Understanding the Schengen Visa Bank Balance Requirement

To obtain a Schengen visa, there isn't a fixed bank balance requirement as it can vary based on the country you are applying to and the duration of your stay. However, you typically need to demonstrate that you can cover your expenses while in the Schengen Area.

General Guidelines for Bank Balance

Based on length of stay, here are some general guidelines for the bank balance needed:

Short Stays (Up to 90 Days)

Some countries may require a daily amount ranging from €40 to €100, which is approximately 350 to 880 INR. For example, for a 10-day stay, you might need to show a balance of around €400 to €1000, which is approximately 3500 to 8800 INR.

Therefore, a bank balance of ?90,000 might be sufficient for a short stay in most Schengen countries, assuming you also provide other necessary documentation like travel insurance, accommodation details, and a travel itinerary.

Specific Requirements by Country

Always check the specific requirements of the country you plan to visit, as they can differ. Some countries may have stricter requirements, especially for longer stays or specific types of visas, such as business or study visas.

Factors Affecting Your Bank Balance Requirement

While a bank balance is important, it's not the only factor. Other factors include your Income Tax Return (ITR), travel records, and more.

Income Tax Return (ITR) and Certainty of Return

Your ITR is your official income, and it is often scrutinized to ensure you have the financial means to return to your home country. Even for financial matters, there can be ways to get around strict requirements.

Practical Considerations for a Short Stay

For a short stay of 4-5 days, a bank balance of ?90,000 might indeed be justifiable, as the average daily expense for a Schengen short stay can vary from €75 to €80 (approximately 630 to 700 INR per day). This means that a bank balance of ?90,000 could easily cover the expenses for a short trip, including:

Plane tickets Visa costs Local accommodations Food and local transport Emergency funds

Considering an extra 20% buffer (approximately ?18,000), the total should comfortably cover your expenses.

Embassy Considerations

Embassies and consulates have the authority to deny visas if they find the documentation insufficient. Strong financial documents, however, can significantly increase your chances of approval.

Conclusion

In summary, a bank balance of ?90,000 can indeed provide the necessary financial assurance for a short stay in most Schengen countries, given the general guidelines and practical considerations outlined. Ensure you have all the required documentation and be prepared to provide additional proof as necessary.