The cost of the Schengen Visa, which allows visa-free travel to over 29 European countries, will increase by 12% starting June 11, 2024. Currently, the visa fees are over 8,000 rupees for adults and 4,087 rupees for children in India.
According to the reports, the price hike is due to inflation in member states. Despite the increase, the European Commission asserts that the fees remain "relatively low" compared to other countries.
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The Commission reviews and adjusts the fees every three years, based on inflation and average civil servant salaries in member states.
The proposal for this increase was made on February 2, following a December meeting where member states supported the revision by an overwhelming majority.