The recent changes made to the Schengen visa by the European Union (EU) are important for Indian students planning to study abroad. The Schengen visa allows the holder to travel and stay in 27 European countries. It is an important tool for students seeking study, travel, or business opportunities in countries under the Schengen area. Now, the amendments made to the Schengen visa rules for Indian citizens and the extension of multiple-entry visas are making it even more convenient.
In terms of Schengen visa updates, the new rules and regulations are going to be more accessible for Indian students and traveling citizens. The European Union has increased the duration of the Schengen visa for Indian citizens and its accessibility, which is a significant change for Indian students and travelers.
Schengen Visa: An Introduction
The Schengen visa allows travel to 27 countries of the European Union. The Schengen Agreement came into force in 1995 and aims to simplify and streamline border controls so that a single visa can be used to travel across these countries. These 27 countries share a common border and make travel to Europe easier. With a Schengen visa, travelers and students can travel to these countries without needing any additional visas.
Schengen Area Member Countries:
The Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. After obtaining a Schengen visa from any one of these countries, travelers can travel to all these countries without needing separate visas.
New Schengen Visa Rules: A Beneficial Move for Indians
- Facility of two-year multiple-entry visa
Under the new rules implemented by the European Union, Indian citizens can now apply for a two-year multiple-entry Schengen visa. This move will prove to be a significant advantage for Indian students and travellers, as they will not need to apply for visas repeatedly. If a person properly utilises the visa twice in the first three years and does not have any violations, he can get a multiple-entry visa with a validity of two years.
- Facility of extension up to five years
If an Indian citizen travels properly twice after the expiry of their visa and their passport has full validity, they can extend the visa up to five years. This decision has been taken based on the growing relations and mutual understanding between India and the European Union. This will make it even easier for students and travellers to travel to Europe for their studies, research, and career opportunities.
- Improvement in the application process
The application process is also being made more simple and transparent in the new visa policy. Students and travelers will no longer need to apply repeatedly, and the visa application time will also be reduced. The process is now likely to be digital, making it even easier for students and travelers to apply.
Study opportunities for Indian students
The Schengen visa update is an important opportunity for Indian students planning to study in Europe. European universities are renowned worldwide for their high academic standards, research opportunities, and quality teaching. Indian students are attracted to study in various countries of Europe in various academic fields, including science, technology, arts, and medicine.
- Top Universities in Europe
Europe has many top universities, which rank high globally. For example, Munich Technical University in Germany, Paris Sorbonne University in France, Bocconi University in Italy, and the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. These universities offer excellent academic courses, research opportunities, and post-study employment options.
- Diverse Courses and Language Options
Europe offers education in a variety of languages. However, most major universities also offer courses in English, which is a great advantage for Indian students. Various countries in Europe offer a variety of courses to students, including technology, business management, science, medicine, and social sciences. Indian students can choose a course according to their interests and take advantage of the high standards of the European education system.
- Fee Structure and Scholarships
The fee structure of education in Europe is quite affordable compared to other countries, especially if it is compared to countries like the US and the UK. The cost of studying in public universities in many European countries is very low, and in many cases even free. Apart from this, scholarships are also offered to Indian students by various countries in Europe. For example, the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship and the DAAD Scholarship of Germany are major scholarships that provide financial assistance to Indian students to study in Europe.
Security Concerns with the Update of Schengen Visa
Despite the new rules and convenience of the Schengen visa, students are required to pay attention to certain security issues while studying in Europe. Although the security situation in European countries is generally considered good, some major issues can still pose challenges for students.
- Terrorist Attacks and Security Concerns in Europe
There have been several terrorist attacks in Europe in recent years, which have raised security issues. There have been terrorist activities in countries like France, Belgium, and Germany, which can become a concern for international students. However, European governments are taking strict measures to protect students and citizens.
- Social and Cultural Security
Indian students should also take care of social and cultural security while studying in Europe. Although most of Europe welcomes Indian students, racial discrimination and other social problems may still arise in some areas. Students should be cautious and follow local rules and laws to deal with these situations during their studies.
Conclusion
The new changes made to the Schengen visa are making the study abroad opportunities even more attractive for Indian students. The level of education, research opportunities, and career options in European countries can provide students with a bright future. Under the new visa policies, Indian students will now get the facility of long-term visas and multiple-entry visas, making their travel and study plans simpler.
However, it is also important to pay attention to security issues while studying in Europe. Between terrorism, social problems, and cultural diversity issues, students must take care of their safety.
Keeping all these opportunities and challenges in mind, the new changes made to the Schengen visa are an important step for Indian students, providing them with an opportunity to pursue a better education and career in Europe.
