EU VAP: The New Online Schengen Visa Platform Has a Name
The EU's new digital visa application platform, EU VAP, will streamline Schengen visa requests with a progressive 7-year rollout, optional adoption by member states, and a cryptographically signed digital format.
In an effort to further embrace digital solutions, the European Union has announced the creation of a new online platform for Schengen visa applications, to be known as the EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP).
Gradual implementation over 7 years
The transition to this online system will be phased in over a period of up to seven years. However, Schengen member states will retain the option to continue issuing paper visas if they choose to do so. The primary goal remains to expedite procedures and simplify the process for applicants.
New digital format
As part of this modernization of the application process, the Schengen visa will now be issued in a digital format, complete with a cryptographically signed 2D code from the issuing member state.
The official website hosting the EU VAP platform will have a domain name ending in Europe.eu, consistent with other EU official sites.
How does the EU VAP platform work?
The EU VAP platform will allow all travelers, regardless of origin or destination, to submit Schengen visa applications online. In most cases, applicants will not need to visit an embassy, except when applying for a Schengen visa for the first time or when presenting a new travel document.
Member states are encouraged to utilize the EU VAP platform as much as possible, while accounting for national technological limitations and investments. This new tool is expected to ease the visa application process for travelers and improve coordination among relevant administrations.