Central Idea

The practice of ‘visa shopping’ is on the rise across various Indian states, most notably in Punjab, where travel agencies facilitate this process.

Understanding Visa Shopping

Definition: ‘Visa shopping’ entails obtaining visas for countries one may or may not intend to visit during the visa’s validity period.
Purpose: Individuals opt for this practice to secure access to their preferred countries, especially in Europe, even if they possess visas for other European nations.
Planning for the Future: Some acquire visas for countries they do not plan to visit immediately, strategically increasing their chances of obtaining visas for their desired destinations later, given the lengthy and uncertain visa application processes.

Schengen Visa: This visa exemplifies ‘visa shopping’ as it offers a unique opportunity to explore multiple European countries without the need for separate visas.
Schengen Agreement: Established in 1985, the Schengen system allows free movement between member countries, comprising over 24 nations, sans border controls.
Single Visa, Multiple Countries: Obtaining a Schengen Visa from one of its member countries, such as Germany, France, or Italy, grants entry into the entire Schengen region.

Easier Application Process: Many applicants prefer to secure a Schengen Visa from a country with a more straightforward application process.
Success Stories: Instances include individuals who, after facing rejection for a Spanish or German visa, obtained visas for other Schengen nations, enabling them to reach their intended destinations.

Compliance with Norms: The practice is legal as long as travellers adhere to visa process norms and obtain legitimate permission to stay in the country.
Intent Matters: Legal complications arise when individuals seek visas for one country but actually intend to stay in another or use it merely as an entry point.
Estonian Embassy’s Caution: The Embassy of Estonia in New Delhi cautioned against visa shopping, emphasizing that travellers must apply for a visa from the country where they plan the maximum stay.

Thorough Scrutiny: Embassies now conduct comprehensive checks of travel plans to detect visa shopping.
Potential Consequences: Suspected individuals may face visa refusal, being offloaded from flights, or deportation from EU borders.
Official Suspicion: Repeated engagement in visa shopping can arouse suspicion among immigration officials, leading to potential problems during travel.