The European Commission is implementing significant improvements to the visa application process, aiming to streamline and expedite access to European visas. A key transformation is the complete digitization of the visa application procedure, eliminating the need for individuals to physically visit consulates or visa centers when applying for visas. Additionally, visas will now be issued in digital format, obviating the necessity for physical stickers in passports and instead linking the visa digitally to travel documents. These comprehensive changes are poised to greatly enhance the efficiency and convenience of the visa application process, benefiting both applicants and EU Member States.
Despite these advancements, the European Commission acknowledges that certain factors, such as a post-pandemic surge in visa applications, have caused delays in processing. In response, the Commission has called upon Schengen Member States to bolster their operational capacities to address these challenges and further expedite the visa issuance process. In essence, the European Commission’s revisions seek to simplify and accelerate the visa application experience for all involved parties.