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In a landmark policy shift, the European Commission has launched a new fast-track visa initiative—the Cascade Schengen Visa system—designed to reward Indian travellers with a clean visa history. The move is part of a broader effort to simplify travel and strengthen diplomatic ties with India.
The system, which quietly came into effect in 2024, introduces a tiered model allowing eligible Indian nationals to access multi-year, multiple-entry Schengen visas, provided they’ve adhered to visa rules in previous trips.
Under the cascade framework, applicants who have consistently complied with Schengen visa terms will qualify for long-term visas—ranging from 1 year to 5 years—depending on their prior visa record and travel behavior.
According to the European External Action Service (EEAS), Indian citizens who have lawfully used at least two Schengen visas over the last three years may now be granted a 2-year multiple-entry visa. Those who go on to responsibly use a 2-year visa can eventually be awarded a 5-year visa.
Visa applications must be submitted from the applicant’s home country and must be accompanied by documentation justifying the purpose of travel. Visas issued for transit or specific countries do not count toward cascade eligibility. Overstays or misuse of prior visas may result in disqualification.
The visa allows freedom of movement across all 29 countries in the Schengen Area, although the 90-days-in-180-days rule remains in effect. Employment is not permitted under this visa.
The Cascade Visa initiative forms part of the 2020 reform of the Schengen Visa Code, a policy overhaul aimed at encouraging mobility for businesspeople, tourists, and repeat visitors. The system is currently open only to nationals of India, Turkey, and Indonesia, with possible expansion in the future.
Officials say the policy supports the EU’s broader goals of promoting trusted mobility, boosting trade, and improving consular efficiency.
The Schengen Zone includes 25 EU states—excluding Ireland and Cyprus—as well as four non-EU countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Internal border controls are largely eliminated, while strict and unified checks are maintained at external borders.
Source
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European External Action Service (EEAS): Official Announcement
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Business Today India: News Coverage
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GKToday: Policy Summary
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KPMG Flash Alert: Visa Reform Overview
Disclaimer
The above information is provided for general awareness and informational purposes only. Visa rules and eligibility criteria are subject to change without notice. For the latest updates and personalized guidance, consult official government sources or a licensed immigration expert.
August 1, 2025