The Council of the European Union has announced the digitalization of the Schengen visa application process, allowing UAE residents to apply for their Schengen visas entirely online.
This move aims to simplify the application process, reduce administrative burdens on national authorities, and provide a faster and more efficient response.
The new online system involves complete online application submission, reduced consulate visits for certain cases, and the replacement of traditional visa stickers with digitally issued visas featuring enhanced security measures.
The implementation date will be determined after completing the technical aspects, with regulations becoming effective 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
