So far this month, the European Union has made it easier for citizens of a number of countries to visit the union.
As part of its efforts to streamline travel to Schengen member states and encourage more frequent travel, the EU has decided to begin issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas with longer validity to Indians, Saudis, Omanis, and Bahrainis.
The authority has also agreed to offer visa-free travel to the Schengen Area for Kosovo Serbs (VisaGuide).World reports.
Schengen countries will now issue multiple-entry, longer validity visas for Indians.
On April 18, 2024, the EU Commission adopted more favourable visa rules for Indians, allowing them to get multiple-entry visas with a longer duration.
According to the new criteria, Indians with a documented travel history to the bloc and who have secured and lawfully used two Schengen visas in the last three years will be eligible for multiple-entry visas with a two-year validity.
This two-year multiple-entry visa will, in most cases, be followed by a five-year multiple-entry visa, assuming the applicant’s passport still has enough validity.
Indian passport holders who are awarded a multiple entry visa with a two-year validity period will have the same rights as third-country nationals who are allowed to enter the Schengen Area without a visa.
They can go to the Schengen Area numerous times each year using the same visa. However, they must still adhere to the 90/180 day limit.
Saudis, Omanis, and Bahrainis are now eligible for five-year multiple-entry Schengen visas.
The EU Commission has agreed to apply more favourable criteria to passport holders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain.
EU Foreign Affairs Chief Josep Borrell announced that Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain will henceforth be eligible for five-year multiple-entry visas in Schengen nations.
The EU’s decision to begin giving five-year multiple-entry visas to Saudis, Omanis, and Bahrainis is part of an effort to harmonise the visa requirements that apply to the GCC countries.
While the EU has yet to publish an official comment on the matter, it is believed that all Saudis, Omanis, and Bahrainis who match the conditions will be awarded multiple-entry visas with longer validity, including first-time applicants.
Kosovo Serbs Granted Visa-Free Entry into Schengen Area
The EU has simplified visa requirements for Indians, Saudis, Omanis, and Bahrainis. However, the Parliament has voted to allow Kosovo Serbs with passports issued by the Serbian Coordination Directorate to enter the Schengen Area without a visa.
Kosovo passport holders have been able to enter the Schengen Area visa-free beginning January 1, 2024. However, Kosovo Serbs who did not hold the country’s passport were unable to do so.
According to the new restrictions, persons possessing Serbian Coordination Directorate passports can now travel without a visa for up to 90 days during any 180-day period.
READ MORE
Uk Jobs Visa Sponsorship Apply
Warehouse jobs in uk Visa Sponsorship Available
UK to Introduce EU Workers’ Short-Term Visa Programme
The UK government is thinking about a short-term visa programme for EU workers.
