Last Updated on: 27th June 2023, 02:09 am
UAE Residents Will Soon Be Able To Apply For A Schengen Visa Online
UAE residents wishing to travel to Schengen countries will soon be able to avoid long waits, queues and having to present passports for visa processing.
The European Union (EU) is taking a gradual step towards digitizing the visa process, which will speed up the application process for UAE residents.
Ambassadors of EU member states have approved a proposal that will allow UAE residents to apply for a visa online and replace the current visa sticker with a digital visa.
Travelers And Organizers Welcome The Digital Change
The proposal to digitize the visa application process was positively received by travelers and tour operators. They are optimistic that this decision will help promote Europe as a destination of choice.
For tourists, online visa application will be a great improvement as it can often be difficult to get visa application appointments, especially during Eid and bank holidays when UAE residents face delays due to high demand.
Also, having to present your passports to the agencies and wait for visa stamps can be inconvenient. Therefore, this digital move will surely be a game changer for travelers.
Digital Visa Application Platform
Under the new proposal, a visa application platform will be developed, which will allow all Schengen visa applications to be registered through a single website. The website forwards applications to the appropriate national visa systems.
Visa applicants can provide all necessary information, including electronic copies of their travel and accompanying documents, and pay their visa fees. You can also track the status of your visa application.
Personal Appearance At The Consulate Only in Special Cases
After the new rules come into force, people only have to appear in person at the consulate if they make an initial application, have invalid biometric data or a new travel document.
If a person plans to visit several Schengen countries, the platform will automatically determine which country is responsible for examining their application based on the length of stay.
Digital Visa Format For More Security
The new rules show visas will be issued in a digital format with a cryptographically signed 2D barcode. This approach aims to reduce the risk of visa sticker forgery and theft, putting an end to these problems. The new digital visa format is more secure and will help maintain the integrity of the Schengen area.
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