The Schengen visa allows for the possibility to travel to any of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen area in Europe. In February 2020, the regulations for accessing the Schengen visa underwent some changes to strengthen the common visa policy within the area, facilitating the procedures for applicants and to control irregular immigration.

What has changed? 

The period for application was extended from three to six months prior to travel. However, the deadline for applying remains fifteen calendar days prior to travel.

The revised Visa Code urges Member States to allow application forms to be completed, submitted, and signed electronically, where possible.

Increase in fees. The application now costs €80, as opposed to the original €60. Minors up to the age of six continue to be exempt from visa fees.

Frequent travelers to the Schengen area who have a positive visa record will benefit from visas of increased validity. This point refers to travelers with a demonstrably good economic situation in their country of origin. If the traveler complies with the terms of use of their visa, they will have the advantage of obtaining a multiple-entry visa valid for up to five years.

What to do after getting the Schengen visa?

Once the application has been approved, the Schengen visa holder must appear in person at the Spanish Embassy in their home country, or at the consular office to provide their biometric data. That is, a recent photograph and fingerprint scan.

One of the favorable points during this procedure is that once this information has been stored in the European database, for the next five years it can be used in all similar visa processes, so the applicant will not have to undergo the same procedure again.

Medical insurance

Travel health insurance is a prerequisite for obtaining a Schengen visa. It must be valid throughout the Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of up to 30,000 euros in case of emergency, accidents, and emergency treatment, in addition to repatriation to your country in case of illness or death.

Travelers applying for a multiple-entry visa will have to prove that they have valid travel medical insurance to cover the period of their first intended visit.

The new Visa Code, which became operational in February 2020, provides for the use of the visa motivation procedure for third countries cooperating in the readmission of irregular migrants.

If the Commission considers that a third country does not cooperate sufficiently, citizens of that country may face longer applications and procedures and higher visa fees. Whereas countries that cooperate with the new policy will benefit from shorter processing times, lower visa fees and longer permits.

Are you planning a trip to one of the European countries in the Schengen zone? Do you need a Schengen visa with multiple entry? At Duguech&Dip we can help you. Contact us and we will schedule an appointment.

This information does not constitute under any circumstances legal advice, serving only for informational purposes. In case you need professional services in Global Immigration and Mobility, please contact us.

* It should be taken into account that the regulations of any of the countries analyzed, as well as the established procedures, may change at any time and without prior notice.

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