Indian travelers are continuing their European explorations beyond summer, with a significant spike in visa applications for the continent’s autumn and winter seasons. This surge has led to stretched visa appointment timelines and difficulties in securing slots.
European destinations such as Italy, Portugal, Iceland, and Norway are particularly hard to access, with some regions like Delhi and Mumbai facing extended waiting periods for appointment slots. For example, there are currently no available slots for Italy and Portugal in Delhi, and Germany appointments are available only after 90 days.
Atlys, an e-visa startup, has reported a 67% year-on-year increase in European visa applications post-summer, with wait times averaging three to four weeks. The increase is partly driven by the upcoming celestial event of the Northern Lights, expected to be particularly spectacular this year due to intense solar activity.
Thomas Cook (India) Ltd has responded to this trend by launching special tours to view the Northern Lights, covering destinations such as Lapland in Finland, Tromso in Norway, and Kiruna in Sweden. These tours include unique experiences like husky safaris and snowmobile rides.
Outbound travel from India remains strong, fueled by economic growth and rising disposable incomes. Air India has expanded its European routes with increased frequencies to Amsterdam and Milan, while Virgin Atlantic has introduced new flights between London and Bengaluru, and is adding a second daily service between London and Mumbai.
Travel industry executives note that despite the off-peak season, Indian travelers are showing increased interest in Europe, signaling continued growth and potential in the sector.
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