Schengen vs UK Tourist Visa — Which is Easier to Get?
Schengen lets you visit 29 European countries on one visa. UK requires a separate visa but offers longer multi-entry options. Here's which is easier, cheaper, and more suitable for Indian travelers.
The short answer
- A Schengen visa does not cover the UK, and a UK visa does not cover the Schengen area. You need the one for where you are going, or both.
- UK Standard Visitor visa: £135 (≈₹14,300) since 8 April 2026, for visits of up to 6 months.
- Schengen visa: €90, plus a visa-centre service charge of ₹652–₹3,205 depending on the country (fees recorded 28 Aug 2026), for up to 90 days in any 180.
- For Schengen, apply to the country where you will spend the most nights; if your nights are split equally, apply through the country you enter first.
Schengen Visa
29 countries, one visa
Pros
- Access to 29 European countries
- 90 days in 180-day period
- Cheaper: €90 (~₹8,000)
- Many embassies — choose least strict (France, Greece, Italy easier than Germany)
Cons
- 15-45 day processing in peak season
- Strict on return-intent (rejection common for first-time travelers)
- Must enter via country that issued visa first (recommended)
- Max 90 days every 180 days
- Cost
- €90 (~₹8,000) + VFS ₹2,000
- Timeline
- 15-45 days
- Best For
- Multi-country European trips
UK Tourist Visa
Longer stays, multi-year options
Pros
- 6-month validity per entry
- Multi-entry 2, 5, or 10-year visas available
- Simpler application form
- Online application fully digital
Cons
- More expensive: £127 (~₹13,500) for 6-month
- Only UK access — doesn't cover Ireland or EU
- Cost
- £127-£963 (2/5/10-year)
- Timeline
- 15 working days standard, 5 days priority
- Best For
- Frequent UK visitors, UK-focused trips
Key Differences at a Glance
| Factor | Schengen Visa | UK Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Countries covered | 29 Schengen | UK only |
| Cost | ₹8,000 | ₹13,500 (6-month) |
| Max stay per trip | 90 days/180 | 6 months |
| Multi-year option | No (each visa is short) | Yes — 2, 5, 10 year |
Choose Schengen Visa if...
Choose Schengen if you want to explore multiple European countries in one trip, or if your budget is tighter.
Choose UK Tourist Visa if...
Choose UK if you have family/business there, want longer single-trip stays, or plan frequent visits (10-year visa is amazing value).
Our Verdict
For single Europe trips → Schengen. For repeat visitors with UK ties → UK 10-year visa. Many Indians get both over time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better — Schengen Visa or UK Tourist Visa?
For single Europe trips → Schengen. For repeat visitors with UK ties → UK 10-year visa. Many Indians get both over time.
How much does Schengen Visa cost compared to UK Tourist Visa?
Schengen Visa: €90 (~₹8,000) + VFS ₹2,000. UK Tourist Visa: £127-£963 (2/5/10-year).
Who should choose Schengen Visa?
Choose Schengen if you want to explore multiple European countries in one trip, or if your budget is tighter.
Who should choose UK Tourist Visa?
Choose UK if you have family/business there, want longer single-trip stays, or plan frequent visits (10-year visa is amazing value).
Can SureshotVisa help me decide?
Yes. Our experts analyze your profile (education, experience, English scores, family situation, budget) and recommend the best option for YOU. Talk to us on WhatsApp to get a personalized roadmap.
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