Table of Contents
Who has access to Schengen database?
The Schengen Information System (SIS) is a highly secure and protected database that is exclusively accessible to the authorised users within competent authorities, such as national border control, police, customs, judicial, visa and vehicle registration authorities.
When was Schengen Information System created?
SIS was created in 1990 when internal border controls between Schengen countries were abolished and a common visa policy was introduced, in line with the Schengen Convention. The Schengen Information System can be used by authorities in different countries, such as police and border control agents.
What is a SIS alert?
SIS enables competent national authorities, such as the police and border guards, to enter and consult alerts on persons or objects. An SIS alert does not only contain information about a particular person or object but also instructions for the authorities on what to do when the person or object has been found.
Do Schengen countries share visa information?
All Schengen countries share visa information through VIS. Denmark has also chosen to implement VIS. The central VIS system is linked to national systems, allowing Schengen states to exchange data. Sharing information regarding application decisions is particularly useful for preventing ‘visa shopping’.
How does VIS system work?
VIS connects consulates in non-EU countries and all external border crossing points of Schengen States. It processes data and decisions relating to applications for short-stay visas to visit, or to transit through, the Schengen Area.
In which country is Schengen?
These countries are: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
How does Schengen work?
A Schengen visa, also known as a Europe visa, allows eligible individuals to travel freely within the 26 participating Schengen Area countries. This means Europe travelers will not be subject to border checks at internal Schengen borders. Border checks remain in place for travelers crossing external borders, however.
How many countries is under Schengen?
26 countries
The Schengen area covers 26 countries (“Schengen States”) without border controls between them.
What is vis in Schengen visa?
The Visa Information System (VIS) is a system for the exchange of visa data between Schengen States. The implementation of the VIS is a key element of the common visa policy, which together with other policies allows the European Union to establish an area of freedom, security and justice.
Which countries use VIS and who operates it?
Where Does VIS Operate? The VIS operates in every country the residents of which need a visa to enter any of the Schengen Area member states, and where there is at least one embassy or consulate of the member states.