Are you planning to travel to Europe this summer? If so, the cost for a Schengen visa is going up by 12% in June.
The change will take effect on June 11, 2024, raising the cost from €80 to €90 for adults and from €40 to €45 for children.
The European Commission said fees remain “relatively low” compared to visa costs in other countries. For instance, a visa for the UK starts at €134 and the U.S. around €185.
WHAT IS THE SCHENGEN VISA?
A Schengen visa is required for non-EU citizens from countries that do not benefit from the EU/Schengen Area’s 90-day visa-free rule. This includes nations such as South Africa, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and China. The visa allows holders to visit any of the 28 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a six-month period for tourism or family visits, but not for work.
Citizens from countries like the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Australia can travel to the Schengen Area visa-free for short stays, up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, anyone wishing to stay longer or for work purposes needs to apply for a different type of visa from the specific country they intend to visit.
WHY THE FEE INCREASE?
Every three years, the European Commission assesses the Schengen visa fees and can adjust them based on various factors, including inflation rates and the average salary of civil servants in member states. The latest proposal for a price hike was made on February 2, following a December meeting where the revision received overwhelming support from member states.
FEE FOR SCHENGEN VISA EXTENSION
While the basic fee for a Schengen visa is increasing, the cost to extend a Schengen visa will remain fixed at €30.
THE FUTURE OF SCHENGEN VISAS
The EU is planning to introduce a digital-only Schengen visa, which will allow applicants to apply online regardless of the Schengen country they intend to visit. This digital visa will replace the current sticker in passports. According to the European Commission, this digital platform is expected to start operating in 2028.