The European Union’s Council and Parliament have approved regulations for the digitization of the Schengen visa application process. This new legislation will fundamentally transform how individuals apply for Schengen visas by introducing an online application system and replacing traditional visa stickers with digital visas.

The primary objective of this initiative, as stated by the Council, is to enhance efficiency and streamline the visa application process. Additionally, the EU aims to bolster security within the Schengen Area through the implementation of new regulations.

According to Maria Malmer Stenergard, the Swedish Minister for Migration, the digitization of the visa process will simplify application procedures for travelers, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance security by mitigating risks such as visa sticker falsification and theft.

Before the adoption process can commence, EU Member States must accept the agreement. Upon successful acceptance, a new portal dedicated to Schengen visa applications will be developed. The platform will serve as a centralized webpage directing users to the relevant visa systems.

Using the platform, all Schengen visa applicants will be able to provide necessary information, upload electronic copies of their travel and supporting documents, and make visa payments. Visa decisions will also be communicated to applicants through the same website.

It should be noted that in-person consular appearances will only be required for first-time applicants, individuals with new travel passports, and those whose biometric information has expired.

Furthermore, the platform will automatically assign the Member State responsible for reviewing an application based on the intended duration of stay when an applicant plans to visit multiple Schengen countries. However, applicants will retain the option to specify the Member State handling their application based on the purpose of their travel.

The future of EU visa policy lies in digitization, as stated by Matja Nemec following the vote. The new fully digitalized system and digital visas will offer applicants simpler, more affordable, and faster EU visa procedures.

Under the proposed regulations, digital Schengen visas will be issued in the form of a cryptographically signed 2D barcode. This new format aims to strengthen the integrity of the visa system by reducing risks associated with counterfeit and stolen visa stickers.