The European Union (EU) has approved a plan to digitize the Schengen visa application process. This means that people who need a visa to enter the Schengen Area will soon be able to apply for it online, without having to go to a consulate or wait long for a response.
The new system will include a single online platform where applicants can enter their information, upload their travel documents, and pay the visa fee. They will also be able to receive notifications about their visa decision through the platform.
In most cases, applicants will no longer need to visit a consulate in person, except for first-time applicants, people whose biometric data is no longer valid, and people with new travel documents.
The new system will also replace the current visa sticker with a digital barcode. This will make visa documentation more secure and reduce the risk of forgery.
The EU has not yet announced when the new system will go into effect, but it says it will be once the visa platform and digital visa are developed.
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