Key Changes in the EU in 2024: Increased Schengen Visa Fees, Stricter Border Checks, and New Citizenship Regulations

Key Takeaways

1. In 2024, several EU member states introduced or extended internal border controls.
2. Schengen visa fees were increased, and the launch of the Entry/Exit System was delayed.
3. Some countries updated their citizenship laws, either easing or tightening the requirements.

Key Changes in the EU in 2024: Internal Border Controls, Visa Fee Increases, and New Citizenship Rules

The year 2024 brought significant changes within the EU, particularly in the Schengen Area. The key developments impacted both EU citizens and foreign nationals. From the extension of internal border controls to hikes in Schengen visa fees and the postponement of the Entry/Exit System, 2024 marked a year of transformation.

Internal Border Controls Expanded Across Multiple EU Countries
A major change in 2024 was the introduction and extension of internal border controls by several EU member states. Germany, for instance, implemented full internal border controls with all its neighbouring Schengen states in September 2024. The country cited national security concerns and the desire to curb irregular migration. These measures are expected to last until March 2025, with the possibility of an extension if necessary.

Similarly, the Netherlands introduced border checks with Germany and Belgium, effective December 9, 2024, though only random checks of vehicles will be conducted. France, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden also introduced border controls, although the latter’s measures are no longer in effect.

Additionally, countries such as Slovenia, Italy, and Austria extended their border control measures, further contributing to the changes within the Schengen Area.

Increase in Schengen Visa Fees
In June 2024, the EU raised the Schengen visa fee by 12.5%. The fee for adults applying for a Schengen visa increased from €80 to €90, while children’s visa fees rose from €40 to €45. The new fee also applies to nationals of countries that fail to cooperate with the EU on readmitting irregular migrants, with fees reaching as high as €135 or €180 for these applicants.

However, nationals from countries with visa facilitation agreements with the EU were not affected by the hike, and exemptions remain for certain categories.

Postponement of the Entry/Exit System Launch
The EU had initially planned to launch the Entry/Exit System (EES) on November 10, 2024, but due to technical readiness issues, this was postponed until 2025. The EES will replace manual passport stamping with an automated system for tracking foreign nationals entering and leaving the EU. This delay may involve a phased implementation to ensure smooth operation.

Vanuatu Removed from EU Visa-Free List
In a historic move, the EU removed Vanuatu from its visa-free list in December 2024. The decision followed concerns over Vanuatu’s investor citizenship program, which the EU claimed compromised security. This marks the first time a country has been removed from the list, requiring its citizens to apply for visas to enter the Schengen Area.

Increased Migration to the EU Continues
Despite these changes, the EU remained a top destination for international travelers in 2024. A survey by the European Travel Commission found that safety was the primary factor for travelers choosing Europe. Culture and history also remained major attractions. Additionally, work migration continued to rise due to labor shortages across many EU countries. Sweden, Romania, Ireland, and Germany issued significant numbers of work permits, responding to the growing demand for foreign workers.

Changes to Citizenship Laws in Germany and Finland
Germany introduced a new citizenship law in June 2024 that makes it easier for foreigners to obtain citizenship. Notable changes include the possibility of dual citizenship and faster naturalization for long-term residents.

On the other hand, Finland tightened its citizenship requirements in October 2024, extending the legal residency requirement from five to eight years for most applicants.

Golden Visa Programs in Hungary and Greece
Hungary revived its Golden Visa program in July 2024, offering residency to foreign investors. Meanwhile, Greece increased its Golden Visa investment requirements, with new thresholds as high as €800,000 in popular areas like Mykonos and Santorini.

Overall, 2024 was a year of significant change for the EU, with adjustments to border policies, visa processes, and citizenship rules, reflecting evolving priorities in response to security concerns and migration patterns.