VFS Global has opened a joint visa application centre in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, allowing Indian nationals to apply for Schengen visas without having to travel to New Delhi.
Starting from February 9th, 2023, the new centre will accept visa applications from Austria, Czech Republic, Portugal, Switzerland, Netherlands, Croatia, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Hungary, and Germany.
Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, inaugurated the VFS Global Visa Application Centre on February 4, 2023, with officials stating that the new centre is designed for the convenience of individuals applying for visas.
“The wait is over! Enjoy the seamless experience of applying for visas from your city, Lucknow, and leverage our optional value-added services,” said VFS Global in a Tweet.
The wait is over! Enjoy the seamless experience of applying for visas from your city, Lucknow, and leverage our optional value-added services. For more information, visit https://t.co/H7SMtTNBnA. pic.twitter.com/BYGMriNtA3
— VFS Global (@VFSGlobal) February 9, 2023
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows a person to visit any of the Schengen Area’s 27 European countries for up to 90 days for either tourism or business.
The Schengen Area is the world’s largest free travel zone, covering the majority of European countries and allowing visa holders to travel freely within and out of the Schengen Zone from any of the member countries without crossing any borders.
If a person intends to study, work, or live in one of the Schengen countries for more than 90 days, they must apply for a national visa rather than a Schengen visa.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa
The following is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Schengen visa through the VFS Global website:
- Visit the VFS Global website
- Type “India” in the “I’m applying from” section and the country you plan to visit in the “I’m going to” field.
- Click on “Find a centre” and select Lucknow before booking your online appointment.
It is best to apply for visas as soon as you book your flights and accommodations.
Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (three months) before the date of travel, with the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective February 9th, 2020, allowing individuals to apply for a Schengen visa up to six months before their travel date.
VFS Global also advises applicants to apply for their visas as soon as possible due to the high demand for visas and limited appointment slots.
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