📷 Image Credits: Mint
Travellers planning to visit Europe will now have to shell out more money as the European Commission has announced a 12 per cent increase in short-stay Schengen visa fees, effective from June 11, 2024.
The new fee structure will impact Type C Schengen visas, which are specifically allocated to short-term travellers. Under the revised charges, the cost for adult applicants will escalate to Euro 90, up from the current Euro 80. Similarly, for children aged between 6 and 12, the fees will bump up from Euro 40 to Euro 45.
The rationale behind the fee hike is attributed to the escalating costs associated with visa processing and maintaining the security of the Schengen area. The European Commission emphasized that the increase is necessary to cover administrative costs linked to background checks, data processing, and sustaining secure entry systems.
It’s essential to note that the Schengen visa enables travellers to journey through 27 European countries, including popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. This development aims to ensure that the expenses related to visa processing and security measures are adequately covered, thereby aligning with the changing economic landscape.
Moreover, the revised fees reflect the ongoing efforts to streamline the visa application process and uphold security standards within the Schengen region. While the fee structure may pose financial implications for travellers, it underscores the significance of maintaining stringent security protocols to facilitate safe travel across borders.
In a bid to boost tourism and attract visitors worldwide, Europe has introduced initiatives such as the recent visa regime tailored for Indian citizens, offering enhanced accessibility to multi-entry visas and extended visa durations. As travellers navigate these adjustments, it underlines the evolving landscape of international travel and the imperative to adapt to changing regulations for seamless journeys across borders.
