Immigration Alert - New Visa Cascade Regime for Indian Nationals: Easier Access to the Schengen Area

A. Background
The Schengen area, a zone encompassing 29 European countries, allows for borderless travel across its member states. This includes 25 European Union countries and four non-EU states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Traditionally, Schengen visas have allowed holders to travel freely within the zone for short stays, up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without the right to employment.
B.Change/ Development
Effective 18 April 2024, the European Commission has implemented a new visa "cascade" regime1 specifically for Indian nationals residing in India. This development marks a significant shift from the standard Visa Code rules previously in place. Under the new rules, eligible Indian travellers who have lawfully obtained and used two Schengen visas within the past three years can now receive a multi-entry visa valid for two years.
This can subsequently be extended to a five-year visa, assuming the traveller’s passport remains valid. The policy change aims to simplify and extend the validity of visas for frequent travellers, enhancing mobility between India and the Schengen area.
C. BDO in India Comments/ Conclusion
The introduction of the "cascade" visa regime is a strategic enhancement of the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility. By allowing easier access to long-term, multi-entry visas, the European Commission acknowledges the growing importance of India as a strategic partner and supports increased people-to-people contacts. This initiative not only simplifies the travel process for Indian nationals but also strengthens the socio-economic and cultural ties between India and the European Union.
BDO in India will continue to monitor these developments and provide clients with the necessary guidance to navigate them effectively.