Planning a European getaway this summer from India? Then you already know how tough it’s become to get a Schengen visa appointment. Popular countries like Italy, France, and Germany have long wait times, with some cities like Bengaluru and Delhi reporting no available slots at all. But don’t worry—several European destinations still offer fast visa appointments and smooth processing timelines. Below are five of the easiest countries currently granting Schengen or nearby visas to Indian travellers.
Sweden is currently one of the most accessible Schengen countries for Indian passport holders. Visa appointments are available as early as the next day in major Indian cities, according to the VFS website. The Swedish Embassy typically processes visa applications within two weeks, making it a great option for travellers on a tight schedule. Required documents include a completed visa application form, one passport-size photograph, a valid passport along with previous passports, confirmed hotel bookings or a travel itinerary, return flight tickets, proof of employment and sufficient funds, and overseas medical insurance. The visa fee for Sweden is ₹8,687.
Norway is another Schengen destination offering fast and hassle-free visa processing. Indian travellers can find appointments available as soon as April 28. Once you’ve submitted your application and completed biometric procedures, the visa is usually processed within 15 to 20 days. To apply, you’ll need a valid passport along with any older passports, one photograph, a detailed travel itinerary or confirmation from a travel agency, return flight tickets, proof of financial means and employment, and medical insurance. The visa application cost is also ₹8,687.
Malta has emerged as a traveller-friendly choice within the Schengen zone. Appointments are currently open from April 28 in cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad. Malta typically processes visa applications within 15 working days. Applicants must submit two passport-sized photographs, a valid passport with prior passports, a letter explaining the purpose of travel and itinerary, confirmed bookings for accommodation and flights, proof of employment and financial resources, and travel insurance. The application fee for a Malta visa is ₹8,323.
Switzerland, while slightly slower than the first three, still offers relatively accessible visa appointments with less than a three-week wait in most locations. As per the VFS website, the next available slot in Chennai is on May 22. Switzerland’s visa processing time is around 15 working days. Required documentation includes two passport-sized photos, a valid passport along with previous ones, a detailed itinerary, a purpose letter, return flight bookings, accommodation details, proof of employment and funds, and travel insurance. The Swiss visa fee is ₹8,100.
Georgia, although not a Schengen country, deserves mention for its convenience. Indian travellers can apply for an e-visa, which is valid for stays up to 90 days. You need a passport with at least three months’ validity beyond your planned return date, travel documents, accommodation confirmation, employment proof or evidence of financial means, and overseas medical insurance. The e-visa takes about ten working days to process and costs just ₹1,690. The entire process can be completed online, eliminating the need for in-person appointments.
If you’re dreaming of Europe but worried about long visa delays, these countries offer a smoother alternative. Just ensure all your paperwork is in order—especially accommodation, return flight tickets, and travel insurance. A little planning can help you bypass the summer Schengen bottleneck and get on your way to a memorable European adventure.
