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Getting a Schengen visa can often be a stressful, weeks-long wait. But for one Indian couple, the process took just four working days—sparking both relief and envy among fellow applicants.
A Reddit user recently shared that his Austrian visa, applied from New Delhi, was approved in record time. “Just wanted to share some positive news. I collected my passport with my Austrian Schengen visa today and the whole process took just 4 working days,” he wrote. The applicant, who also holds a valid US visa, described the experience as unexpectedly smooth.
Typical Schengen Visa Timeline
For Indian travelers, the standard decision window is usually within 15 calendar days, but it can stretch up to 45 days, according to VFS Global, which manages applications for several Schengen countries.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa allows short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area—covering 29 European countries including Austria, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.
Documents Submitted by the Applicant
The Redditor shared a detailed list of documents that secured his successful application:
• Short cover letter
• Travel itinerary
• Two years’ income tax returns
• Three months’ bank statements
• Bar council certificate (he is a lawyer)
• Business card
• Valid US visa
• Refundable, prepaid flight tickets
• Confirmed (not prepaid) hotel bookings
• Wife’s salary slips and NOC from her employer
Notably, they did not book internal transport tickets, and explained this in the cover letter.
Mixed Reactions from Other Applicants
While many found the post encouraging, others expressed frustration with their own experiences. One user said their application was refused despite submitting full hotel and transport bookings, with the rejection citing “accommodation could not be verified.”
Applicants also complained about long waits for appointment slots and delayed updates, adding to the anxiety.
Rising Rejection Rates Add Pressure
The concern isn’t unfounded. Schengen visa rejection rates stood at 14.8% globally in 2024, according to European Commission data. Out of 11.7 million applications, 9.79 million were approved.
India ranked as the third-largest source of applications, filing over 1.1 million requests. Of these, around 936,000 were approved and 165,000 refused, giving Indian applicants a 15% rejection rate.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa: Step-by-Step
1 Choose the right consulate – Apply through the country where you’ll stay the longest, or the first entry point if stays are equal.
2 Book an appointment – Via the official embassy site or visa partners (VFS Global, BLS International). Slots fill up quickly.
3 Prepare required documents – Typically: completed form, passport, photos, travel itinerary, insurance (€30,000 minimum), proof of funds, cover letter, and employment proof.
4 Attend interview & biometrics – Fingerprints and photo are stored for 5 years. Carry originals and copies.
5 Track your application – Decisions are usually made within 15 to 45 days.
Source: European Commission – Schengen Visa Statistics
September 4, 2025
