New Schengen visa rules: The European Union has launched a new visa scheme called ‘Cascade’ for Indian citizens resident in India applying for a Schengen visa. Under this scheme, Indian travelers can now obtain multiple-entry visas with longer validity. The scheme aims to make visas easier for people who have a good travel history.
The European Commission initiative, adopted on April 18, invalidates the standard visa code rules that previously applied to Indian citizens. These new rules are favorable for obtaining multiple entry visas. Also, this initiative reflects the EU’s efforts to strengthen relations with India and promote tourism and trade exchanges between the two regions.
what is schengen visa
This is a short stay visa issued for 90 days and it allows one to travel to European countries. Earlier, people of India had to take visa twice in three years. But according to the recently implemented rules, Indians will get multiple entry Schengen visa. This will reduce the cost of visa.
As per the new rules, citizens of India will now be eligible for long-term, multiple-entry Schengen visas with longer validity. For a two-year visa, you must have two legally obtained visas in the last three years. After this, if there is still validity left in your passport, you can get a five-year visa.
You will get these rights
During the validity period of these visas, holders are given the same travel rights as visa-exempt citizens. This means that they can visit the Schengen countries multiple times without requiring separate visas. The purpose of implementing this arrangement is to promote comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the European Union and India.
The Schengen visa allows the holder to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which consists of 29 European countries, including 25 EU member states and four non-EU countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland). These visas allow short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
It is important to note that the Schengen visa is not for any specific purpose. It can be used for tourism, business or meeting friends and family. However, this visa does not give the right to work within the Schengen Area. This visa system simplifies travel within Europe, as travelers need only one visa to visit multiple countries within the Schengen Area, rather than having to obtain separate visas for each country.
