To visit Croatia, you must book a visa appointment online through the VFS Global portal in India.
This guide explains the step-by-step booking process, required documents, waiting times, interview preparation, and next steps after the appointment.
How to Schedule a Croatia Visa Appointment?
Booking your Croatia visa appointment is the first step in the visa application journey. Let’s look at the detailed process:
Online Steps to Book a Croatia Visa Appointment
Here are the steps to book your Croatia visa appointment online:
Step 1: Complete the Online Visa Application Form
- Visit the official VFS Global website for Croatia visas to access the online application portal.
- Click on the ‘Book Now’ button and fill out the visa application form accurately.
- Ensure all mandatory fields are completed, and double-check the information before submitting.
Step 2: Register and Login
- After submitting the form, you’ll be directed to create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Registering allows you to save and track your Croatia visa appointment status.
Step 3: Book a Croatia Visa Appointment
- Once logged in, click on the ‘Schedule Appointment’ tab while looking for ‘How to Book a Croatia Visa Appointment’.
- Choose your preferred Visa Application Center location, Croatia embassy appointment date, and time slot based on Croatia visa appointment availability.
- You can opt for premium services like Prime Time Appointments for outside standard hours or select the regular appointment option.
Step 4: Make the Payment
- Next, make the payment for your Croatia visa appointment using a credit/debit card or net banking.
- The Croatia visa appointment fees are non-refundable, so carefully review the details before confirming payment.
- The payment process for the Croatia visa appointment also includes VFS service charges
Step 5: Appointment Confirmation
- Upon successful payment, you will receive an email confirming your Croatia visa appointment booking procedure and appointment details.
- You can download the appointment letter from the ‘My Account’ section as well.
After scheduling your online application for Croatia visa appointment, here’s what to do at the VAC:
Step 1: Arrive on Time
- Reach the visa center 15 minutes prior to your scheduled Croatia visa appointment time.
- You must attend the appointment in person, as biometric data will be collected.
Step 2: Submit Your Biometrics
- At the VAC, a staff member will collect your fingerprints and photographs using a digital scanner.
- Ensure your fingertips are free from cuts, abrasions, or embellishments like henna/mehendi.
Step 3: Document Submission
- If you’ve opted for the Assisted Service, submit your original documents and their photocopies to the VAC officer for verification.
- The staff will scan and upload the documents to your online application.
Note: Applicants under 12 and over 70 are exempt from biometrics. Those unable to provide fingerprints due to medical reasons must carry a doctor’s certificate.
Must Read: Croatia Visa for Indians: The Ultimate Guide
Offline Process
There is no offline process for scheduling Croatia visa appointments in India. The booking procedure must be completed online via the VFS website.
Must Read: Croatia Visa Extension for Indians
Top 5 Locations for Croatia Visa Appointment
Here are the major cities with Croatia Visa Application Centers and their details:
New Delhi
Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Timings: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Mumbai
Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Timings: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Chennai
Address: Fagun Towers, 2nd Floor, No.74, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600008
Timings: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Kolkata
Address: Rene Tower, 2nd Floor, Plot No. AA-I, Premises No. 1858, Newtown, Rajarhat, Kolkata – 700156
Timings: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Ahmedabad
Address: Regus Gandhinagar, Shree Siddhi Vinayak Complex, 2nd Floor, Opp. D.A.V. School, Makarba, Ahmedabad – 380051
Timings: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Must Read: Croatia Visa Appeal For Indians
Documents Needed for a Croatia Visa Appointment
Here’s the latest updated information on documents required when attending your Croatia visa appointment:
- Printed appointment confirmation letter
- Completed and signed visa application form (in English or Croatian)
- Original passport (issued within past 10 years), valid at least 3 months beyond your return date, with at least two blank visa pages
- Photocopies of passport’s biodata and used pages, plus any old passports
- Two recent passport-size photos (white/light background, ≤6 months old)
- Cover letter stating purpose of travel and detailed itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation)
- Flight reservations or full travel itinerary
- Travel medical insurance covering minimum €30,000 valid for whole trip
- Proof of funds (recent 3 months’ bank statements)
- Employment letter (designation, salary, leave approval) or equivalent for self-employed
- Income tax returns for last 2–3 years
Note:
- Applications are liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear or as per the given specification.
- Visa Appointments are subject to availability.
- Any applicant may be asked to provide additional documents as per Embassy’s discretion.
- Processing days will be calculated once all documents have been submitted in accordance with embassy requirements
Must Read: Croatia Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals
What is the Waiting Time for the Croatia Visa Appointment?
As per the latest updated information, the standard processing time for a Croatia (Schengen) visa is 15 calendar days from the date of submission of a complete application. However, this period may be extended up to 30 or even 60 days in special cases, such as additional document verification, missing information, or high application volumes.
In India, applicants often report waiting times ranging from 15 to 30 days, and in some cases, delays up to 60 days have been observed.
Must Read: Croatia Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
Preparing for the Interview
Now that you’ve booked your Croatia visa appointment let’s help you get ready for the interview:
What questions can you expect during Croatia visa interview?
The visa officer may ask you the following questions during your Croatia visa appointment for Indians:
- What is the purpose of your visit to Croatia?
- How long do you intend to stay in Croatia?
- Where will you be staying during your trip?
- Have you booked your flight tickets and accommodation?
- Who is sponsoring your travel expenses?
- How much funds will you be carrying for your stay?
- Do you have a travel medical insurance policy?
- Have you visited any Schengen countries before?
Prepare honest and clear answers to these questions. Carry supporting documents to validate your responses.
Must Read: How to Book a Visa Appointment for Croatia
What is the Dress Code for a Croatia Visa Appointment?
There is no specified dress code, but it’s best to dress in neat, professional attire for your Croatia visa appointment. Business casuals are a safe option. Avoid flashy clothes or accessories.
For the photograph, keep your head uncovered and face visible unless you wear a head covering for religious reasons. Remove sunglasses and look straight at the camera with a neutral expression.
What are the Tips for a Successful Croatia Visa Appointment?
- Fill out the Croatia visa application form online carefully without leaving any fields blank.
- Upload clear scanned copies of your documents in the specified format and size.
- If submitting documents at the center, carry a checklist and arrange them systematically.
- Reach the visa application center 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
- Be calm and confident during the visa interview. Provide precise answers without overexplaining.
- Carry photocopies and originals of all supporting documents, even if you uploaded them earlier.
- Check the VAC website for any special requirements, guidelines, or restrictions before visiting.
Post-Interview: What are the Next Steps?
- Track your Croatia visa application status online through the VFS Global website using your reference number.
- Keep an eye out for any emails or SMS updates regarding your application.
- Promptly respond to any requests for additional documents or information to avoid delays.
- Once your passport is ready with the visa decision, you will receive a notification to collect it from the VAC or have it delivered to your address, based on the service you opted for.
- Upon receiving your passport, verify the visa sticker details carefully, including the personal information, Croatia visa appointment available dates, and visa type.
- If you notice any errors on your visa, contact the VAC immediately for rectification.
Must Read: How to Check Croatia Visa Status? [Updated Guide]
FAQs
1. Is it mandatory to visit the center personally? Can I send a representative to the application center on my behalf?
No, you must visit the Croatia Visa Application Center in person, as biometric data collection is compulsory. A representative cannot attend the appointment on your behalf.
2. How early should I apply for a Croatia visa appointment?
It’s advisable to book your Croatia visa appointment at least 3 months before your planned travel date. Appointments are available up to 90 days in advance.
3. What is the waiting time for a Croatia visa appointment?
The Croatia visa appointment waiting time depends on slot availability at your selected center and can range from a few days to 2 to 3 weeks. Apply well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
4. What questions can I expect during my Croatia visa interview?
During your Croatia visa interview, expect questions about your trip purpose, duration of stay, accommodation, financial means, employment, and ties to your home country.
5. Is there any dress code for the Croatia visa appointment?
While there’s no strict dress code, opt for neat, business casual attire for your Croatia visa appointment. Keep your face visible for the photograph.
6. Can I reschedule my Croatia visa appointment?
Yes, you can reschedule your Croatia visa appointment up to 3 times. Log in to your VFS account and choose the ‘Reschedule Appointment’ option under the ‘My Account’ tab.
7. What is the process for requesting an expedited Croatia visa appointment?
To expedite a Croatia visa appointment, you can directly contact the Croatian embassy or consulate where you plan to apply. Expedited appointments are not always guaranteed and may require proof of urgency, such as medical emergencies or important business engagements.
8. Do babies need separate appointments for Croatia visa applications?
Yes, babies and minors need separate visa appointments and applications. A parent or legal guardian must fill out and sign the application on behalf of the minor.
9. What happens if I arrive late for a Croatia visa appointment in India?
Arriving late for your visa appointment could result in the need to reschedule. Late arrivals might forfeit their slot, and a new appointment may need to be booked
10. What is the easiest way to get a Croatia visa slot for an interview?
The easiest way to secure an appointment is by booking through authorized channels like VFS Global or the Croatian embassy’s official website.
11. Is a Croatia biometric appointment mandatory?
Yes, biometric data collection (fingerprints and a photograph) is mandatory for all visa applicants over the age of 12 as part of Croatia’s adherence to Schengen visa requirements.
