13/11/23 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 13 November, the Council of the European Union adopted new rules which will allow people planning to travel to the Schengen area to apply for a visa online (see EUROPE 13274/15). The two regulations adopted will create a specific visa application platform for the EU. With a few exceptions, Schengen visa applications will be made via this platform. On the platform, applicants will be able to enter all the relevant data, upload electronic copies of their travel documents and supporting documents, and pay the visa fee, all of which will make it unnecessary for them to appear in person at the consulate. However, first-time applicants, people whose biometric data is no longer valid or those with a new travel document will still have to appear in person. The current visa sticker will be replaced by a barcode. (SP)