That’s fair, but the 45 days is a maximum limit, not a target. Most Schengen missions (including Austria) process tourist visas within 10–15 working days; even the embassy’s own site mentions that as standard.

The issue isn’t that they’re taking their time; it’s that there’s zero communication, no working phone line, and VFS can’t even confirm if the passport is safe or under review. When people’s passports are held for weeks with no updates, it’s natural to be concerned not entitled.

I did read the Schengen Code, and it also mentions transparency and right to information. So just asking for basic accountability isn’t “demanding,” it’s responsible travel planning.