Iuliia Tore The European Commission is preparing amendments to the EU visa rules. They should simplify entry into the Schengen area for those who cross the border legally.
It is planned to significantly reduce the time limits for issuing visas from 15 to 10 days. It will be possible for travellers to submit their applications up to 6 months in advance of their planned trip, instead of the current 3 months, and to fill in and sign their applications electronically.
Multiple entry visas will be issued to trusted regular travellers with a positive visa history for a gradually increasing period from 1 up to 5 years.
To facilitate short-term tourism, Member States will be allowed to issue single-entry visas directly at external land and sea borders under temporary, seasonal schemes subject to strict conditions. Such visas will be valid for a stay of a maximum of 7 days in the issuing Member State only.
At the same time, the amount of the consular fee will be increased to 80 Euros.
