Visa Digitalisation
The transition from physical visa stickers to a secure, unified digital platform
A Digital Future by 2025
The Pact on Migration and Asylum set the objective of making the visa procedure fully digitalised by 2025.
This ambitious modernization initiative involves fundamentally transforming how Schengen visas are applied for, processed, and issued. The requirements for this digital leap are officially set out in Regulation 2023/2685 and Regulation 2023/2667.
European Online Platform
Replacing the physical visa sticker with the option to apply directly through a unified European online visa platform.
Simplified Application
Simplifying the visa application process, making it faster and more accessible for applicants worldwide.
Cost Reduction
Reducing administrative overhead and processing costs for both governments and applicants.
The 7-Year Transition Period
After a transition period of 7 years, Schengen countries will all be required to use the EU's standard online platform for visa applications. During and after this transition, the following standards will apply:
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Applicants will carry out all steps in the process on the platform, except for providing biometrics (when required).
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A secure digital visa format (such as a 2D barcode cryptographically signed) will completely replace the traditional visa sticker.
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