Attention travelers! The cost of your Schengen visa might soon be going up. The European Commission has proposed a 12% increase in visa fees, affecting non-EU citizens who need a visa to visit the Schengen area.
Who’s Affected?
This change applies to nationals from countries outside the EU who don’t benefit from the 90-day visa-free rule, including popular destinations like India, Pakistan, South Africa, and China.
What’s the New Price Tag?
- Standard visa: €80 to €90 for adults, €40 to €45 for children.
- Increased fee for non-cooperative countries: €120/€160 to €135/€180.
Why the Increase?
The Commission cites inflation and rising costs for member states as reasons for the adjustment. They also emphasize that Schengen visa fees remain relatively low compared to other countries.
Will it Affect Everyone Equally?
Not quite. The proposed changes also impact external service providers who collect visa applications. Their maximum charge could increase from €40 to €45.
Looking Ahead:
- The proposal is currently open for public consultation until March 1st.
- If approved, the new fees will likely come into effect later this year.