The European Commission has launched its first EU Visa Strategy, aiming to make travel and business in Europe easier and more efficient.
Key proposals include digitalizing visa processes, introducing the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in 2026, and exploring longer multiple-entry visas for frequent travellers.
The strategy also focuses on attracting skilled talent and boosting the EU’s global competitiveness.
Longer Multiple-Entry Visas and Trusted Travellers
One major proposal is to offer multiple-entry visas for tourism and business beyond five years.
This will benefit applicants with a good visa history and no security risks.
For business travellers, the EU plans to create a common list of verified companies, including startups and scaleups.
Employees of these companies may get fast-track visa processing, helping companies and boosting the EU economy.
ETIAS: Faster and Safer Travel
From 2026, travellers from visa-exempt countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will need an ETIAS travel authorization before entering Europe.
This online system allows authorities to screen travellers in advance, speeding up border checks.
ETIAS will cost EUR 20, up from EUR 7, and will remain valid for up to three years or until the passport expires.
This ensures safer, more efficient travel for millions of visitors.
European Legal Gateway Office in India
A pilot European Legal Gateway Office will be set up in India, starting with the ICT sector.
This office will help Indian companies and skilled professionals navigate visa processes.
If successful, the system may expand to other sectors and countries.
Extended Short-Stays and Entry/Exit System
The EU is also updating its Entry/Exit System (EES), which tracks non-EU travellers crossing Schengen borders.
By April 2026, it will fully operate across all 29 Schengen countries, alerting authorities about overstays.
The EU plans to allow extended short stays for certain professionals, such as touring artists, athletes, and industry experts, who need to travel frequently between member states.
New Visa Rules for Indian Nationals
A new “visa cascade” regime makes travel easier for Indians.
Those who have lawfully used two Schengen visas in the last three years can now get a two-year multiple-entry visa, which may be followed by a five-year visa if the passport allows.
These visas offer almost the same freedom as visa-free travel.
About the Schengen Area
The Schengen Area includes 29 countries, 25 of which are EU members: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, and others, along with Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
Schengen visas allow travel across all these countries without needing separate permits for each nation.
This version keeps sentences short, explains complex terms in plain language, and uses subheadings to guide readers through the key updates.
