- Extended Processing Time: France has announced that Schengen visa processing for Algerians now takes up to four weeks due to increased demand.
- Advice to Apply Early: Algerian applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid delays.
- Affected Consulates: French consulates in Annaba and Constantine have reported significant processing delays, especially for applicants from 14 northern Algerian provinces.
- Annaba Consulate’s Role: Applicants from provinces such as Jijel, Constantine, and others must apply through the Annaba consulate.
- Increased Demand: The high volume of applications has overwhelmed consular services, extending the typical processing period.
- Schengen Visa Fee Hike: Alongside extended processing times, visa applicants from Algeria now face higher visa fees due to a recent Schengen-wide increase from €80 to €90.
- Economic Impact on Applicants: The fee increase poses additional financial challenges for Algerians seeking Schengen visas, especially with longer waiting times.
- Potential Delays in Travel Plans: The extended processing time may affect Algerians’ travel plans, particularly for those planning short-notice trips.
- Consulate Advisories: French authorities emphasize the importance of submitting applications well ahead of time, particularly in peak travel seasons.
- France’s Commitment: Despite delays, French consulates continue working to process as many applications as possible, striving to manage the growing demand for visas.
These extended processing times reflect ongoing pressures on consular services, particularly with the surge in demand for Schengen visas.
Drop us a line at visa@gogpl.in or dive into www.greenoutdoors.in for all the details.