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.
