Indian travelers thinking of a Europe trip naturally consider Spain and Iceland. They are both Schengen countries but Indian nationals need to obtain a Spain visa for Indians or an Iceland visa for Indians for short visits. The process of getting the visa has some similarities, yet there are notable differences in terms of requirements, fees, and procedures for Spain and Iceland. The article attempts to give a detailed comparison to aid Indian applicants through the visa process for the two countries.

Types of Visas and Their Purposes

Spain and Iceland offer various categories of visa based on the purpose of visit:

Tourist visa: For leisure, tourism, and sightseeing.

Business visa: For attending business meetings, conferences, or other professional engagements.

Family visit visa: To visit family members in the respective country.

Study visa: For pursuing educational courses.

Work visa: For the purpose of working.

Application Procedures

The application procedures in both countries begin with some common factors

Identify the Right Visa: Choose the category of visa that meets the purpose of your visit.

Complete the Application Form: Complete the Schengen visa application form accurately.

Collect Required Documents: Gather all the necessary supporting documents.

Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the respective visa application center.

Attend the Appointment: Submit your application and biometric data in person.

Pay Visa Fees: Pay the visa and service fees applicable.

Wait For Processing: Await the processing of the application and the communicating of the decision.

Document Requirements

These two countries require some of the same documentation; however, there are particular differences that exist.

Common Requirements:

A Valid Passport: Must be valid for three months and have at least two blank pages from the expected date of departure. 

Visa Application Form: Duly completed and signed. 

Photographs: Recent passport-sized color photos-provided in accordance with the Schengen requirements. 

Travel Insurance: Minimum coverage of €30,000 and valid in Schengen countries. 

Proof of Financial Means: Proof of funds sufficient to cover the duration of stay. 

Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or accommodation arrangements.  

Travel Itinerary: Complete travel itinerary supporting flight bookings.

Spain Specific Requirements:

Financial Proof: Show at least €810 available for travel and give at least €90 per day of stay. 

Iceland-Specific Requirements:

Photograph Specifications: Neutral-color photo, showing the applicant facing the camera directly with a neutral expression, having a plain light-colored background.

Visa Fees

The visa fees for both countries are as follows:​

Spain

Tourist Visa (Short-term Schengen Visa): INR 7,035.​

BLS International Service Charge: INR 1,487. 

Iceland

Adult Visa: €90 (approximately INR 8,200). 

Children Between 6-12 Years: €45 (approximately INR 4,100). 

VFS Service Charge: INR 4,486. 

Note: The mentioned fees may vary depending on fluctuations in the exchange rate and updates to the policies. 

Processing Time

The normal processing time for Schengen visas is 15 calendar days from the date of acceptance of the application by the embassy or consulate. In a few special cases, this time limit may be extended in case of special scrutiny or asked for additional documentation. 

Submission Centers

Visa applications for both countries have been given VFS Global to manage from anywhere in India. Appointment scheduling can be done through their respective websites: ​

Spain: The detailed information for appointment scheduling is available on the official VFS Global website for Spain. 

Iceland: The detailed information for appointment scheduling is available on the official VFS Global website for Iceland. 

Financial Requirements

Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the duration of stay is a requirement for both the countries. This can be done through bank statements, income tax returns, salary slips, and sponsorship letters. The amount required varies from case to case, and it is best to check the latest requirements before applying. 

Travel Insurance

For both countries, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 and valid throughout the Schengen Area is a compulsory requirement. The insurance should cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. 

Photograph Specification

Photograph requirements are specified for both countries: 

Spain Visa for Indians : A recent color passport-size photograph. 

Iceland Visa for Indians: Photographs that are color-neutral facing directly toward the camera with a neutral expression against a plain light-color backdrop. 

Conclusion

Both Spain visa for Indians and Iceland visa for Indians operate under the Schengen visa program; hence, their visa application mechanisms bear similarity for Indian travelers. On the contrary, there exist major differences in financial requirements, visa fees, and some other documentation. The more popular Spain attracts a larger number of tourist applicants and has an easier application process with visa centers across India. The other side of the coin is that applying for an Iceland visa for Indians may involve more service fees and stricter photograph specifications.

So the choice can be based on your trip schedule, the budget at your disposal, and your personal preference. Check to make sure that all documents are lined up, apply for the visa early, and follow embassy instructions to enhance the probability of obtaining a visa for either country. The vibrant culture of Spain or breathtaking landscapes of Iceland are just too well worth it to miss. A proper visa application is essential for an easy European journey.