Indians get multi-entry Schengen visa for 29 European countries under new rules

New Delhi: The European Union (EU) has introduced new Schengen multi-entry visa rules for Indians, making travel to 29 European countries easier and smoother. This is expected to boost the standing of Indian passports globally.

Currently, Indian passports rank 85th according to the Henley Passport Index 2024, while Pakistan ranks 106th and Bangladesh 102nd.

Under the new rules, Indians can now enter these European countries multiple times over two years, with the option to extend for another five years, and stay there without needing a visa each time.

Previously, Indians had to apply for a Schengen visa, typically valid for up to three months, when traveling to Europe.

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Now, Indians can stay in countries like Switzerland, Amsterdam, Austria, Hungary, Poland, Belgium, Germany, and France for up to two years, which can be extended.

In August 2023, Scandinavian regions in Europe experienced a 140 percent growth compared to pre-COVID levels in 2020, benefiting Indian travelers.

This change is particularly advantageous for frequent Indian travelers to Europe. Those who have visited Europe twice in the past three years on a Schengen visa are eligible for this new ‘cascade regime’ visa category, allowing multi-entry for two years without needing a visa each time.

However, holders of this visa cannot work or earn money in these countries.

The two-year visa can be followed by a five-year visa, provided the passport has enough validity left. If the passport expires within three years, the visa extension won’t be granted.

Schengen visas allow short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period for travel within the Schengen area but do not permit working.

According to Herve Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union to India, holders of these visas enjoy travel rights similar to visa-free nationals during the validity period.

Travel to Europe made easy! ✈️
⁰🇪🇺 takes another step towards enhancing people-to-people contact with 🇮🇳.⁰New #Schengen #visa regime gives 🇮🇳 frequent travellers access to multi-year visa (up to 5 y.) Europe delivers on the partnership!
Know More 👉 https://t.co/6EzlUF8jrR pic.twitter.com/ELhZdCfI83

— Hervé Delphin (@EUAmbIndia) April 22, 2024

Indians multi-entry Schengen visas is about Indians multi-entry Schengen visas