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The European Union has recently adopted a new "cascade" visa regime, offering Indian nationals easier access to long-term, multiple-entry Schengen visas. This initiative, announced on April 18, 2024, aims to simplify travel for frequent visitors and strengthen EU-India relations under the Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility.
Key Details of the New Visa Rules
• Eligibility for Two-Year Visa: Indian nationals who have obtained and lawfully used two Schengen visas within the past three years are now eligible for a two-year, multiple-entry visa. This marks a departure from the standard Visa Code provisions, offering more favorable terms for frequent travelers.
• Pathway to Five-Year Visa: Upon successful use of the two-year visa, travelers may qualify for a five-year visa, provided their passport has sufficient validity. During these visa periods, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area.
• Travel Rights: The visas permit short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across 29 European countries, including 25 EU member states and 4 non-EU countries. However, they do not grant the right to workImplications for Indian Travelers
This policy is expected to benefit frequent travelers, such as business professionals, students, and tourists, by reducing the need for repeated visa applications. It also aligns with the EU's goal of enhancing people-to-people contacts and facilitating smoother travel between India and Europe.
Considerations
While the new rules are a positive development, some challenges remain. Travel industry experts have noted that appointment wait times for visa applications continue to be lengthy, which may affect the immediate impact of these changes.
Overall, the EU's updated visa policy represents a significant step toward more accessible and efficient travel for Indian nationals, fostering deeper ties between India and Europe.
