Planning a Europe Trip? Check This List Before You Apply for a Schengen Visa!

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

As summer holidays approach, many travellers are preparing for their European getaways. But for those aiming to explore the Schengen region, securing a visa can be a critical—and sometimes uncertain—first step.

The European Commission has released new data revealing the Schengen countries with the highest visa rejection rates. While travel demand remains strong, it's crucial to be aware of where your application might face the most scrutiny.

Adding to the challenge, some countries like Germany are rolling back the remonstration procedure, which previously allowed applicants to appeal rejected visas. This means rejected candidates may have fewer options to challenge decisions going forward.

Despite these hurdles, a well-prepared application can still increase your chances—especially if you avoid applying through countries with high rejection rates.

1. Malta

🔺 Rejection Rate: 38.5%
📝 Applications Received: 45,578
❌ Applications Rejected: 16,905
Small but strict, Malta tops the list for the highest rejection rate.

2. Estonia

🔺 Rejection Rate: 27.2%
📝 Applications Received: 12,125
❌ Applications Rejected: 3,291
This northern European country is known for digital innovation but not for visa leniency.

3. Belgium

🔺 Rejection Rate: 24.6%
📝 Applications Received: 255,564
❌ Applications Rejected: 61,724
Home to the EU’s capital, Belgium remains cautious with visa approvals.

4. Slovenia

🔺 Rejection Rate: 24.5%
📝 Applications Received: 18,171
❌ Applications Rejected: 4,417
Despite its scenic charm, Slovenia has one of the highest rejection ratios.

5. Sweden

🔺 Rejection Rate: 24.0%
📝 Applications Received: 188,623
❌ Applications Rejected: 44,576
Even with its welcoming vibe, Sweden maintains tight control over visa issuance.

6. Denmark

🔺 Rejection Rate: 23.7%
📝 Applications Received: 132,158
❌ Applications Rejected: 31,013
Efficient and orderly, Denmark isn’t lenient when it comes to Schengen visas.

7. Croatia

🔺 Rejection Rate: 19.3%
📝 Applications Received: 42,165
❌ Applications Rejected: 8,003
One of the newest Schengen members, Croatia is still selective.

8. Poland

🔺 Rejection Rate: 17.2%
📝 Applications Received: 111,538
❌ Applications Rejected: 19,277
Poland remains one of the more accessible Eastern European Schengen countries, though rejections are on the rise.

9. France

🔺 Rejection Rate: 15.8%
📝 Applications Received: 3,072,728
❌ Applications Rejected: 481,139
France had the highest number of visa applications in 2024 — and also one of the highest total rejections.

10. Czech Republic

🔺 Rejection Rate: 15.8%
📝 Applications Received: 150,629
❌ Applications Rejected: 23,735
Known for its beautiful cities and castles, the Czech Republic rounds out the list.

If you're planning a European adventure, it may be wise to consider applying through Schengen countries with lower rejection rates—especially if you're a first-time applicant or have a complex travel history.