European Union Changes Visa Issuance Procedures

The European Union has modified its visa issuance procedures. This information was announced on the European Commission's website.

Visas can now be issued up to six months before the start of travel, a change from the previous three-month limit. Documents can be submitted at one's place of residence, including electronically. However, it is necessary to visit in person once every 59 months to provide fingerprints at a consular department or visa office.

The EU has also simplified the conditions for multiple visa issuance. For individuals with a positive visa history (absence of violations when traveling to EU countries), it will now be possible to gradually extend the visa validity period from one year to five years. The maximum processing period for applications remains unchanged at 15 days, although in certain cases, this period may be extended up to 45 days.

This regulation will apply to all 105 third countries whose citizens require a visa to travel to the EU. There will be no changes for citizens of states that enjoy visa-free travel.

The new provisions aim to combat illegal migration, and the European Commission will monitor how effectively third countries cooperate with the EU, particularly concerning the repatriation of citizens expelled from the EU.

Additionally, the new rules are designed to facilitate visa acquisition for those traveling to EU countries for tourism, trade, or business purposes.

It is noteworthy that Arman Yeghoyan, a member of the Armenian National Assembly from the 'My Step' faction and head of the Assembly's Standing Committee on European Integration, has announced on his Facebook page that the general increase in the price of short-term visas for Schengen area countries does not apply to Armenia. According to Yeghoyan, the cost for our citizens will continue to be 35 euros.