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3 clusters · 7 sources · 30 days · First seen · Last updated

European Commission Schengen visa reform proposal

Overview

The European Commission is reviewing a reform of the Schengen visa Code for short-term stays as part of its first European visa strategy. A central component of this proposal involves the potential introduction of a harmonized European surcharge to be added to the existing 90 euro application fee for adults. One scenario under consideration involves a 20 percent increase, which would bring the total to 108 euros.

The Commission has indicated that these additional funds would be used to modernize and fund common visa policies. Beyond fee adjustments, the reform aims to improve digitalization and efficiency. Proposed measures include enhancing digital interoperability between visa and border systems by 2028 and creating a directory of partner companies to offer priority appointments and faster processing for reliable business travelers.

Following a consultation document released on September 8, 2026, the Commission continues to prepare the revision, which aims to update procedures, access criteria, and costs. While no official decision has been reached, a formal legislative proposal is expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Entities

Schengen Area · European Commission · Malta · European Union · World Travel & Tourism Council

Timeline

  1. [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    WTTC urges Europe to digitize Schengen visas to boost tourism

    The WTTC urges the European Union to implement online Schengen visas and increase multiple-entry permits to combat declining tourism competitiveness and streamline border controls.

  2. [INTERNATIONAL] 6 sources
    European Commission prepares Schengen visa reforms and potential fee increases

    The European Commission is planning a reform of the Schengen visa Code, potentially introducing new fees and digitalized procedures to modernize short-stay visa processes by 2027.

  3. [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    European Commission considers increasing Schengen visa fees

    The European Commission is studying a potential increase in Schengen visa fees, including a possible 20 percent harmonized surcharge to cover rising management costs.

Sources

1001infos.net · infomaroc.net · lapresse.tn · lenouvelliste.ma · maghrebactu.com · observalgerie.com · thrillophilia.com

This summary has been updated 1 time: see revision history