Indians can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity
The European Commission's new visa 'cascade' regime simplifies Schengen visa access for Indian nationals, enabling long-term multi-entry visas. This enhances travel flexibility within the Schengen area, reflecting the deepening EU-India relationsh...
By ET Online | Updated:
The European Commission has introduced a new visa "cascade" regime for Indian nationals seeking Schengen visas, allowing for more straightforward access to multiple entry visas with extended validity periods. This new regime, effective from April 18, replaces the standard rules of the Visa Code and offers significant advantages for Indian travellers.
Under the new rules, Indian nationals residing in India can be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after lawfully obtaining and using two visas within the previous three years. This initial two-year visa can then be followed by a five-year visa, provided the passport has sufficient validity remaining. This extended validity allows travellers to move freely within the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
The Schengen area, comprising 29 European countries, including 25 EU states, offers a unique travel experience. The following countries are part of the Schengen area: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
This move is part of the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aiming to strengthen cooperation between the EU and India on migration policy, including facilitating people-to-people contacts. The enhanced visa regime highlights India's importance as a key partner for the EU and reflects the deepening relationship between the two entities.
While these Schengen visas grant freedom of travel across the Schengen area, they do not permit employment. Therefore, holders must abide by the rules and regulations governing their stay in the Schengen area. As the European Commission implements this new regime, Indian nationals with established travel histories will find it easier to obtain long-term multi-entry visas, making travel to Europe more accessible and convenient.
Every country you can visit on a Schengen visa & what not to miss
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A Schengen visa allows travelers to explore 27 countries across Europe with a single visa.
Here's a detailed list of these countries along with the top five attractions or destinations in each.
A Schengen visa allows travelers to explore 27 countries across Europe with a single visa. Here's a detailed list of these countries along with the top five attractions or destinations in each.
Austria, located in the heart of Europe, is renowned for its imperial heritage, classical music, and breathtaking landscapes. The country's cities are filled with history, while its mountains offer stunning natural beauty.
Here are five must-visit attractions in Austria:
1. Tour the grand Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, once the summer residence of the Habsburgs. 2. Walk through the historic streets of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. 3. Visit the charming town of Hallstatt, known for its lakeside views and salt mines. 4. Explore the historic town of Innsbruck and take a cable car up the Alps. 5. Discover the cultural hub of Graz, with its mix of modern and historic architecture.
Austria, located in the heart of Europe, is renowned for its imperial heritage, classical music, and breathtaking landscapes. The country's cities are filled with history, while its mountains offer s..
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Belgium is known for its medieval cities, world-class chocolate, and diverse culture. With bustling cities and picturesque towns, Belgium offers a wide range of experiences.
Here are five top attractions in Belgium:
1. Visit Brussels' Grand Place, a stunning square surrounded by opulent guildhalls. 2. Explore the medieval city of Bruges, famous for its canals and cobblestone streets. 3. Discover the vibrant city of Antwerp, home to the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady. 4. Tour Ghent's historic center and visit the Gravensteen Castle. 5. Stroll through the Art Nouveau streets of Liège and visit the Montagne de Bueren.
Belgium is known for its medieval cities, world-class chocolate, and diverse culture. With bustling cities and picturesque towns, Belgium offers a wide range of experiences. Here are five top attract..
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Bulgaria is a country rich in history, with ancient ruins, medieval monasteries, and stunning natural landscapes. It has a diverse culture influenced by its long history and geographical location.
Here are five must-visit attractions in Bulgaria:
1. Visit Sofia's Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. 2. Explore the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate frescoes and beautiful surroundings. 3. Discover the ancient city of Plovdiv, with its Roman amphitheater and charming Old Town. 4. Tour Veliko Tarnovo, a historic town with medieval castles and scenic views. 5. Visit the Black Sea coast and relax on the beaches of Sunny Beach or Golden Sands.
Bulgaria is a country rich in history, with ancient ruins, medieval monasteries, and stunning natural landscapes. It has a diverse culture influenced by its long history and geographical location. He..
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Croatia, known for its stunning coastline along the Adriatic Sea, is a country rich in history, medieval architecture, and vibrant culture. From the historic streets of Dubrovnik to the enchanting islands, Croatia offers a range of captivating experiences.
Here are five must-visit attractions in Croatia:
1. Explore Dubrovnik's Old Town, surrounded by ancient city walls and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. 2. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, renowned for its cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. 3. Tour Split's Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most impressive Roman monuments. 4. Discover the island of Hvar, known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. 5. Visit the historic city of Zadar and listen to its unique Sea Organ, a musical instrument played by the waves.
Croatia, known for its stunning coastline along the Adriatic Sea, is a country rich in history, medieval architecture, and vibrant culture. From the historic streets of Dubrovnik to the enchanting is..
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The Czech Republic is a land of fairytale castles, historic towns, and a rich cultural heritage. Its capital, Prague, is one of the most visited cities in Europe.
Here are five must-see attractions in the Czech Republic:
1. Explore Prague's Old Town, including the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge. 2. Visit the stunning Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world. 3. Tour the medieval town of Ceský Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 4. Discover Karlovy Vary, a renowned spa town with historic architecture. 5. Explore Kutná Hora's Sedlec Ossuary and St. Barbara's Church.
The Czech Republic is a land of fairytale castles, historic towns, and a rich cultural heritage. Its capital, Prague, is one of the most visited cities in Europe.Here are five must-see attractions in..
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Denmark is a country known for its innovative design, rich history, and Viking heritage. Its cities combine modernity with tradition, creating a unique atmosphere.
Here are five must-visit attractions in Denmark:
1. See Copenhagen's iconic Little Mermaid statue by the waterfront. 2. Visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks, in Copenhagen. 3. Discover the historic Aarhus Cathedral and the Aarhus Art Museum. 4. Explore Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. 5. Tour Roskilde's Viking Ship Museum and the Roskilde Cathedral.
Denmark is a country known for its innovative design, rich history, and Viking heritage. Its cities combine modernity with tradition, creating a unique atmosphere. Here are five must-visit attraction..
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Estonia offers a blend of medieval charm and pristine nature, with a vibrant capital and tranquil countryside. The country's history is rich with stories from the medieval period.
Here are five top attractions in Estonia:
1. Walk through Tallinn's medieval Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and ancient walls. 2. Visit Toompea Castle, the seat of the Estonian parliament. 3. Explore the island of Saaremaa, known for its windmills and historic castles. 4. Relax in the coastal town of Pärnu, a popular summer destination. 5. Visit the university city of Tartu and its lively cultural scene.
Estonia offers a blend of medieval charm and pristine nature, with a vibrant capital and tranquil countryside. The country's history is rich with stories from the medieval period. Here are five top a..
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Finland is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique culture. With its northern location, Finland offers experiences from bustling Helsinki to the magical Lapland.
Here are five must-visit attractions in Finland:
1. Explore Helsinki's iconic landmarks, including the Helsinki Cathedral and Suomenlinna. 2. Visit Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, and see the Northern Lights. 3. Tour Turku's historic castle and the nearby archipelago. 4. Discover Tampere's industrial heritage and vibrant arts scene. 5. Experience the midnight sun in Oulu during the summer months.
Finland is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique culture. With its northern location, Finland offers experiences from bustling Helsinki to the magical Lapland. Here are five m..
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France is a country with a rich history, world-renowned cuisine, and iconic landmarks. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sunny beaches of Nice, France offers a diverse range of attractions.
Here are five top destinations in France:
1. Visit Paris's Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. 2. Explore the Loire Valley's chateaux, including Château de Chambord. 3. Relax on the French Riviera in Nice and Cannes. 4. Discover the historic city of Lyon, known for its gastronomy. 5. Tour the vineyards of Bordeaux, famous for its wine.
France is a country with a rich history, world-renowned cuisine, and iconic landmarks. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sunny beaches of Nice, France offers a diverse range of attractions. H..
