Armenians Exempt From Schengen Visa Fee Increase: What It Means for Travellers
In a reassuring announcement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia has confirmed that the recent increase in Schengen visa fees by the European Union will not affect Armenian citizens. This news brings relief to many travellers who have been concerned about the potential impact on their travel plans.
According to Ministry spokesperson Ani Badalyan, Armenians will continue to pay the same visa fees as before. Thanks to an agreement between Armenia and the EU on the facilitation of visa issuance, signed in December 2012, Armenian applicants for Schengen visas are required to pay a €35 fee.
Badalyan emphasised that this agreement ensures stability in visa costs for Armenian citizens, unlike the recent hike for other countries.
As of June 11, 2024, applicants from other nations must now pay €90 for a Schengen visa, with a reduced fee of €45 for children, except in certain cases.
EU-Armenia Visa Liberalisation Talks Progress
In more promising news, the European Union is actively discussing the possibility of commencing a visa liberalisation dialogue with Armenia. This was confirmed by Jutta Urpilainen, the EU Commissioner for International Relationships, earlier this year.
During a plenary session, Commissioner Urpilainen highlighted that the EU is eager to strengthen its relationship with Armenia and facilitate easier entry for Armenian citizens into the Schengen Area. She emphasised that Armenia is poised to move closer to the EU, with efforts underway to bolster these ties further.
Currently, Armenia benefits from a Visa Facilitation Agreement with the EU, which simplifies the application process for Schengen visas and ensures lower fees for Armenian passport holders. This agreement is a testament to the growing cooperation and connection between Armenia and the European Union.
With the ongoing discussions about visa liberalisation and the continued exemption from increased visa fees, Armenian travellers can look forward to more accessible and affordable travel opportunities within the Schengen Area.
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