SCHENGEN
Amsterdam plans higher tourist tax, cruise terminal closure to curb tourism pressure
Amsterdam is set to overhaul its tourism sector with ambitious plans including a hike in tourist tax to 20% by 2030. The city also aims to shut its cruise terminal and purchase city centre businesses to ease pressure on residents and public spaces. These measures seek to enhance liveability while acknowledging tourism's economic role.
What is Germany's Language Course Visa? Eligibility, costs and key rules explained
Germany's Language Course Visa allows non-EU nationals to study German intensively for up to one year. Applicants need admission to a recognized school, proof of financial support, and health insurance. This visa is for language learning only, not for university or vocational training preparation.
How travellers can check the number of days they are allowed to stay in Europe using the new EES online tool
A new EU online tool allows non-EU nationals to check their remaining authorised stay in EES countries. Travellers can calculate eligible days and verify entry permission before or during their trip. The service helps visitors plan short stays and avoid overstaying under new immigration rules.
Lufthansa Group welcomes visa-free airport transit for Indian nationals via Germany
Indian travellers will now enjoy visa-free transit through German airports when heading to other countries, a move effective June 3, 2026. Lufthansa Group hails this decision, anticipating smoother journeys and enhanced air connectivity. The airline is also boosting its India services with new cabins and routes, underscoring its commitment to the Indian market.
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Want to study in Germany? Here’s how the student visa process works
International students planning to study in Germany require a national D visa, valid for two years with extension possibilities. Applicants must secure university admission and prove sufficient financial resources, typically €11,904 in a blocked account or a scholarship. Citizens of certain countries can apply for a residence permit upon arrival.
Bharatiya boorish brats over the world
The growing trend of disruptive antics by Indian tourists overseas has sparked concerns. Flash mobs at airports and careless littering in breathtaking landscapes point to a troubling disregard for the cultural norms and ecological integrity of the countries they visit. To truly embody global citizenship, it is essential to recognize that international destinations are shared havens, not personal backyards.
A record 1.15 million Indians applied for Schengen visas in 2025 — here's where they want to go
Indian demand for European travel surged in 2025, with a record 1.15 million Schengen visa applications filed, making India the third-largest source market globally. Switzerland emerged as the top destination, surpassing France and Germany. Nearly 58% of visas issued were multiple-entry permits, indicating a rise in repeat travel.
One in six Indian Schengen visa applications were rejected in 2025 — these countries denied the most
In 2025, over 181,000 Schengen visa applications from India were rejected, resulting in a 15.8% non-issuance rate. While India was a major source market, visa outcomes varied significantly by destination. Slovenia had the highest rejection rate at 46.1%, while Germany and Switzerland remained more accessible with lower rates.
Thailand cuts visa-free stays for more than 90 countries, citing crime by foreigners
Thailand is drastically cutting the length of visa-free stays for tourists from more than 90 countries in an effort to curb crime involving foreign nationals, officials said on Tuesday. The new visa-free duration would be decided on a country-by-country basis, with most foreign nationals granted stays of up to 30 days, while some could receive only 15 days, Surasak said.
One trip, one ticket: New EU rules aim to ease train travel
The EU plans to force railway companies to sell rivals' tickets on their websites and share data with booking platforms, under new rules unveiled Wednesday aiming to boost train travel. Under the new rules the company responsible for the delay will have to re-route or reimburse travellers and provide assistance, including overnight accommodation and meals where necessary.
Schengen visa slots see limited availability ahead of Europe’s busy summer travel season
Travellers planning summer trips to Europe’s Schengen Area may face delays in securing visa appointments as demand rises between May and August. The advisory also warned of possible airport delays linked to Europe’s new Entry Exit System and temporary border checks in several countries. Travellers and businesses have been advised to apply early and remain flexible with travel plans.
Lufthansa’s summer flight plan now includes possible fuel detours
Lufthansa is bracing for a summer of potential flight disruptions. The German airline is planning for fuel shortages, which could mean adding refuelling stops on long-haul routes. They have already experienced isolated incidents where airports lacked fuel. Lufthansa is also implementing cost-saving measures and increasing ticket prices to manage rising fuel expenses.
No French, No civic test: France’s exam‑free Visiteur visa Indian HNIs are quietly using as a first step to EU residency
France's 2026 immigration reforms, including civic exams and language tests, have caused concern for many. However, the financially independent VLS-TS "Visiteur" visa remains largely exam-free, offering a flexible route for non-EU nationals. This pathway rewards capital and passive income, with applications from India seeing a significant surge.
Gunman, reportedly age 89, opens fire at 2 locations in Greek capital, wounding several people
A gunman opened fire at a social security office and a courthouse in Athens, wounding several people. Authorities are searching for the suspect, reportedly an 89-year-old man, who fled the scene after the initial shooting. The motive remains unclear, though the gunman allegedly cited documents as reasons for his actions.
International travel insurance: How to choose right cover with adequate medical protection, add-ons and claims support
Medical coverage, duration and geography, add-ons, and claims experience are some aspects one must keep in mind before selecting the international travel insurance provider. Selecting a policy from India is less about finding the cheapest option and more about finding the right balance between cost and meaningful coverage.
Bulgarians head to polls to elect parliament for eighth time in 5 years
Bulgarians are voting for the eighth time in five years. They hope to elect a stable parliament to end political deadlock. Nationwide protests against corruption have led to frequent government changes. Former President Rumen Radev's coalition is the front-runner. He promises a fresh start and an end to corruption. This vote could shift Bulgaria's pro-Russian stance.
HNIs eye Greece residency as alternative to Dubai option
Affluent Indians are increasingly eyeing Greece as a destination for permanent residency. The motivations behind this trend include evolving geopolitics and a more accessible investment threshold than many European counterparts. Greece not only allows for visa-free access to the Schengen zone but also boasts a robust legal framework.
Europe’s travel rules to change from April 10: What it means for visitors
Europe's border control is undergoing a significant digital transformation with the full rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES) on April 10, 2026. This system will replace passport stamping with biometric data collection for non-EU travelers, aiming to enhance security and efficiency. Authorities anticipate longer wait times initially as the system is implemented across 29 countries.
EU says Romania and Bulgaria can join Schengen zone starting from Jan 2025
The European Union has approved Romania and Bulgaria's full entry into the Schengen Zone via land borders starting January 1, 2025. Hungary, holding the EU presidency, celebrated this as a major victory for both countries and Europe. Romania and Bulgaria were already part of the Schengen Zone through air and sea by March 2024, with land entry expected by January 2025.
Why you may need a Schengen Visa on your next trip to the US or Canada
Traveling to the US or Canada with layovers in Schengen countries may require a transit Schengen visa. This visa allows passage through airport transit areas without entering the country. Requirements depend on nationality, and failing to obtain it can cause major travel disruptions. Ensure all necessary visas are secured before your journey.
Indians' Europe travel plans in limbo this summer over Schengen visa slot shortage
Indians planning to visit the Schengen Area this summer are facing challenges in securing appointment slots for Schengen visas, leading to frustration and travel disruptions, as reported by Schengen News. Both applicants and travel agents have expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation, with some stating that appointments are unavailable until summer for most Schengen member states. Particularly for Germany and Italy, the earliest available appointment dates are in July, hindering travel plans for Indians aiming to visit the Schengen Area in June or July.
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