Schengen Visa to Become Digital by 2028

With the European Union moving towards a fully digital system, the Schengen visa application process is set to become more efficient and modern. This step will eliminate the need for paper-based applications.

Under this major change, the traditional visa sticker will be replaced by a secure, encrypted 2D digital barcode, which will enhance security, speed up the process, and adopt technological innovations.

According to a report by Travel + Leisure, the full implementation is expected by 2028. As a pilot, France issued 70,000 digital Schengen visas with barcodes during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Once fully implemented, travelers will be able to scan these barcodes at border checkpoints, allowing immigration officers to access personal and visa details through a centralized European Union database.

The digital visa system will provide a completely online experience — applicants can upload documents, track application progress, and pay fees digitally. After completing these steps, travelers will receive a digitally signed barcode visa.

First-time visitors to Europe will still need to provide biometric data in person, but frequent visitors will benefit from a simplified process.