You can choose between two primary types of flight tickets:
1. One-way ticket: This ticket allows you to travel to your destination country without a return trip included. For instance, if you have a one-way ticket from India to Italy, you can fly to Italy but will need a separate ticket for your return journey to India.
2. Round-trip ticket: Also known as a return ticket, this option covers both your outbound and inbound flights between two destinations. For example, a round-trip ticket from India to Italy includes flights to Italy and back to India in one booking.
One-way tickets are not considered valid as proof of a booked flight.
A return ticket, also known as a round-trip ticket, allows passengers to travel from one destination to another and then return to the starting point. For example, a return ticket from Angola to Germany includes flights to Germany and back to Angola without needing a new ticket.
Regarding dummy tickets, they are temporary flight bookings showing a travel itinerary but are not paid for or confirmed. They are often used for visa applications to demonstrate onward travel plans. Dummy tickets resemble real tickets but do not guarantee an actual seat reservation on a flight.
It is not necessary to purchase a flight ticket before applying for a Schengen visa. Buying a ticket in advance carries the risk of losing money if your visa application is denied. Instead, you should provide a flight itinerary when applying, which can be obtained without paying for the actual ticket upfront.