In an increasingly digital approach, the European Union recently announced the introduction of a new platform for Schengen visa applications, to be called EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP).
Phased implementation over 7 years
The transition to this online system will be gradual, over a period of up to three years. seven years. It will, however, allow Schengen member states to choose whether they wish to use this platform or continue to issue visas in paper form. Priority will be given to speeding up procedures and simplifying matters for applicants.
New digital format
With this modernizing the application processthe Schengen visa will now take the form of a digital format which will include a 2D code cryptographically signed by the member state that issued the visa.
The official site hosting the EU VAP platform will have a domain name ending in Europe.eu, in line with other official EU sites.
How does the EU VAP platform work?
Thanks to the EU VAP platform, all travelers, regardless of their origin or destination, will be able to apply for a Schengen visa online. In most cases, applicants will not need to visit an embassy, unless they are applying for a Schengen visa for the first time or presenting a new travel document.
Member countries are encouraged to make maximum use of the EU VAP platform, while taking into account the technological limitations and investments made by each member state at national level. This new tool could make life easier for visa applicants and contribute to better coordination between the administrations concerned.
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