Schengen Visa: Norwegian Embassy Warns Delays and Extended Processing Times

Norway Visa Delays

The Norwegian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued a crucial advisory for Schengen visa applicants from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Pakistan. Travellers are urged to file their applications at least 15 days before their intended travel date.

No Pre-Purchase of Tickets

The Embassy emphasized the importance of not purchasing plane tickets before receiving a visa decision. Applicants are advised that they cannot withdraw their passports once the application process has started, reinforcing the need for careful planning.

Application Timeline and Requirements

The Embassy allows visa applications up to six months before the planned travel date. However, the minimum requirement is to apply at least 15 days in advance.

This precaution helps ensure applicants avoid travel disruptions due to delayed visa processing. It is strongly recommended to wait for a positive visa outcome before finalizing any travel arrangements.

Current Processing Status

According to a recent press release from the Royal Norwegian Embassy, applications submitted in the first half of August 2024 are currently under review.

Most of these applications originate from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Pakistan. Additionally, the Embassy is processing visa appeals received before August 2023, indicating a backlog of applications.

Visa Processing Delays During High Season

The Embassy has highlighted that processing times may extend up to 45 calendar days during the high season or when additional information is required. In cases where applications are sent to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI), similar delays can occur.

Applicants are advised to be patient as their passports will remain at the Embassy until the application is fully processed. The Embassy does not handle phone calls or social media inquiries; communication should be conducted via email in English, directed to the VFS Global, which manages client communications.

High Season Impacts

During peak travel seasons, some visa applications may experience longer waiting times. Despite this, the Embassy aims to provide decisions before the applicants’ stated travel dates, as long as all required documents have been submitted on time.

Visa Application Statistics for 2023

In 2023, the number of visa applications to Norway from the United Arab Emirates was notably high. A total of 10,691 visa requests were submitted by applicants from the UAE, reflecting a significant demand for travel to Norway.

  • Approval Rate: Out of these applications, 72.8 percent were approved, showcasing a relatively high success rate for UAE applicants.
  • Multiple Entry Visas: Among the approved visas, 2,673, or 34.3 percent, were granted as Multiple Entry Visas (MEVs), allowing applicants to enter Norway multiple times within the visa’s validity period.

This large volume of applications underscores the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to efficiently manage high demand and process visas in a timely manner, despite the challenges posed by seasonal surges and increased application numbers.

Tips for Applicants: Appeal or Reapply?

The Embassy advises applicants to carefully consider whether to appeal a visa refusal or submit a new application. During high season, limited visa slots are available, and processing times can be extended due to the increased volume of applications and additional requirements.

By following these guidelines and planning well in advance, applicants can increase their chances of a smooth and successful visa application process. For more information, applicants are encouraged to check the official Norwegian Embassy website or contact the VFS directly via email.

 

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