Digital Schengen visas: what is known today?
Description:
Digitalisation in tourism and travel is moving forward, and one of the latest innovative steps was the introduction of digital Schengen visas, with the EU Council in November 2023 approving a new application procedure.
According to the EU regulation, in 2026 there will be both a platform for applying for EU visas and the digital visa itself. The transition period will take about two years and, once completed, all Schengen applications will be submitted online through the EU visa platform, with the exception of a few exceptional cases for which a paper procedure will remain possible.
The new system provides convenience and simplicity for travelers, reducing bureaucratic procedures and speeding up the visa process without having to visit a consulate or embassy.
Another important aspect of digital Schengen visas is the ability to track the status of the application in real time. Travelers can easily check what stage their application is at and expect results faster.
How the visa procedure will change
All Schengen-related procedures will be available on one platform, including visa fees.
The platform must determine which Schengen country is responsible for processing the application and then forward it to the relevant authorities.
Each applicant will be required to provide the following data:
- Name, surname, place and date of birth
- Passport data
- Class.
- Dates of previous trips to the Schengen area
- Information on previously obtained visas and travel around the world
Travelers will also have to answer questions about which country they want to visit, how they plan to finance their future trip, accommodation, flight, etc. Many of the criteria for applying for a Schengen visa will remain the same, with one change: they will no longer have to be printed.
There is one big exception to the update. The procedures described above will only apply to those who have previously applied for and received a Schengen visa.
Entrust the visa to professionals: apply to the IFC for registration right now on our official website.
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