The Schengen Visa is a gateway for Indian passport holders to explore all 27 countries within the Schengen area. However, did you know that the Schengen Visa can also provide access to certain non-Schengen countries, allowing Indian travelers to expand their horizons even further?
In total, Schengen Visa holders from India can travel to 64 countries! In this article, we will explore the other destinations you can visit beyond the Schengen area.
Visit these non-Schengen countries with your Schengen visa
The Schengen Zone comprises the following 27 countries – Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Slovenia, Slovakia, Portugal, Poland, Norway, Netherlands, Malta, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Latvia, Italy, Iceland, Hungary, Greece, Germany, France, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Croatia, Czech Republic, Belgium, and Austria.
However, if you’re not done exploring yet, check out these awesome destinations for your next trip within the validity of your Schengen Visa.
Europe
Bulgaria: Gateway to the Balkans
Bulgaria, a beautiful undiscovered Eastern European country, is not a member of the Schengen area. Still, Indian travelers with a valid Schengen visa can visit Bulgaria for up to 90 days. The country's rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities make it a must-visit destination in the Balkans.
Cyprus: The Mediterranean gem
The island nation of Cyprus, located in the Mediterranean Sea, allows entry to Indian travelers with a valid Schengen Visa, provided that the visa still has at least two entries left and sufficient remaining days. Discover the historic landmarks, azure beaches, and warm hospitality that Cyprus offers.
Romania: Land of Legends
Romania, known for its medieval castles, stunning Carpathian Mountains, and vibrant culture, offers Indian travelers the opportunity to explore the country for up to 90 days within 180 days, provided they have a valid Schengen visa with at least two entries left.
San Marino: Microstate of rich heritage
San Marino, one of the world's oldest republics and surrounded by Italy, is not part of the Schengen area officially. However, since the tiny nation can only be entered through Italy, Indian travelers can use the Schengen Visa and explore the ancient architecture, scenic landscapes, and unique historic charm for up to 30 days.
Andorra: Mountain paradise
Andorra, nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, is not a Schengen member, but Indians with a valid Schengen visa can visit the country for up to 90 days. Andorra's stunning ski resorts, quaint villages, and tax-free shopping attract Indian tourists year-round.
Vatican City: Spiritual center of Europe
Despite not being a member of the European Union or the European Economic Area, Vatican City maintains an open border with Italy and is considered to be part of the Schengen Area. Due to its geographical location within Italy, access to Vatican City is possible with a Schengen Visa for Indian travelers.
Serbia: The heart of the Balkans
Travelers holding a valid Schengen visa can enter Serbia and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, as long as the visa has not expired. This arrangement allows for easier travel between the Schengen area and Serbia, making it convenient for tourists and visitors to explore this charming Balkan nation.
Kosovo: Where history and nature converge
Indian travelers are allowed to visit Kosovo with a Schengen Visa. Kosovo, a country in the Balkans, has its own visa policy, but it recognizes multiple-entry visas from Schengen Area countries for stays of up to 15 days. Find entry tips to Kosovo from Serbia here.
Montenegro: Jewel of the Adriatic
Montenegro, with its stunning Adriatic coastline, picturesque towns, and beautiful national parks, offers a delightful travel experience for visitors. Montenegro is not a member of the Schengen Area, but it recognizes the Schengen visa as a valid travel document for entry into the country.
North Macedonia: Where east meets west
Whether you want to wander through the streets of Skopje, hike in the national parks, or relax by the beautiful Lake Ohrid, having a Schengen Visa enables you to experience the beauty and culture of North Macedonia.
Monaco: A glimpse of luxury
With a Schengen Visa in hand, Indian visitors can explore Monaco's luxury, glamour, and picturesque landscapes, making it a convenient and enticing destination to include in their European travel plans. Once Indian travelers have acquired a Schengen Visa to enter France, they can use it to visit Monaco without the need for an additional visa.
Moldova: Eastern Europe's best-kept secret
Known for its lush vineyards, rich history, and warm hospitality, Moldova offers a delightful blend of Eastern European charm. Visiting Moldova as an Indian traveler with a Schengen visa offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known European gem.
Gibraltar: A tale of history and natural wonders
Schengen Visa holders from India are allowed to visit Gibraltar visa-free for up to 21 days, provided they have at least seven days remaining on the visa. Gibraltar is steeped in history, and its strategic location at the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea has made it a coveted territory throughout the ages.
Georgia: The adventure capital of the world
Nationals who hold a Schengen visa can enter Georgia visa-free for 90 days within 180 days. Georgia offers a plethora of adventure activities, such as trekking in the mountains, rafting down wild rivers, and skiing in winter resorts like Gudauri and Bakuriani.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Bridging the past and present
Indian Schengen Visa holders can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina and stay for 30 days. The country is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, from the serene shores of the Adriatic Sea to the rugged beauty of the Dinaric Alps.
Albania: Beyond the beaten path
Indian citizens can travel to Albania with a Schengen Visa. However, they must apply for a visa exemption. To be eligible, you must possess a valid Schengen visa with multiple entries or within a specified period. The application process involves completing the online form on the Republic of Albania application system.
Asia
The Philippines: Sun, sea, and smiles
Indian passport holders have the exciting opportunity to travel to the Philippines for a short stay of up to 14 days, given that they possess a valid visa issued by any Schengen country. This visa exemption opens up a world of exploration for Indian travelers, allowing them to discover the stunning beaches and warm hospitality.
Singapore: Short-stay splurge
If you have a layover in Singapore and hold a valid Schengen Visa from Switzerland, you are eligible for a hassle-free Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF). This means that you’re allowed to stay in the country for up to 96 hours. It's a fantastic opportunity to explore Singapore's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and iconic landmarks during your layover!
Taiwan: Tradition meets innovation
Nationals of India have the opportunity to visit Taiwan by getting a ROC Travel Authorization Certificate. To be eligible for this certificate, you must hold a valid visa from a Schengen country. Once approved, you can enjoy a stay of up to 14 days in Taiwan. You can easily get this registration online!
Latin America and Caribbean
Colombia: Dance away
With a Schengen Visa with a minimum validity of 180 days left, Indian travelers can embark on an enriching journey to Colombia without an additional visa, immersing themselves in its diverse culture and stunning attractions.
The Bahamas: Pure bliss
The Bahamas recognizes a Schengen Visa as a valid travel document for Indian citizens. This means that Indian passport holders who have a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa can enter the Bahamas for short stays without the need for a separate visa for the Bahamas. It’s perfect for a honeymoon or relaxing holiday.
Dominican Republic: Paradise found
With a valid Schengen visa, Indian travelers enjoy the privilege of visa-free access to the Dominican Republic, allowing them to stay in the country for up to 30 days. This fantastic arrangement offers an exceptional opportunity for Indians to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dominican Republic, from its pristine beaches and lush tropical landscapes to its vibrant culture and warm hospitality.
Panama: Crossroads between Central and South America
Indian travelers with a used multiple-entry Schengen Visa from European Union countries can travel around Panama for a maximum of 30 days. However, note that holders of Schengen Visas from non-EU countries like Switzerland, are not eligible.
Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten: Forever on vacation
These beautiful Caribbean islands are special municipalities under the Netherlands that offer the ability for Indian travelers to enter with a Schengen Visa with multiple entries. Max. allowed stays can vary from 30 to 90 days per destination, so carefully check the requirements for your specific visit.
Belize: Untamed beauty
Indian travelers can visit Belize with a valid Schengen visa for short stays of up to 30 days. Whether you want to snorkel in the Belize Barrier Reef, hike through the jungles, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the local communities, having a Schengen Visa makes it possible for Indian travelers.
Peru: A magical expedition through Inca ruins
Indian citizens who hold valid visas from any Schengen country, are also allowed to visit Peru, without the requirement of obtaining an additional visa. This visa exemption offers an excellent opportunity for Indian visitors to discover Peru's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes!
Mexico: A fiesta of history, culture, and flavors
With a valid Schengen Visa, Indian visitors have the opportunity to explore the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Mexico, from its stunning beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts to its ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.
Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua: Central American dreams
Indian travelers who hold a valid Schengen Visa have the unique opportunity to visit the CA-4 zone countries, which include Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. An agreement exists among these four countries that grants free mobility to tourists, allowing them to travel freely among these.
Important considerations before visiting non-Schengen countries
While it is possible to visit the aforementioned countries with a Schengen visa, travelers should be mindful of certain aspects.
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Visa validity: Ensure that your Schengen Visa is valid for multiple entries, as single-entry visas won't permit re-entry into the Schengen Area after visiting a non-Schengen country.
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Duration of stay: Always adhere to the allowed stay duration in each non-Schengen country. Overstaying can lead to penalties and difficulties in future travel.
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Border controls: Even though Schengen visa holders can visit certain non-Schengen countries, they must go through passport control at the respective borders.
Don’t have a Schengen Visa yet?
With our easy online platform you can kick-start your Schengen Visa application in the easiest way possible. We offer a simplified application process, help with scheduling an interview appointment, step-by-step instructions, and assistance from start to finish. Download our user-friendly app for an even smoother experience!
Apply online now with us for these multiple-entry Schengen Visas:
Please note: The authorities ultimately decide if you receive a single-, double-, or multiple-entry visa.
As visa regulations can change rapidly, always verify the latest rules and requirements before embarking on your journey to make the most of your Schengen Visa experience beyond the Schengen area. Happy travels!