Digital Schengen Visa

Traveling to Europe is set to become more streamlined and secure with the introduction of the digital Schengen visa. This initiative represents a significant leap forward for the European Union (EU) in simplifying the application process for travelers from around the globe. By moving away from traditional paper-based applications and towards a digitalized system, the EU aims to enhance security measures and make application procedures more efficient for both applicants and member states in the Schengen area.

The new system shifts away from the visa stickers currently attached to passports in favor of a secure, digital process. You will now apply through an online platform, reducing wait times and paperwork. The shift includes measures to protect against forgery and theft through the use of advanced cryptographic techniques. The digital Schengen visa initiative underscores the EU's commitment to maintaining a high level of border security while facilitating legitimate travel across its member states.

• The digital Schengen visa simplifies travel to the Schengen area with an online application process.
• Enhanced security features are integral to the design of the new visa system.
• The EU's transition to a digital visa system reflects a balance between secure borders and travel convenience.

Digital Schengen Visa Overview

The shift toward a fully digital Schengen visa by 2026 represents a significant evolution in EU visa policy, aimed at enhancing security and convenience for travelers.

Did You Know
France has issued digital Schengen visas since January 1st

• Concept and Significance

  The digitalization of the Schengen visa is a strategic initiative to transition from traditional paper visas to a secured electronic format. This digital visa will store visa information in a secure, cryptographically signed barcode, which will reduce the risk of forgery and make the entire process more efficient. The digital Schengen visa symbolizes a modernized approach to managing the increasing volume of travelers while safeguarding the Schengen Area's borders.

• Eligibility and Member States

  All travelers requiring a visa to enter the EU member states within the Schengen Area will be eligible for a digital Schengen visa. Citizens from countries that are not visa-exempt will need to enroll their biometric data at a Consulate to apply for or renew their visa, valid for up to five years or upon issuance of a new travel document.

• Application and Processing

  With the new system, you will complete your online application and only be required to present yourself physically for biometric data capture. The EU Visa Application Platform will streamline the application, with Member States offering an option to use the platform or to continue with traditional methods during the transition period. The process is set to not only simplify the application journey but also fast-track processing times.

• When will digital Schengen visa roll out for all Schengen countries

  The digital Schengen visa is anticipated to be gradually introduced across the Schengen Area with a full rollout expected by 2026. The implementation phases will likely commence with pilot programs in a select number of countries to ensure the system's functionality and address any initial concerns. Following the success of these pilots, other Schengen member states will progressively adopt the digital visa process. This staggered approach allows for the resolution of issues in a controlled manner and ensures that the system is robust and secure before being adopted by all participating countries. The exact order in which countries will transition to the digital visa system has not been specified, but it will be designed to streamline the process while maintaining the integrity of the Schengen Area's borders.

• Will it be integrated with ETIAS system

  The digital Schengen visa will operate alongside the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which is intended for visa-exempt travelers. While the digital Schengen visa is for travelers who require a visa to enter the Schengen Area, ETIAS serves as a pre-screening process for visa-exempt nationals, adding an additional layer of security. Both systems will enhance border management by pre-evaluating travelers' information against various databases. However, ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorization, and it will be required for eligible travelers starting from late 2023. The integration of the digital Schengen visa with ETIAS will ensure a cohesive approach to managing all incoming travelers to the Schengen zone, regardless of their visa requirements.

What is Digital Schengen Accord?

The Digital Schengen Accord signifies a transformative step for the Schengen visa process. Traditionally, applying for a Schengen visa involves a paper-based application with a physical visa sticker fixed to your passport. With digitalization, your future applications will be more streamlined and secure.

Under this new initiative:

• Your visa will transition to a digital format, essentially replacing the traditional visa sticker with a cryptographically signed barcode.
• You'll need to present yourself at the Consulate for biometric data enrollment.

The advantages of the digital visa include:

• Enhanced security against forgery and theft through secure digital signatures.
• An online application platform, simplifying the application process and makes it more efficient for people to get Schengen visas.

To apply for a digital Schengen visa, you'll still be required to submit the customary supporting documents. The difference lies in how and where you'll be able to submit these documents, as the digital approach establishes a unified application platform for all Schengen visa applications. This change intends to ease the load and offer convenience for both you and the visa processing authorities.

Please note that while the digitalization plan is set in motion, the transition may take several years, and member states can opt whether to utilize the digital platform or continue with the conventional method during this period.

Technical Aspects of the Visa System

The digitalization of the Schengen visa pivots on robust technical systems designed to enhance security, integrate seamlessly with existing structures, and provide user-friendly interfaces. This transformation heralds significant advancements in the management and issuance of visas.

• Security and Anti-Fraud Measures

  To protect against counterfeit and stolen visa stickers, the new digital Schengen visa will utilize a cryptographically signed 2D barcode. This technology is harder to replicate, reducing the risk of fraud. Your biometric data — a crucial component to verify identity — needs to be enrolled at the consulate, ensuring that only you can use your digital visa. These features, together with strict regulations, work to preserve the integrity of EU visas.

• Integration with ETIAS and National Systems

  The digital visa platform will not operate in isolation; it's designed to integrate with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) and the national systems of Schengen countries. As a gateway for travelers, the platform ensures all data flows between systems smoothly, in alignment with EU-wide security protocols.

• User Interface and Accessibility

  With the aim to digitalize the visa procedure, the EU visa application platform is being developed to be intuitive and accessible. Applicants will be able to apply for a Schengen visa online, with the platform offering real-time guidance to correct any mistakes. It pulls information and updates directly from the Visa Information System to your dashboard, ensuring electronic copies of visas are linked accurately to your passport details. This online platform simplifies the application process, making it more convenient for you.