DUSHANBE , July 10, Asia-Plus - Those wanting to receive Schengen visa now may apply for it by e-mail. 

According to information from the German Embassy in Dushanbe , to find out more about submitting an online visa application those interested should enter the website http://visa.diplo.de .  Online visa applications can only be submitted for short stays of up to 90 days.  Visa applications for longer stays (study, employment, family reunification) cannot be submitted online. If applicant needs a long-stay visa he should contact the German mission abroad responsible for his application. 

Traveling in Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa.  With a Schengen visa, one may enter one country and travel freely throughout the Schengen zone.  Internal border controls have disappeared; there are no or few stops and checks.

ABOUT: The name "Schengen" originates from a small town in Luxembourg .  In June 1985, seven European Union countries signed a treaty to end internal border checkpoints and controls. More countries have joined the treaty over the past years.  At present, there are 15 Schengen countries, all in Europe .  The 15 Schengen countries are: Austria , Belgium , Denmark , Finland , France , Germany , Iceland , Italy , Greece , Luxembourg , Netherlands , Norway , Portugal , Spain and Sweden . All these countries except Norway and Iceland are European Union members.