Thinking of Visiting Europe? THESE Schengen Countries Are Most Likely to Reject Your Visa in 2025

                                                   Schengen visa

Synopsis - Dreaming of a European getaway? Before packing your bags, it’s smart to know where your Schengen visa might get declined. Some countries are simply more cautious than others when reviewing applications. According to the latest 2024 data, nations like Malta, Estonia, and Belgium have the highest rejection rates. Let us take a closer look at which Schengen countries are the most selective, and what you can do to avoid getting turned down.

The Top 10 Schengen Countries With the Highest Visa Refusals

1. Malta

Malta tops the list, rejecting nearly 4 out of 10 visa applications. In 2024, the country received over 45,000 requests and denied more than 16,900 of them. The limited size of the nation and tight visa controls make approval tough unless your paperwork is flawless.

2. Estonia

Estonia turned down 27.2% of its visa applicants, most commonly due to missing financial documents or vague travel plans. If you're applying here, your itinerary and bank statements better be solid.

3. Belgium

With 61,724 denials out of 255,564 applications, Belgium rejected almost one in four visa requests. Errors in forms or lack of clarity in travel plans are major red flags for Belgian authorities.

4. Slovenia

Slovenia said "no" to 24.5% of visa applications. Many of these were missing essentials like hotel bookings or valid insurance. Forgetting these details could cost you approval.

5. Sweden

Sweden denied nearly 45,000 applications last year—24% of all they received. They’re known for being especially strict with background checks and are cautious with applicants from politically or economically unstable countries.

6. Denmark

With a 23.7% rejection rate, Denmark is not an easy entry point. Visa officers there are known to carefully scrutinize documents and question travelers’ true intentions.

7. Croatia

Now part of the Schengen zone, Croatia rejected just over 8,000 applications, or 19.3%. In most cases, denials came from incomplete forms or not meeting financial proof requirements.

8. Poland

Poland rejected 17.2% of visa applications. Their consulates take a close look at purpose of travel, especially for study or work visas. Anything unclear in your intent could lead to rejection.

9. France

Despite handling over 3 million visa applications, France still declined over 481,000-- a 15.8% rejection rate. Even minor oversights like a missing flight confirmation can lead to a denial.

10. Czech Republic

Matching France’s rate, the Czech Republic also rejected 15.8% of applicants. The country may not publish exact figures, but it’s clear they don’t approve visas lightly.

Who Gets Rejected the Most?

Nationals from Bangladesh and Pakistan face the steepest hurdles, with rejection rates exceeding 62%. These high figures are usually linked to incomplete applications or doubts about whether the traveler will return home after the trip.

How to Keep Your Visa Application From Being Denied

Avoiding a rejection isn’t impossible. In fact, it often comes down to the basics. Here’s what to focus on:

·  Triple-check your documents. Make sure financial statements, invitation letters, and ID proofs are valid and recent.

·  Clearly outline your travel plans. Include your itinerary, hotel bookings, and confirmed return flights.

·   Get your travel insurance in order. Missing it is one of the most common reasons for rejection.

·  Don’t leave blanks. Incomplete forms and unanswered questions are instant red flags.

The Last Word

Just because a country processes more visas doesn’t mean they’re lenient. Each Schengen state has its own checklist, standards, and red flags. The more prepared you are, the better your chances, no matter which country you apply through. Treat your visa application like your first impression. It should be honest, detailed, and 100% complete.