The Switzerland Embassy in India has emphatically stated that the Schengen Visa application process for Indian tour groups has not been suspended, countering recent media reports that suggested the suspension until October 2023 due to a backlog of pending applications. The embassy highlighted that it maintains a robust appointment schedule with an increased capacity to accommodate applicants.
Embassy’s Statement: The spokesperson for the Embassy of Switzerland in India clarified the situation in a statement on Thursday. It was revealed that there are nearly 800 daily appointments available until the end of September 2023, including appointments for 22 groups of Indian tourists. The embassy refuted the suspension claim and emphasized its commitment to facilitate people-to-people connections between Switzerland and India.
Increased Application Processing and Measures: Contrary to the suspension claim, the Swiss embassy noted that it has processed more visa applications in India in 2023 compared to 2019. During the first half of the year, the embassy processed 129,446 applications, marking a 7.8% increase from the same period in 2019. To enhance the application process, the embassy introduced three key measures:
- Extended Application Window: Applicants are now allowed to apply for their Schengen visa six months prior to their travel date. This represents an extension from the previous one-month application window. This change provides travelers greater flexibility in planning their trips.
- Expanded Capacity: The embassy has bolstered its capacity within India by establishing a new Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Lucknow. With this addition, there are now 13 VACs spread across India where applicants can submit their visa applications.
- Streamlined Processing Time: The spokesperson highlighted that there has been a concerted effort to reduce the time taken for processing applications. Currently, the duration between the appointment scheduled by the partner Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) and the embassy’s decision on the application is no more than 13 working days.
Impact and Earlier Reports: Initial reports suggested that the Switzerland embassy might suspend Schengen Visa appointments due to a shortage of staff. This news caused concern not only among Indian tourists but also among Chinese tourists. The travel industry, especially tour operators in India, expressed disappointment considering Schengen Visa and Switzerland tours constitute a significant portion of their profitable ventures.
Schengen Visa Requirements: To obtain a Schengen visa for Switzerland, foreign applicants are required to submit a range of documents including a duly completed application form, a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, a detailed itinerary, evidence of financial means, proof of employment or enrollment, and a receipt of the visa fee payment.
In conclusion, the Switzerland Embassy in India has categorically denied the suspension of Schengen Visa appointments for Indian tour groups and has instead highlighted its efforts to enhance the application process, thus ensuring the continued facilitation of travel between Switzerland and India.