Planning a Trip to Europe? Important Information for Tourists as Schengen Visa Fees Expected to Rise Worldwide | Travel Guide

The European Commission has announced a global increase in short-stay Schengen visa fees, impacting travellers planning to visit Europe. Effective from June 11, the cost of Schengen visas (visa type C) will rise by 12 per cent.

Under the new fee structure, the cost for adult applicants will be Euro 90, up from the current Euro 80. For children aged 6 to below 12 years, the fee will increase from Euro 40 to Euro 45. This hike applies to visa applications submitted worldwide.

The Schengen visa permits travel across 27 European countries, including popular tourist destinations such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The fee adjustment aims to align with the increasing costs of processing visas and maintaining the security of the Schengen area.

The European Commission justified the latest hike by citing inflation and the need to cover administrative costs associated with the visa process, which includes background checks, data processing, and maintaining secure entry systems.

This increase in fees is part of a broader effort to ensure that the costs of visa processing and security measures are adequately covered. Applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Cabo Verde will also see adjustments in their visa fees.

Travellers planning to visit Europe should take note of these changes and factor in the increased visa fees when budgeting for their trips.