Schengen states rejected 1.71 million applications in 2024, which is 14.8% of the 11.72 million filed. That’s a modest improvement on 2023 (16%) and 2022 (17.9%), though still tighter than many pre-pandemic years (2021 was 13.4% on lower volumes). More than half of all approvals were multiple-entry visas (MEVs: 52.2%), showing posts continue to reward strong, well-documented travel histories.

Why the Schengen visa refusals? The simplest explanation is stricter, more consistent enforcement of Schengen rules. Small mistakes-mismatched dates, weak proof of funds or ties, vague purpose of travel, non-compliant insurance- can trigger refusal. Rejection rates also vary sharply by where you apply (the consulate’s country), with some posts running single-digit refusals and others above 40%.

We at Atlys have processeed Schengen visas for hundreas of travellers, and we’ll break down the most common Schengen visa rejection reasons in 2025, explain what consulates look for, and show you how to address weak spots —whether your refusal says “purpose of travel not clear” or you’re applying for the first time and want to get it right the first time.

Disclaimer (Schengen travel planning): Under Schengen rules, you should apply for your visa with the country of your main destination state, where you will spend the most nights or the country with the primary purpose of your trip. If no main destination can be determined, apply to the country of first entry. Your actual travel should remain consistent with the itinerary you submitted. Providing false information or making material changes (for example, shifting your longest stay to another country) may lead to border questioning, refusal of entry, or annulment/revocation of the visa. 

Here are some recent cases where the Embassy has asked the tourist to follow the rules:

Source: Atlys

Source: Reddit

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection:

After reviewing and processing hundreds of Schengen visa applications, here are the most common reasons for Schengen visa rejection:

1. Lack of strong ties with the home country

2. Lack of funds to cover the entire trip

3. Mismatch of travel documents provided

4. Invalid passport

5. Invalid travel insurance

6. Unclear purpose of travel

7. Previous visa violations

8. Having a criminal history

9. Fake hotel and flight reservations

10. Missing supporting documentation

Here’s a detailed account of the above-mentioned reasons for Schengen visa refusal, along with tips on how to avoid them.

1. Lack of Strong Ties with the Home Country

What is the Problem?

The most important factor consulates consider when reviewing a Schengen visa application is whether the applicant has strong ties to their home country. This assures the authorities that you intend to return after your trip and not overstay your visa. Weak proof of ties- such as inadequate evidence of family, employment, financial stability, or property ownership can result in your application being rejected, as it raises concerns about your likelihood of returning home.

How to Avoid?

To avoid rejection due to weak proof of ties, submit robust and credible evidence that demonstrates your strong connection to your home country.

Here is a long list of documents that can serve as strong proof of ties to your home county:

• Employment ties: If you are employed, include a letter from your employer that confirms your job title, salary, and duration of employment. The letter should also mention that your leave has been approved and that your position will be held for you upon your return. If you are self-employed, submit business registration documents, tax returns, or proof of consistent income from your business. This demonstrates job security and a strong financial obligation to return.

• Family responsibilities: Provide marriage certificates, birth certificates of children, or legal guardianship documents to demonstrate familial obligations. These documents are particularly helpful for housewives, parents, or anyone with dependents.

• Property ownership: Submit property documents, such as title deeds, lease agreements, or utility bills for houses, apartments, or land owned in your name. These demonstrate significant investments in your home country, ensuring a favourable return. Retired, unemployed individuals who own property or land can rely on this as proof of their ties to their home country.

• Educational commitment: Include a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment, program details, and term dates. The letter should also state that your studies will continue upon your return.

By presenting clear and comprehensive proof of your ties to your home country, you can reassure consular officials of your genuine intent to return and significantly improve the chances of your Schengen visa approval.

Tip: Combine multiple forms of evidence to create a stronger case. For example, submit proof of employment along with property documents and family ties.

2. Lack of Funds to Cover the Entire Trip

What is the Problem?

When applying for a Schengen visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to cover your European trip expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other costs.

Also, your funds must realistically match your itinerary. For example, if you’ve booked a five-star hotel, but your bank balance doesn't cover that level of expense. So, if the financial documents you submit fail to meet the minimum requirements or show inconsistencies, your application might be rejected.

This assures the government that in no way would you become a financial liability to the visiting country.

Typically, showing a minimum balance of around €100-120 per day of stay, which translates to approximately €3,000 to €3,600 for a 30-day stay, is sufficient.

• Some Schengen countries also have set financial requirements, such as Poland, which requires a minimum bank balance of 75 PLN per day of the trip. 

If you fail to meet this minimum bank balance requirement, your application is likely to be rejected. 

How to Avoid?

To avoid rejection due to lack of funds, ensure your financial documents clearly demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover all your travel expenses. Here are the quick to-dos:

• Before applying for the visa, research the specific financial requirements of the Schengen country or countries you intend to visit, as these may vary. 

• If there is no set minimum financial requirement by the respective Schengen country, calculate the total funds you need based on your planned duration of stay and ensure your account balance exceeds this minimum threshold. Generally, it is safe to have €100-120 per day of stay. 

• Include additional supporting documents, such as salary slips, employment letters, or proof of other assets, to demonstrate financial stability. If a sponsor is funding your trip, include a sponsorship letter along with their bank statements and proof of your relationship with them.

Note: Submit official bank statements from the past 3–6 months, ensuring they reflect regular income and consistent transactions. Large, unexplained deposits just before submission can raise red flags, so avoid sudden cash inflows unless you provide a credible explanation. 

3. Incorrect or Mismatched Information

What is the Problem?

Providing incorrect or mismatched information is one of the most common reasons for rejection of a Schengen visa. This can include inconsistencies between your application form and supporting documents, such as discrepancies in your name, date of birth, travel dates, or passport details. Even minor errors, such as mismatched addresses, can raise suspicion about the authenticity or accuracy of your application. 

Note: Always provide genuine and truthful information. In more serious cases, intentional false statements or forged documents can lead to outright denial and, in some cases, a ban on future visa applications.

How to Avoid?

You must carefully review your application form and all supporting documents before submission. Whether it’s your name, date of birth, passport number, or other personal details, ensure they are consistent across all documents you submit.

• When filling out the application form, keep the passport and documents handy to match them, and then enter the details. 

• If you’re unsure about certain sections, consult the official guidelines provided by the embassy or consulate or seek assistance from a reliable visa consultant. 

• You can also ask your friends and family to proofread your application, ensuring it’s completely correct. 

4. Invalid passport 

What is the Problem?

Your visa application could get rejected if your passport doesn't meet the following requirements when applying for the visa:

• It must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.

• It should have at least two blank pages.

• It should be issued within the last 10 years.

Additionally, if your passport is damaged or torn out or contains conflicting personal details (e.g., mismatched names or incorrect birthdates compared to supporting documents), it could also negatively affect your application. 

How to Avoid?

To avoid rejection due to an invalid passport, ensure your passport is up-to-date and meets all the necessary requirements outlined above. If your passport is nearing expiry or doesn't meet the validity criteria, renew it well in advance of your application. 

Note: Additionally, if you are residing in another country and applying from there, such as an Indian passport holder living in the UAE, you must provide valid proof of residence. This document should be valid for at least three months from the date of your intended departure from the Schengen area. 

5. Invalid Travel Insurance

What is the Problem?

One of the mandatory documents when applying for a Schengen visa is travel insurance. It must meet the following criteria:

• The minimum coverage shall be €30,000.00.

• The insurance shall be valid throughout the territory of the Schengen States.

• It should cover the entire period of the person’s intended stay or transit in the Schengen Area.

• The travel insurance should cover any expenses that might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, or death during the stay(s) on the territory of the Member States.

• If you are applying for a multiple-entry visa, your travel insurance must cover your initial trip, and you can renew it as necessary for subsequent trips.

• Moreover, your insurance must be from a Schengen country's recognised insurance provider. 

If your insurance fails to meet any of the above criteria, your application can be rejected. 

How to Avoid?

Ensure that your policy meets all the specified requirements for Schengen visa applications. If you are having trouble finding valid Schengen travel insurance, consider applying for visas through authorised channels, like Atlys, which also provides travel insurance that meets Schengen requirements. 

Additionally, double-check the insurance policy's validity dates to ensure they align with your travel itinerary. Any discrepancies in dates, coverage, or region can negatively impact your visa application. 

6. Unclear Purpose of Travel 

What is the Problem?

When applying for a Schengen visa, it is crucial to clearly establish the purpose of your trip. The consulate needs to ensure that your intent aligns with the type of visa you are applying for, whether for tourism, business, family visit, study, or medical reasons. Vague, incomplete, or missing information about your travel purpose raises suspicion about your intentions and can lead to denial.

Here is a list of documents you are required to provide depending on the purpose of your visit:

• For tourism: A detailed travel itinerary (including your planned activities, destinations, and dates), proof of accommodation and round-trip flight reservations.

• For business: An invitation letter from the company or organisation in the Schengen Area, your employment certificate and a letter from your employer outlining your business activities.

• For family visit: A formal invitation letter from your host (including their address, contact details, and proof of their residency status in the Schengen Area), along with evidence of your relationship with the host.

• For study: An official letter of acceptance or enrollment from the educational institution, proof of tuition fee payment or scholarship documentation, and details of your accommodation during your stay.

• For medical reasons: A letter from your doctor explaining your medical condition and the need for treatment abroad, along with an appointment confirmation or treatment plan from a hospital or clinic in the Schengen Area.

How to Avoid?

To avoid rejection due to an unclear purpose of travel and easily obtain your Schengen visa, you need to keep these two points in mind:

• Submit all the required documents outlined above, depending on the purpose of your trip. Additionally, ensure all documents are up-to-date, consistent, and match the information in your application form. Provide translations for documents that are not in the official language of the embassy or consulate.

Note: For official documents like company and college enrollment letters, ensure they are notarised or apostilled as instructed.

• When creating documents like your itinerary and cover letter, make sure you include key details such as travel dates, destination, activities, accommodation and contact details. A well-structured and detailed itinerary and cover letter not only support your case but also demonstrate thorough preparation and genuine intent, helping to strengthen your visa application.

These are the easiest Schengen countries for relatively efficient, applicant-friendly processing.

7. Previous Visa Violations

What is the Problem?

Having a history of visa violations (whether Schengen or any other country), such as overstaying a previous visa, working without authorisation, or breaching the terms of your stay, can significantly harm your chances of obtaining a Schengen visa. This affects your credibility, leading the consulates to conclude that you might again breach the set visa rules in place. Even minor infractions, like a late departure from a previous trip, can be a red flag and lead to rejection.

How to Avoid?

It is important to note that a visa violation does not automatically result in a visa rejection. Rather, the ambiguity and lack of justification provided result in a negative outcome. In case you have past visa violations, here’s what you can do to ensure a positive outcome:

• Provide a strong application: Begin by ensuring all other aspects of your application are robust and flawless. Submit accurate and complete documentation demonstrating your financial stability, purpose of travel, and strong ties to your home country. A well-prepared application can help offset concerns about past visa violations.

• Address the issue in your cover letter: If your previous visa violation was due to a genuine reason, such as financial hardship, a medical emergency, or other unavoidable circumstances, acknowledge this in your cover letter. Provide a brief explanation along with supporting evidence, such as medical records, financial statements, or correspondence, to validate your claim. 

• Be prepared for an interview (if requested): If the consulate asks for an interview, be ready to explain the circumstances of your past violation. Clearly outline the reasons, demonstrate accountability, and emphasise the changes you’ve made to ensure compliance in the future. For example, if the issue was financial, show evidence of current financial stability that will ensure that you do not violate any visa rules this time.

Tip: If you do not have a valid reason for a previous visa violation, consult with visa or legal experts who can guide you through the application process and help ensure visa approval. 

8. Having a Criminal History

What is the Problem?

A criminal history, especially involving serious offences, can be a major obstacle in obtaining a Schengen visa. Authorities assess whether the applicant poses a risk to public security, and any record of criminal behaviour may raise doubts about their intent and eligibility. Even minor offences might be scrutinised, depending on the country and its policies.

How to Avoid?

If required, disclose your criminal history honestly in the cover letter. Mention how much time has passed since the offence and any steps you’ve taken to rehabilitate or improve your circumstances. If available, include proof of rehabilitation, such as character references, a certificate of good conduct, or employment records. This will serve as strong proof of how the circumstances have changed. 

However, if your criminal record involves serious offences or if you’re unsure how it might impact your visa application, seek professional advice from a visa expert or an immigration lawyer. They can help you present your case in a manner that minimises the risk of rejection.

9. Fake Hotel and Flight Reservations

What is the Problem?

Although submitting confirmed proof is not mandatory, you require flight and accommodation reservations when applying for the Schengen visa. Submitting fake hotel and flight reservations results in immediate rejection and, in some cases, a ban on future applications. 

How to Avoid?

DO NOT SUBMIT FAKE DOCUMENTS! In fact, there is no need to. Take advantage of the many hotels and airlines that offer refundable bookings or flexible cancellation policies. These options are widely available online and provide a legitimate and hassle-free way to meet the Schengen documentation requirements. 

10. Missing Supporting Documentation

What is the Problem?

The last reason is that there are missing supporting documents. Each Schengen country has a list of documents that applicants are required to submit. Moreover, the documentation is different not only depending on the type of visa you are applying for but also depending on your social and professional status in society. 

Build your visa file in two layers: core docs and purpose-specific extras. Core docs usually include a valid passport, travel insurance, accommodation, recent bank statements, national ID (if required), itinerary, return flights, and a cover letter. Make sure names, dates, and bookings match. Then add category proofs: e.g., employees (NOC, payslips, job letter), business owners (registration, tax returns, business statements), students (enrollment/NOC), minors (birth certificate + both parents’ consent), sponsored trips (invitation + sponsor’s finances), and events/medical (invites, confirmations, receipts). Keep everything authentic, current, and clearly scanned; a clean, coherent file boosts approval odds.

How to Avoid?

Refer to the official list of documents required for a Schengen visa from the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you’re applying to. Step by step, ensure that you tick off all the documents mentioned in the checklist. If a document is temporarily unavailable, include a written explanation in your application and mention when you’ll be able to provide it.

Here’s what to do after your Schengen visa gets rejected

If your Schengen visa application is rejected, here are three key steps you can take to address the situation:

• Reapply: If the issue outlined in the rejection letter is easily addressable, rectify the issue and then reapply with a more robust application.

• Appeal the decision: If you believe your application was unfairly rejected, you can appeal the decision. Write an appeal letter to the consulate or embassy explaining why the rejection was unwarranted and provide supporting evidence to strengthen your case.

For further information, read our blog on how you can apply or appeal a decision after a Schengen visa rejection. 

Schengen Visa, Made Easy

Getting a Schengen visa is meticulous, but understanding common pitfalls and fixing them upfront significantly boosts your approval odds. If you’re refused, don’t lose hope. Use the refusal reason, follow our guide to address it, and reapply. Or let Atlys handle it end-to-end: we’ll secure the earliest available appointment and prepare a complete, consulate-ready file (including forms, checklists, insurance, itinerary, and financial proofs) for you. With smart preparation, or Atlys doing it for you, you can navigate the process smoothly and enjoy your European trip with peace of mind.