Cascade Schengen Visa
The European Commission introduced a new fast-track Schengen visa system for Indian travellers. This “cascade” system rewards applicants with a clean visa history by offering long-term, multiple-entry visas. It simplifies travel across 29 European countries in the Schengen Area. The scheme aims to strengthen people-to-people contacts and facilitate easier movement for trusted travellers.
About the Schengen Visa
A Schengen visa permits non-EU nationals to enter and move freely within the Schengen Area. The area includes 29 countries, mostly EU members and some European Free Trade Association states. Visa holders can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The visa covers tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, and cultural events. It does not allow employment.
The Cascade Visa Scheme Explained
The cascade visa system grants longer validity visas based on prior travel history. It uses a tiered approach:
- A 1-year visa for travellers with three Schengen visas in the last two years.
- A 2-year visa for holders of a 1-year multiple-entry visa used in the past two years.
- A 5-year visa for those with a 2-year multiple-entry visa used in the last three years.
Applicants must apply from their home country and provide evidence of travel purpose. Transit and country-specific visas are excluded from eligibility. Misuse, such as overstaying or illegal work, can lead to disqualification.
Benefits for Indian Travellers
Indian citizens with two Schengen visas in the past three years qualify for a 2-year multi-entry visa. This visa can later be upgraded to five years if the passport is valid. The visa allows free travel across all Schengen countries without restrictions on travel purpose. However, the 90 days in 180 days stay rule remains. The scheme provides convenience and encourages repeat travel.
Policy and International Cooperation
The cascade system is part of the 2020 Schengen Visa Code reform. It favours regular travellers and aligns with EU priorities on trade and business mobility. Currently, only Indian, Turkish, and Indonesian nationals are eligible. The European Commission may extend the scheme to other countries based on diplomatic ties and readmission agreements.
Schengen Area Member Countries
The Schengen Area includes 25 of the 27 EU states, excluding Cyprus and Ireland. It also covers Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Internal border checks are generally abolished, promoting seamless travel. External borders have harmonised controls based on strict criteria to maintain security and order.
| Related | |
|---|---|
