A European Council working group met on September 14, 2026. It discussed raising Schengen visa fees again. No decision has been made yet.
What Does a Schengen Visa Cost Right Now?
The standard Schengen visa fee has been €90 since June 11, 2024. That was a 12.5% increase from the previous €80 fee.
Children aged 6 to 11 pay €45. Children under 6 travel for free.
The standard Schengen visa fee changed only once before. It went from €60 to €80 in 2020.
The €90 standard fee and €45 child fee have not changed because of the September 2026 talks.
Why Is the EU Discussing Another Visa Fee Increase?
The European Commission wants to revise Schengen visa rules by early 2027.
One idea is a new EU-wide charge on top of the visa fee. This would help fund the bloc’s visa system.
The European Commission also wants faster processing for trusted companies. Their employees could get priority appointments and fewer document checks.
A public call for evidence opened the week of September 14, 2026. Comments are open until October 6, 2026.
Why Are Critics Pushing Back Against a Fee Increase?
Critics question a Schengen visa fee increase without faster service. Processing times remain slow at many German missions.
Applicants say the wait times are too long.
NOTE: The €90/€45 fee structure remains in force. Any new charge would need a formal Commission proposal, expected in 2027.
