Adios paperwork! Au revoir in-person appointments! Olá stress-free Schengen applications and good times! Yes, the news so many travellers have been waiting for has arrived with the announcement that Schengen visa forms are going digital.
Revealed by the Council of the European Union, travellers who require a visa to visit the 27 countries of the block will be able to apply for their pass by uploading an online application form alongside the required documents of a scanned passport image, a recent photo and travel insurance. The move will also see passport stickers being phased out in favour of a digital visa that will come in the form of a 2D barcode that is cryptographically signed.
In-person appearances at embassies and visa centres will only be necessary in cases of first-time applicants or if the travel document has expired.
A date for the implementation of the new rules has yet to be confirmed as technical work on the visa platform and digital visa is ongoing.
The price for the Schengen visa will remain the same at €80 (AED318).
COUNTRIES IN THE SCHENGEN BLOCK
• Austria • Belgium • Czech Republic • Croatia • Denmark • Estonia • Finland • France • Germany • Greece • Hungary • Iceland • Italy • Latvia • Liechtenstein • Lithuania • Luxembourg • Malta • Netherlands • Norway • Poland • Portugal • Slovakia • Slovenia • Spain • Sweden • Switzerland
THREE PLACES TO GO IN SCHENGEN BEFORE 2024
Riga, Latvia
This small capital on the Baltic Sea might not be in most people’s top 10 (even top 20) spots to visit in Europe but with its blend of architecture and perfectly manicured squares, your travel list needs a serious reconsideration. For those who enjoy a pretty building or two, check out The House of Blackheads which, despite its name, is a stunning 14th century, Gothic-Dutch Renaissance building. Destroyed during WWII and the Soviet occupation, it was restored to its former glory in 1999 and is arguably Riga’s most iconic landmark. On the food front, The Kalnciema Quarter serves up a weekly market full of artisanal food and local produce as well as regular art exhibitions, concerts and family-friendly events.
Prague, Czechia
A city which needs no introduction to even the most novice of travellers, Prague is one of the most beloved places for tourists coming to the EU block to enjoy. Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, Prague Castle, The Prague Astronomical Clock – the list of captivating sightseeing opportunities is endless. And while the incredible attractions make the city heave during the summer, one seasonal event in winter takes precedence over everything else – the Christmas market. The city hosts up to eight separate markets with the most popular being in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Pick up a Christmas present for the family, indulge in traditional Christmas fish soup (rybí polévka) or simply enjoy a cool beer and watch the magic of Christmas in Prague.
Lisbon, Portugal
It’s now time to escape the colder temperatures and place ourselves in the gentler climes of one of our favourite cities. With its cobbled streets, relaxed atmosphere and collection of superb restaurants and bars, Lisbon has something to offer everyone. Foodies can spend hours wandering around the city that is packed with homegrown eateries. If you love your seafood (and there is a lot of choices in the city), head to Cervejaria Ribadouro which has been serving the masses delicious sea bites since 1947; steak lovers can get their meat fix with a view at Argentinian steakhouse La Paparrucha; and if you’re a dessert aficionado, check out Pastéis de Belém where locals will queue for at least 30 minutes to get their hands on a tasty pastry. Culture vultures will also have a ball with the city packed with museums and stunning buildings, most notably Jerónimos Monastery. But our top tip is to grab a beer, sit down by the river next to Praça do Comércio and watch the sunset.
