New rules for issuing Schengen visas

The regulation on the digitalization of Schengen visas has been finalized in the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. It is planned to replace the currently used stickers in passports with digital visas. Moreover, applications for Schengen visas can be submitted through a specially created website.

What is the essence of the new provision

In a couple of years, it will be possible to apply for and receive Schengen visas online. They will be a two-dimensional barcode, with a cryptographic signature protected by a private key.

What will be an innovation for Russians

• Applications for paperwork can be submitted through the website without leaving your office or home. The exception will be the first time you receive a visa. In this case, you will have to come to the consulate and submit your biometric data.
• It will be possible to get the long-awaited Schengen visa on a single online platform.
• The procedure will be noticeably simpler and more accessible. The system will issue visas for work, study abroad, vacation trips and business trips.
• If the route of the trip passes through several European countries, the program itself will determine the best option for issuing a visa.
• Security in the Schengen area will be strengthened.

A new draft law on the transfer of Schengen visas to digital format must be approved by all authorities. The procedures for applying, reviewing and obtaining digital visas are being worked out. The new system should be operational by December 2026.