As of November 6, 2024, new changes to visa issuance policies have made visa decisions more flexible. Previously, many applicants received multiple-entry visas with long validity periods as the standard. Now, consular officers have more freedom to decide whether to issue a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, and they can determine the visa’s validity based on individual circumstances.
Key Changes:
Visa Type Flexibility: Officers can now choose the most appropriate visa type for each applicant, rather than always issuing multiple-entry visas.
Officer Discretion: Officers will assess the purpose of travel, previous travel history, and other factors when determining the visa type and its duration.
Variable Validity: Visa validity may vary, with some applicants receiving shorter or more limited visas based on the officer’s judgment.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
Travelers may no longer automatically receive long-term, multiple-entry visas. Instead, some may get single-entry visas or visas with shorter validity periods, depending on their specific circumstances. It’s important for applicants to submit clear and detailed documentation to support their travel plans.