The European Union Council has given the green light to the digitalization of Schengen visa application procedures, marking a significant departure from traditional consulate appointments and visa stickers. 

By 2026, an estimated 22 to 25 million visa applications worldwide will transition to this digital platform, promising time and cost savings for both applicants and Member States.

EU's Digitalization Agenda

The EU's ambitious plan envisions a new system for acquiring a Schengen Visa by 2026, aiming to streamline the application process and make it more accessible. 

The overarching goal is to move all short-term European visa applications online by 2028, ushering in a new era of convenience and efficiency.

EU Regulation on the Digitalisation of the Visa Procedure

The EU's roadmap involves a phased approach, with the initial coexistence of the current visa application process and the new digital platform in 2026. 

By the end of the transition period in 2028, all visa applications are expected to migrate to the EU visa application platform, transforming the way visas are handled within the EU.

Anticipated Impact

Besart Bajrami, the founder of prominent visa platforms, foresees revolutionary benefits for both travelers and Member States. 

Despite expressing some skepticism about full functionality by 2028, he acknowledges the platform's potential to eliminate inefficiencies, reduce costs, and enhance the overall visa application experience.

Main Changes With the Digitalisation of Visa Application Procedures

1. Single Platform for All Procedures

A unified digital platform will handle Schengen Visa applications, simplifying the process regardless of the destination or the number of countries involved. The platform will allocate the application to the responsible Schengen country, streamlining the bureaucratic hurdles.

2. Document Upload Instead of Physical Submission

Applicants will no longer need to physically submit a plethora of documents. The new system will require uploading digital versions, including passport scans, biometric photos, flight tickets, and proof of accommodation. This shift aims to reduce the administrative burden on applicants.

3. Online Payment of Visa Fees

The new platform will facilitate online payment of visa fees, ensuring secure transactions and eliminating the need for third-party processing fees. The EU's investment in this technology is intended to streamline processes without increasing financial burdens on applicants.

4. In-Person Requirements for Some Applicants

While the majority will experience a fully digital application process, a few exceptions remain. First-time applicants, individuals with expired biometric data, or those with new travel documents may still need to apply in person. However, this process is expected to be more efficient than traditional in-person appointments.

5. Transition from Visa Stickers to Digital Barcodes

Physical visa stickers will be replaced with digital barcodes, representing a more secure and technologically advanced approach. This move aims to reduce security risks associated with counterfeit and stolen visa stickers, enhancing overall security in the Schengen Area.

EU's Objectives with Online Schengen Visa Applications

1. Cost and Burden Reduction

The EU anticipates a significant reduction in costs for Member States and applicants alike. Consulates will no longer need extensive staff to handle visa applications, leading to potential termination or restructuring of contracts with third-party agencies. Applicants will only bear the visa fee, saving on third-party processing fees.

2. Eliminating 'Visa Shopping'

The platform aims to eradicate the practice of 'visa shopping,' where applicants apply at consulates of Member States they don't intend to visit to avoid application backlogs. The system will automatically assign visa applications to the appropriate authorities, reducing unnecessary applications.

3. Enhancing Security

By phasing out physical visa stickers in favor of digitally-signed 2D barcodes, the EU seeks to enhance the security of the Schengen Area. This technological upgrade aims to counteract counterfeiting, fraud, and theft associated with traditional visa stickers.

Impact on Travellers from Visa-Exempt Countries

Nationals from non-EU/Schengen countries currently enjoying visa-free entry won't experience changes immediately. However, starting in May 2025, they will need to obtain an ETIAS through an online process, incurring a fee of €7. The ETIAS application process is expected to be swifter and more straightforward than traditional Schengen visa applications.

In summary, the EU's move towards digitalizing Schengen visa applications signifies a transformative shift, promising efficiency, cost savings, and heightened security. As the digital platform takes center stage, it heralds a new era for both travelers and the Member States within the Schengen Area.

FAQ

1. What is the Schengen Visa digitalization initiative?

The Schengen Visa digitalization initiative is a transformative step by the European Union to streamline and modernize the visa application process. By 2026, the EU aims to transition from traditional paper-based visa applications to a fully digital platform.

2. When will the digital platform for Schengen Visa applications be fully functional?

The digital platform for Schengen Visa applications is scheduled to launch online by 2026. However, a complete transition to online procedures is expected by the end of 2028.

3. How will the digital platform benefit visa applicants?

The digital platform intends to simplify and expedite the visa application process for travelers. It will eliminate the need for physical submission of documents, allow online payment of visa fees, and offer a unified platform for submitting applications to any Schengen country.

4. What changes can applicants expect with the digitalization of Schengen Visa applications?

Applicants can expect several changes, including uploading digital documents (such as passport scans and proof of travel) instead of physically submitting them. Additionally, visa stickers will be replaced with digital barcodes, enhancing security and reducing the risk of fraud.

5. Will there be in-person requirements for visa applicants?

In certain exceptional cases, applicants might still need to visit visa centers or consulates in person. This includes first-time applicants, individuals with expired biometric data, or those with new travel documents. However, these in-person requirements are expected to be streamlined compared to previous processes.