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Facilitated application process
The new text states that the application form shall be submitted via the EU application platform. The form may be signed electronically. Alternatively, a paper form may be used.
The agency eu-LISA shall publish and update the general public information available on the EU application platform.
This EU application platform shall contain a secure account service, meaning that applicants can keep the data provided for subsequent applications.
The EU application platform will automatically pre-determine the competent Member State based on the data provided by the applicant.
Applicants will be able to use the EU application platform to submit a scanned copy of the travel document in an electronic format and supporting documents and proof of medical insurance in digital format.
This new legislation aims to facilitate the whole application procedure; the applicant is only required to travel in person to the consulate for a first application. There is no need to travel again in person if it is a subsequent application with the same travel document and if the applicant's biometrics were taken in the last 59 months.
When the applicant applies, the EU application platform checks the read-only copy of VIS and informs the applicant whether they need to visit a consulate or an external service provider.
External service provider gateway
External service providers shall have access to the EU application platform using the external service gateway to:
-verify and perform quality checks on the data uploaded in the temporary storage capacity, notably the scanned copy of the travel document
-upload the biometric identifiers
-upload the supporting documents, if needed
-use the appointment tool to indicate available slots, if applicable
-make application available to the consulate for further processing
The European Commission will adopt implementing acts to lay down the authentication scheme for external service provider staff members.
Digital visas replacing visa stickers
One of the legislation's main novelties is the introduction of "digital visas". These "visas shall be issued in digital format as a record in VIS, including a unique visa number". Visa stickers will remain for Member States which do not issue visas in digital formal. The uniform format remains for the visa stickers.
Notification of decisions to the applicant
Applicants and visa holders are notified of decisions taken by Member States by secure electronic means. The notification shall contain a 2D barcode digitally signed by the issuing authority and the facial image of the holder. The notification shall also be in printable format.
The Commission will adopt implementing acts to lay down the technical specifications of the digital visas and the notification.
If you have any questions on this topic, please contact Camille Dornier - Policy Manager: camille.dornier@eurosmart.com
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