As 2024 closed, it has been a year of notable developments for the Schengen Area, impacting both EU citizens and foreign nationals. From heightened border controls to visa fee hikes and evolving citizenship laws, the year has been marked by policy shifts shaping the bloc’s future.
Internal Border Controls Introduced and Prolonged
Several EU member states implemented or extended internal border controls in response to security concerns and migration challenges:
- Germany: Introduced land border controls with all neighboring Schengen countries in September 2024. Initially set for six months, these controls may be extended.
- Netherlands: Began border checks with Belgium and Germany in December 2024, using random car inspections to minimise disruption.
- France: Reinstated border controls with Schengen neighbors to enhance national security.
- Others: Slovenia, Italy, and Austria extended existing border controls, while Norway, Denmark, and Sweden briefly reinstated measures earlier in the year.
Schengen Visa Fees Increased
Effective June 2024, Schengen visa fees rose by 12.5%, impacting most applicants:
- Adults now pay €90 (up from €80).
- Children’s fees increased from €40 to €45.
- Fees for applicants from non-cooperative countries were set at €135 to €180.
Certain groups, including nationals of countries with visa facilitation agreements and exempted categories, were unaffected by the changes.
Entry/Exit System (EES) Launch Delayed
The EU postponed the launch of the automated Entry/Exit System (EES) to 2025 due to technical challenges. Initially slated for November 2024, the phased implementation will allow member states to ensure system readiness.
The EES will digitise border processes, replacing passport stamps with biometric registration to enhance security and track overstays.
Vanuatu Removed from Visa-Free Travel List
In December 2024, the EU permanently revoked Vanuatu’s visa-free travel privileges due to concerns over its investor citizenship scheme, marking the first such action against a country.
Changes to Citizenship Laws
- Germany: Introduced a new law allowing dual citizenship and faster naturalization timelines, enabling citizenship after five years (or less for certain groups).
- Finland: Tightened requirements, increasing the residency period from five to eight years for most applicants.
Golden Visa Programs Updated
- Hungary: Relaunched its Golden Visa Program, offering residency through investments starting at €250,000.
- Greece: Increased minimum investment requirements, with thresholds reaching €800,000 in high-demand areas.
High Demand for Migrant Workers
Labour shortages continued to drive work migration to the EU, with countries like Germany, Sweden, Romania, and Ireland issuing large numbers of work permits in 2024. This trend highlights the bloc’s reliance on foreign talent to support its economies.
Europe Remains a Top Travel Destination
Despite rising costs, Europe retained its appeal, with safety, culture, and history drawing millions of international travelers. The European Travel Commission reported strong demand for leisure and cultural tourism in 2024, though affordability remained a concern for many.
