Definition
An entry visa is the visa a person uses to cross the border lawfully before activating or collecting a longer-term immigration status. In many European work routes, the substantive residence decision is approved first and the applicant then receives a visa from a consulate to travel and collect the permit after arrival. The entry visa does not necessarily define the long-term rights by itself; it is often only the travel document linked to the approved residence route.
Related terms
Authorisation to Stay
A prior approval from the immigration authority allowing a person to proceed to the entry-visa or residence-card stage of a long-stay route.
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Consular Processing
An application flow where part or all of the immigration file is handled through an embassy, consulate, or outsourced visa centre outside the destination country.
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National Visa
Type D Visa (Long-Stay Visa)
A long-stay visa (Type D) issued by a Schengen country that allows the holder to reside and work in that country for more than 90 days, typically the first step before obtaining a residence permit.
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