Applicants need to appear in person for an interview and for the collection of the biometric data: ten fingerprints and a photograph are collected from persons applying for a visa. However, for subsequent applications within 5 years, fingerprints can be re-used from the VIS (Visa Information System) file unless there is reasonable doubt regarding the identity of the applicant.
When the visa holder arrives at the external border, the border authorities have access to the VIS to verify his or her identity and the authenticity of the visa.
Certain applicants are exempt from the fingerprints requirement including:
•children under the age of 12;
•persons for whom fingerprinting is physically impossible;
•Heads of State or Government and members of a national Government with accompanying spouses, and the members of their official delegation when they are invited by Member States’ Governments or by international organisations for an official purpose;
•Sovereigns and other senior members of a royal family, when they are invited by Member States’ Governments or by international organisations for an official purpose.
Please click here to schedule an appointment.