Schengen visa regulations have been relaxed for Indian citizens, allowing for the issuance of multiple-entry visas with extended validity periods.
The European Union has introduced more lenient Schengen visa regulations for Indian citizens, enabling them to request multiple-entry visas with extended durations. These relaxed rules, approved by the Commission on April 18, 2024, offer Indians the opportunity to obtain multiple-entry visas with prolonged validity, contingent upon meeting specific criteria. This development marks another stride in fostering closer ties between Europe and India, facilitating easier travel and enhancing people-to-people connections.
Hervé Delphin, Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union to India, remarked on the initiative, highlighting its significance in promoting smoother travel between the EU and India.
Indians seeking longer validity multiple-entry Schengen visas must demonstrate an established travel history to be eligible under the newly adopted regulations by EU authorities. These rules, effective immediately, enable Indian citizens to acquire extended duration multiple-entry visas, lasting up to two years. However, applicants must have previously obtained and lawfully utilized two Schengen visas within the past three years to qualify for this visa category. This visa "cascade" system for India allows eligible individuals to receive long-term multi-entry Schengen visas, initially valid for two years, with the possibility of extending to a five-year visa if their passport maintains sufficient validity. This framework prioritizes applicants with a proven record of frequent travel to the EU, granting them easier access to extended validity visas. Holders of these visas enjoy equivalent privileges to those permitted visa-free entry to the bloc throughout the validity period. While holders of extended validity visas may enter Schengen member states multiple times within a year, they must adhere to the 90/180-day rule. Conversely, applicants lacking two visas within the preceding three years will continue to receive Schengen visas with shorter validity until they establish a travel history and demonstrate their intent for travel or business purposes within the Schengen Area, returning to their home country thereafter.
In 2022, Schengen Visa Statistics indicate that out of 671,928 visa applications from Indians, 541,094 were approved. Among the approved visas, 296,964 were multiple-entry visas, while the rest were single-entry visas. Although data for 2023 has not been disclosed yet, it is anticipated that the number of Indian visa applicants will exceed that of 2022.