations, especially in Europe, the rush for securing visas will only rise. So don't wait until the last minute. Ensure you start your documentation process at least six months in advance.

Also read: Germany eases Schengen visa norms for Indian tourists

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