WTTC urges Europe to digitize Schengen visas to boost tourism

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is calling on European authorities to accelerate the digitization of Schengen visas and simplify entry procedures to maintain global competitiveness. In a report released during the WTTC's 26th global summit in Malta, the organization highlighted that multiple-entry visas have declined significantly since 2019, dropping from 59% of all visas issued to 51.7% in 2025.

The WTTC advocates for a unified online Schengen visa platform, potentially by 2030, which would allow travelers to submit documents and receive digital authorizations, replacing physical passport stickers. This move aims to streamline processes without compromising security.

The report also notes the impact of new biometric systems, such as the Entry/Exit System (EES) operational since April 2026 and the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) expected in 2027. While these tools enhance security, the tourism sector has reported airport delays and expressed concern over the cumulative costs for international visitors, including tourist taxes, aviation charges, and the €20 ETIAS fee.