Traveling to Europe for summer holidays just became more expensive as Schengen visa fees have increased from today.
The fee hike, effective worldwide, sees a 12 percent rise in the cost of Schengen visas. Applicants must pay the visa fee at the time of application, and it is non-refundable if the visa is rejected.
Revised Fee Structure
Adults: The fee has increased from €80 to €90.
Children (6-12 years old): The fee has increased from €40 to €45.
Countries not cooperating with EU repatriation efforts: Fees may be as high as €135 or €180.
Impact on Travelers and Tourism
The increased fees, applicable from June 11, 2024, are expected to affect the tourism industry as travelers now face higher costs.
The European Commission has raised the fees to address inflation and rising civil servant salaries.
This is the first increase since February 2020, following the EU visa fee review in December 2023. Schengen visa fees are adjusted every three years.
Countries Covered by Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa allows travel to 29 European countries, including:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
(Note: Norway is not officially a member of the Schengen Area but applies its rules.)
With the current value of one euro approximately equal to Rs 90, the fee hike translates to higher costs for travelers from India and other countries.
The European Commission justifies the increase by citing inflation in cities and higher civil servant salaries.
Prepare for these changes if you’re planning a trip to Europe, and budget accordingly to accommodate the higher visa fees.
