Schengen Visa Extension for Indians

While Schengen visas are typically issued for short-term visits, extensions are possible under specific circumstances.

This guide on Schengen visa extension for Indians can help you extend your stay there. Check out the documents, application process, and fees.

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa Photo Requirements for Indian

Types of Schengen Visa Extensions

A Schengen visa is a short-stay tourist visa that allows Indians to stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.

Schengen visa extensions are generally limited to exceptional circumstances and are not granted for routine tourism. The primary extension types include:

• Force majeure extensions: For unforeseen events preventing departure (e.g., natural disasters, flight cancellations)
• Humanitarian reasons: For medical emergencies or assisting family members in crisis
• Serious personal reasons: For unexpected events requiring prolonged stay (e.g., business emergencies, legal proceedings)

Schengen Visa Extension Fees

The cost of extending your Schengen visa varies by country. Here is the generic Schengen visa extension fees:

Visa Extension	Fees
Extension for Personal Reason	30 Euros
Extension based on Humanitarian or Force Majeure	Free of Charge

Some countries may waive or reduce fees for certain categories of applicants or in specific circumstances. Always check with the local immigration authority for the most up-to-date fee information.

Are You Eligible for Schengen Visa Extension?

Eligibility for a Schengen visa extension is strictly evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Your current Schengen visa must be valid at the time of application
• You must have a genuine and verifiable reason for extension that falls under the accepted categories
• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the requested extension period
• You must have sufficient funds to cover your extended stay
• You must have maintained your visa conditions during your current stay
• You must have valid travel insurance covering the extended period
• You have not exceeded the maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area
• You can provide evidence of your intention and ability to leave the Schengen Area after the extension period

Suggested Read: How to Book Visa Appointment of Schengen

Documents Required for Schengen Visa Extensions

Here are Schengen visa extension documents for Indians:

• Completed visa extension application form (specific to the country where you’re applying)
• Valid passport with at least three months validity beyond the requested extension
• Current Schengen visa
• Recent passport-sized photographs (usually 35mm x 45mm)
• Proof of accommodation for the extended period
• Evidence of sufficient financial means (bank statements, traveler’s checks)
• Travel insurance valid for the entire extended stay period
• Detailed explanation letter outlining the reasons for extension request
• Supporting documents for your extension reason (e.g., medical certificates, flight cancellation notices)
• Proof of intention to leave the Schengen Area (return flight tickets)

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa Appeal for Indian

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa Extension?

There is no specific online process for Schengen tourist visa extension.

The Schengen visa extension process varies slightly between member states but generally follows these steps:

Step 1: Find the authority responsible for your visa extension request. This is typically the immigration office or foreign police in the Schengen country where you are in.

Example:

• Italy: Contact the local Questura (Police Headquarters)
• Netherlands: Contact the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
• Poland: Contact a Voivodeship Office
• Portugal: Contact the Migration Service of Portugal (SEF)

Step 2: Contact the relevant authority before your current visa expires.

Step 3: Schedule an appointment if required by the local authority. Some offices may accept walk-ins, while others strictly require pre-booked appointments.

Step 4: Gather all necessary documents n. Ensure all papers are translated into the local language or English if required.

Step 5: Visit the immigration office or foreign police at the scheduled time. Bring all original documents and photocopies.

Step 6: Submit your application form and supporting documents. Be prepared to explain your situation in detail to the immigration officer.

Step 7: Pay the required visa extension fee. Most offices accept cash or credit card payments.

Step 8: Provide biometric data if requested. This may include fingerprints and a digital photograph.

Step 9: Receive a confirmation of your application submission. This may include a temporary stay permit while your extension is being processed.

Step 10: Wait for the decision. Processing time can take up to several weeks.

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa Rejection For Indian

Schengen Visa Extension Processing Time & Next Steps

The processing time for Schengen visa extensions can vary significantly depending on the country and the complexity of your case. Generally, you can expect:

Step 1: Submit your application as early as possible, ideally at least one week before your current visa expires.

Step 2: Expect a processing time of 3 to 15 working days, though complex cases may take longer.

Step 3: Continue to comply with all Schengen visa regulations while your extension is being processed.

Step 4: Check regularly with the immigration office for updates on your application status.

Step 5: If approved, collect your extended visa or residence permit from the immigration office.

Step 6: Carefully review the new visa details, including the extended validity period and any conditions attached.

Step 7: Plan your departure from the Schengen Area well before the new expiration date, as further extensions are rarely granted.

Step 8: If your extension is denied, prepare to leave the Schengen Area immediately to avoid overstaying and potential future visa complications.

Suggested Read: How To Check Schengen Visa Status In India

FAQs

How can an Indian apply for a Schengen visa extension?

Indians can apply for a Schengen visa extension by contacting the immigration authority or foreign police in the Schengen country where they are currently staying.

What are the reasons for granting a Schengen visa extension to Indians?

Schengen visa extensions are typically granted for exceptional circumstances:

•  Force majeure (e.g., natural disasters, flight cancellations)
• Humanitarian reasons (e.g., medical emergencies)
• Serious personal reasons (e.g., unexpected business emergencies).

How long before expiration should Indians apply for a Schengen visa extension?

It’s recommended to apply for a Schengen visa extension at least one week before your current visa expires. Can an Indian extend a Schengen visa beyond its standard validity?

Schengen visa extensions are possible but granted only in exceptional circumstances. he total stay cannot exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.

How long does a Schengen Visa Extension take?

Processing times for Schengen visa extensions can vary between 3 to 15 working days, depending on the country and the complexity of your case.

How much does a Schengen Visa Extension Cost?

The Schengen visa extension fees are

• Extension for Personal Reason: 30 Euros
• Extension based on Humanitarian or Force Majeure: Free of Charge

What happens if my Schengen Visa Extension is Denied?

If your Schengen visa extension is denied, you must leave the Schengen Area immediately to avoid overstaying.

Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans to the Schengen Area.

How many days can I stay in the Schengen Area after my visa expires?

There is no grace period for staying in the Schengen Area after your visa expires. You must exit the Schengen Area on or before the last day of your visa validity.

What documents are needed for a Schengen visa extension for Indians?

Key documents:

• A valid passport
• Current Schengen visa,
• Completed application form
• Recent photographs
• Proof of accommodation
• Financial means evidence
• Travel insurance
• A detailed explanation letter, and supporting documents for your extension reason.
• Additional documents may be required depending on the specific circumstances and the country where you’re applying.