Schengen Visa: Requirements, Countries, and Application Tips

Schengen Visa for Indonesian Citizens: 29 Countries, Best Seasons, and Application Requirements

If you are planning to visit Europe, one of the first things you should confirm is the status of your Schengen Visa. The Schengen Area continues to undergo membership updates, and relying on outdated information can lead to inaccurate travel planning.
 

As of January 2025, the number of Schengen member states has officially increased to 29 following the full accession of Romania and Bulgaria. This means that with a single visa, you can now travel across almost all of Europe without additional internal border checks.
 

Before reviewing the list of member countries, it is important to understand why this topic is increasingly relevant for Indonesian citizens.

Why Is This Information Relevant to You?

Interest in international travel among Indonesians continues to grow. Data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in 2024 shows a consistent upward trend in outbound travel by Indonesian residents. At the same time, Schengen regulations remain strict and consistent.
 

The European Commission confirms that a Type C Schengen Visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. This rule remains unchanged despite the expansion in the number of member states.
 

However, one aspect that is often overlooked is protection readiness. Statistics from Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) in 2024 indicate that insurance penetration in Indonesia remains relatively low compared to the needs of international travel.
 

In other words, mobility is increasing, but risk mitigation preparedness has not fully kept pace.
 

With this context in mind, it is essential to clearly understand the definition and mechanism of the Schengen Visa.

What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa is a short-term entry permit issued by one of the Schengen member states and valid throughout the entire Schengen Area.
 

With a single visa, you can:
 

• Enter through your main destination country
  
  

• Travel between member states without additional internal immigration checks
  
  

• Stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period
   

However, this convenience comes with administrative obligations. One of the key requirements is travel insurance with a minimum medical coverage of EUR 30,000 for emergency medical expenses.
 

To better understand the insurance standards that comply with Schengen regulations, you may also read our article on travel insurance for a Schengen Visa.

Functions and Benefits of a Schengen Visa

A Schengen Visa facilitates mobility between member states without requiring passport checks at every internal border. This system is particularly advantageous for tourists and business travelers who wish to visit multiple European countries within a single itinerary.
 

Beyond simplifying travel, the Schengen system also harmonizes entry policies for non–European Union nationals. This means that all member states apply relatively consistent evaluation standards when determining visa eligibility.
 

If you are planning your first trip to Europe, broader preparation resources such as a comprehensive guide to international travel insurance can also help you better structure your overall travel planning.

Countries Outside the EU That Require a Schengen Visa

Most countries outside the European Union and the European Economic Area require a Schengen Visa for short-term visits. Indonesia is included in this group, along with countries such as India, China, Russia, and South Africa.
 

This requirement is not directed at any single country in particular. Rather, it forms part of the Schengen Area’s collective policy for managing its external borders.
 

However, there are certain exceptions.

Exceptions and Special Regulations

Some countries have visa-free agreements with the European Union for short-term visits of up to 90 days. Examples include citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan.
 

These differences reflect bilateral agreements as well as security and migration considerations.
 

Since Indonesia is not included in the visa-free category, understanding the technical requirements of the application process becomes especially important.

Important Rules to Understand Before Applying for a Schengen Visa

In addition to preparing the required documents, there are several technical rules that applicants often overlook. Even minor errors at this stage can result in delays or, in some cases, application rejection.

Which Country Should You Apply Through?

You must submit your application through your main destination country—that is, the country where you will spend the longest duration according to your itinerary. If the duration of stay is equal in multiple countries, you should apply through the country where you will first enter the Schengen Area.
 

Incorrectly determining the country of application may result in your application being returned or rejected due to jurisdictional issues.

Can One Visa Be Used to Visit Multiple Countries?

Yes. A Schengen Visa is valid collectively across all 29 member states. As long as your visa remains valid and you do not exceed the 90-day limit within a 180-day period, you may travel between member countries without additional internal passport checks.
 

If you would like to better understand the factors that influence visa approval rates, you may also refer to our article on Schengen countries with the highest visa approval rates for Indonesian citizens for additional insight.

Updated List of 29 Schengen Countries, Currencies, and Best Times to Visit

As of January 2025, Romania and Bulgaria have officially become full members of the Schengen Area, bringing the total number of member states to 29.
 

Below is the updated list:

Disclaimer: The currency information and recommended travel seasons above serve as general guidance based on typical climate patterns. Weather conditions, travel policies, and local situations may change. Always verify official information from government or tourism authorities before planning your trip.

Most member states use the Euro. However, several countries maintain their own national currencies, including BGN, RON, CHF, NOK, SEK, CZK, and HUF. This distinction is important for budgeting and currency exchange planning.

Now that you understand the geographic scope of the Schengen Area, it is important to examine why Indonesian citizens are still required to obtain a visa to enter this region.

Why Do Indonesian Citizens Need a Schengen Visa?

Indonesia is not included in the list of countries granted short-term visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Therefore, all Indonesian citizens are required to apply for a Schengen Visa before traveling for tourism, business, or family visits to the region, which now consists of 29 member states.
 

This policy is based on several key considerations:

1. Control of non–European Union entry flows

Schengen member states implement an integrated immigration system to monitor and regulate the movement of individuals entering from outside the European Union.

2. Prevention of overstays and irregular migration

The visa process allows authorities to assess the purpose of travel, intended duration of stay, and previous travel history.

3. Regional security and stability

Document verification ensures that visitors have a clear travel purpose, valid accommodation arrangements, and sufficient financial capacity to support their stay.

In this context, the Schengen Visa functions as an administrative screening mechanism designed to ensure that visitors meet entry requirements and demonstrate adequate financial preparedness.

General Documents Required for a Schengen Visa Application

Before applying for a Schengen Visa, you must prepare supporting documents that will form the basis of evaluation by the embassy or visa application center. The completeness and consistency of these documents play a critical role in determining whether your application proceeds smoothly.

Disclaimer: The document requirements above provide a general overview for short-term Schengen Visa applications. Specific document details, formats, and additional requirements may vary depending on the embassy or visa application center of your main destination country. Always consult the official website of the relevant embassy or visa center before submitting your application.
 

Among all these documents, there is one requirement that is often treated as a mere formality but is, in fact, crucial: travel insurance.

The Importance of Travel Insurance at Every Stage of a Schengen Trip

Travel insurance is not simply an administrative requirement for visa approval. It plays a distinct and important role at every stage of your journey.

The Role of Travel Insurance at Different Stages of Your Journey

Disclaimer: Benefits and coverage vary depending on the insurance product and policy selected. Always review the policy summary, terms, and conditions carefully before purchasing.
 

Medical expenses in Europe can reach thousands of euros even for relatively simple procedures such as short-term hospitalization. Without insurance coverage, the full financial burden becomes your personal responsibility.
 

This is where the context of Indonesian travelers becomes particularly relevant. Beyond serving as an administrative visa requirement, travel insurance functions as financial protection when you are in a country with a healthcare system and cost structure significantly different from Indonesia.

Why Is This Stage Important for Indonesian Travelers?

There are several considerations you should understand:
 

• Medical costs in Europe are generally higher than in Indonesia.
  
  

• Schengen regulations require a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000.
  
  

• Travel disruptions can directly affect your personal travel budget.
   

With this understanding, travel insurance should no longer be seen as a mere formality, but rather as a rational component of risk planning.

To help you select a policy that meets both your travel needs and Schengen visa requirements, you may also read our article on how to choose travel insurance for a Schengen Visa.

Why Choose Oona Travel Insurance for the Schengen Area?

For travel to the 29 Schengen member states, the insurance product you select must comply with European Union regulatory standards, particularly regarding minimum medical coverage.
 

Oona Travel Insurance for the Schengen Area is designed to meet these requirements while supporting your administrative needs during the visa application process.

How Oona’s Product Aligns with Schengen Visa Requirements

Disclaimer: Benefit details, exclusions, and coverage limits may vary depending on the selected package. Always review the full policy terms carefully before making a purchase.
 

If you would like to explore suitable protection options for Indonesian travelers, you may also refer to our article on the best travel insurance for Indonesian citizens applying for a Schengen Visa before making your decision.
 

For detailed benefits and package options, you can visit the Oona Schengen Travel Insurance page and choose the coverage that best matches your travel needs.

Planning Your Schengen Trip with Greater Confidence and Protection

A Schengen Visa provides access to 29 European countries through a single application. However, that access comes with administrative and financial responsibilities.

Understanding the 90/180-day rule, selecting the correct country of application, preparing complete documentation, and ensuring appropriate insurance coverage will help your trip proceed more smoothly.

International travel always brings opportunities for new experiences. With thorough preparation, you can enjoy your journey with greater peace of mind and better planning.