Brussels, 02/04/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 2 April, MEPs gave their endorsement to simplification of the current system for issuing visas for entering the Schengen Area if such visas are of short duration (under three months). At first reading, they adopted the report by Henrik Lax (ALDE, Finland) by 569 votes to 50 and 32 abstentions, on the compromise text negotiated with the Council on the Community visa code. The latter aims to integrate into a single text all the legal instruments governing procedures and conditions for short term visa issuance. The future Parliament and Council regulation establishing the visa code is expected among other things to allow harmonisation of motives for refusal, cancellation or extension of visas. It will take into account the obligation that henceforth all visa applications should be accompanied by biometric identification. MEPs managed to have member states that do not have their own consular representation office in a third country to agree to try to conclude accords with those countries that do have representation. They also managed to have multiple-entry visas granted to lighten the administrative burden on member states. A joint internet site on the Schengen visa should be set in place to provide the applicant with all useful information. The cost of issuing a visa is fixed at €60 in the proposal. Children from 6 to 12 years of age will have to pay €35 and may be totally exempt from payment if the consular authorities so decide. A number of applicant categories will be dispensed from paying the cost of a visa, including children under 6 years of age, school children and students or representatives of non-profit making organisations under the age of 25 taking part in sports, cultural and educational events (which are also not profit-making). (B.C./transl.jl)