New visa framework introduced

The Visa Information System (VIS) supporting the exchange of data on short-stay visas starts operations in visa-issuing consular posts in Eastern Partnership countries.

It benefits applicants by streamlining Schengen visa application procedures and will include the use of biometrics ie. fingerprints and a digital facial image, in the application process in order to facilitate the identification of visa holders and to avoid identity theft.

“The expansion of the VIS is an important step on the road to increasing border security,” underlines Andriy Korniychuk from the Institute of Public Affairs in Warsaw, who spoke to Agnieszka Bielawska.

“This is not a new solution,” he adds, “but is now being expanded by new countries, whose citizens frequently cross EU borders.”