While the recent adjustments to Schengen visa regulations offer a more accommodating approach for Indian travellers, the practical benefits are not expected to materialise promptly for those eager to journey to Europe amidst enduring frustrations over prolonged appointment wait times. Nevertheless, industry insiders anticipate a gradual improvement in travel dynamics, particularly benefiting frequent flyers to Europe and eventually alleviating visa processing bottlenecks.
Under the newly introduced “cascade” regime, the European Union announced extended validity for Schengen visas, granting Indian passport holders the opportunity for long-term, multi-entry visas lasting two years, provided they have lawfully utilised two previous visas within a three-year period. This enhancement is aimed at streamlining travel logistics for individuals visiting any of the 29 European countries covered by the Schengen agreement, including popular destinations like France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. Additionally, eligible visa holders will enjoy privileges akin to those of visa-exempt nationals.
While this measure holds promise for enhancing convenience and fostering repeat visits,visa industry experts caution against expecting immediate relief due to persisting challenges in securing visa appointments. Delays persist in key cities across India, with notable gaps in appointment availability for countries like Iceland, Portugal, and Hungary in Delhi, Spain and Hungary in Mumbai, and Iceland, Italy, and Portugal in Bengaluru, among others. Appointment wait times range from 35–40 days for Italy and Austria in Delhi to over 90 days for Germany, further exacerbating traveller frustrations.
Rajiv Mehra, president of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, predicts that substantial relief may not materialise until next year, as the visa appointment backlog persists. Jyoti Mayal, vice chairperson of the Federation of Associations in Tourism & Hospitality, underscores the ongoing struggle faced by Schengen countries in managing the surge in Indian tourism, citing application backlogs and embassy processing times as primary challenges.
Despite the current hurdles, Vijay Kesavan, founder and CEO of StampThePassport, remains optimistic about the long-term benefits of the revised regulations. He notes a surge in inquiries following the announcement, highlighting the widespread interest in the new visa provisions. Kesavan believes that while immediate relief may not be feasible due to seasonal demand peaks, the revised rules represent a sensible approach to addressing visa processing constraints without resorting to extensive staffing adjustments.”
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