Effective June 11, 2024, those planning to venture into the Schengen area of Europe will face increased visa fees. The European Commission has announced a 12 percent hike, affecting both adult and child visas. Adult visa fees will rise from €80 to €90, while children aged six to twelve will see their visa costs increase from €40 to €45. The Slovenian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs has confirmed this adjustment, which is part of a regular review process mandated by the Schengen Visa Code. The last fee increase occurred in February 2020, bringing the cost from €60 to €80. This latest increase is attributed to rising inflation and increased civil servant salaries within the European Union.
Non-European countries such as India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and China require Schengen visas to enter the Schengen area, which comprises 29 countries. However, citizens from Britain, Canada, the United States, and Australia are exempt from this requirement. Within the Schengen area, member countries’ citizens enjoy visa-free travel for up to 90 days under the Schengen rules.
Countries that do not cooperate with the EU’s readmission policy for irregularly staying citizens may face even higher visa fees, potentially reaching €135 or €180. The EU Visa Code mandates a review of fees every three years, and this increase is a result of the December 2023 review.
