Criticism of the ‘Schengen visa’ of the EU to member countries

The European Union (EU) Commission has criticized the visa processes of EU countries, which have recently come to the fore with long processing times and denial decisions on the issuance of Schengen visas.

The EU Commission sent the document entitled “Report on the state of Schengen 2023”, which it prepared, to the European Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions. The report recalled that the increase in global mobility following the end of the Covid-19 epidemic led to a sharp increase in Schengen visa applications, leading to severe delays in visa appointments and application processing.

“In some cases, applicants pay agents or individuals up to 500 euros just to get an appointment,” the statement reads:

“In addition, member states often provide visa applicants with insufficient and incorrect information about the visa application process, which affects the quality of migration and security risk assessment. The consequences of these shortcomings range from damage to the reputation of the member states and the EU, to economic losses, particularly in the tourism sector, to the deterioration of family contacts and business relationships.

‘SUFFICIENT STAFF MUST BE EMPLOYED’

In the report, it was emphasized that “member countries should employ sufficient staff to examine applications at consulates” to correct the negative situation regarding Schengen visas. It was stated that the Commission could use the €88 million fund allocated by the Fund for Integrated Border Management for operational support to the common visa policy.

In addition, the EU Commission recommended that member states regulate the inefficient workflow in consulates in order to better utilize the knowledge and resources of local staff in consulates. In the report, it was emphasized that “long-term multiple-entry visa issuance will also add efficiency.” (AA)