Starting from today, June 11, travellers planning a European vacation will need to budget a little extra for their Schengen visas. The European Union has decided to increase the fees for type C visas, affecting both adults and children.
Adults applying for a short-stay visa will now pay €90 (INR 8,078), up from the previous fee of €80 (INR 7,181), representing a 12.5 per cent increase. Similarly, visa applications for children aged between 6 and 12 years will now cost €45 (INR 4,039) instead of the previous €40 (INR 3,590).
According to reports, the reason behind the increase in application fees for Schengen visas is to counterbalance rising inflation and the growing salaries of member-state employees. This adjustment also aligns with the EU's periodic review policy, with fees subject to reassessment every three years. The most recent alterations took place in February 2020.
Recently, a new visa arrangement has been introduced for Indian travellers. This enables frequent Indian visitors to acquire multi-year visas for up to 5 years. With this new system, Indian nationals who have obtained and properly utilised two visas within three years can now receive long-term multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years. This means that during the visa's validity period, Indians can freely travel in and out of Schengen countries multiple times without the hassle of getting separate visas.
The Schengen visa is a pivotal travel document that allows access to 26 European countries within the Schengen Area. It facilitates smooth movement between member states, eliminating internal border controls. With a Schengen visa, travellers can explore diverse cultures, historic sites, and scenic landscapes without needing multiple visas.
The visa is categorised into various types based on the purpose and duration of the visit. Application requirements typically include proof of travel insurance, accommodation booking, financial means, and a valid passport. Recent updates have seen adjustments in fees and the introduction of long-term multi-entry visas for frequent visitors, enhancing convenience for travellers.
(With inputs from multiple reports)