New Schengen "visa code" to function

This so-called "visa code", has common procedures and conditions for the issuance of visas for member countries to Schengen (for a period not exceeding 3 months), the European Commission representative Michele Cherkone said on Tuesday.

According to him, all the foreign consulates of the Schengen States are obliged to follow the "Visa Code". Regarding the long-term visas, the decision to extradite them, remains in the "national responsibility".

The new "Visa Code" was approved by the EU Council in June 2009. The Code determines, also, that the cost of Schengen visas to the representatives of third countries aged 12 and older is 60 euros per person and for children aged 6 to 12 years old - 35 euros. For states with an agreement on visa facilitation with the EU, the visa costs remain the same - 35 euros.

Modified visa law also introduced new standards for the provision of consular services for visas and a decision on their extradition must be made within 15 calendar days. When visas are required for consular services, the digital fingerprints and photographs of individuals who requested a visa are being entered to the Visa Information System of the Schengen zone.

In addition, in case of refusal of visa extradition, consular services must justify the decision, and the vendor shall have the right to appeal the decision. "Visa Code" will replace the current Common Consular Instructions.

According to the European Commission, in 2008 the Schengen countries have issued over 10 millions of short-term visas.


/Day.Az/