long term tourist schengen visa

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How to (Legally) Stay in Europe for More Than 90 Days

When I planned my move to Sweden a few years ago, I tried to figure out how to get past the 90-day limit placed on tourist visas in the Schengen Area. This is a problem encountered by thousands of travelers every year and a question that regularly (especially this time of year) pops up in my inbox.

“How can I stay in Europe for more than 90 days?”

It’s a simple question with a very complicated answer.

I always knew it was complicated, but until I started researching how to stay there longer, I never knew just how complicated.

Fortunately, in the process of this research, I came to learn there are a few ways to stay in Europe longer than 90 days; they just aren’t well known.

This post will teach you the options for staying in Europe over 90 days as well as give you tips on how to move to Europe. But first a few things:

It’s important to note that Europe isn’t just one place — there are varying visa rules throughout the continent. When people talk about the “90-day limit,” they’re talking about restrictions on the Schengen Area, which is the visa policy that governs 27 countries in Europe. It includes most of the European Union as well as a few non-EU countries.

Note: While I call it the “Schengen Visa,” it’s not an actual visa you necessarily need to apply for. Depending on your residency status and country of citizenship, you may need to apply in advance for a Schengen Visa, however, those with an American passport do not need to apply in advance.

However, it should be noted that as of 2025, visitors from 60 countries (including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada) will need to apply for an online ETIAS, which is essentially a visa waiver, when entering the 23 EU member states and 4 non-EU countries of the Schengen. It is valid for 90 days within a 180-day period.

You can apply and pay online up to 96 hours beforehand. It is similar to the US version of ESTA (or the eTA in Canada). ETIAS cost 7 EUR for those 18-70 years old and are free for those under 18 years or over 70.

If you come from a country that requires you to get a Schengen visa you will not need to apply for ETIAS. It’s one or the other. Learn more here . (The ETIAS was originally set to launch in 2024, but has been pushed back.)

Table of Contents

• What is the Schengen Visa?

Part 1: Staying or Moving to Europe the Easy Way

Part 2: staying in the schengen area past 90 days.

• Take Advantage of the Bilateral Agreement
• Working Holiday Visas
• Long-Term-Stay Visas
• Student Visas
• Freelancer Visas
• Marriage Visas

What is the Schengen visa?

The Schengen visa is a 90-day tourist visa for Schengen Area countries, which are:

• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

  Additionally, there are several microstates that are de facto members of the Schengen Area. These are Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

These Schengen countries have a border-free visa agreement that lets residents move throughout the Area without needing to show their passports every time they cross a border. Essentially, it’s as if they’re one country, and you can move as freely as you want.

Citizens of many countries are allowed to enter the Schengen Area without having to get a visa beforehand. Your passport simply gets stamped upon your arrival and departure from Europe. You’re allowed to enter and leave from any country you want — they don’t have to be the same.

Here is a map of the countries with visa waivers that can enter the Schengen without requiring a visa in advance.

Most visitors (including Americans) are allowed to spend 90 days in the Schengen Area in every 180-day period. The easiest way to think of it is that you can visit for 3 months and then you have to leave for 3 months before you can return.

However, you can also bounce back and forth between Schengen and non-Schengen countries — you just need to keep track of all your dates of entry/exit.

When I visit Europe, I fly in and out of different countries all the time. Your first entry in the 180-day period is when your 90-day counter starts. These days don’t need to be consecutive — the total is cumulative. Once day 181 hits, the count resets itself.

For example, if I come to the Schengen Area in January and stay for 60 days and then come back in June for 10 days, that counts as 70 days in 180 days. Only days you are in the zone during the period count. If you go on January 1st and stay 90 straight days, you have to leave and technically can’t come back until July 1st.

If you’re doing a lot of bouncing around, use the EU’s Schengen visa calculator . Simply input all your travel dates and it’ll tell you how many days you have remaining.

However, not all travelers are allowed such freedom.

Citizens from many countries need to apply for a Schengen visa ahead of time. You’ll be required to fill out paperwork beforehand and fly in and out of the country for which your visa is issued.

Even then, you still might not be granted a visa. Spoiler alert: citizens from African and Asian countries get screwed.

So, with that being said, how DO you stay in Europe longer? How do you get around that rule? Let me break it down for you.  

Most non-Schengen countries such as Moldova , Ireland , and some Balkan countries allow you to stay for up to 60 or 90 days. Albania even lets Americans stay up to a year!

So, all you need to do to stay in Europe longer than 3 months is spend 90 days in the Schengen Area and then visit the UK, go to the Balkans, drink wine in Moldova, and have a pint in Ireland. If you align your schedule right, you can easily be out of the Schengen Area for 90 days and then head back into the Schengen Area with a brand new Schengen visa.

Years ago, to get around this limit, I spent three months in Bulgaria , Romania , Ukraine , and England as I waited for my clock to reset.

After that, I headed back into the Schengen area for Oktoberfest .

If you want to travel the continent for a long time without having to go through the various visa processes described below, vary your travel by visiting non-Schengen countries. There are plenty of countries to choose from while you wait for your Schengen Visa clock to reset. This is the easy, hassle-free way of doing things.

—-> Need more tips for Europe? Visit my destination guide and get in-depth information on what to see and do and how to save money .  

After all, the Schengen Area spans 27 countries and visiting so many destinations in 90 days can be a little rushed (you would have an average of just 3.5 days per country).

If you want to stay longer to travel, live, learn a language, or fall in love, then the “move around” option suggested above isn’t going to work for you. You need something else.

Luckily, there are a few ways to do this — and I can’t stress enough the importance of the word “few.” Because staying more than 90 days in the Schengen Area isn’t easy.

First, let’s understand the rule:

The Schengen law states that you can’t stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days. If you do, you’re subject to a fine and possibly deportation and being banned from re-entering the Schengen Area. How that rule is enforced, though, varies greatly from one country to another. Overstaying by a day might not be the end of the world, however, some countries do not mess around with visitors overstaying.

For example, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, and Scandinavian countries are all very strict about entry and exit rules. If you overstay your tourist visit, there’s a good chance they’ll pull you aside. Two Australians I know were detained leaving Switzerland due to overstaying their visa by two weeks. They were allowed to go with just a warning, but they missed their flights and had to book new flights.

I know of someone who overstayed by six months, tried to leave from Amsterdam, and now has an “illegal immigrant” stamp on her passport. In order to enter Europe again, she must apply for a visa at an embassy and be preapproved:

I made the mistake of attempting to leave from the Netherlands after overstaying a Schengen visa and was caught. I overstayed by about a month, and they hand-drew some sort of insignia in my passport to note my overstay. They told me I’d have to contact the IND and find out if I would be able to enter the Schengen states again.

Another blogger told me this happened to them too so don’t overstay your visa!

That being said, if you leave from Greece , France , Italy , or Spain you may be less likely to encounter an issue, provided you (a) haven’t stayed over too long and (b) didn’t catch the immigration officer on a bad day.

When I left Greece, no one even looked at my passport. One of my friends met a guy in France, fell in love, and decided not to leave. A year later, when she finally did, the French officials didn’t even look twice. Another friend flew into France and didn’t even get an entry stamp. Spain is another place notorious for not caring and Americans who decide to overstay for months mention that as the easiest country to exit from. Still, it’s a good idea not to take your chances.

Of course, I don’t think it’s wise to overstay. A day or two? Likely not the end of the world. But a few weeks? A few months? The risk is too great. The fines can be large and I love going to Europe too much to risk being banned.

But, Matt, can I extend just extend my Schengen visa/stamp?

Unfortunately not. Simply put, you cannot extend your tourist visa or entry stamp. There’s a 90-day limit, and that’s that.

So what’s a tourist to do?  

1. Take advantage of the Bilateral Agreement

There are 23 Schengen countries to date with bilateral agreements in place with Austria having the most visa waiver agreements (for 27 non-EU countries). Moreover, there are 12 countries that have bilateral agreements with Australia.

For example, France has a bilateral agreement that allows U.S. citizens to stay an additional 90 days beyond the Schengen limit. You can enter from any Schengen country, stay 90 days in France, and then fly home. But the catch is you have to go home — you can’t go elsewhere. You have to leave Europe so you can’t use your time in France as a sneaky way to reset your Schengen clock.

Now, the France/U.S. rule is tricky. It’s based on a post-World War II agreement that was never canceled. Multiple French consulates told me yes, they thought this law existed but couldn’t tell me where to find it. A few visa services told me I was crazy. One consulate told me it was possible but only with a long-term visa.

BUT, after many calls, the US, Canada, and UK French embassies told me that yes, this law does exist and that yes, this is still valid. Then they referenced me to the French national archives.

Well, we found the actual diplomatic papers that spell this out . It took us close to a year to find it but we did.

This is the note from the French government about it:

Hi, There is a bilateral agreement between French and the U.S. by exchange letters (March 16-31 mars 1949), which allows American citizens to stay in France 90 days over 180 days, irrespective of the stays already made in other Schengen countries. However, this agreement has been made before the Schengen agreement. Today, as there is no more border control between the Schengen countries, it is very difficult to determine how long a person has stayed in France and we heard that some people had troubles with the immigration police while leaving France. Therefore, we recommend American citizens to respect the Schengen regulation which allows a maximum of 90 days on 180 days in the whole Schengen area. Consulat général de France, Service des visas 4101 Reservoir Road, Washington DC, 20007

A follow-up to the London embassy gave me this response:

“Whilst the bilateral agreement you refer to has not officially been revoked, the French Border Police has sole authority on deciding whether to apply it or not, at the time of entering or exiting the Schengen area.”

So this is really a thing. And, while they don’t like you using it, it’s still the law. Just bring proof you stayed in France for 90 days! If you plan to use this rule, bring documentation as border guards may not be aware of it.

Additionally, Denmark, Norway, and Poland also have bilateral agreements with the United States that let citizens stay an additional 90 days in each country separate from the regular Schengen Zone visa. The Denmark rule applies exactly the same way as the French one. Denmark also has a bilateral agreement that is applicable for citizens of Australia, Canada, Chile, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea .

That said, travelers can only use the Norwegian or the Danish bilateral agreement — they can’t use both (time in Norway under the bilateral agreement counts as time in Denmark and vice versa).

For Poland, you must enter and leave Poland via a non-Schengen country where you will be stamped again (i.e., direct flight from NYC). So you could do 90 days in the Schengen, fly to the UK, and then fly to Poland. Poland’s rules are simply laid out in an agreement letter the U.S. and Poland signed in 1991. ( Here’s a copy of the letter from the Polish government) .

In theory, there are also other bilateral agreements between the U.S. and Schengen countries. I’ve been told by multiple sources that Belgium, Italy, Hungary, Norway, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands all have their own bilateral agreements with the U.S. as well. This page outlines the existing bilateral agreements .

However, I reached out to each country’s consulate and none of them replied (save Portugal) in any meaningful way. They simply directed me to the standard visa FAQ page.

Regarding Portugal, a representative from the Portuguese consulate said this regarding their bilateral 60-day visa:

Please note that those 60 days are an exceptional extension that needs to be requested within Portugal at SEF office near your temporary address in Portugal.

Now, in theory, one could say thanks to borderless travel you could get your “extra 90 days in Denmark” and then just travel around, fly out of Denmark, and no one would be the wiser. One could say that. But I’ve noticed a lot more intra-Europe passport checks in recent years. I got yelled at in France for not having my passport with me while on a train to see a chateau. So, I wouldn’t recommend doing this.

Note: Most countries have bilateral agreements with other countries. Call the local embassy for more information (you’ll have better luck calling than emailing).  

2. Get a Working Holiday Visa

There is no single “working holiday” program for the Schengen or EU so applicants must apply for a visa from a specific country. Usually, applicants must be younger than 30, though age restrictions are becoming more relaxed in recent years.

Additionally, you can get consecutive working holiday visas. An Australian reader of mine got a two-year Dutch working holiday visa and then got one from Norway to stay two more years. While she and her boyfriend (who also got one) did odd jobs in Holland for a bit, they mostly used it as a way to travel around the continent.

Note : This type of visa won’t allow you to work in any other country than the one that issued it.

For Americans, there are only two options for working holidays in Europe: Ireland (non-Schengen country) and Portugal (Schengen country). Both programs are essentially the same, providing a 12-month work visa to those either currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a higher education institution.

While you must be at least 18 to apply, there’s no upper age limit, provided that you fit the other criteria. For the Portuguese visa, you can only work for 6 months out of the 12-month visa, while the Irish visa has no work restrictions.

3. Get a Long-Term-Stay Visa

However, in 2023, if you have a fully online business, there are countries within Schengen that allow digital nomad visas provided you make a certain amount of money per month and have your own health insurance. Countries that currently offer digital nomad visas include Portugal, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Malta, Romania, Spain, and Norway.

The countries that allow you to apply with the lowest online salary are Portugal, Hungary, Malta, and Croatia, which require around 2,500 EUR in income per month.

Schengen allows for a C- or D-class visa (the letter varies on the country), which is a temporary residence visa for up to one year. But the specific visa and requirements vary from country to country. Some countries are harder, some are easier, and others are nearly impossible despite being in the same visa treaty zone.

However, there are a few countries that do offer long-term visas that aren’t too hard to get:  

France offers a long-term visitor visa for a period of up to one year. According to the French Embassy, “The ‘visitor’ visa (or visa ‘D’) allows you to enter France and stay for more than three months. Long-stay visa holders will be allowed to reside in France for up to 12 months according to the validity of their visa and purpose of stay.”

To get this visa, you must set up an appointment at the French consulate near you. You can’t walk in — you must make an appointment.

At this appointment, you’ll need the following documents:

• One application form filled out completely and signed
• Three passport photos
• Your original passport, which must have been issued less than 10 years ago, be valid for three months after your return, and have at least two blank pages left
• A letter certified by a notary public that promises you won’t engage in work
• A letter of employment stating current occupation and earnings
• Proof of income (you’ll need copies of a pension certificate or your last 3 bank statements)
• Proof of medical insurance that includes evacuation insurance and medical coverage of at least €30,000 (a copy of your US health insurance card is not acceptable as proof, you need a detailed description of coverage)
• Proof of accommodation in France. (If you don’t have an official document such as a sublet agreement, you can include a letter describing your accommodation arrangements).

Note : You can’t apply for this visa more than three months before your arrival date.

France-Visas is the official visa website for France. It details all the types of visas and has a helpful “visa wizard” where you put in your situation and it tells you what type of visa you should apply for as well as all the documents that you need.

You can also visit the French Embassy website for links to local embassies and consulates for more information. Find your closest consulate here .

This post has some helpful information to get you started on long-term visas in particular .  

Sweden also offers a long-term stay tourist visa for a maximum period of one year. Here’s a brief overview of what you need:

• Residence permit for visitor’s application form
• Notarized copies of the pages of your passport that show your identity and the validity of your passport, as well as copies of all the other visas/stamps you have. Your passport also needs to be valid for 3 months after your stay.
• A bank statement showing your means of supporting yourself for the duration of your stay (450 SEK for each day of your stay)
• A return airplane ticket
• Proof of medical coverage of at least 30,000 EUR

Most people who apply for this visa have family in Sweden. If you don’t, you’ll need to have clear reasons as to why you need to stay longer and show ample proof that you can support yourself (i.e., “I want to meet Swedish guys/girls” won’t cut it!).

You can apply either in Sweden or outside the country. If you’re applying from Sweden, you can apply online, and then make an appointment at the consulate or embassy to show your passport and get fingerprinted. If you’re applying outside of Sweden, you need to file your application in person at the consulate or embassy. When you file your application abroad, you’ll also be interviewed about your intended trip and the purpose for staying in Sweden.

You can learn more about the process on this government page .

Spain offers a couple of long-term visas. The Golden Visa is based on a sizable financial investment in Spain, either into a company (minimum 1 million EUR), real estate (minimum 500,000 EUR), or invest in a new business such as in science or tech that creates local employment opportunities. The other more attainable and popular long-term visa targets retirees and is called the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa. It requires that you spend at least 183 days in Spain, which would make you a legal resident for tax purposes. During this time, you are unable to work in Spain (so you’ll need to have enough savings to get you by). However, studying and unpaid internships are permitted.

The big catch for this visa is that you need to have at least 26,000 EUR in your bank account (ideally more). Since the visa is designed for retirees, the assumption is that you’re coming here to rest on your financial laurels after a lifetime of saving up — hence the sizeable requirement.

The visa has been denied to people who are remote workers so I wouldn’t recommend this visa if you’re a digital nomad (Spain is supposedly working on a visa specifically for digital nomads, though it’s not currently available). This is a bit of a gray area though. If you can show enough savings to financially sustain yourself for a year without working, you can get this visa. You just cannot use monthly statements (such as from your remote job) to prove income; financial proof must be savings or passive income (such as a pension).

In addition to having sizable savings, you’ll also need to fill out the application, submit your passport and additional photos, pay a fee, and provide the following:

• Proof of private health insurance (from an authorized company in Spain not travel insurance)
• A doctor’s note certifying that you’re healthy
• A criminal background check translated into Spanish

You must apply for this visa in your country of residency (usually with the help of lawyers). The application varies per country, usually between 120-900 EUR (it’s around 125 EUR for Americans and over 500 EUR for Canadians).

This consulate page has all the specific details you need regarding the application .

Portugal has multiple long-term stay visas. First, there is a Golden Visa, which requires a minimum investment in the country of 280,000 EUR and takes around 18 months to process. The D7 Passive Income visa, which is similar to Spain’s non-lucrative visa, is more realistic for most people.

To apply for the D7 visa in Portugal you need:

• Proof of health insurance covering at least 30,000 EUR
• A background check
• Proof of financial means to stay in Portugal (8,460 EUR)
• Letter of purpose and intent in Portugal
• 2 passport photos
• Proof of accommodation

The main difference between the Portuguese and Spanish long-term visas is that you only need an income of around 8,460 EUR instead of the 26,000 EUR in savings that the Spanish visa requires. You still cannot work on this visa, so your income must be passive (investments, pension, rental property, etc.).

The D7 visa can work for digital nomad as it is valid for 4 months. Portugal is much more accepting of remote work as proof of income for the visa application than Spain.

Portugal also offers the D2 immigrant Entrepreneur visa, which isn’t designed specifically for digital nomads, but could be used by specific entrepreneurs. You’ll need to submit a business plan and demonstrate you have enough capital to get started. You’ll also need to explain why you want to start your business in Portugal (or move it there). You’ll have a much higher chance of getting approved if you have invested upwards of 5,000 EUR in your business and speak some Portuguese (it’s not required, but these visas are regularly rejected so it will give you a leg up).

In short, there are a lot of steps for a temporary visa. However, you can get this extended and eventually apply for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.

You’ll need to apply for both of these visas in your country of residency.

The official Portuguese visa website has more information about specific visas and requirements. You can locate your nearest Portuguese consulate here .

A note on long-term visas: Keep in mind that the information above is just for reference. There may be more requirements needed for your application and not all visas are open to everyone. You’ll want to contact your local embassy for specifics and additional information.  

4. Get a Student Visa

All Schengen Area countries offer student visas that are easy to obtain so long as you’re enrolled in a recognized university program. This would require you to pay for the course and you may also have to show proof of minimum fund requirements, but it will virtually guarantee you a visa if you are accepted.

One of the best countries to do this is Spain, where a whole industry has sprung up to help students study Spanish. There are tons of schools that will allow you to enroll and write letters stating you’re a student there. You’ll need to apply in your home country but the process is relatively straightforward. This post details the requirements .

Germany is another popular choice, as post-secondary schools there are essentially free. While there may be more competition, the costs are much lower. However, you need to show proof that you have money in a bank account to cover your expenses. As of October 2022, that amount is 11, 208 EUR in a blocked bank account.

In Germany, you might also be able to work up to 120 full days, or 240 half days (20 hours a week) while you study as well. You can learn about the application process here .

While most student visas allow you to stay in a country for one year, I would only consider getting one if you actually plan on studying. If you’re just getting a student visa to travel and play tourist, it’s not going to be worth the cost and paperwork since you’ll need to set up everything from a residential address to a bank account to a local phone number and more.  

5. Get a Freelancer/Remote Worker Visa

There are several countries that offer freelancer visas and visas geared towards the increasing number of remote workers. This process is a little more complicated and not for the casual tourist. These visas are meant for people who actually want to live and work in Europe. If you’re just a casual tourist, expect to be denied. But if you’re a digital nomad, this is the visa for you.

Schengen countries that offer freelancer or remote worker visas include:

• Germany (no set income amount, but you need a business plan and upwards of 10,000 EUR in savings)
• Estonia (3,500 EUR income/month)
• Czechia (5,600 EUR in savings)
• Portugal (2,800 EUR income/month)
• Greece (3,500 EUR income/month)
• Malta (2,700 EUR income/month)
• Hungary (2,000 EUR income/month
• Croatia (17,800 HRK (2,300 EUR income/month)

Non-Schengen countries that have them include:

• Romania (no set income, reports of successful applicants range from about 3,700 EUR/month)
• Georgia (2,000 USD income/month)
• Iceland (1,000,000 ISK income/month (6,617 EUR), only valid for up to 6 months)

Germany is the country most used by people who want to reside in Europe. If you’re a freelancer, digital nomad, artist, or have some form of income, this is the visa to get. If you are from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.S., Israel, South Korea, or Japan you can apply after you arrive in Germany (everyone else needs to apply in advance).

The visa only lasts for three months, however, it is designed to be extended into a residency visa which would then last for three years. I have many friends who have gotten this visa. As long as you follow the steps, you should be fine. This post has more information about the process .

Most of these visas follow a similar format: apply, pay a fee, submit proof that your business can stay afloat, then wait to be accepted. However, some have more stringent requirements.

For example, Estonia’s freelancer visa requires a monthly income of at least 3,500 EUR per month leading up to your application. For the Czechia visa, you need to have at least $6,000 USD in your bank account (the lovely folks at Wandertooth, who did this process a couple of years ago, can walk you through the steps ).

If you are a digital nomad and are considering working remotely from the EU you can compare these programs to see which one bests suits your goals (though Germany is likely the best place to start since it’s one of the easiest to get).  

6. Get Married to a European

Fall in love with a European (or at least a friend) and apply for a marriage visa! You’ll get to stay there while the application process goes through and then you can move to Europe and stay there forever with the love of your life! That’s a win-win! (This is a joke. Don’t get married just for a visa to stay in Europe!)

The best, easiest, and most effective way to stay in Europe long-term is to increase the number of countries you visit so you’re in the Schengen Area for only 90 days. As I said, there are a lot of countries not in the Area so this is easy to do.

If you’re like me and want to stay in the Schengen Area longer than 90 days (or just want to move to Europe because it’s awesome), be prepared to work the system. It’s not impossible to stay long-term in the Schengen Area. By understanding the system and using the few loopholes that do exist, one can legally stay past 90 days and enjoy all Europe has to offer without worrying about being barred for life.  

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Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here is a list of my favorite hostels in Europe .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Europe for even more planning tips!

NOTE: Due to the complexities of visas and the uniqueness of everyone’s situation, we do not answer any visa related questions in the comments or via email. Thank you.

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Schengenvisa.info

February 4 2024 by Editorial office

Schengen visa for 5 years, how do you get it?

Who regularly travels to the Netherlands or other countries Schengen countries travels, would prefer a multi-year visa with multiple entries. This saves a lot of time, administrative work and costs. A Schengen visa is issued for a maximum of 5 years, but conditions apply.

Obtaining a 5-year multiple-entry visa (MEV) for Schengen allows travelers to travel to the Schengen area multiple times during the visa's validity period. This type of visa is ideal for people who frequently travel to the Schengen zone for business, family visits, partner visits or who have other long-term ties with Schengen countries. Below you will find a brief overview of how to apply for a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa.

Length of stay in the Netherlands or other Schengen countries

With a  multiple entry visa  with a validity of 5 years, you can stay in the Netherlands/Schengen area for a maximum of 5 days per 90 days during those 180 years. This does not have to be consecutive. You may also distribute this, but you may never stay in the Netherlands/Schengen area for longer than 90 days per 180 days.

So if you have been in the Netherlands or another Schengen country for 90 days, you must wait at least 90 days before you can travel to the Schengen area again.

Who is eligible?

To qualify for the 5-year multiple-entry visa, applicants must generally have a correct visa history and be able to demonstrate convincing reasons for their frequent travel to the Schengen Area. This includes having previously obtained and lawfully used Schengen visas, no history of overstay, no violation of visa rules, and no false statements in previous visa applications. Financial stability is also required, such as proof of a stable income, financial resources or a guarantee from, for example, a partner .

Benefits of a Schengen visa for 5 years

The benefits of the 5-year Schengen visa are significant: it offers flexibility for frequent travelers, it is cost-efficient over the long term, saves time by avoiding repetitive visa processing times and allows for extensive business and personal travel options within the Schengen area. .

Multiple-entry visas should be issued more often

From February 2, 2020, a multi-entry visa must be issued as standard to reliable frequent travelers. However, Member States may decide not to issue a multiple-entry visa in individual cases .

This MEV is initially valid for 1 year if the applicant has obtained and lawfully used three visas in the previous two years. If you have previously received an MEV for one year, a new MEV will be valid for 2 years. If you have already received a MEV for 2 years, the next one will be a MEV for 5 years. If you have previously received a 5-year visa, this will also be issued next time (provided your application meets the conditions).

Remember the validity of your passport!

It is important to know that the validity period of the visa also depends on the validity period of your passport. For example, if your passport is only valid for 2 years, the validity of your multiple-entry visa will also be a maximum of 2 years. It may therefore be wise to first renew your passport before applying for a 5-year Schengen visa .

Application process MEV

The application process involves collecting the necessary documentation, including a valid passport, medical travel insurance , proof of accommodation or proof of accommodation, flights, itinerary, financial resources or guarantee and previous Schengen visas. You must then make an appointment with VFS Global, which acts as an external service provider for the country that is your main destination, or the first country of entry if no main destination can be determined. A visa interview is mandatory. The costs for a Schengen visa for adults are €80 and €40 for children aged 6-12. This also applies to a multiple-entry visa. Processing time can vary from 15 to 30 days .

Medical travel insurance

Do not forget to ensure that you have a valid one for every trip to the Schengen area, even if you have a 5-year visa medical travel insurance . The Royal Military Police can check this upon arrival at the airport. The same applies to the guarantee and/or accommodation provision.

Visa policy

What is the european commission’s role in visa policy implementation.

The common visa policy is a key component of the Schengen Area , with all 27 Schengen States applying the same visa rules. The role of the European Commission is to develop , monitor and implement the EU common visa policy , regulating which non-EU nationals need a visa to enter the Schengen Area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. When someone enters the Schengen Area, the 180-day period starts. This means that someone can enter the Schengen Area as many times as they want, but only stay for a total of 90 days, every 180 days. Visas for stays exceeding 90 days remain subject to national procedures. A Schengen visa is generally valid for every state of the Schengen Area.

What are the main elements of the EU common visa policy?

Visa requirements for third countries.

Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 of the European Parliament and Council establishes which third country nationals must be in possession of a visa when crossing the external borders of the EU and which are exempt from that requirement. “Annex I” of that Regulation lists the countries for which a visa is required, and “Annex II” lists the countries for which there is a visa exemption. Individual member states can further include derogations from the Annex I, for example for holders of diplomatic or service passports, refugees or stateless persons legally residing in a third country, or school pupils. A common list set down the countries whose citizens must have a visa even when they simply transit through the international (non-Schengen) part of an EU airport, called Airport Transit Visa or ATV . Member states can also impose individual ATV requirements on non-EU countries that are not included in this common list.

Visa-free regime with non-EU countries

Currently, 61 non-EU countries, two special administrative regions of China (Hong Kong and Macao) and one territorial authority that is not recognised as a state by at least one EU Member State (Taiwan) are visa free. Kosovo, another territorial authority not recognised as a state by at least one EU Member State, will be gaining visa free status starting 1 January 2024.

Out of the 61 non-EU countries with a visa free-regime, 27 have  visa waiver agreements  with the EU.

Any Commission proposal to grant visa-free status to a third country is followed by a legislative procedure, involving both the Council and the Parliament. The Commission conducts an assessment based on a variety of criteria relating, among others, to irregular migration, public policy and security, economic benefit, in particular in terms of tourism and foreign trade, and the EU’s external relations with the relevant third countries, including, in particular, considerations of human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as the implications of regional coherence and reciprocity. New decisions on visa exemption are usually followed by bilateral negotiations on a visa waiver agreement.

The Community Code on Visas – commonly referred to as Visa Code – sets out the procedures and conditions for issuing short stay visas.

Operational instructions for the application of the Visa Code are further specified in the  Handbook for the processing of visa applications and the modification of issued visas  and the  Handbook for the administrative management of visa processing .

The visa code also helps improve cooperation with third countries in readmissions of irregular migrants, through the visa leverage mechanism . Under this mechanism, when a third country does not cooperate sufficiently in the area of readmissions, restrictive measures related to the visa processing and the visa fee can be taken. Such measures have been adopted for nationals of The Gambia ( Implementing Decision 1 , Implementing Decision 2 ).

Visa facilitation agreements with non-EU countries

The EU has visa facilitation agreements in place with certain non-EU countries. Under this simplified visa regime , non-EU citizens enjoy facilitated procedures to obtain a visa to the Schengen area, such as lower visa fees.

However, visa facilitation agreements can be suspended when a non-EU country no longer satisfies the conditions of the agreement. The general rules of the EU Visa Code then apply.

Suspensions can be triggered by an EU member state or by the European Commission. Currently two agreements are suspended: with Russia (full suspension of facilitation agreement) and with Belarus (partial suspension of facilitation agreement).

Visa facilitation agreements are linked to readmission agreements . Readmission agreements establish the procedures for the return to the EU or to the partner non-EU country of persons (own and third country nationals or stateless persons) in irregular situation.

EU States may also individually negotiate agreements on local border traffic with neighbouring non-EU countries. These agreements enable border residents of well-defined areas to cross the EU external borders, under certain conditions, without having to obtain a visa.

Suspension mechanism for visa free travel

The Visa Suspension Mechanism, set out in Regulation No 1806/2018 (article 7), enables Member States to call for a temporary suspension of a visa exemption in case of a sudden and substantial surge in irregular migration. In that case, a Member State can notify the European Commission, which can then decide to trigger the suspension mechanism.

Since 2017, the Commission has been issuing annual reports under the Visa Suspension Mechanism. Currently the visa waiver agreement with Vanuatu has been suspended under the suspension mechanism.

The Commission has recently proposed the revision of the suspension mechanism via the proposal amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 as regards the revision of the suspension mechanism.

Visa reciprocity

The EU aims at achieving full visa reciprocity with the non-EU countries whose nationals are exempt from the visa requirement. This means that EU citizens should not need a visa to visit countries whose citizens also do not need a visa to visit the Schengen area. For that purpose, a visa reciprocity mechanism is set out in Regulation No 1806/2018 ( article 7 ). Currently, the EU has achieved visa reciprocity with all visa-free third countries, except the United States. Citizens of Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania still need a visa to visit the United States.

Visa digitalisation

The Pact on Migration and Asylum proposed by the Commission in September 2020, set the objective of making the visa procedure fully digitalised by 2025. On 27 April 2022, the Commission presented a proposal on the digitalisation of the Schengen visa process , aiming to:

• replace the visa sticker and introduce the option to submit visa applications online through a European online visa platform,
• improve the visa application process,
• reduce the costs for EU countries and applicants.

The revised amending regulations 2023/2685 and 2023/2667  were adopted on 22 November 2023.

After a transition period of seven years, Member States will all have to use a common visa application platform to collect visa applications. This platform will allow applicants to carry out all steps of the application process, except the provision of biometrics (when necessary) and the verification of a new travel document. In addition, a digital visa will replace the visa sticker once the platform will become operational.

A portal prototype was created to test the future Schengen visa online platform. Find out more information on the dedicated Questions and answers webpage.

ETIAS stands for “European Travel Information and Authorisation System” and is meant to facilitate border control and security for visa exempt nationals traveling to the Schengen area. It is not a visa and is comparable to similar systems in the USA (ESTA), Canada (eTA), or Australia (eVisitor). Once active in 2025, visa exempt travellers will need to fill out an online form an pay a small fee before being able to travel to the Schengen area.

Interactive map on visa requirements

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New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

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Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

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Long-stay visa (stay of more than 3 months to 1 year).

Verified 04 January 2022 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Situation of a foreigner in possession of documents authorizing him to remain in France

Abolition for the future of an administrative act or a rule of law

To enter and stay in France for more than 3 months, a foreigner must hold a long-stay visa ( type D ). This visa is granted by the French consular authorities. It is issued most often for education, work or family reasons. Several types of long-stay visas exist depending on the reason for the stay, its length and the intention to apply for a residence permit to settle in France on a long-term basis.

What's this about?

A visa is a sticker affixed by a country's administration to a person's passport to allow him or her to enter and stay for a specified period of time.

The long-stay visa, type D , allows you to enter and stay in France from 4 months to 1 year.

If you are an adult, you must apply for a long-stay visa even if your nationality does not require a short-stay visa.

There are different types of visas depending on the reason and length of your stay and your intention to settle you in France.

it also allows you to move around (without any other visa) in the whole area Schengen , provided that it does not exceed 90 days during its period of validity.

Please note

you do not need this document if you are a citizen European , Andorran, Monegasque, San Marino, Holy See/Vatican.

Long-stay visa as residence permit (VLS-TS): valid for 4 to 12 months

This visa, says VLS-TS , is valid as a residence permit and you do not need to apply for a residence card in the prefecture as soon as you arrive in France.

This applies in particular to the following cases:

• Employee (holder of a contract of indefinite duration)
• Husband of French
• Talented passport

if you are married to a Frenchman, the VLS-TS is issued to you without conditions. It may be refused if your marriage is fraudulent or has been canceled or if you pose a threat to public order.

VLS-TS Validation

Within 3 months of your arrival in France, you must validate your VLS-TS and pay a tax in addition to the visa fee.

The online approach makes it possible to be in regular stay and to be able to cross the border again from the Schengen area .

Validate a long-stay visa as a residence permit (VLS-TS) and pay the tax

Visa mention "residence card to be requested within 2 months of arrival"

The endorsement shall bear the residence card to be requested within 2 months of arrival . It allows you to enter France and obtain a residence card in the prefecture.

It is given to you in order to benefit from a residence card (annual, multiannual or 10 years depending on your situation), in particular in quality:

• French family (child aged 16 to 21 or dependent on a French person, dependent on a French person and his or her husband),
• a professional or self-employed person (trader, craftsman, etc.),
• worker (employee on assignment, EU Blue Card, seasonal, talent passport) or worker family,
• pensioner or pensioner spouse,

Working holiday visa 

This visa can only be issued to you if your country is bound by a bilateral "working holiday" agreement with France . It may also be issued without bilateral agreement for Taiwanese nationals.

Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement

This visa is for young people aged 18 to 35. It has a maximum duration of 12 months and waives the need to apply for a residence card.

This visa is for young people aged 18 to 30. It has a maximum duration of 12 months and waives the need to apply for a residence card.

China (Hong Kong)

South korea, new zealand, minor visa in france: valid for 11 months maximum.

You can benefit from this visa under the following conditions:

• You must be under 18
• You have to follow your education or studies in France for more than 3 months
• Your parents must reside abroad.

This visa has a maximum duration of 11 months. It allows you to enter France as many times as you want during its period of validity, without having to apply for a new visa.

as a minor, you do not have to hold a residence permit.

Temporary long-stay visa: valid for 4 to 6 months

This visa lasts between 4 and 6 months maximum. It is worth a temporary authorization to stay in France. It can be issued to you if you come to France:

• for short courses,
• or to engage in artistic activity,
• or as a visitor (you must be able to live from your own resources).

During the validity of your visa, you are exempt from applying for a residence card in the prefecture. At the end, you have to go back to your country of origin.

What documents should be provided?

The long-stay visa allows you to settle in France. The documents to be presented vary according to the reason for your stay: as employee, student, family of Frenchman or a foreigner regularly settled in France, etc.

You must consult the France-Visas portal to know, according to your situation, the list of the parts to be provided.

France-Visas - Visa Assistants - List of documents to be supplied

How to apply for the visa?

General case, where to apply.

You must submit your visa application (no more than 3 months before departure planned) with the French consular authorities of the country where you live:

Apply for a visa

Who shall I contact

• Visa department (French embassy/consulate abroad)

Validity of the passport

• Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the end date of your visa.
• It must be at least 2 blank pages
• It must have been issued less than 10 years ago.

Special cases of certain foreigner students

Foreigners from 43 countries must apply for a visa on the Studies in France at the time of online pre-enrollment in French higher education.

The request is made on the site Studies in France at the time of online pre-enrollment in french higher education:

Enrollment in French higher education / application for a student visa procedure "Studies in France"

Recording of the applicant's data

Your biometric data is stored in a file, called Visabio .

This data is the scanned images:

• of your photo,
• and your fingerprints (except children under 12 years of age).

You cannot object to this registration (you have a right of access and rectification to the file ).

What is the cost?

The amount of the visa fee varies. It is expressed in euros or CFA francs, depending on the country.

To find out, you should see Rate of the country pages of the France-Visas assistant:

France-Visas - Cost of visa according to country

However, some applicants are exempt from visa fees, including:

• Non-European family member of a European (other than French) or Swiss
• Seasonal worker
• Turkish, Serbian or Montenegrin wage earner and his family reunited with their families
• French teacher
• Foreign Language Assistant or Reader
• Some working holiday visa recipients
• Holder of a diplomatic or service passport
• Scholarship student from the French government or a foreigners government or a foreign foundation
• Guest from an intergovernmental organization based in France
• Veteran with a free care notebook coming to France for medical treatment

What remedy should a refusal be granted?

Grounds for refusal of visa .

Reasons must be given for any refusal to grant a visa.

Appeal against refusal of visa

In case of refusal of your visa application, you can form a ex gratia appeal to the consulate asking it to review its decision:

• French Embassy or Consulate Abroad

You can also appeal to the Board of Appeal against decisions refusing entry visas to France (CRRV):

• Board of Appeal against Decisions Refusing Entry Visas to France (CRRV)

This remedy is obligatory before any appeal to the administrative judge. It is imperative that you present it in a period of 2 months next:

• notification of the written refusal,
• or the implicit refusal of your visa application (if the consulate has not replied to you within 2 months).

You must give reasons for your appeal (set out the legal and factual elements). You must write it in French, sign it and attach any useful documents.

The VAC can be referred by you, your lawyer, or anyone with an interest in challenging the visa refusal (for example, a family member).

The VAC may:

• dismiss your appeal (if no reply is received within 2 months, this is an implied dismissal),
• or recommend to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of the Interior to grant you the visa.

if your appeal is manifestly inadmissible or unfounded, the Chairperson of the VRC may dismiss your appeal on his or her own, without convening the VRC.

If the VAC rejects your appeal, or if the ministers confirm the visa refusal despite the VAC's favorable opinion, you can file an appeal for cancelation within 2 months. This appeal must be lodged with the Administrative Court of Nantes:

• Administrative Court of Nantes

Can the visa be revoked?

Your long-stay visa as a residence permit may be revoked for one of the following 3 reasons:

• Obtaining your visa fraudulently
• Entry to France for an installation for purposes other than the issuing of your visa
• Disturbance of public order.

The prefect responsible for deciding whether to revoke your visa is the one where you are staying or the one where you have been checked.

You may appeal the decision to repeal one ex gratia appeal to the prefect and/or a hierarchical appeal to the minister of the interior .

• Paris Police Department
• Directorate of Immigration - Ministry in charge of the Interior

You can also refer a case to the administrative judge action for annulment  :

• if your administrative appeals have not been successful,
• or directly without going through those administrative remedies.
• Administrative Tribunal

What to do at the end of the visa?

If you wish stay in France , you must file a application for a residence card within 2 months before the end of your visa to the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home.

Find out more on your prefecture's website.

Who can help me?

Find who can answer your questions in your region

Telephone administrative information - Allo Public Service

For more information on this topic, you can contact Allô Service Public.

Cost: free service

The informants who answer you belong to the Ministry of the Interior.

Attention: the service does not have access to users' personal files and cannot therefore provide information on their status.

The service is available at the following times:

• Monday: 8.30am to 5.30pm
• Tuesday: 8:30 to 12:15
• Wednesday: 8:30 to 12:15
• Thursday: 8.30am to 5.30pm
• Friday: 1 p.m. to 4:15 p.m
• Lundi  : de 08h30 à 17h30
• Mardi  : de 08h30 à 12h15
• Mercredi  : de 08h30 à 12h15
• Jeudi  : de 08h30 à 17h30
• Vendredi  : de 13h00 à 16h15

Request a call

Statute and miscellaneous references

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L312-6

Visa issued to the husband of French: Article L312-6-1°

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L412-1 to L412-4

Requirement to present, with exceptions, a long-stay visa in order to obtain a temporary residence card 

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L423-7 to L423-11

Mandatory long-stay visa for issuing residence card to the ascendant of French: article L423-11

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L423-12

Long-stay visa required for the issuance of the residence card to the child of French

Code of relations between the public and the administration: Articles L211-2 to L211-4

Code of relations between the public and the administration: Articles L211-5 to L211-6

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles R431-16 to D431-19

Long-stay visa as residence permit and temporary long-stay visa 

Decree No. 81-778 of 13 August 1981 fixing the tariff of fees to be collected in diplomatic and consular chancelleries and, in France, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Cost (table of fees: Article 18 B.1 B2. B3. B4.)

Online services and forms

Application for a visa for a long stay in France (paper format)

Additional topics

France-Visas

Ministry of the Interior

The steps of applying for a visa

Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs

Working holiday visa

Countries concerned by the online registration procedure "Studies in France"

Agence Campus France

• Immigration

Schengen Visa Update: Long-Term Multiple Entry Options for Indian Nationals

Indian nationals can now apply for long-term schengen visas for 29 european countries, making the process easier with multiple entries and extended validity..

Key Takeaways:

• New Schengen visa rules for Indians enable multiple entries, extended validity spanning 29 European countries from April 18.
• “Cascade” visa system grants two-year visa initially, extending to five years for Indian travelers with positive visa history.
• 29 European countries welcome Indian visitors under the new visa regime, promoting tourism and business, restricted from working.

What are the New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Nationals?

Great news for Indian travelers! The European Commission has announced exciting changes that simplify the process for Indians applying for Schengen visas. Starting from April 18, a new visa regime allows Indian nationals to obtain multiple entry visas with extended validity, permitting easier access to 29 European countries.

How Does the New Visa “Cascade” Regime Benefit Indian Travelers?

The newly adopted “cascade” system is designed to offer more favorable terms than ever before. Initially, Indian applicants can secure a long-term, multiple-entry visa that remains valid for two years. This is possible for those who, during the past three years, have successfully obtained and properly used two visas.

Following the two-year visa, and provided the Indian passport remains valid, travelers can then receive a visa for five years. These extended visas allow holders to travel freely within the Schengen area, with travel rights almost akin to those of visa-free nationals.

Which Countries Can Be Visited With This Visa?

The Schengen area is quite extensive, encompassing 29 European nations. This includes 25 European Union states such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Poland, along with four non-EU countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Whether for tourism or business, visa holders can enjoy up to 90 days of travel within a 180-day period in these countries, although it does not permit the right to work.

Why These Changes Now?

The implementation of these updated rules on issuing Schengen visas to Indian nationals stems from an effort to strengthen migration and mobility cooperation under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility. This policy framework aims to enhance cooperation on migration strategies between the EU and India, recognizing the benefits of simplified visa processing.

Also of Interest:

Indian students in us stay back from protests over visa concerns, canada speeds up proof of citizenship application process.

These changes mark a significant improvement in the mobility of Indian nationals across Europe, promising easier and more frequent travel within the Schengen zone. For more detailed information on these visa rules and how they might affect your travel plans, visit the official European Commission migration and home affairs page .

By simplifying the visa application process and extending the validity periods of issued visas, the European Commission not only enhances the travel experience for Indian nationals but also fosters stronger ties and greater understanding between Europe and India.

Learn Today:

• Definition : A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows individuals to travel to and within the Schengen area, comprising 29 European countries, for tourism, business, or family visits. It permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The Schengen visa simplifies travel within the participating countries by enabling entry to all member states with a single visa.
• Definition : A multiple entry visa permits the holder to enter a Schengen country multiple times within the visa’s validity period, without the need to apply for a new visa each time. This type of visa facilitates frequent travel between the home country and the Schengen area for various purposes.
• Definition : Visa validity refers to the period during which a visa holder is permitted to enter and exit the Schengen area. It indicates the duration for which the visa remains legally effective, allowing the individual to travel to the designated countries within the specified time frame.
• Definition : The EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility is a policy framework established to enhance cooperation between the European Union and India regarding migration management and mobility issues. It aims to streamline visa procedures, promote legal migration, combat irregular migration, and foster dialogue on migration-related matters.
• Definition : Visa-free nationals are individuals from certain countries who are allowed to enter Schengen countries without the need for a visa for short stays. They benefit from visa-free travel privileges based on agreements between their home countries and the Schengen area, facilitating easier access for purposes such as tourism, business meetings, or family visits.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Exciting news for Indian travelers 🇮🇳! New Schengen visa rules bring multiple-entry visas for Indians to explore 29 European countries. The “cascade” regime allows for 2-year validity, then 5 years for seasoned visa holders. Enjoy travel across EU and non-EU states for tourism or business. Strengthening EU-India migration cooperation for seamless travel. — By VisaVerge.com

EU Actions on Schengen Visa-Free Travel : Discover how the EU proposes to suspend visa-free travel for countries with citizenship-by-investment programs.

Schengen Visa Restrictions for Denmark : Learn about Denmark’s decision to exclude three main countries from its tourism visa program.

Top 5 African Nations Facing Schengen Visa Denials : Explore which African countries have the highest rates of Schengen visa rejections.

Streamlining Schengen Visas Digitally : Understand the reforms in Schengen visa applications and how going digital makes the process easier.

Turkey’s Strategy to Address Schengen Visa Challenges : Gain insight into Turkey’s new visa strategies aimed at overcoming Schengen issues with the European Union.

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Schengen visa multi-year validity rules for Indians modified by European Union

T his is good news for Indians who want to visit European countries for business prospects. The European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date.

This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history if the passport validity allows.

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work.

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with the facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU.

Schengen Visa Fees to Increase in 2024: What You Need to Know

• Published: April 29, 2024
• EU Tourism , Schengen Travel , Schengen Visa , Schengen Visa Price Hike

The Schengen Visa acts as a key that unlocks European adventures. In 2024, this key will come at a higher price, prompting potential visitors to dig a little deeper into their pockets. Understanding the upcoming changes to the Schengen Visa fees is crucial for planning your travel, ensuring that exploring the Old Continent remains a dream within reach.

Overview of the Schengen Visa

A Schengen Visa allows non-European travelers to cross the borders of 26 European countries with ease, promoting free movement and cultural exchange.

Whether you aim to gaze at the Northern Lights in Finland, soak up the sun on the French Riviera, or explore the ancient ruins in Greece, a Schengen Visa is your gateway. 

Traditionally available in several types—including tourist, business, and transit visas—this visa simplifies travel for over 15 million people annually. Each type caters to different travel needs, but all share the same premise: facilitating short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area. 

The visa’s flexibility also extends to the issuance of multiple-entry visas, which are ideal for frequent travelers who wish to make multiple trips within a specified period.

This not only makes it easier for business travelers and tourists to plan consecutive visits without the hassle of reapplying but also enhances cultural ties and economic exchanges between Schengen states and the rest of the world. 

Understanding these visa types and their benefits is more crucial than ever, especially with the impending fee adjustments.

Details of the Price Hike

In 2024, the cost of applying for a Schengen Visa will see an increase—a pivotal change influenced by several factors vital to maintaining the visa system’s integrity and efficiency. Here’s a deeper look into what’s driving this adjustment and what it means for travelers.

Rising Operational Costs

The increase from €80 to €100 in the standard visa fee addresses the rising operational costs associated with processing visa applications. These expenses encompass everything from administrative efforts to the deployment of advanced technology for background checks.

Enhanced security protocols, which include biometric verification and sophisticated data analysis, ensure that each application is thoroughly vetted, thereby safeguarding the borders of the Schengen zone.

Improved Visa Processing Services

Another aspect of the fee increase is the commitment to improving visa processing services. The additional funds will be used to streamline application procedures, reducing processing times and increasing the efficiency of visa issuance.

This development aims to enhance the overall applicant experience, minimizing delays and providing clearer communication regarding application status.

Ensuring Safety and Accessibility

The price hike is also part of a broader strategy to ensure that traveling within the Schengen Area remains both safe and accessible.

By investing in stronger security measures and more efficient processes, the European Union is reinforcing its borders while still promoting tourism and cultural exchange.

This balance is crucial for maintaining the Schengen Area’s status as one of the world’s premier travel destinations.

Impact Analysis

Visitor trends.

The decision to raise the Schengen Visa fees may initially deter some potential travelers, particularly those from economies where the increased cost represents a significant expense. Historically, price sensitivity in travel has shown that higher costs can lead to reduced visitor numbers. 

However, the Schengen Area’s unique cultural and historical appeal may buffer against a drastic drop in tourism. Many travelers prioritize experiences and destinations that offer rich historical narratives and diverse cultural interactions, which the Schengen Area uniquely provides. 

Thus, while the fee increase might impact the decision-making process, the intrinsic value of the experiences offered may continue to draw a robust number of visitors.

Economic Implications

For the EU’s tourism sector, which thrives on the influx of international visitors, there could be mixed impacts.

While the higher visa fees might decrease the number of short-term visitors, the increased revenue from the fees can be reinvested into marketing and infrastructure, potentially boosting higher-value, longer-term tourism. 

This strategic reinvestment aims to enhance the tourist experience, making the Schengen area more attractive and accessible. Improvements might include upgrading tourist facilities, enhancing cultural festivals, and more robust promotional activities aimed at attracting a diverse international audience. 

This approach could lead to a qualitative shift rather than a quantitative decline in tourism figures, fostering a more sustainable tourism ecosystem that values quality over sheer numbers.

Justifying the Increase

Enhanced security measures and streamlined visa processing are critical benefits that justify the fee increase. These improvements are aimed at strengthening safety within the Schengen Zone, enhancing its reputation as a secure destination, thereby potentially attracting more travelers in the long run. 

Better processing and shorter wait times not only improve the overall visitor experience but also significantly enhance the perception of value among travelers, helping to offset initial cost concerns.

Moreover, these upgrades help in efficient handling of the increasing applicant volumes, ensuring that the system remains robust, responsive, and capable of adapting to evolving global travel dynamics.

Responses and Reactions

Stakeholder feedback.

Initial reactions among stakeholders—travelers, travel agencies, EU member states, and tourism boards—have been varied. Travelers express concerns about affordability, whereas travel agencies fear a decrease in client numbers. 

On the flip side, some EU member states view the increase as a necessary step towards ensuring long-term sustainability of travel infrastructure and security.

Tourism boards have also weighed in, highlighting the potential for these funds to enhance visitor experiences through improved facilities and services. 

This mixed feedback underscores the complexity of balancing economic growth with the needs and expectations of all parties involved in the Schengen travel ecosystem.

Official Statements

The European Union has issued statements emphasizing that the increased fees are crucial for maintaining high standards of security and efficiency in handling the growing number of visitors.

They assure that the enhancements funded by the fees will lead to a smoother and safer travel experience, which is paramount in today’s global context. 

The EU highlights that the additional funds will enable the implementation of advanced technologies and methodologies for faster, more secure visa processing.

This approach not only strengthens the safety protocols but also enhances the overall travel experience, ensuring that the Schengen Area remains one of the most attractive destinations worldwide.

Advice for Travelers

Managing the impact.

Navigating the Schengen visa price increase can be manageable with strategic planning. Here are some effective ways to lessen the financial impact of your travels to Europe:

• Plan During Off-Peak Seasons: By planning trips during less popular travel times, such as early spring or late autumn, travelers can benefit from reduced visa processing times and possibly lower travel costs in terms of flights and accommodations.
• Consider Long-Term Multi-Entry Visas: For frequent travelers, applying for a long-term multi-entry visa can be more economical over time. These visas reduce the need for multiple applications and fees, making repeated visits more hassle-free and cost-effective.

Cost-Effective Alternatives

While the Schengen visa price hike may increase travel costs, there are several strategies to explore Europe affordably. Here are some cost-effective alternatives for budget-conscious travelers:

• Explore Visa-Free Destinations in Europe : Countries like Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus offer rich cultural experiences and beautiful landscapes without the need for a Schengen Visa. These destinations can be especially attractive for budget travelers.
• Regional Travel Deals: Look for travel deals within the Schengen Area. Many regional carriers and hotels offer discounts during off-peak seasons, which can make staying within the Schengen Zone more affordable despite the visa cost.
• Utilize Budget Travel Options: Embrace budget travel options such as interrail passes, budget airlines, and bus services that connect multiple European cities at a lower cost. These options not only save money but also offer the flexibility to explore multiple countries during a single trip.
• Stay Longer in Fewer Places: Rather than hopping from one country to another, choose a base city and explore it thoroughly. Longer stays can reduce transportation costs and offer deeper insights into the local culture and lifestyle, enriching your travel experience.

The upcoming increase in Schengen visa fees marks a significant shift for travelers planning to visit Europe in 2024. While the hike aims to enhance security and streamlined visa processing, it also poses challenges for budget-conscious travelers. 

This change reflects broader trends in international travel where costs and security measures are dynamically balanced. As a traveler, it’s essential to stay informed about such developments.

Knowledge not only prepares you for additional expenses but also helps in discovering alternative ways to explore Europe affordably. Always check for the latest updates and travel tips to ensure your journey is both enjoyable and economical.

For further reading and to stay updated on changes regarding the Schengen visa and travel to Europe, consider visiting the following links:

• European Commission – Visa Information:  Visit the European Commission’s official page for detailed and up-to-date information on visa policies and changes.
• EU Immigration Portal: The EU Immigration Portal offers resources and essential tips for travelers planning to visit Europe, including visa requirements and application procedures.

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Related information.

Explore the journey of Bulgaria and Romania as they make significant strides toward Schengen Area integration, enhancing EU cohesion and security.

Despite Romania’s recent entry into the Schengen Area, Romanian travelers still face unexpected airport checks, highlighting challenges in the enforcement of Schengen rules and integration.

Exploring the EU Commission’s strategic enhancements for the Schengen Area, aimed at securing borders while facilitating free movement.

Exploring 2024’s prospective Schengen entrants amidst complex political landscapes and rigorous EU criteria.

Analyzing the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, this piece examines its strategies, critiques, and future influence on EU migration.

If you’re planning a trip to Europe but have a criminal record, you may be wondering if you can apply for a Schengen visa. After

Discover the upcoming changes to Schengen visa fees in 2024 and learn how they might affect your travel budget for visiting the European Union.

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• European Union – New Visa “Cascade” Regime for India

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Jump to: Context   |  New Policy

Travel to the Schengen area for Indian nationals is significantly easier with the introduction of new rules that allow frequent travelklers access to a longer visa period overall.  

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted more favourable rules for visas issued to Indian nationals residing in India. 1  The new rules, known as the visa “cascade” regime, will allow Indian nationals who reside in India to have access to long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.  The initial two-year visa can then be followed by a five-year visa, provided that the passport has sufficient remaining validity, providing for a longer stay by the individual. 

WHY THIS MATTERS

The new visa cascade regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short stay) visas in India will allow easier access to visas with longer validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows.

In effect, this means that the holder of the new visa would enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.  

The new rules are expected to enhance mobility between India and Schengen-area European countries.

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. 2  Although the Schengen visa grants entry to the Schengen area, it does not grant a right to work.

The Schengen area consist of 29 European countries: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

According to a press release, "This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which deals with comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India." 3   The Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility was signed in 2016. 4

Indian nationals who held and used at least two Schengen visas within three years preceding their application, can obtain a Schengen visa for a two-year period followed by a visa for a period up to five years.

This visa allows multiple entries into the Schengen area.

MEIJBURG & CO. INSIGHTS

It is important to note that the validity of the new visa is linked to the validity of the individual’s passport.  Issued visas cannot have a duration that exceeds the validity of the passport it is issued for.

Parties affected by the new rules may wish to consult with their immigration counsel or a professional with the KPMG Immigration network .

1  Delegation of the European Union to India and Bhutan, "European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians," (22.04.2024) at: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/india/european-union-adopts-more-favourable-schengen-visa-rules-indians_en?s=167 .

2  For more information on the Schengen area, see the EU’s Migration and Home Affairs webpage .

3  See footnote 1.

4  See the “Joint Declaration on a Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility” (March 2016) at: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/23674/20160329-joint-declaration-camm.pdf .

To learn more about the Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility signed in 2016, and developments since then, see:

- The International Labour Organization (ILO) webpage . 

- Government of India, Ministry of External Affairs "Joint Press Statement: 7th India-EU High Level Dialogue on Migration and Mobility" (October 27, 2023) at: https://www.mea.gov.in/Speeches-Statements.htm?dtl/37212/Joint+Press+Statement+7th+IndiaEU+High+Level+Dialogue+on+Migration+and+Mobility .

- The website for the Delegation of the European Union to India and Bhutan.   

* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in the Netherlands.

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The 20 Best Countries for American Expats to Consider in 2024

You may be surprised by a few on this list.

If you’ve ever daydreamed about purchasing a beachside bungalow in Costa Rica or a cliffside dwelling in Portugal, you’re not alone. In fact, many Americans have made this dream a reality in recent years. According to American Citizens Abroad , a nonprofit organization that represents the legislative concerns of U.S. citizens living overseas, as of 2022, an estimated 5.1 million Americans live abroad, with 3.9 million as civilians. With the rise of flexible or remote work, new visa programs, and impressive tax incentives, it's becoming more common for U.S. citizens to consider a big move.

While it’s true that many of the places Americans are laying down roots offer beautiful landscapes, vibrant cultures and incredible cuisine, these countries also offer enviable long-term quality of life benefits that can be hard to find here in the states. Factors like a low cost of living, healthy work-life balance, free public healthcare, and lower instances of gun violence make a compelling case to leave life in America behind. Although it’s not easy both emotionally and bureaucratically to pack up and move to another country, these 20 countries make it easy for Americans to find a new homeland. Read on to discover the best countries for expats in 2024.

As the most developed nation in Central America with a mix of both a glittering skyline in Panama City and beautiful beaches and lush natural surroundings, Panama is a vibrant choice for Americans looking to head abroad. Plus, to make things super simple, the country operates on the American dollar, which goes much further here. Apartment rentals range from $900 to $1500 in Panama City for more than 1000 square feet, and doctors visits can cost as little as $20. Digital nomads will love the high-speed internet available, and the country’s short stay visa for remote workers , a 9-month visa that can be renewed for another 9 months.

The oldest wine region in Europe, sun-soaked beaches and instagram-worthy cobblestone streets, there’s a lot to love about Portugal. This small country on the Iberian peninsula is a big draw for entrepreneurial expats thanks to funding programs and business incentives as well as a different types of digital nomad visas. These temporary stay visas will allow you to live in Portugal for up to one year with an option to extend up to five years. And, retirees rejoice: You can become a non-habitual resident and only pay 10% in taxes.

Spain has some of the most affordable cost of living in all of Western Europe (free tapas with a glass of vino, anyone?) and there’s so much variety across the country’s cities and towns. You can go full on cosmopolitan in Madrid, live the beachy life in Valencia, live out your flamenco dreams in Seville or indulge in Moorish history and culture in Granada. Spain offers a self-employment visa that’s ideal for freelancers and remote workers, and families will love the wide selection of international schools and affordable public healthcare.

We won’t sugarcoat it, German bureaucracy is legendary. So although the land of stunning mountains, Oktoberfest and schnitzel offers a residency permit for foreign freelancers and self-employed people to live in Germany for a period of up to 3 years, it may take a while to get approval. That said, once you’re in, a life in Germany can be the stuff of fairytales. You can tuck away in a cottage outside of Munich near the Alps, or snag an affordable loft in the undeniably cool capital city of Berlin. Wherever you choose, you’ll get access to one of the best healthcare and education systems in the world.

A million Americans visit Costa Rica every year and more than a few of them have decided to permanently call it home, which isn’t much of a surprise. Perched between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, the gorgeous country draws people (especially surfers) thanks to craggy volcanoes, lush rain forests and pura vida ("pure life") philosophy for good living. Becoming at least a temporary resident is easy and straightforward thanks to the Rentista visa, which allows foreigners to stay for a 2-year period and potentially extend it. If you’re looking for a lifestyle that’s outdoorsy, laid back, and fantastically environmentally friendly, Costa Rica is it.

Travel to Ghana sharply increased in popularity in 2019 during the Year of Return , a birthright journey inviting African Americans and those of the African diaspora to commemorate 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were forcibly taken to the then colony of Virginia. While many visitors then decided to stay, more were drawn to Ghana during the racial uprisings of 2020, seeking relief from violence and racism in the United States. Rents in bustling Accra are nearly unbelievable (i.e. $700 a month for a three bedroom house with security), the restaurant and nightlife scene is vibrant and there are fantastic international schools for families.

Note: The LGBTQI+ community should "exercise increased caution," according to the U.S. Department of Travel , due to crime, violence, and anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric—especially in the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions due to civil unrest. Ghanaian law prohibits sexual intimacy between persons of the same sex, and punishment can include fines and/or incarceration.

Between Dubrovnik, Zagreb and Split, there are several beautiful cities across the Croatian coastline to serve as your next seaside hideaway. This Mediterranean country is known for its sweeping views of the sapphire-hued Adriatic Sea, bright orange tiled rooftops and ancient palaces and forts. Croatia was one of the first countries to introduce a digital nomad visa in January 2021, giving travelers a low-cost option to stay and work remotely in Europe for a year. A unique aspect of this temporary resident visa is you don’t have to get it worked out before you travel, you can apply when in Croatia, and also at Croatian consulates and embassies.

How many of us were drawn into the fantasy of dropping everything and moving to Italy thanks to movies like Under the Tuscan Sun and Eat, Pray, Love ? We should be entitled to financial compensation. Well, even though that’s not likely to happen, Italy just announced its brand new digital nomad visa as of March 2024, a one-year visa that can be renewed and comes with a minimum income requirement of just over 30,000 Euros.

The country is seemingly still working out the kinks as the visa is meant for “highly skilled applicants,” yet doesn’t define exactly what that means. Cost of living varies widely from major cities like Rome and Florence to small villages, but you’re sure to get incredible food and wine wherever you choose.

United Arab Emirates

One would think that in glittering cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which are both known for their remarkable luxury experiences, the cost of living would be significantly higher than in the United States, but in fact, it’s much lower. In comparable cities like Miami and New York where rent for one can range from $2000 to $2600, rent for one in Dubai holds strong at nearly half the cost at $1200. The city of Dubai recently launched a one-year virtual working program for remote workers , allowing them to benefit from the zero income tax for individuals.

Many American travelers are familiar with the wonders of Mexico: From gorgeous tropical beaches along the Caribbean Sea and Pacific ocean to lush mountain highlands and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Mexico City, there are so many fantastic cities and towns to start a new life. Best of all, if you’re unsure about completely uprooting, Americans can stay in Mexico for up to six months on a tourist visa. Longer than that requires a temporary resident visa which lasts up to 4 years. In Mexico you'll find a more relaxed pace, nearly half the cost of living in the states, and exceptional, affordable healthcare.

Note: The U.S. Department of State recommends that you do not travel to certain states in Mexico due to increased violent crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. Make sure to look at each state's precaution level before deciding where you should live or visit.

From the Canadian Rockies to quaint, French-leaning townships in Quebec to nautical living in Nova Scotia, Canada has so much to offer expats. Canada is consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world and one of the safest . Outdoor enthusiasts will love the rugged wild across the country, and there’s free public healthcare for citizens and permanent residents should all that adventuring cause a bump or scrape. Digital nomads don’t need a work visa to work remotely from Canada, and they can stay for up to six months.

The strength of the U.S. dollar these days has made living in one of the most culturally and geographically diverse continents on earth more affordable than ever (1 USD is worth $1.52 Australian dollars). While many Americans opt for sophisticated Sydney or cool and edgy Melbourne, your money will go a lot further in smaller cities like Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, and you’ll get to see Australia’s stunning natural landscape. The Working Holiday Visa for visitors between 18 to 30 is a favorite for folks that just want to hang out for a year (or up to three if you do enough specified work), but longer residences require employer sponsorship, specific skills, or business visas.

Somewhere deep in all of us, we all want to be a little bit like Rihanna. One way to do it is by starting a new life in her home country of Barbados. Barbados was a trendsetter during the height of COVID isolation when it launched its digital nomad program called the Barbados Welcome Stamp in July 2020. The 12-month program allows visitors to relocate and work from a beautiful Caribbean island with strong high-speed wifi, world-class cuisine, local rum, and year-round sunshine.

Colombia’s vibrant South American culture, mild year-round climate (with Caribbean-like vibes along the coast), Afro-Caribbean cuisine, and low cost of living with one-bedroom rents hovering around $530 per month in a city center like Bogotá make it an attractive country for expats. In April 2023, Colombia launched its Digital Nomad Visa that has a duration of 2 years and can not be extended. It is also one that has the lowest income requirements of only $684 per month.

Note: The U.S. Department of Travel has issued a level 3 warning and says to "reconsider travel" to Colombia due to crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and terrorism. The state department has issued a do not travel warning to Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander due to crime and terrorism. They also recommend avoiding travel to Colombia-Venezuela border region.

Switzerland

The natural beauty of Switzerland’s glacier-fed lakes and Alps mountain range is unmatched, plus it recently took the top spot as the world’s safest country , so although getting a long-term visa here isn’t easy, it’s definitely worth it. As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, money talks here. The best and quickest way to snag a long-term visa is through the Golden Visa Program for individuals looking to invest in Switzerland in exchange for residency, and eventually citizenship. The lump taxation payment will cost you a cool $203,000. If your pockets aren’t that fat, you can always stay for 90 days without a visa.

Bermuda is a unique Caribbean nation because it’s not actually in the Caribbean. Perched in the Atlantic ocean only 600 miles from the North Carolina coastline, it’s a geographically convenient Caribbean-like escape from America, but you can still stay relatively close to family and friends along the east coast. In 2020, Bermuda launched the Work from Bermuda visa for remote workers to stay for up to 12 months; the application fee is only $275 and there’s no requirement to prove a certain wage. However, the cost of living here is the highest on earth, and on average, 84.9% higher than in the United States. If you have the money, incredible festivals like Carnival and Cup Match, seaside living, and pink-sand beaches may make it worth it.

Vietnam has everything you could want in a landscape: beautiful mountains, some of the world’s best beaches and bustling shopping and nightlife in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh cities. The cost of living for Americans is also unbelievably low, with spacious one bedroom apartments costing less than $700 per month and delicious street food like bowls of phở, spring rolls and banh mi’s ranging from $1 to $5. There’s also a fantastic healthcare system, although the language barrier may pose a challenge. Digital nomads and freelancers visiting Vietnam do not need a work visa or work permit, as long as the company or companies they are working for are not based in Vietnam. All you need is the standard tourist visa to enter the country.

Thailand is a tropical paradise with strong infrastructure, high-speed internet and low living costs. Whether you opt for big city living in Bangkok or the laid back vibes of Chiang Mai, Americans are sure to find an incredibly high standard of living for a fraction of what they’d pay in the states. For example, in Bangkok, $600 a month can get you a high rise apartment in a building with a pool, sauna and gym, or you can find even better deals by snagging a bungalow in a beach town.

Most digital nomads and remote workers take a stint in Thailand on a 60-day tourist visa which can be extended for 30 more days. However, if you’re looking for a longer stay, the 10-year Long Term Residency visa has oddly specific qualifications: You must have an income of $80,000 and work for a public company on a stock exchange, or for a private company that can show a combined revenue of $150 million over the last 3 years.

Finland was named the happiest country in the world in the 2024 World Happiness Report for the seventh year in a row. With high-quality healthcare and social security, free education and affordable daycare, inclusive healthcare, parental and family leave, among many other benefits, it’s easy to see how the Finnish lifestyle leaves people happy and stress-free. Access to lush parks, forests and clean, natural lakes also does wonders for the mental health of Finns. Most American remote workers travel to Finland on a standard Schengen tourist visa , which allows a stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180 day period, but if you want the self-employment visa that allows a stay for up to six months, you must register your business in Finland.

Note: Though this Nordic country neighbors Russia, Finland has been a member of NATO since 2023 and recently closed their Eastern border . The U.S. Department of State issued a level 1 warning and recommends taking "normal precautions."

Right at the intersection of Europe and Asia is the Republic of Georgia, one of the best countries in the world for digital nomads. Residents from 95 countries around the world can enter Georgia and stay for a full year on a tourist visa, and unlike many tourist visas you can work remotely. Visitors must be able to prove an income of $2,000 a month or have a bank statement showing $24,000. A furnished apartment in the capital city of Tbilisi runs about $700 and Georgians are known for their warm hospitality and fun-loving culture.

Note: Some areas of Georgia pose an increased risk, and the U.S. Department of State does not recommend traveling to the Russian-occupied Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to risk of crime, civil unrest, and landmines. The country as a whole remains at a level 1 warning and the state department recommends exercising normal precautions.

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Scant slots, lengthy waits: Where have all the Schengen visas gone?

For Aditya Mishra, preparations for his Barcelona trip to join his wife in June began months ago. The 37-year-old corporate employee, who just returned from his work trip to Budapest in Hungary, however, found himself embroiled in a frustrating saga of visa acquisition.

Every day, Mishra would diligently log into BLS International's portal, the official website for Spain's Schengen visas. Despite his consistent efforts, securing an appointment for a summer travel visa, remained an uphill battle.

Weeks passed, then months, but there was no appointment in sight. He eventually opted for an unconventional solution after exhausting all his avenues, including trying to use other visa handlers who could secure slots through other means.

He had to reluctantly shell out a hefty fee of ₹ 30,000 for a "visa-at-your-doorstep" appointment, which costs three times more than the actual visa processing fee and commissions.

Mishra's story isn't one from the visa landscape of the pandemic but for 2024 upcoming summer travel, where bureaucratic hurdles still exist despite a change in regime and lack of interest in embassies to reduce the wait time for tourists.

Navigating through the complexities of international borders and regulations has never been easy. But visas to Europe have remained as elusive to obtain as last year and the year before. On average, the next available appointment date for a Schengen visa is 30-45 days, a top online travel agency's senior executive confirmed to Mint .

The Schengen area refers to a group of European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border controls at their mutual borders to allow free movement of people.

The area currently comprises 26 European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Spain, Sweden, Scandinavia and Switzerland.

The change in the visa regime for Schengen was earlier termed a game changer for frequent travellers. The criteria are that if you had two Schengen visas issued to you in the last three years, you could be eligible to apply for a multiple-entry visa. But how many really qualify? A good part of the last three years had seen two waves of the pandemic and throttling of flights.

Germany’s envoy Georg Enzweiler, who is the deputy head of mission here, told Mint last week that the country is doing its best to make travel to their country as easy as possible.

"Yes, there is the Schengen visa regime and we have to handle it but the number of issued visas have gone up and visa wait times have gone down to just a few days in the last one year," Enzweiler had said at the sidelines of a tourism event held by the German National Tourist Organisation last week.

Enzweiler said, visa numbers from India to Germany had increased for both Schengen and the 'National Visa' it issued, going up to about 1.7 lakh in 2023-24, with a 41% increase compared to the previous year.

But that may be very far from reality. A visa wait time document accessed by Mint from a travel operator paints a completely different picture. Italy has almost completely stopped offering any slots on the VFS platform for its short-term tourist visa category from cities like Delhi.

For Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru, the wait to get an appointment is very long, anywhere between one and three months.

Iceland, Portugal, Spain, and Hungary practically have no slots available in most places either. Wait times including processing the visa can range anywhere between 15-75 days, as was the case with Mishra.

However, there are some notable exceptions like Scandinavia as well as for the Czech Republic. For these countries, there are appointments available within the next few weeks. Countries like Spain and Hungary only release appointments once a month, said the earlier cited OTA player.

If you're lucky enough to get a slot, then there is the next hurdle: processing time which can go as high as 7-20 working days.

As an alternative, many travel companies are promoting other unconventional destinations, including South Korea, South Africa, Japan, Brazil, Egypt and Turkey. In most cases, their wait time is as low as zero to three days. Unexpected gainers are also countries like Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Georgia which have easy visas.

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Enzweiler, on the other hand, said he is on a mission to reduce wait times, with more staff being hired by his embassy to deal with the added volumes.

“I am not going to blame people for choosing alternate locations when there are countries with visa delays. But there has been a change in recent regulations which means Indians qualify more quickly for long term visas," Enzweiler said.

“It is also in the embassy's interest to issue longer term visas because even on the bureaucratic side, it means we don't have to cope with that many people filing applications again and again. We have also now employed more personnel to be able to deal with rising demand and are quite optimistic that we would be able to convince more Indians to travel to us."

While visa wait times are down it is only more recently, with holiday season beginning, that the wait times are experiencing some delays, he said. But even then the embassy is working to process applications in one-two weeks, he added. For Germany now, visa rejection rates are about 10%.

Indian travellers' late-booking attitude could be compounding the issue. Rajeev Kale, president and country head for holidays, MICE and visa at Thomas Cook (India) said, “We are traditionally a late-booking market and book very close to our holiday plans. To encourage early consideration, the company had launched its 2024 tours well in advance in October last year with early booking offers."

"However, as we head into peak season, the visa process, though an improvement over last year, is still seeing signs of constraints given the dual challenges of appointment slots and processing time," he said.

Spate of cancellations

Bharatt Kumaar Malik, senior business head for Yatra Online for the consumer travel vertical said the company was seeing a spike in the demand for travel to Schengen destinations for about a month now.

Generally, travel portals pre-book seats with the airlines and hotel rooms to be able to capture deals and demand in advance for the customer.

However, this year is going to be difficult because there will be a lot of pre-purchased inventory and fewer people will be able to travel there.

"We are unable to put any number on it yet but yes we are anticipating a decline in travel to Europe and have already seen some groups cancel their plans to Italy and more such cancellations will happen in June and July," he said. Instead, travellers have to choose locations like Bhutan, Almaty, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.

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N. Chirag Travels's MD Riaz Munshi, who is also the president of the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India, said the UK, Scandinavian countries and Switzerland are still a little easier to get an appointment for.

However, this season could be a little bit of a washout for European travel even though there is persistent demand.

"It looks like a lot of outbound travel operators may lose this season of business too. Communication should be a little better because it's not as if the travel operators there don't want the business, but the diplomatic missions need to spend more time on the visa processes too," he said.

Greece has a high refusal rate because only recently the entire consulate had a change of guard in India.

“You may get a visa, but it won't be in a hurry. Even for countries like Croatia, there's a wait time of several weeks for passports that are well stamped for those who already have been issued Schengen visas in the past, but for first-time Schengen country travellers, a visa hope may be a total write off. Despite confirmed tickets and blocked hotels, people are just being rejected."

"The value-driven traveller is probably going to move away quite quickly because they can't be losing money on confirmed flight tickets and hotels in case the visa doesn't come," said a top level executive at a large travel firm.

"Also, because there are very few slots available on the embassies' front, visa service providers are using this time to profiteer and offer these slots in a way to only those that can afford their at-your-door mobile biometrics which were conceived during the pandemic so people could fill their visa applications in isolation. Their job was never to become a type of legitimate black marketing tool," the person added.

Daniel D’souza, president and country head for holidays for Thomas Cook India's SOTC Travel added that there could be an alternate solution. With shortening of booking windows rather than challenging visa processes, e-visas can become a game changer.

Several destinations like Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Georgia, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, and Morocco have pivoted to a digital model, and with much success.

"Issuance of long-term multi-entry visas will also serve to ease the load on consular teams while simultaneously creating opportunities for repeat visitations. Yes, the Schengen cascade regime is a valuable initiative, however we expect that this (upgrade to longer term visas) will start seeing positive impact only in the medium to long term." he said.

MINT SPECIALS

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• Leaders Speak
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• The new Schengen visa rules influencing Indian travel insurance preferences

The travel insurance sector is expected to see new trends with the new visa rules. In fact, some new trends are already taking shape. As per the data, there has been already a three to four per cent increase in users booking long-term travel insurance policies exceeding 45 days in April 2024 as compared to March’24. This trend is expected to get further push with to the relaxed visa norms.

• Amit Chhabra ,
• ETTravelWorld
• Updated On May 6, 2024 at 10:02 AM IST

• By Amit Chhabra ,
• Published On May 6, 2024 at 10:02 AM IST

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