The Schengen Visa is a travel document that grants Indian passport holders the ability to travel freely within the Schengen Area, a region consisting of 26 European countries that have abolished internal border controls. While it provides significant travel benefits within the Schengen Area, it's essential to understand that the visa itself doesn't offer visa-free access to other countries outside this zone.
For instance, suppose an Indian citizen obtains a Schengen Visa to visit France for a vacation. With this visa, they can travel within the Schengen Area and explore other countries like Italy, Germany, Spain, and many more without the need for additional visas. This ease of travel within the Schengen Area makes it an attractive choice for tourists and business travelers alike.
However, if this same Indian traveler decides to extend their journey and visit the United Kingdom, which is not part of the Schengen Area, they will need a separate UK visa. The Schengen Visa does not grant them access to the UK or any other non-Schengen country.
Another example is if the Indian traveler intends to explore Croatia, a country that is not yet part of the Schengen Area (as of September 2021). In this case, they will need a Croatian visa, even though they already possess a Schengen Visa.
It's crucial to remember that visa requirements can change over time, and countries may join or leave the Schengen Area or modify their visa policies. Therefore, before planning any international travel, Indian citizens must research and verify the most up-to-date visa requirements for each specific country they wish to visit.
To obtain accurate and current visa information, travelers can check the official websites of the embassies or consulates of the countries they plan to explore. Staying informed about visa regulations ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, allowing Indian passport holders to make the most of their international journeys within the Schengen Area and beyond.