Schengen visa costs are set to rise by 12% starting June 11, 2024, due to inflation and public worker pay in EU Member States. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) fears increased taxes may deter tourism to Europe, while the EU is considering the adoption of Digital Schengen Visas to streamline the visa application process. The decision is a major concern for EU citizens and non-EU travelers.
Schengen Visa Fees Increase.
Beginning June 11, 2024, the cost of applying for a Schengen visa will significantly rise.
Adult applicants: the visa cost will rise from €80 to €90.
Children (ages 6–12): The cost will increase from €40 to €45.
Countries with limited readmission cooperation: For applicants from countries that do not cooperate properly with the EU in returning unlawfully residing nationals, the visa price may be significantly higher – €135 or €180.
Why the increase?
This revision follows the most recent review of EU visa costs, which was done in December 2023 following the Schengen Visa Code, which requires evaluations every three years.
The increase is linked to inflation and public worker pay in EU Member States. The previous rise took place in February 2020, when the charge was hiked from €60 to €80.
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Potential influence on tourism.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) voiced worry that increased taxes may deter tourism to Europe. They claim that visa charges may have an influence on affordability and diminish visitor numbers, particularly when compared to places with less stringent visa requirements.
IATA invites the EU to look at visa-free options and invest in digitalization to expedite the visa application process.
Turkish citizens’ discontent
This revelation comes as the EU and Turkey continue to explore a visa-free arrangement. Turkish residents, who are already enduring financial hardship throughout the application process, have expressed their dissatisfaction with the cost hike.
Visa Application Trends
In 2023, Schengen Area Member States received over 10.3 million short-stay visa applications, up 37% from 2022. However, this amount is still lower than the 2019 high, when almost 17 million applications were filed.
Digital Schengen Visa Initiative
In an effort to modernize, the European Union is considering the adoption of Digital Schengen Visas. This program, set to debut in 2028, would allow applicants to apply for visas online and obtain a digital visa instead of a standard passport sticker.
EU Responds to Feedback
In response to such input, the EU intends to streamline visa processes and embrace digitization to make the visa application process easier. Despite the charge hike, the EU is working toward a more visa-free system while still covering administrative expenses.
Conclusion
The imminent hike in Schengen visa costs is a major event for anyone wishing to visit EU nations. While the decision meets the EU’s budgetary demands, it has prompted worries about the possible effect on tourism and the accessibility of travel for many people, particularly those from non-EU nations.
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