France becomes the first EU nation to issue Digital Schengen visas, paving the way for a smoother travel experience in Europe. This exciting development marks a significant step towards the complete digitalization of Schengen visas by 2026.
Who’s Invited to the Digital Party?
While not everyone can apply just yet, two specific groups can rejoice:
1. The Olympic and Paralympic Family:
Athletes, coaches, officials, media, and even donors – if you’re accredited by the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee (OCOG), your visa application just got easier!
Say goodbye to:
- Waiting for appointments
- Gathering mountains of documents
- Paying visa fees
Simply:
- Head to the visa center with your passport and accreditation certificate
- Get your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) captured
- Viola! Your digital visa awaits!
2. Officially Invited Guests:
If you’ve received a special invitation from the OCOG, you’re eligible for a digital visa too! The process is similar, but you’ll need to:
- Complete an online application on the France-Visas website
- Gather required documents as per the website
- Submit a letter of invitation from the OCOG
- Get your biometrics captured
Important Note: Spectators attending the games will still need regular Schengen visas.
The Future is Digital:
This pilot program is just the beginning. By 2026, the entire Schengen zone aims to embrace digital visas, streamlining travel for countless individuals.