Travelling to Europe? Schengen Visa Fees to Increase 12% from June 11

Important news for travellers planning a trip to Europe! Schengen visa fees are set to increase by 12% starting from June 11, 2024. This decision by the European Commission affects short-stay visas (visa type C), which are the most common type for tourism and short visits.

Schengen Visa Fees Increase

Beginning June 11, 2024, the cost of applying for a Schengen visa will see a notable increase.

• Adult applicants: The visa fee will increase from €80 to €90.
• Children (aged 6-12): The fee will go up from €40 to €45.
• Countries with low readmission cooperation: For applicants from countries that don’t cooperate well with the EU on taking back their citizens who stay illegally, the visa fee could be even higher – €135 or €180.

Why the increase?

This adjustment follows the latest review of EU visa fees, conducted in December 2023, as mandated by the Schengen Visa Code, which stipulates reviews every three years.

The rise is attributed to inflation and the salaries of civil servants within the EU Member States. The last increase occurred in February 2020, when the fee was raised from €60 to €80.

Also Read: Schengen Visa Applications Surge by 44%, Creates Interview Slot Shortages

Potential impact on tourism

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed concerns that higher fees could discourage travel to Europe. They argue that visa costs could impact affordability and reduce tourist numbers, especially when compared to destinations with easier visa regimes.

IATA encourages the EU to explore visa-free arrangements and invest in digitalization to streamline the visa application process.

Turkish Citizens’ Discontent

This news comes amidst ongoing discussions between the EU and Türkiye for a visa-free agreement. Turkish citizens, already facing financial burdens during the application process, have voiced their disappointment with the fee increase.

Also Read: Exploring Europe: New Schengen Visa Rules and Tourism Taxes

Visa Application Trends

In 2023, Schengen Area Member States received over 10.3 million short-stay visa applications, marking a 37% increase from 2022. However, this figure still falls short of the 2019 peak, when approximately 17 million applications were submitted.

Digital Schengen Visa Initiative

In a move towards modernization, the European Union is contemplating the introduction of Digital Schengen Visas. This initiative, planned for launch in 2028, will enable applicants to apply for visas online and receive a digital visa instead of the traditional passport sticker.

EU’s Response to Feedback

In response to such feedback, the EU is aiming to simplify visa procedures and embrace digitalization to facilitate the visa application process. Despite the fee increase, the EU is striving for a more visa-free regime while balancing the need to cover administrative costs.

Must Read: Schengen Visa Wait Times for Summer 2024: A Country-by-Country Guide

Conclusion

The impending increase in Schengen visa fees is a significant development for travellers planning to visit EU countries. While the decision aligns with the EU’s financial needs, it has raised concerns about its potential impact on tourism and the accessibility of travel for many, especially those from non-EU countries.