European Union Implements Enhanced Schengen Visa Regulations for Indian Citizens
Great news for Indian nationals! Starting April 18, 2024, the European Commission has introduced new rules for issuing multiple entry Schengen visas, offering longer validity periods. These rules are notably more advantageous than the previous standard regulations of the Visa Code.
Under this updated “visa cascade” system, Indian nationals residing in India can now access Schengen visas with extended validity, provided they have an established travel history. Specifically, individuals who have lawfully used two visas within the previous three years can now obtain long-term, multi-entry visas valid for up to two years. Subsequently, after utilizing this two-year visa, they may be eligible for a five-year visa, assuming their passport has sufficient validity remaining. Throughout the validity of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.
This decision reflects the strengthened relations fostered under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility. This initiative aims to enhance cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, emphasizing the facilitation of people-to-people contacts. India’s significance as a partner for the EU underscores the importance of such measures.
It’s essential to note that Schengen visas permit holders to travel freely within the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. While these visas are not tied to a specific purpose, they do not confer the right to work. The Schengen area encompasses 29 European countries, including 25 EU states, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.