Which Countries Can You Apply for with EU VAP: and Other Questions Answered

The future is here! Well, almost. A new way to apply for Schengen visas is in development. EU VAP (short for European Union Visa Application Portal) is a new visa application system in the works, that was imagined and is operated by the European Union (hence the name).

This online portal will streamline the Schengen visa application process, bringing it nearly entirely online.

But what exactly can you do with EU VAP, and which citizens can use this tool? Also, when will EU VAP be available?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know.

Understanding the EU Visa Application Portal (EU VAP)

The EU VAP is designed to make the visa application process smoother for travelers seeking entry to certain European countries – those in the Schengen zone. Rather than applying individually at a visa center or consulate/embassy, the EU VAP acts as a centralized system, allowing you to apply for your visa online and in one place.

Once launched, using the EU VAP will save you time, reduce paperwork, and help make all travelers to the Schengen area even more secure.

Today, applying for a Schengen visa can be done through trusted visa processors. If a visa center isn’t available in your area, you may need to apply directly through the relevant consulate or embassy. Currently, when you apply for a Schengen visa, you are required to attend an in-person appointment where you must bring physical originals of all of the required documents.

With the launch of EU VAP, applicants will be able to apply for Schengen visas from the comfort of their own homes (once the platform has been launched, of course).

Which countries can you apply for with the EU VAP?

When fully operational, travelers will be able to apply for Schengen visas for any Schengen country through EU VAP online.

Schengen countries and the EU VAP

The Schengen zone is made up of 29 countries where travelers can move freely without border checks. These countries are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

EU VAP is expected to be fully operational by 2030, meaning you can apply for a Schengen visa for any of the above countries at that time, providing their launch date doesn’t change.

In their roll-out plan, some countries may adopt the online portal before other countries, so you may be able to apply for some visas before 2030, as each country begins to implement the new technology.

Can I use EU VAP?

Once launched and fully operational, yes! You will be able to apply for a Schengen visa through EU VAP.

Is the EU VAP entirely online?

Almost. The entire application process, from start to submission, is online. However, the Schengen area requires that every single visa applicant give their biometric data (fingerprints).

Because there isn’t a way to securely collect fingerprints online, you’ll be required to book an in-person biometric appointment at a consulate or visa center near you before your visa can be processed.

Which countries can use EU VAP, Key Takeaways:

• EU VAP simplifies the visa application process for Schengen visas.
• Visas for countries like France, Italy, and Spain will be available on EU VAP once the system is fully operational.
• EU VAP is expected to be fully operational by 2030, though there may be some availability before that as each country rolls out its system.
• Always check the specific visa requirements for your intended country of travel.
• EU VAP will be an online platform for Schengen visa submission.
• You will be able to apply for a Schengen visa for any of the 29 Schengen countries with EU VAP.
• EU VAP doesn’t change Schengen visa requirements, just the method of application.
• You will still be required to make an in-person appointment for biometric collection.