Schengen Visa Fees Set to Increase: What You Need to Know

In a move that could impact travellers planning their next European adventure, the European Commission has put forth a proposal to adjust the basic fees for Schengen visas.

The proposed adjustments would affect both adults and children, potentially leading to higher expenses for those seeking entry into the Schengen area.

Proposed Schengen Visa Fee Adjustments

Currently set at 80 euros for adults and 40 euros for children, the proposed adjustments would see these fees increase to 90 euros for adults and 45 euros for children.

This proposed increase, if implemented, could add to the financial burden of travellers from non-EU countries seeking entry into the Schengen zone.

• Current fees: €80 for adults, €40 for children (6-12 years old)
• Proposed fees: €90 for adults, €45 for children
• This represents a 12.5% increase across the board.

Implications for Travellers

Schengen visas, which are available to non-EU citizens from countries not covered by the EU/Schengen area’s 90-day rule, are particularly sought after by individuals from nations such as South Africa, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and China.

The proposed fee hike could impact the travel plans and budgets of individuals from these countries and beyond.

Tiered Fee Structure for Uncooperative Countries

In addition to the general fee adjustment, the proposal introduces a higher fee tier for countries deemed uncooperative in accepting expelled citizens back from member states.

If a country is found to have “insufficient cooperation on readmission” by the EU Council, the Schengen visa fee for citizens from that country could rise from the current range of 120/160 euros to 135/180 euros, further complicating travel plans for affected individuals.

• Current fees: €120/€160 (adult/child)
• Proposed fees: €135/€180 (adult/child)

External Service Provider Fee Revision

The revision of visa fees extends to external service providers handling visa applications on behalf of member states. Under the proposed changes, the maximum charge imposed by these service providers, typically half the standard fee, is slated to increase from 40 to 45 euros.

• Current maximum: €40
• Proposed maximum: €45

Still Cheaper Than Other Visas

Despite the proposed fee hike, the European Commission emphasizes that Schengen visa fees remain comparatively low. For instance, the proposed fee for a Schengen visa extension will stay at 30 euros.

• Examples:
  • US visa: €185
  • UK visa: Starts from £115 (€134)
  • Canadian visa: €130
  • Australian visa: €117

The Commission highlights that even with the increase, these fees are still reasonable when compared to visa costs in other countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

What’s Next?

The proposal is currently open for consultation until March 1. Following this period, the Commission can adopt the regulation, and it will come into effect 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Travellers and stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback during this consultation period to ensure their voices are heard before any final decisions are made regarding Schengen visa fees.

• The proposal is open for public feedback until March 1st, 2024.
• If approved, the new fees could take effect as early as May 2024.

Stay Informed

By keeping a close eye on these developments, travellers can stay informed about potential changes that could impact their future travel plans to Europe.

• Check the European Commission website for updates on the proposal.
• Consult your local embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements and application details.