In a recent decision by EU foreign ministers, the Schengen area will transition to an online visa application system, removing the need for passport stickers and in-person consulate appointments. The Schengen area includes 23 EU countries and four associated nations. The online visa system mirrors existing practices in countries like Australia.

The digital platform, implemented after technical preparations and publication in the EU's administrative gazette, allows travelers to submit documents and biometric information online, streamlining the application process for short-stay visits.

Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is set to be implemented in mid-2025, requiring online applications for pre-screened entry. All visitors to the EU, whether with visas or waivers, will undergo automated entry/exit tracking through the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) by the end of 2024, recording biometric data and entry/exit details to monitor overstays and refusals.

Why does it matter?

It is expected that approximately 18 million individuals from countries outside the EU operating under the visa-free regime will benefit from the digitalized system once it is implemented. Internally, the EU is also advancing in paperless policies. Aiming to establish a reliable and secure digital identity for all Europeans, representatives from the Council presidency and the European Parliament have recently reached a provisional agreement on a new framework for a European digital identity (eID).