The European Union has introduced a new visa scheme called ‘cascade’ for Indian citizens residing in India applying for Schengen visas. Under this scheme, Indian travellers can now obtain multiple-entry visas with longer validity. The aim is to facilitate easier access to visas for those with a proven travel history, as long as their passport permits it.
This initiative by the European Commission, adopted on April 18, represents a departure from the standard Visa Code rules that previously applied to Indian nationals. These new rules offer more favourable conditions for obtaining multiple entry visas, reflecting the EU’s efforts to strengthen ties with India and promote tourism and business exchanges between the two regions.
Under the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals are eligible for long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas with extended validity. To qualify for a two-year visa,…