The European Union: Digitization of EU Visa Procedures

This information was updated on 16 November 2023 to reflect the latest information. 

Key Points  

• The European Union officially approved procedures that will create a digital EU visa platform for applicants of short-term Schengen visa 

Overview  

The European Council adopted regulations that will allow visa-required nationals to apply for an EU visa online. As a result, the following rules will apply:  

• An EU online visa application platform will be created. With a few exceptions, applications for Schengen visas will be made through that platform. On the platform, visa applicants can enter all the relevant data, upload electronic copies of their travel and supporting documents, and pay their visa fees. 
• An applicant’s in-person appearance at the consulate is redundant. In principle, in-person appearance will only be necessary for first-time applicants, people whose biometric data are no longer valid and people with a new travel document. 
• The current visa sticker will be replaced with a cryptographically signed barcode.  

What are the Changes?  

The EU officially enacted procedures that will create a digital EU visa platform for visa-required nationals applying for short-term travel to the EU. According to the announcement, these measures aim to reduce internal barriers throughout the EU visa application process.  

Looking Ahead  

Regulations enter into force on the twentieth day after publication of the measures in the official gazette of the EU. However, the implementation is anticipated to take longer as technical work on the visa platform and application will need to be completed. Continue to check the government of the EU’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.