Schengen business visa
Indian business travellers need a Schengen visa for meetings and trade fairs in Europe. If you travel often and keep a clean record, longer visas follow.
What it allows
A Schengen short-stay visa for business lets you:
- attend meetings and negotiations
- visit trade fairs and conferences
- visit suppliers, customers and group companies
- sign contracts
It does not allow you to work for a European employer or be paid by a European entity for work done there.
The 90/180 rule
You can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Days in all Schengen countries count together.
Where to apply
Apply to the consulate of the country that is your main destination (where you will spend the most time), usually through its visa application centre in India. If stays are equal, apply to the country of first entry.
Documents
- Invitation letter from the European company, with purpose and dates
- Letter from your Indian employer confirming your role and that it pays for the trip
- Travel medical insurance
- Bank statements and income tax returns
- Flight and hotel bookings
- Company registration documents
Multi-entry visas for frequent travellers
Since 2024, Indian nationals who have used previous Schengen visas lawfully can benefit from a "cascade": after previous visas, a two-year multi-entry visa can be issued, followed by a five-year one, subject to passport validity. Keep your travel history clean and your visas used for their stated purpose.
Plan ahead
Visa appointments in India can be booked out in peak seasons, especially before summer trade fairs. Apply as early as the consulate allows.
Read next
- Finding partners in EuropeTrade fairs, directories and how to check a distributor before you sign.
- Expanding your Indian company into EuropeMarket entry into the EU for Indian companies: where to start, which model, and the first decisions.
- How to spot a fake job offerThe warning signs, and how to check a recruiter in twenty minutes.
