Expanding Long-term Visa Regulations in Turkey: Germany's Broadened Approach
The German Consul General in Izmir, Ralf Schröer, announced that Germany will broaden the implementation of the Cascade Rule in Turkey, offering longer-term Schengen visas to Turkish citizens. This move prioritizes applicants in business and educational sectors, with leisure travelers potentially facing extended wait times due to high demand.
During a seminar at Yasar University, Schröer explained that Turkey ranks second globally in Schengen visa applications, with approximately 1.1 million submissions in 2024. Greece, Germany, and France were the most frequently approached countries, receiving 296,000, 200,000, and 180,000 applications, respectively.
Schröer urged applicants to avoid engaging with visa consultancy firms, stating that their involvement does not expedite the application process. He also emphasized that the Cascade Rule, which aims to extend Schengen visa validity periods, will be implemented more effectively in Turkey.
The Cascade Rule allows qualifying applicants to secure multi-entry visas valid for extended periods, facilitating easier and repeated travel to the Schengen Area. This rule is part of a broader EU trend prioritizing multi-entry visas for frequent travelers.
While the Cascade Rule simplifies travel for Turkish citizens, it does not prevent delays due to high demand and appointment shortages. These issues have been encountered in similar contexts, such as India, and may persist even as applications increase in Turkey following the broader implementation of the rule.
Despite the challenges, the extended visa validity under the Cascade Rule offers benefits to Turkish travelers, aligning with EU efforts to encourage tourism and business travel while streamlining bureaucratic processes. The policy strengthens bilateral mobility ties between Turkey and Schengen states like Germany, potentially easing travel for Turkish citizens engaged in business, tourism, or family visits.
Travelers in Turkey who are applying for Schengen visas may find that their leisure travel plans could be affected by increased demand due to the broadening implementation of the Cascade Rule, as this policy prioritizes applicants in business and educational sectors. Nevertheless, the Cascade Rule, which provides multi-entry visas for extended periods, could offer benefits to Turkish travelers, aligning with EU efforts to facilitate tourism and business travel while streamlining bureaucratic processes.
