The website of the European Commission published information on changes to the EU Visa Code, which, if approved, will enter into force on January 1, 2020 and will adjust the rules for obtaining Schengen visas.
The new rules will facilitate tourism, trade and business while enhancing security standards to detect those who pose a threat or have no right to enter the EU. They will also help improve cooperation with non-EU countries on the return and readmission of irregular migrants.
Applicants will be able to apply for a Schengen visa six months before, but no later than 15 days before the planned trip. It will also be possible to write and sign the application form in electronic form.
As a general rule, the visa fee has been increased from 60 euros to 80 euros. But for citizens of countries with which the European Union has signed an agreement to simplify the visa regime (including Russia), the cost of issuing a Schengen visa will be 35 euros.
- A year visa will be available if the applicant does not violate the conditions of entry and used without violations three short-term visas during the previous two years.
- A two-year visa can be obtained if he has an annual visa used during the two previous years without violations.
- A five-year visa can be obtained if a tourist has used a two-year visa during the previous three years without a violation.
These changes have been approved by the EU Council and continue to go through the harmonization stages. We will keep you updated with the changes.
For additional information, please contact consultants of Confidence Group.
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