For Indian citizens wanting to embark on an unforgettable adventure to Norway, applying for a Norwegian Schengen Visa is a crucial step. This visa allows visitors to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Norway and also grants access to 26 other European countries without border controls.
This article aims to provide Indian citizens with a complete guide to getting a Norwegian Schengen Visa, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process for those eager to immerse themselves in the wonders of Norway. Start the application process on our platform or user-friendly app!
What is the Norway Schengen Visa?
The Norway Schengen Visa is typically issued for short-term stays, with purposes such as tourism, business trips, family visits, or cultural exchanges. It allows travelers to move freely within the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days per entry within a 180-day period.
With the Schengen Visa, you can enter the following 27 Schengen countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Do Indian citizens need a Schengen Visa for Norway?
Yes, the Norway Visa, also known as the Norway Schengen Visa, is a requirement for Indian travelers to enter Norway and all other European countries in the Schengen Zone.
This Schengen Visa requirement also applies to Indian minors and children, and both parents or legal guardians must sign the form for their child's visa application.
Norway Schengen Visa: Eligibility criteria for Indian citizens
The eligibility criteria for Indian citizens applying for a [Norway Schengen Visa] are as follows:
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Residence in India: To qualify for a Norway Schengen visa, you must be a resident of India and possess a valid Indian passport (along with a residence permit or long-term visa, if applicable).
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Purpose of visit: Clearly state the purpose of your visit to Norway and the Schengen Area. Permissible reasons for travel include tourism, business meetings, attending conferences or events, visiting family or friends, or receiving medical treatment. Ensure that the supporting documents you provide align with your stated purpose of travel.
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Travel medical insurance: It is mandatory to have medical insurance that covers medical expenses and emergencies within the Schengen Area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
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Financial stability: Demonstrate your financial stability by providing evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Norway. This may include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or any other relevant documentation.
Adhering to these eligibility criteria is essential when applying for a Norway Schengen Visa as an Indian citizen.
Benefits of the Norway Schengen Visa for Indian travelers
The Norway Schengen Visa offers Indian visitors the following benefits:
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Travel to Norway and all other Schengen countries for tourism.
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Meet with family members or friends living in the Schengen Area.
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Attend business meetings and conferences, or conduct other non-remunerated business activities.
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Do a recreational course of 30 days or less (for example, a short language course).
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Participate in events and sports.
Please be aware that the Schengen Visa does not permit you to search for employment, pursue long-term studies, or engage in marriage or civil partnership registration. For info about another Norway national visa, check the Norwegian government website.
Norway Schengen Visa: Required documents for Indian citizens
When applying for the Norway Visitor Visa with us, you only need to upload your passport copy and photo. You’ll receive a complete guide of which documents to bring to the Norway Visa Application Center by email from our experts.
In general, you’ll need the following visa requirements:
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Copy of your valid passport: Your Indian passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your planned arrival date and have 2 blank pages.
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Trip itinerary: For example, a return/onward plane ticket and any confirmed hotel and tour reservations.
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Proof of sufficient funds: Prove that you can support yourself financially during your trip by providing recent bank statements or an employment contract stating your income.
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Travel insurance: You must have medical travel insurance of at least €30,000 in all Schengen countries that covers medical expenses and repatriation in an emergency.
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Two passport-size photos: Use our easy-to-use [digital photo service] to get a government-compliant photo from the comfort of your home.
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Schengen Visa application form: Correctly filled out, printed, and signed. You'll receive the application during the online process.
You may need to provide additional information, such as a cover letter, sponsorship letter, or additional documentation for any dependents traveling with you, such as your spouse or child(ren).
Visa applicants who meet these requirements should have no issues getting their Norwegian Visa application approved.
How long is the Norway Schengen Visa valid for Indian citizens?
Under the Schengen agreement, the Norwegian Schengen Visa enables Indian citizens to visit Norway and every other Schengen country for a maximum of 90 days per entry within a 180-day period.
This grants you the freedom to travel back and forth between various Schengen member states, with the condition that your total duration of stay does not exceed 90 days in total.
It's important to understand that while we assist with the visa application process for a Multiple entry document, the ultimate decision lies with the Norwegian authorities. They determine whether you will receive a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa based on the information you provide during the application process.
Costs and processing times for the Norway Schengen Visa in India
When you apply for a Schengen Visa with us, you can expect the following:
- Standard iVisa processing: Takes up to 30 days and the visa fee is USD $552.99.
This visa application fee includes full guidance from a team of iVisa Experts, plus a step-by-step handbook to help you fill out the application form and prepare for your interview.
- Government processing: You must pay the government visa fee during your interview appointment. The cost is approximately USD $0.00. Children between 6 and 12 are half-price, and children younger than 6 can apply for the visa for free.
How to apply for the Norwegian Schengen Visa online as an Indian citizen
To apply for your Norway Schengen Visa without hassle in India, simply follow the below steps:
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Step 1: Complete your personal and travel details [on our website] or through our app. Double-check all info carefully.
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Step 2: Then, pay our iVisa service fee with a debit or credit card or PayPal. The government fee is paid at the embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Center (VAC) during your visa appointment.
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Step 3: Fill out the rest of the simplified application form and upload a passport scan and passport photo.
You’ll receive a user-friendly step-by-step manual with information about completing the application form, which documents to bring to the visa appointment, and how to prepare for your interview.
We will make an appointment on your behalf and send you all the info on what you can expect and must bring on the day of the visa submission!
Tips for a successful Norway Schengen Visa application in India
Applying for a Norway Schengen Visa is made easy with our help. Here are some extra tips:
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Start early: Starting visa applications well in advance allows you enough time to gather all the required documents and prepare for the interview. It’s recommended to apply at least two months before your trip.
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Double-check your information carefully: Make sure all the info provided matches your supporting documents, such as your passport with your full name. Double-check for any spelling errors or omissions before applying.
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Sufficient financial proof: You must show sufficient funds to cover your trip’s expenses. Bank statements of the past three to six months showing your income should suffice.
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Travel medical insurance: Get adequate travel insurance that meets the Schengen Visa requirements. It must cover medical emergencies and the repatriation of at least €30,000 in the Schengen Area.
Common reasons for Norway Schengen Visa denials in India
Most Indian citizens get their Norway Schengen Visa without problems. However, there are situations in which applications are denied.
These are common reasons for visa refusals, keeping an eye out for them will help you avoid delays/issues and improve your chances of a successful outcome:
1. Insufficient supporting documents: One of the most common reasons for visa refusals is the lack of proper documentation or the submission of incomplete information. Make sure to include all requested documents that support your travel purpose and meet the requirements.
2. Insufficient financial resources: Submit proof of your financial stability, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, income statements, or other supporting documents.
3. Inadequate travel insurance: Have travel insurance that meets the minimum coverage and submit a valid insurance policy along with your application.
4. Lack of authentic travel reasons: If your purpose of the visit is not clearly stated or seems vague, the Norwegian authorities may doubt the genuineness of your visit. It is important to provide a detailed and credible explanation of your travel plans.
5. No strong ties to India: If you cannot show strong ties to your home country, such as work, property ownership, family commitments, or enrollment in a school, the visa authorities may question your intention to return to India. It is important to provide evidence of your ties to show you’re going to leave the Schengen Area before your visa expires.
6. Past visa violations: If you have a history of overstaying a visa or previous visa rejections, it can impact your current Schengen Visa application. Any previous violations may raise concerns about your compliance. Remember that countries can share information with each other if they doubt your intentions.
Addressing these major reasons for visa refusals will help you prepare for the Norway Visa process.
Norway Schengen Visa: Approval and denial for Indian citizens
When a Norwegian Schengen Visa application is processed in India, it can result in either approval or rejection. Here's what happens in each case:
Approval of the Norwegian Schengen Visa
If your Norwegian Schengen Visa application is approved, you will receive your passport back with the visa affixed to one of its pages.
The visa will indicate the validity dates, duration of stay, and any specific restrictions or conditions. You are then authorized to travel to Norway and the other Schengen countries within the approved visa period.
Rejection of the Norwegian Schengen Visa
If your Norwegian Schengen Visa application is denied, the embassy or consulate has determined that you do not meet the requirements for the visa.
You will receive a written notification explaining the reasons for the denial. The reasons may include insufficient documentation, lack of financial means, doubts about the purpose of visit, or concerns about your intention to return to India.
In the case of a visa denial, you can appeal the decision within a specified time frame, if applicable. The appeal process involves submitting additional documentation or addressing the reasons for the denial in a written statement. It is essential to carefully review the denial letter and follow the instructions.
However, it's important to note that the decision to approve or deny a visa is ultimately at the discretion of the Norwegian embassy or consulate. Receiving a visa denial does not guarantee that an appeal will be successful.
How to prepare for the Norway Schengen Visa interview in India
Preparing for a Norway Schengen Visa interview in India is essential to increase your chances of a successful outcome. Here are some key steps to help you prepare effectively:
1. Familiarize yourself with the process: Understand the purpose and significance of the visa interview. Bring all required documents and make sure you are familiar with common questions.
2. Review your application: Thoroughly double-check your visa application and supporting documents. Ensure that all information is accurate, complete, and consistent. Familiarize yourself with the details of your trip, including the purpose, duration, and itinerary.
3. Prepare supporting documents: Organize and prepare all required supporting documents as mentioned in this article.
4. Practice interview questions: Anticipate potential interview questions and practice your responses. Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel, itinerary, financial stability, ties to your home country, and any other relevant information. Practice articulating your answers clearly and concisely.
5. Dress professionally: Choose appropriate attire for the interview. Dressing professionally demonstrates your seriousness and respect for the visa process.
6. Be respectful and courteous: Show respect and courtesy towards the consular officer throughout the interview process. Answer questions politely and maintain a positive attitude.
If you have more questions about this tourist visa for Norway and the Schengen Area for Indian citizens, contact our customer service agents. They are available via online chat or email at [email protected].