Latest news with #SchengenVisa
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First Post
11 hours ago
- Business
- First Post
Schengen visa to go digital: Is this good news for Indians?
The Schengen Visa allows travellers to access the Schengen area or Schengen zone – which comprises the over two dozen nations belonging to the European Union plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Now, the EU has decided to take the entire process digital. Here's how Indian travellers will benefit read more Are you planning a Europe trip? You'll need to a pply for a Schengen Visa which allows travellers access to over two dozen European countries. However, many people in the past have complained about the difficulties of obtaining this visa. But there's good news. The Schengen visa is now set to go digital. What do we know? Is this good news for Indians? Let's take a closer look: A brief look at Schengen Visa. First, let's take a brief look at the Schengen Visa. Under this visa regime, travellers can access what is known as Schengen area or Schengen zone. This comprises the over two dozen nations belonging to the European Union plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Schengen zone a spans over four million square kilometres and covers a population of 450 million. This is a great deal for citizens of the European Union, who can travel from one country to the other with minimal border checks. Around 3.5 million people are estimated to travel within this zone every day. However, those who are not citizens of the EU can also apply for this visa, which is given for tourism, business or work for a period of three to six months. European Union flags flutter outside the European Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. File image/Reuters But it's not as easy as that. Many people have complained about the difficulties of obtaining such this short-term visa. They point to the fact that the paperwork is cumbersome and sometimes multiple applications are needed before the visa is approved. They have also complained about the time taken for the visa to be approved. Experts say travellers mostly complaints about Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Croatia and Finland. That's not all. Data put out last year showed that European nations are raking in hundreds of millions of dollars in visa application fees while also rejecting these requests – a process known as 'reverse remittances'. Most of the rejected applications come from African and Asian nations. To make matters worse, the European Commission last year increased the price of these visas by double digits in terms of percentage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Now, let's take a look at the Schengen Visa going digital. What we know about Schengen Visa going digital The European Union had decided to digitise the entire process in 2023. The process to go digital for the Schengen Visa is already underway. The bloc pilot-tested the programme in France for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Paris issued around 70,000 digital Schengen visas to travellers. Rather than a receive a visa ticker on their passports, travellers were sent a digital barcode. A departures information board is seen at Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle airport, outside Paris. AFP The process is set to go completely digital by 2026 with the EU launching a centralised application platform. Indian travellers will be able to upload their documents, pay fees online, and track application status and receive a digitally signed barcode. Those travelling to Europe for the first time will have to come to the consulate to provide their biometric data. Or if they are applying with a new travel document, they will have to renew it after five years. However, this will aid Indians who are frequent travellers to Europe. It will also streamline their entry in the Schengen Area by giving them biometric e-gate access. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The EU says this will make applying for a Schengen visa easier and the visa itself will be more secure and less vulnerable to theft and fraud. By 2028, the unified EU Online Visa application platform will likely be fully operational across all member nations. This will allow applicants to apply online regardless of the nation they want to visit. EES and ETIAS Meanwhile, the European Union is also launching the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The EES, which kicks off in October, does away with passport stamps in favour of biometric data such as fingerprints and facial scans. This, the EU says, will allow it to keep a more watchful eye on entries and exits from the bloc. Meanwhile, the ETIAS will require travellers from over 50 visa-exempt countries including the UK, US, Canada and Australia to apply online before they visit the Schengen Zone. On similar lines to the US' ESTA system, this is slated to be launched in 2026. Travellers will have to pay around $7.40 (Rs 648). The application, which could take as long as four days to be approved, will replace passports being stamped at the border. It will be valid for three years. Authorities say the pre-screening will help weed out security threats. Meanwhile, some European nations are pushing for a common 'European tourist visa' that would cover both Schengen and non-Schengen nations. The move, being spearheaded by Greece, Italy, and France, is aimed at easing travel across multiple EU nations and cutting down on red tape. However, this is still likely years away. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies
News18
a day ago
- News18
Indian Traveller Receives 5-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa In 4 days. Wait, How?
Last Updated: An Indian traveller on Reddit surprised everyone by claiming they received a Schengen Visa with a five-year multiple-entry benefit within just four working days. A social media user has caught the attention of fellow travellers and visa applicants online after securing a five-year multiple-entry Schengen visa. The user surprised many by revealing they received the long-term visa from the French Consulate in Bengaluru, and shared a detailed account of how they achieved it. The Reddit user, an Indian passport holder, shared that their five-year Schengen visa was processed within just four working days. They also mentioned having held three Schengen visas in the past two years, issued by Germany and Spain, with the most recent Spanish visa being valid for only 45 days. The post instantly rolled the eyes of fellow travellers and visa applicants facing hurdles against their foreign travel plans. What Was Their Strategy? In response to a query about the application process, the user explained that they hadn't explicitly applied for a five-year visa. Instead, they requested a longer validity in their cover letter, which may have influenced the consulate's decision. As part of their documentation, they submitted both their original passport and scanned copies of all stamped pages from their current and expired passports. When asked why scanned copies were necessary despite submitting original documents, the Reddit user clarified that photocopies of each stamped passport page were a mandatory requirement. They also emphasised the importance of selecting the 'multiple entry" option on the application form and requesting a longer validity period in the cover letter. Travellers with a consistent travel history benefit significantly under the Schengen cascade visa scheme. For instance, Indian citizens who have held two Schengen visas within a three-year period may qualify for a two-year multiple-entry visa. This can be extended up to five years, provided the applicant's passport remains valid for the full duration. The visa allows travel to all 29 EU/Schengen countries, though it does not permit employment and limits stays to 90 days within any 180-day period. 'These long-term Schengen visas mark the start of a new EU policy that supports frequent travellers and aims to strengthen people-to-people contacts," the European Commission said in a statement. What Exactly Is 'Cascade Visa Scheme" Introduced as part of the 2020 Schengen Visa Code reform, the cascade system operates on a tier-based structure for visa validity depending on prior usage. A one-year visa validity applies if the traveller has used three Schengen visas in the previous two years. It is extended to two years in case the traveller used a 1-year multiple-entry visa within the last two years. A full five-year visa validity stands in scenarios involving the usage of a 2-year multiple-entry visa in the previous three years. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 31, 2025, 09:34 IST News viral Indian Traveller Receives 5-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa In 4 days. Wait, How? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
19-07-2025
- Time of India
Applying for a tourist visa? Here's how much money should be in your bank account to get a visa for popular countries
Planning to go on an international trip in the coming time? Well, before you get your bags packed for your holiday, it's important to understand that your bank balance should be enough to afford your travel. It can directly affect your chances of getting a visa as most countries require travellers to prove they have sufficient funds. Your bank account is inspected carefully. The amount should be enough to cover your international travel expenses and ensure you return home after your journey. The whole process involves submitting all required financial documents, which includes recent bank statements, salary slips, and travel itineraries. It is all a part of your visa application. These documents are then carefully checked by immigration officials at the visa office. If your documentation is strong and you have valid travel insurance, the chances of getting your visa approved can increase your visa approval chances. Different countries have different minimum balance expectations, which is often based on the duration and nature and purpose of your travel. Here's an updated list of how much money is generally recommended in your account country wise distribution: Canada (Visitor Visa) Bank Balance : CAD 5,000 to 10,000 (INR 3 to INR 6 lakh) for a 2 to 4 weeks trip. Documents : 3–6 months of bank statement, travel itinerary, accommodation proof, and invitation letters (if applicable). Australia (Visitor Visa) Bank Balance : $5,000 to $10,000 (INR 2.5 to INR 5 lakh) for a 2 to 4 weeks trip. Documents : 3–6 months of bank slips, salary statement, IT returns, travel itinerary, and sponsor info (if applicable). Germany (Schengen Visa) Bank Balance : €100–120 per day (INR 9,000–INR 11,000); total INR 1.5 to INR 2 lakh for 15 days trip. Documents : 3–6 months of bank slips, hotel bookings, return flight tickets, and travel insurance coverage of €30,000 (INR 29,95,110). Spain (Schengen Visa) Bank Balance : Around €100 (₹9,000) per day, with a minimum of €900 (₹81,000). Documents : 3–6 months of bank slips, credit card statements, accommodation proof, return flight tickets, employment proof, and travel insurance worth €30,000 (INR 29,95,110). France (Schengen Visa) Bank Balance : €100–120 per day (INR 9,000–INR 11,000); INR 1.5 to INR 2 lakh for 15 days travel. Documents : 3 months of bank slips, credit card statements, hotel bookings, invitation letters (if relevant), proof of employment, and travel insurance of €30,000 (INR 29,95,110). Sri Lanka (ETA – Electronic Travel Authorisation) Bank Balance : $1,000 to $2,000 (INR 80,000 to INR 1.6 lakh) for 15–30 days trip. Documents : Bank/credit card statements, return tickets, hotel bookings, and a valid passport United States (B1/B2 Tourist Visa) Bank Balance : $6,000 to $10,000 (INR 5 to INR 8 lakh) for a 15–20 day trip. Documents : 6 months bank statements, salary slips, IT returns, and a detailed travel itinerary. So, now you know how important is your bank balance when applying for a visa- it is not just a number, it reflects your financial stability
News18
17-07-2025
- Business
- News18
Going Abroad? Know How Much Money You Need In Your Account For Visa Approval
Last Updated: Visa approvals require proof of sufficient funds varying by country, backed by bank statements, payslips, travel plans, and sometimes sponsorship details If you're planning to travel abroad, it's essential to know that visa rules require proof of sufficient funds, varying by country (around £5,000 to £10,000), supported by bank statements, payslips, and travel plans. Whether visiting the US, Australia, France or elsewhere, you'll need to show adequate funds in your bank account, not just to cover trip expenses, but also to satisfy visa criteria and demonstrate your intent to return home. Visa officers assess your financial stability through documents such as bank statements, payslips, income tax returns, and travel itineraries. They must be confident you're a genuine tourist, likely to comply with your visa terms. Travel insurance and a strong travel history further bolster your application. If you're planning to visit countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Spain, Sri Lanka, or Japan, it's important to be aware of the minimum bank balance required for visa approval. This varies by country and depends on the length and nature of your trip. United States (USA) – B1/B2 Tourist Visa Minimum Bank Balance: There is no fixed amount, but it is advisable to have between $6,000 and $10,000 (approximately Rs 5 to 8 lakh) for a 15 to 20 day trip. The required amount may vary based on your travel duration, accommodation, and planned activities. The financial standing of any sponsors is also scrutinised. Spain – Schengen Visa France – Schengen Visa Sri Lanka – Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Germany – Schengen Visa Minimum Bank Balance: Similar to France and Spain, Germany requires about €100 to 120 (Rs 9,000 to 11,000) per day. For a 15-day trip, this amounts to approximately Rs 1.5 to 2 lakh. Documents Required: Bank statements for 3 to 6 months, confirmed bookings, tickets, and travel insurance with €30,000 coverage. Canada – Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) Final Tips Make sure your bank balance meets the requirements for your destination country, and prepare all necessary documents carefully. Having these in order will help ensure a smoother visa application process and a hassle-free journey abroad. view comments First Published: July 15, 2025, 14:35 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
23-06-2025
- Time of India
Schengen visa refused? A simple guide to making an appeal
A growing number of Indian travelers are seeing their Schengen visa applications rejected. If you have received a refusal, you can file an appeal to contest the decision. The Schengen visa allows travel across 27 European countries. According to Schengen rules, every applicant has the right to appeal if they disagree with the decision. The refusal notice contains instructions about where and how to send an appeal. In most cases, an appeal must be submitted to the consulate or embassy that rejected the visa. Here's how the process works. Understanding the Refusal Notice Each Schengen visa refusal notice contains specific reasons for the rejection. Common reasons include: Incomplete or inconsistent documents Lack of proof of financial means Unclear purpose of travel No proof of accommodation Inadequate travel insurance Read this notice carefully. The reasons listed here are the starting point for making a strong appeal. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) When to File the Appeal Each Schengen country has its own deadline for submitting an appeal. In general: Live Events You Might Also Like: Why you may need a Schengen Visa on your next trip to the US or Canada The appeal must be filed within 15–30 days from the date you received the refusal notice. The notice will clearly state where and how to send the appeal. Late appeals are usually not accepted. Preparing the Appeal Letter Your appeal should be concise, factual, and directly respond to the reasons stated in the refusal notice. It must be submitted in the language required by the issuing country and should include: Your personal details and visa application number A clear explanation of why you disagree with the decision New or updated documents, such as bank statements, accommodation details, or invitation letters Travel itinerary and insurance information if applicable Make sure every claim is backed by supporting evidence. Submitting the Appeal Send the appeal to the consulate or embassy that refused your visa. Follow their specific instructions. You can often submit the appeal by post or in person. Confirm the submission method before sending. What Happens After You Appeal Once the appeal is received, the authorities review the new documents and explanations. The processing time varies but can take a few weeks. They will notify you of their decision once the review is complete. If the appeal is successful, your visa will be granted. If it is refused, the consulate or embassy will inform you of further options, which may include submitting a fresh application or, in rare cases, appealing to a court. You Might Also Like: What is the best time to apply for a Schengen visa? Tips for a Strong Appeal Read the refusal notice thoroughly and understand every point. Address every reason for the refusal clearly. Submit updated documents that cover gaps in the original application. Avoid making general or emotional arguments; focus on factual evidence. What to Do if the Appeal Fails If your appeal is rejected, you can consider submitting a new application. Make sure to fix the issues mentioned in the refusal notice and provide stronger supporting documents. In certain countries, you can also seek legal advice and approach a court if needed. A refused Schengen visa is not the end of the road. By understanding the reasons, submitting a well-prepared appeal, and providing strong supporting evidence, many applicants have been able to secure their visas on the second attempt.
