What You Need To Know About Digital Schengen Visa

By: Toshita Sahni

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Say goodbye to passport stickers on Schengen visas! They are going fully digital with a new secure barcode system. Here's what you need to know:

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Schengen Visa Process Goes Online

Schengen visa applications will shift to a single online EU platform for travellers, regardless of the Schengen country they want to visit.

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Schengen Visa Barcodes

Instead of a sticker, travellers on Schengen visas will get a 2D barcode that links directly to the EU's visa database.

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Digital Schengen Visa Process

At the airport, travellers need to simply scan the barcode. Immigration gets instant access to their visa info and personal data.

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Tried-And-Tested System

70,000 digital visas were used during the 2024 Olympics. Since it worked well, the system is now being rolled out for everyone.

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How Does Digital Schengen Visa Work?

Travellers can do everything online: apply for visas, upload documents, pay fees, track status online and get a digitally signed visa barcode.

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Biometrics Needed For First-Timers

New applicants will still need to visit in person once for fingerprints and photos. Frequent travellers will enjoy immediate benefits.

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New Border Control Systems

From October 2025, the EU's EES (Entry/Exit) system will use fingerprints and facial scans instead of stamping passports.

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Advantages For Indian Travellers

For Indians applying for Schengen visas, these changes mean faster approvals, less paperwork, digital gates, and streamlined travel.

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To learn how to apply for a Schengen Visa

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