EU Proposes 12% Increase in Schengen Visa Fees Effective March 1

In a recent development, the European Union Commission has put forward a proposal to increase the Schengen visa fees by 12%. This adjustment in the fee structure is set to take effect from March 1, 2024.

Revised Fee Structure

Under the revised structure, the basic Schengen visa fee for adults is slated to rise from 80 Euro to 90 Euro, while for children, it will escalate from 40 Euro to 45 Euro. The Schengen visa permits citizens of nations such as India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, China, and South Africa to stay in Europe for up to 90 days.

What’s Changing?

• The European Commission has proposed a 12% increase in Schengen visa fees, effective March 1, 2024.
• Adult visa fees will rise from €80 to €90.
• Children’s visas (aged 6-12) will increase from €40 to €45.
• Visa extension fees remain unchanged at €30.

External Service Providers’ Fees

Additionally, external service providers handling Schengen visa applications on behalf of member states may now impose higher service charges. Typically, these providers levy a fee of up to half of the standard visa fee.

However, with the new adjustment, they will be authorized to charge 45 euros for their services, as opposed to the previous 40 euros. Notably, the fee for extending a Schengen visa will remain unchanged at 30 euros.

Visa Fees Revision and Public Feedback

The Schengen visa fee is generally revisited once every three years. The public has the opportunity to submit their suggestions and feedback until March 1.

Following this, the Commission can endorse the recommendations, which become effective twenty days after publication in the European Union’s official journal.

Despite the increase, the Commission claims Schengen visa fees remain lower than some other destinations, such as:

• USA: €185
• UK: €134
• Canada: €130
• Australia: €117

Digital Schengen Visa Initiative

In another development, the European Union is contemplating the introduction of digital Schengen visas. This initiative would enable applicants from the Schengen region to apply for visas online, irrespective of their intended destinations.

Instead of the traditional passport sticker, successful applicants would receive a digital visa. According to information available on the European Commission’s website, the digital platform is slated for launch in 2028.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is essential for individuals seeking entry and unrestricted travel within the Schengen area, comprising 28 European countries, for short stays of up to 90 days within six months, primarily for tourism or family visits.

• Business travellers need a Schengen business visa.
• Long-term stays and work visas require individual country visas.
• Citizens of certain countries, like the US, Canada, and Australia, can visit the Schengen area visa-free for up to 90 days in 180 days.

Conclusion

This proposal is likely to impact travellers and visa applicants planning trips to Europe, necessitating careful consideration of the updated fee structure and potential digital visa implementation.