1. On the grounds of a threat to public policy, internal security, international relations or public health, a Member State may require the central authorities of other Member States to consult its central authorities during the examination of applications lodged by nationals of specific third countries or specific categories of such nationals. Such consultation shall not apply to applications for airport transit visas.
2. The central authorities consulted shall reply definitively as soon as possible, but not later than seven calendar days after being consulted. The absence of a reply within that deadline shall mean that they have no grounds for objecting to the issuing of the visa.
3. Member States shall notify the Commission of the introduction or withdrawal of the requirement for prior consultation, as a rule, at the latest 25 calendar days before it becomes applicable. That information shall also be given under local Schengen cooperation in the jurisdiction concerned.
4. The Commission shall inform Member States of such notifications.