A timeline is expected for when each EU member state is to decide whether they support the legislation for digitalisation of visa procedures. However, as the agreement between the Council and the European Parliament was reached relatively quickly, it could be foreseen that the approval of the member states will be done with similar speed.
In the field of immigration, the EU has introduced a digital system for pre-approval of passengers travelling to the EU from visa-exempted non-EU countries called “ETIAS.” ETIAS will apply from 2024. (For prior coverage, see GMS Flash Alert 2023-019, 24 January 2023.)
The EU has also introduced e-gates that will automatically record border crossings into and out of the EU – this is called the “EES system.” EES is expected to be operational later in 2023. (For prior coverage, see GMS Flash Alert 2023-019, 24 January 2023.)
It seems therefore a natural progression to digitalise the application process for visas. Even though it cannot be foreseen when the application system for visas will be digitalised, employers should be aware of and keep an eye on the progress of digital transformation in the EU. Digitalisation of different procedures is expected to reduce administrative burdens, but also it could inevitably increase requirements concerning accuracy and timeliness of information and documents submitted to the authorities.
Digitalisation is expected to allow the relevant authorities to perform checks and assessments more efficiently than is the case today with paper-based processes.
