Is Biometric Required for Schengen Visa from India in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? The fingerprints and digital photos are also required for the Schengen visa process. The data obtained is locked up in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 59 months. First-time applicants have to have a physical biometric appointment. Some of them, including children under 12 years old, are physically incapable of giving fingerprints, and some government officials are not required to do so. This step-by-step can be used to embark on the Schengen visa biometric process in India, providing tips on how to make appointments, what to expect regarding cost, and how to avoid some pitfalls that would make the entire process a nightmare.

Is a Biometric Required for a Schengen Visa from India in 2025? Latest Update

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Indeed, a Schengen visa in India requires biometrics. New applicants are required to submit 10 fingerprints and a digital photo during a biometric appointment. The VIS retains data within 59 months. Children below 12 years old, physically disabled persons, and some officials are excluded.

What Are the Biometric Requirements for a Schengen Visa from India in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Biometric data is received to improve security and avoid fraud.

• 10 fingerprints (fingers, two hands)

• Digital facial photograph

• At times, the electronic signature, height, and eye color are.

Visa Information System (VIS):

• Applied on November 2, 2015, for Indian applicants.

• A common database on 27 Schengen countries.

• Stops identity theft and fraud of documents.

• Biometric data enhances quickness and authenticity at the border. VIS allows the identity of every Schengen country to be verified.

Do Indian Citizens Need the Latest Biometric Appointments for a Schengen Visa?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Indian citizens are required to have biometric appointments for Schengen visas.

• Initial applicants must visit face-to-face appointments in an embassy, a consulate, or any approved VFS/BLS center.

• It is not often necessary that repeat applicants within 59 months of the last biometrics appointment require a new appointment.

• Exceptions are extended to children below 12 years old, physically incapacitated, and some government officials.

• Biometric information contains 10 fingerprints and a digital picture, and it is stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 59 59-month time.

Also Read: Schengen Visa Portugal: New Complete Guide & Updates

Are Current Biometric Appointments Mandatory for First-Time Applicants?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Yes, when it is the first time:

• Physical attendance at the embassy/consulate or VFS/BLS office.

• Provide a photograph and fingerprints.

• Impossibility of waiving personal appearance.

First-time means:

• Not filed in Schengen biometrics, OR

• The last filing was more than 59 months ago.

Do Previous Schengen Visa Holders Need New Biometrics in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Biometric data has a validity of 59 months.

• When the last data in your hands is less than 59 months, you usually do not need another collection.

• VIS will automatically search past fingerprints and photos.

• Exceptions: problem with data quality or identity verification ordered.

• Example: To the extent that your Biometrics were captured in January 2021, the same are valid until November 2025.

Who Is Exempt from the Latest Schengen Visa Biometric Requirements in India?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Exemptions apply to:

• Children under 12 years

• Individuals who are unable to offer fingerprints physically.

• Official travels are made by heads of state and senior government officials.

A biometric passport does not relieve you of Schengen visa biometrics.

How Does the Current Biometric Data Collection Process Work for Schengen Visas?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? The process of biometric data collection for Schengen visas in India is not complicated, but it is fast.

• What is Gathered: 10 fingerprints, a computerized photograph of the face, and, occasionally, height and eye color.

• Where: At the major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, and Ahmedabad in the embassy/consulate, the VFS Global, or BLS International centers. Mobile biometric services are also offered to groups or corporate applicants.

• Time: The biometric section will take approximately 5-10 minutes, and the entire appointment will be 45-60 minutes, including document verification and payment.

• Bring: Fill out the passport and visa form, appointment confirmation, receipts of payment, supportive documents, and recent photographs (when necessary). Keep your hands clean, do not apply henna, and have clean fingers.

Also Read: Schengen Visa Cost India: Fees, Application & Tips

What Biometric Data Is Collected at Visa Appointments in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• 10 fingerprints (all fingers)

• Digital photograph

• Electronic signature

• In some cases, height and eye color.

• Process takes 5–10 minutes.

Where Can Indian Applicants Provide the Latest Biometric Data for a Schengen Visa?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Sanctioned access points are:

• Directly (country-specific) Embassy/Consulate.

• VFS Global visa centers (most of the applications)

• BLS international hubs (e.g., Spain)

• Big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, and Ahmedabad.

• Home/office mobile biometrics services offered (additional fees)

• Borderline walk-ins are not usually permitted. An appointment is mandatory.

What Should Current Applicants Bring to Biometric Appointments?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• Valid passport (at least 3 months to date of return), two blank pages.

• Filled and signed visa application form.

• Letter of confirmation of appointment/ email.

• Payment receipts

• Supporting documents according to the type of visa.

• Recent (unless taken at the center) photographs.

Special Tips:

• Avoid mehndi/henna on hands

• Heal the injuries of the fingers.

• Put on light-framed glasses.

How Long Is Biometric Data Stored for Schengen Visas from India in 2025?

Schengen visa biometric data of Indians is retained in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 59 months (nearly 5 years).

• Validity: When the Biometrics were collected in the past 59 months, you do not typically have to provide any new biometrics when the next application is made.

• Expiry: New visa applications need new biometrics.

• Coverage: A single biometric filing applies to all 27 Schengen countries.

• VIS Removal: Data will be deleted automatically after 59 months, preserving privacy and being consistent with EU regulations.

What Is the Latest 59-Month Rule for Schengen Visa Biometrics?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Stored for 59 months (5 years)

• VIS has the feature of self-destructing.

• Follow-up applications are made in 59 months using previous information.

• Biometrics gathered from March 2024 to February 2029.

Is Current Biometric Data Shared Across All Schengen Countries?

A single biometric collection will be accepted across all 27 Schengen countries.

• VIS is centralized and open to all member states.

• Unless otherwise agreed with non-Schengen EU countries.

What Are the Costs Associated with Schengen Visa Biometric Appointments in India in 2025?

Schengen visa biometric appointments in India cost: the standard visa fee and service fee.

• Visa Fee (2025): Adults 90 (~INR 8,0009100), 612 years 45 (~INR 4,0004,600), under 6 years no fee.

• Service Charges: VFS/BLS facilities charge between INR 1,500 and 3,000 to process and collect biometrics.

• Additional Services: Courier, SMS updates, prime time slots, and mobile biometric collection (INR 8,000 -11,000 with logistics).

• Exemptions/Reductions: Students, children under 6, researchers, and some EU program members can be provided with full or partial fee waivers.

What Is the Latest Standard Schengen Visa Fee for Indian Applicants in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• Adults: €90 (INR 8,000–9,100)

• Children 6–12: €45 (INR 4,000–4,600)

• Children under 6: Free

• Payment: Cash/debit/credit card/UPI at most centers.

Are There Current Additional Charges for Biometric Collection in India?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• VFS Service Charge: INR 1,500–3,000

• BLS Service Charge: INR 1,800–2,500

• Optional Courier: INR 500–1,000

• SMS Updates: INR 150–300

• Prime Time Slots: INR 600–1,500

• Mobile Biometric Service: INR 8,000-11,000 per applicant.

Who Qualifies for Schengen Visa Fee Waivers or Reductions in India in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? Full exemptions:

• Children under 6

• Students who have an admission letter.

• Scholars within EU initiatives.

• EU/EEA nationals and their family members.

Reduced Fees:

• Children 6–12: €45

• Participants of cultural exchange, students, and researchers.

How Can Latest Indian Applicants Book Biometric Appointments for Schengen Visas?

To make a biometric appointment when applying for a Schengen visa, Indian applicants need to do the following steps:

• Determine Your Main Destination: Select the country where you will spend the longest time or your entry country.

• Check Biometric Requirement: First-time applicants or applicants with expired biometrics (more than 59 months) must attend.

• Make an Official Portal Visit: Visit the embassy/consulate or authorised VFS/BLS site.

• Register: This is done by applying to the visa application portal.

• Fill Application Form: Fill out the Schengen visa application correctly.

• Select Date and Time of Appointment: Select it depending on availability at the closest visa application center.

• Pay Fees: Visa and service fees online or at the center.

• Response to Confirmation: Accept the appointment letter by email.

• Make Paperwork: Checklist country-specific.

• Attend Appointment: You should report on the date with all the necessary documents.

Making a booking 3-4 weeks ahead of the travel, particularly during peak season, will help make slots and smoother processing.

Also Read: Invitation Letter for Schengen Visa: Format, Sample & More

What Is the Current Step-by-Step Process for Scheduling Schengen Biometric Appointments?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

1. Select the key destination country.

2. Determine whether biometrics is necessary.

3. Go to the official embassy/VAC site.

4. Register a visa portal account.

5. Complete the application form online.

6. Choose the date/time of the appointment.

7. Pay visa fees

8. Get appointment confirmation.

9. Prepare required documents

10. Show up for the scheduled appointment.

When Should Indians Apply for Schengen Visa Biometric Appointments in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• Latest: 6 months before traveling.

• Recommended: 3–4 weeks before

• Recent: 15 working days before travelling (not ideal)

• High Season: May-September- -68 weeks early.

What If No Latest Biometric Appointment Slots Are Available?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• Check multiple times daily.

• Try different centers

• Take into account the mobile biometric service.

What Happens During a Current Schengen Visa Biometric Appointment in India?

In India, during a Schengen visa biometric appointment, the applicants are subjected to the following:

• Biometric Capture: 10 fingerprints and a digital photograph are captured.

• Document Check: Employee verifies their passport, application, appointment letter, and supporting documents.

• Confirmation of Payment: Individuals pay outstanding visa or service fees.

• Time: The time to capture biometrics is 5-10 minutes; an appointment that includes checking can take up to 45-60 minutes.

• Tracking: The applicant is given a receipt and reference number to track the visa processing.

• Presence Requirement: The application should be made physically; the representatives are not allowed to give biometrics on behalf of the applicant.

This will give you your identification and make it possible to process the Schengen visa application.

How Long Does a Schengen Biometric Appointment Take in 2025?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• Biometric Capture: 5–10 minutes

• Total Appointment: 15–30 minutes

The whole process, including verification, takes 45 to 60 minutes.

Can Someone Else Attend the Latest Biometric Appointment on Your Behalf?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India? No, face-to-face is obligatory.

• Exception: Repeat applicants with less than 59 months may authorize documents.

• Children below 12: Must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

What Happens After Current Biometric Data Is Collected?

Immediately, the biometric quality is verified.

• VIS upload within 24 hours

• The application was handed over to the embassy for processing.

• Background check, document verification: 1014 days.

• Visa decision takes 1–3 days

• Collection of passports: either by hand or by messenger.

Are There Any Exceptions to the Biometric Requirement for Schengen Visas from India in 2025?

Yes, the biometric aspect of the Schengen visa to India is not without exceptions.

• Young Children Below 12 Years: Completely exempt from fingerprint collection; they might be required to provide a digital photo.

• Physically Incapacitated Persons: If the applicant is physically incapacitated (by medical conditions or wounds), they can be excused with the required documentation.

• Diplomatic or Official Passport Holder: Heads of state, ministers, and official government delegations might be exempt during official travel.

The rest of the applicants are subject to a biometric appointment. Even exempted people must provide a complete visa application and other supporting documents.

Do the Latest Children from India Need Biometrics for Schengen Visas?

• Under 6: No photo, no fingerprints.

• 6–11: Fingerprints + photo

• 12–18: Complete biometric requirement

Parental consent and attendance were necessary.

What If Someone Is Physically Unable to Provide Current Fingerprints?

• Provisional disorders like trauma, henna, and bandages.

• Permanent disorders like amputation of fingers, gross scars.

• Should furnish medical records.

• The application was still being processed.

Are Diplomatic or Official Passport Holders Exempt from Biometrics in 2025?

• Not automatically exempt

• Only Heads of State and Ministers on official visits are exempt.

• Diplomatic business travel with biometrics is still necessary.

How Does Latest Biometric Data Protect Schengen Visa Applicants from India?

Biometric information secures the Schengen visa applications by Indians in various aspects:

• Averts Identity Theft: Fingerprints and digital photographs prove the applicant's identity.

• Minimizes Visa Fraud: Make sure the visa application and documents are authentic.

• Deters Visa Shopping: Applicants are not allowed to seek an application in more than one country in the Schengen area.

• Quickened Border Processing: Biometric checks enhance faster processing at the Schengen borders.

• Data Security: Confidentially stored in the VIS system without ever being used to the detriment of the visa and border control.

The measures provide a safer means of traveling and guard against fraud by the applicants and Schengen countries.

How Does Current VIS Prevent Identity Theft and Visa Fraud?

• Authenticates identity in borders.

• Prevents visa shopping

• Detects document fraud

• Verifies travel history

• Speeds up border control

Is Biometric Data Safe and Secure in the VIS System in 2025?

• Works within the EU laws of data protection.

• Data is only accessed by authorized staff.

• Advanced encryption

• Data that is utilized purely for visa processing and border control.

• Automatic deletion of 59 months.

What Are Latest Country-Specific Biometric Requirements for Popular Schengen Destinations from India?

The following is a brief description of the biometric requirements at popular Schengen destinations when traveling to India:

• Germany: Standard 10 fingerprints + photo; apply through VFS Global locations; 15-day process; it might take longer to process the students.

• France: Identical biometric requirement; apply through The VFS Global France; interviews may be conducted; high season can be a delaying factor.

• Italy & Spain: 10 fingerprints plus photographed, Italy via VFS Global and Spain via BLS International, 15 days to process; extra documents may be needed to obtain a family or work visa.

First-time applicants in any country are supposed to go through a biometric appointment, and the biometrics will be used in the subsequent application, provided the Biometrics collected were made within 59 months.

Also Read: Chances of Getting Schengen Visa After Rejection 

What are Germany's current Biometric Requirements for Indian Applicants?

• Standard is 10 fingerprints/ photo.

• VFS centers across India

• 15-day processing average

• An interview might be necessary for students.

What Are France's Biometric Requirements for Indian Applicants in 2025?

• Precision is required in photos and fingerprints.

• Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Pondicherry VFS France visa centers.

• May needs a personal interview.

What are Italy's and Spain's latest Biometric Requirements for Indian Applicants?

Is a biometric required for a Schengen visa from India?

• Italy: VFS Global centres, standard 15-day processing.

• Spain: BLS International centers.

• Work Visas: Supplementary documents.

• Relationship Visas: Relationship evidence.

What Are the Current Common Issues and Solutions for Schengen Biometric Appointments in India?

The following is a brief description of frequently used problems and resolutions to Schengen biometric appointments in India:

• Bad Quality: Fingerprint can be dry, wet, calloused, and scanned poorly. Remedy: wet hands, wipe them, or use other fingers.

• Absent Appointment: Call VFS/BLS at once to do so; you might need to pay again.

• No Open Slots: Visit several times daily to cancel, visit alternative centres, or use mobile biometric services.

• Error in Documentation: Ensure all the forms and other documentation are complete; otherwise, incomplete documentation may slow down processing.

• Biometric Rejection: This is rare, but it can necessitate re-scanning; it is not because of bad scans that your application is rejected.

What If Biometric Quality Is Poor or Fingerprints Don't Scan Properly in 2025?

• Dry Hands: Use moisturizer

• Wet Hands: Dry thoroughly

• Calluses/Scars: Report to the officer.

Several scans or other fingers are utilized.

What Happens If You Miss Your Latest Scheduled Biometric Appointment?

• Contact VFS/BLS immediately.

• Re-book online or call the call center.

• May require a new fee

• Slowness in processing.

How Can TerraTern Help with Current Schengen Visa Biometric Appointments?

• Biometric requirement evaluation.

• Booking assistance with appointments.

• Guidance in document preparation.

• Country-specific advice

• More than 7 years of experience, 5,000 successful customers.

Schengen Visa 2025: Key Updates for Indian Applicants

Key Statistics & Trends:

1. Mandatory Biometric Implementation: Since November 2, 2015, all Indian citizens applying for Schengen visas must provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photography) for short-stay visas

2. VIS Storage Duration: Biometric data is stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for exactly 59 months (approximately 5 years)

3. Processing Timeline 2025: Standard visa processing takes 15 calendar days after the application reaches the consulate, with potential extension up to 30-60 days during peak seasons

4. Fee Structure 2025: Adult Schengen visa fee is €90 (INR 8,000-9,100), children 6-12 pay €45 (INR 4,000-4,600), children under 6 are exempt

5. VFS Service Charges: Additional service charges range from INR 1,500-3,000 at visa application centers

6. Mobile Biometric Services: Available for groups and individuals at home/office with fees starting from INR 8,000-11,000 per applicant, plus logistics

7. Exemption Categories: Children under 12, physically unable persons, and high-ranking government officials are exempt from fingerprinting

Conclusion

A Schengen visa requires Biometrics in India and is mandatory for most applicants. These include submitting 10 fingerprints and a digital photo, and first-time applicants must undergo a physical appointment. It is exempted for children under 12 years old who are physically incapable of giving fingerprints, and some government officials. The biometric information obtained is entered into the Visa information system (VIS) and exists within the system for 59 months. It is advisable to use 3-4 weeks before traveling, particularly in peak season.  Contact TerraTern for more information on whether a biometric is required for a Schengen visa from India.