The European Commission has proposed changes to the widely used Schengen “C” visitor visa. These proposals, which require additional approval in the European Council and Parliament before taking effect, are designed to modernize and streamline EU visa rules. Key elements of the proposed changes include the following:
- faster processing times;
- new “visa upon entry” for short stays;
- applications allowed up to six months in advance of travel;
- multiple-entry visas (for up to five years) for trusted travelers;
- an increase in visa fees from €60 to €80.