Are Indians eligible for a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa? Here is all you need to know

In an effort to enhance accessibility for Indian travellers, the Schengen Zone, comprising European nations like France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, introduced the 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa. 

This visa, obtainable from India, allows individuals to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of 27 European nations. To be eligible, applicants must have previously held and lawfully utilized a multiple-entry visa valid for at least two years within the past three years, complying with the conditions outlined in the new Visa Code introduced on February 2.

One of the key advantages of the 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa is its provision for unlimited entries into the Schengen area within a five-year period. However, travellers must adhere to the 90/180-day rule, ensuring a balanced duration of stay. This visa serves as a convenient gateway to the Schengen Area, characterized by the absence of internal border controls.

It’s crucial to understand the differences between single and multiple-entry Schengen visas. While a single-entry visa allows an uninterrupted stay within the Schengen zone for a specified duration, the multiple-entry visa provides the flexibility to leave and re-enter the area. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for frequent travellers, and the validity can range from 90 days up to five years.

The 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa offers Indian travellers streamlined travel experiences, eliminating the need for annual visa applications. By comprehending the eligibility criteria and the advantages associated with this visa, individuals can embark on enriching journeys across Europe, making the most of the diverse experiences the continent has to offer.

The 5-year multiple-entry visa requirements and fees

• Demonstrate a legitimate need for multiple entries into the Schengen Area in the upcoming year(s).

• Maintain a clean visa record, with no history of illegal work or overstaying previous visas in the Schengen area.

• Have no criminal convictions in their home country.

• Provide proof of travel insurance for the initial trip into the Schengen Zone.

While a multiple-entry visa allows for several visits totalling less than 90 days within its validity period, the cost of a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa remains the same as a standard short-stay visa: €80 or $90.