Quick Answer
Yes, Schengen visa fees India rose in 2025, and 2026 sees the same higher rates. Adults now pay around ₹9,600–₹10,000 as the embassy fee, plus a VFS service fee that usually falls between ₹1,900 and ₹3,100 per applicant. Children 6–12 pay about half, and kids under 6 are often free. The total cost depends on the country, your age, and any optional VFS services you add.
Quick Verdict
- Use a verified dummy booking if you need flight proof before visa approval.
- Always check the country-specific VFS page, as fees differ by embassy.
- Budget extra for premium services like SMS, courier, or priority slots.
Why This Matters in 2026
The main Schengen visa fee jumped in mid-2024, and 2026 applications still pay the higher rate. For many Indians, the total cost now sits between ₹11,000 and ₹13,000 per adult, including both the embassy fee and VFS service fee.
If you are planning a trip, knowing the exact VFS Schengen visa fees India helps you avoid surprises. Small changes in exchange rates or country rules can shift your final bill by a few thousand rupees.visa.
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What Is the Schengen Visa Fee in Indian Rupees?
The schengen visa fee in Indian rupees has two parts: the embassy visa fee and the VFS service fee.
- Embassy fee for adults: around ₹9,600–₹10,000, based on EUR 90.india.diplo+1
- Children 6–12: around ₹4,800–₹5,000, based on EUR 45.india.diplo+1
- Children under 6: often free.india.diplo+1
- VFS service fee: usually ₹1,900–₹3,100, depending on the country.visa.vfsglobal+1
The VFS Global service fee is paid in INR, using the exchange rate set by that embassy.
VFS Service Fee vs Embassy Fee
| Fee Type | What It Covers | Typical INR Range | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embassy Visa Fee | Visa processing by the consulate | ₹9,600–₹10,000 (adults) | All applicants |
| VFS Service Fee | VFS application centre charges | ₹1,900–₹3,100 | All applicants |
| Optional Services | SMS, courier, priority, lounge | ₹200–₹2,000+ | Only if you choose |
Total cost for an adult applicant is usually ₹11,000–₹13,000, including both fees.visa.vfsglobal+1
Country-wise VFS Service Fee Examples
VFS service fees vary by country. Here are a few examples:
- Germany: service fee around ₹1,933, plus embassy fee near ₹11,473 total .
- France: service fee around ₹2,000–₹2,300, plus embassy fee near ₹9,600–₹10,000.
- Switzerland: service fee revised to about ₹3,100 in 2026 .
- Netherlands: service fee around ₹2,000–₹2,300, plus embassy fee .
Always check the exact VFS page for your country before you book.
Step-by-Step: How Fees Are Paid
- Fill the online Schengen visa form for your country.
- Book your VFS appointment on the country-specific VFS Global site.l
- Pay the embassy visa fee and VFS service fee online or at the centre.visa
- Add optional services only if you need them, like SMS or courier
- Keep the fee receipt with your visa file for records.
If you also need flight proof, start with Eazy Visas Dummy Flights for a simple itinerary, or use Dummy Bookings for Visa for a combined flight-and-hotel file .
Use Cases
Best for Adults
Adults pay the full embassy fee and the full VFS service fee. Budget about ₹11,000–₹13,000 for most Schengen countries.visa.
Best for Families
Families must pay the fee for each member. Children under 6 are often free, but 6–12-year-olds pay a reduced rate.i1
Best for Students
Students still pay the adult fee in most cases, but some countries offer reduced or waived fees for certain study visas. Always check the embassy page.india.diplo+1
If your dates are not fixed, using Dummy Bookings for Visa can keep your file consistent without paying full flights early .
Pros and Cons of VFS Fees
Pros
- Clear, published fee structure per country.visa
- Secure online payment options.
- Optional services make submission easier for some.
Cons
- Fees differ by country, which can confuse applicants.
- Exchange rate changes can shift INR amounts.
- Optional services can add up and increase cost.
Decision Guide
Choose to apply now if you need:
- A clear budget for your Schengen trip.
- A realistic idea of total cost per person.
- A way to compare countries by fee level.
Wait or reconsider if you:
- Have not checked the exact country page yet.
- Are unsure about travel dates.
- Have not arranged flight and hotel proof yet.
If you want to compare costs against flight proof, read Dummy Ticket vs Refundable Ticket to see which option saves you money .
Alternatives
- Direct embassy submission — some countries allow direct filing, but many still use VFS.
- Premium lounge or priority slots — faster but costlier, useful for tight timelines.
- Verified dummy booking — helps you submit a complete file without paying full flights early .
If you want a safer flight proof path, see How to Buy Dummy Flight Tickets Online for a step-by-step guide .
