Over the past decade, Schengen visa applications have undergone significant fluctuations, influenced by global events, evolving policies, and shifting travel patterns.

According to data from the European Commission, consulates of EU and Schengen-associated countries received over 11.7 million short-stay visa applications in 2024, representing a 13.6% increase from 2023, when 10.3 million applications were submitted, and a 56% rise from 2022, which saw only 7.5 million applications.

And in 2025, Schengen visa applications from India have surged by 29% compared to last year, according to data from Atlys.

This rebound illustrates the strong recovery of international travel following the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused a sharp decline in applications due to lockdowns, border closures, and health concerns. In this article, we will examine Schengen visa statistics, including the countries with the highest numbers of applications, approvals, and rejections, as well as other key metrics.

Schengen Visa Statistics [Post-Pandemic 2022 -2024]

Despite this post-pandemic surge, the 2024 figure still remains below the pre-pandemic peak of 17 million applications recorded in 2019, highlighting that while travel demand is recovering, it has not yet fully returned to its pre-COVID levels.

This gap reflects several factors, including stricter visa scrutiny in certain European countries, an increase in tourism in Southeast Asian nations, and broader geopolitical developments that have impacted mobility from some regions.

For instance, the introduction of Schengen visas by Bulgaria and Romania as of March 31, 2024, has added a new dimension to application trends, while security concerns and diplomatic tensions continue to influence approval rates for specific nationalities.

Overall, these numbers indicate a gradual yet steady revival of international mobility within the Schengen area, with applications increasing steadily year-on-year. In this article, we will delve deeper into understanding Schengen visa statistics and their impact on the global travel scene.

Schengen Visa search interest in the last 6 years (2020 - 2025)

Global interest in Schengen and European visa search results has shown a sharp rebound after the pandemic, followed by stabilisation in recent years.

• 2020: Interest in both Schengen (118) and Europe visas (119) was at its lowest due to strict COVID-19 travel restrictions.

• 2021: A significant jump occurred, with Schengen interest rising to 689 and Europe to 614, reflecting early recovery and reopening of borders.

• 2022: Interest surged further, reaching 1,990 for Schengen and 1,420 for Europe visas, highlighting pent-up demand for international travel.

• 2023: Growth continued, peaking at 2,354 for Schengen and 1,955 for Europe, marking the post-pandemic travel boom.

• 2024: Demand stabilised, with Schengen interest at 2,367 and Europe at 1,863, indicating a plateau after the initial surge.

• 2025: Both Schengen and Europe visas are at 1,915, showing a convergence of interest and a more balanced demand pattern.

Countries leading in Schengen visa applications (2024)

When examining the distribution of Schengen visa applications in 2024, a handful of countries emerged as the largest contributors to the overall numbers. According to the European Commission, the highest number of applications came from China, Türkiye, India, Morocco, and Russia, underscoring the strong demand for European travel from these regions.

The European Union and Schengen-associated countries saw strong demand in 2024, led by five key nations:

• China: 1,779,255 applications (up from 1,117,365 in 2023)

• Türkiye: 1,173,917 (up from 1,055,885 in 2023)

• India: 1,108,239 (up from 966,687 in 2023)

• Morocco: 606,800 (up from 591,401 in 2023)

• Russia: 606,594 (up from 520,387 in 2023)

• Algeria – 534,894 applications

• Saudi Arabia – 494,812 applications

• United Kingdom – 465,462 applications

• Thailand – 257,405 applications

• United Arab Emirates – 251,164 applications

This data shows that China, Türkiye, and India together accounted for nearly 4.1 million applications, making up a substantial share of all Schengen visa requests globally.

• China topped the list with 1,779,255 applications in 2024, a sharp increase from 1,117,365 in 2023, reflecting the rebound in outbound travel following China's lifting of many of its COVID-related restrictions.

• Türkiye followed with 1,173,917 applications, slightly higher than the 1,055,885 submitted in 2023, highlighting the consistent interest of Turkish travellers in Europe despite economic and political challenges.

• India ranked third, registering 1,108,239 applications in 2024, up from 966,687 in 2023. This increase aligns with India’s booming outbound tourism market, driven by a growing middle class and greater connectivity to Europe.

• Morocco accounted for 606,800 applications, compared to 591,401 in 2023, showing stable demand from North Africa.

• Russia, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, still contributed 606,594 applications in 2024, up from 520,387 in 2023, although numbers remain below pre-sanction levels.

Alongside the growth in application numbers, refusal rates also reflected notable shifts.

Globally, the percentage of Schengen visa applications refused in 2024 declined to 14.8%, compared with 16% in 2023 and 17.9% in 2022.

This gradual decrease suggests that, while scrutiny remains high, approval chances have improved slightly for applicants overall.

Schengen visa refusal rates in 2024

Country-wise refusal rate comparison (2024 vs 2023):

• Russia: 7.5% (2024) vs 10.6% (2023) → notable improvement in approvals.

• Türkiye: 14.5% vs 16.1% → modest decline in rejections.

• Iran: 26% vs 30.3% → still high, but rejection pressure easing.

• Mauritania: 32.5% vs 36.6% → steady improvement.

• Cape Verde: 13.4% vs 24% → dramatic improvement in approvals.

• Syria: 27% vs 46% → significant drop, but still among the highest globally.

• Nigeria: 45.9% vs 40.8% → rejection rates worsening.

• Ecuador: 29.6% vs 24.4% → sharp rise in rejections.

• Senegal: 46.8% vs 42.1% → among the highest refusal rates worldwide.

• Bangladesh: 54.9% vs 43.3% → steep increase in refusals.

• Congo (Brazzaville): 43% vs 35.3% → rejections rising significantly.

Visas accepted and rejected by the destination (Schengen States)

In 2024, Schengen states processed an enormous volume of visa requests as international travel continued its steady recovery from the pandemic years.

A total of 11,716,723 visas were granted, accounting for 84.14% of all applications submitted. Despite this high approval rate, a significant number of applications, 1,706,003 in total, were rejected, pushing the overall rejection rate to 14.56% [2024].

In 2024, Schengen visa outcomes varied significantly depending on the country of destination.

1. France

   France remained the leading Schengen destination, receiving around 3 million applications in 2024. Out of these, 2.5 million visas were approved, while the rest were rejected, resulting in a refusal rate of 15.8%. This high demand underscores France’s popularity as a top tourist hotspot, but also highlights the challenges many applicants faced in securing approval.

2. Spain

   Spain processed approximately 1.6 million applications, of which 1.3 million were granted visas. The country recorded a refusal rate of 15.7%, which is almost identical to that of France. Spain’s vibrant culture, beaches, and ease of connectivity continue to make it one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe.

3. Germany

   Germany was the third-largest Schengen visa issuer, handling 1.5 million applications and approving 1.3 million. With a refusal rate of 13.7%, it was relatively more lenient compared to France and Spain, reflecting its role as a hub for business, education, and skilled migration.

4. Italy

   Italy received around 1.2 million visa applications in 2024 and approved 1.1 million of them. With a refusal rate of just 10.9%, Italy had one of the lowest rejection rates among the top visa-issuing countries. This reflects Italy’s strong tourism appeal, especially among travellers drawn to its cultural heritage, art, and food.

5. Greece

   Greece processed 710,024 applications and granted 609,612 visas, with a refusal rate of 13.2%. The numbers highlight Greece’s popularity, especially for summer tourism, as well as its relatively moderate level of scrutiny compared to France and Spain.

6. The Netherlands

   The Netherlands received 728,656 applications and issued 602,158 visas. With a refusal rate of 15.5%, the country showed stricter controls, aligning closely with Spain and France in terms of rejections. Its central European location and strong business links explain the high demand for visas.

7. Switzerland

   Switzerland, though not part of the EU, plays a vital role in the Schengen zone. It handled 636,077 applications and approved 560,493, with a refusal rate of 11.3%. This relatively low rejection rate demonstrates Switzerland’s accessibility to travellers, particularly tourists drawn to its natural beauty and financial hub status.

8. Austria

   Austria processed 262,017 visa applications, granting 224,747. With a refusal rate of 13.7%, it was similar to Germany, reflecting a balance between approvals and scrutiny. Austria’s scenic landscapes and position as a gateway to Central Europe continue to draw significant interest.

9. Hungary

   Hungary handled 251,364 applications, issuing 219,272 visas. Its refusal rate of 12.8% placed it in the moderate range, lower than France or Spain but higher than Italy. The country’s growing tourism industry, particularly Budapest’s popularity, is driving visa demand.

10. Belgium

    Belgium closed the top 10 list, receiving 255,564 visa applications and granting 188,766. However, it recorded a refusal rate of 24.6%, the highest among the major visa-issuing countries. This suggests far stricter screening, making Belgium one of the tougher Schengen destinations for applicants.

These statistics highlight a dual trend: while the largest Schengen destinations, such as France, Spain, and Germany, process millions of applications with moderate rejection rates, smaller states often deny a significantly higher share of applicants. This underscores how visa outcomes depend not only on the applicant’s profile but also heavily on the destination.

What do these numbers mean for global tourism?

The 2024 Schengen visa trends tell two parallel stories.

1. On one hand, demand for European travel is stronger than ever, driven by Asia’s booming outbound tourism markets, particularly from China and India.

2. On the other hand, high refusal rates in countries like Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Senegal reveal ongoing challenges for travellers from parts of Africa and South Asia.

The declining overall rejection rate indicates that European consulates are processing applications more efficiently. Still, applicants from high-refusal countries face hurdles such as stringent financial requirements, documentation gaps, or perceived migration risks.

For Europe, the resurgence of demand translates into billions in tourism revenue, especially from high-spending markets like China and India. Southern European nations like Spain, Italy, Greece, and Portugal remain top draws for leisure travellers, while France and Germany continue to attract both tourists and business visitors.

Most popular Schengen countries for Indian passport holders in 2024

Indian travellers continue to be one of the most significant applicant groups for Schengen visas. 

In 2024, Indian residents filed a total of 1,108,239 visa applications, representing a 14.64% increase from 2023 (966,687).

This surge underlines India’s growing outbound travel market and the country’s increasing appetite for European destinations.

India’s share in global applications

Applicants from India accounted for 9.52% of all Schengen visa requests worldwide in 2024, making India the third-largest country by application volume, after China and Türkiye. This highlights India’s position as a key player in global mobility and the European tourism landscape.

Top Destinations Within Schengen (Preferred by Indians)

Among Schengen states, some destinations emerged as clear favourites for Indian travellers:

• Switzerland: The most popular destination, with 217,373 applications in 2024. The combination of scenic landscapes, luxury tourism, and connectivity makes Switzerland a prime attraction for Indian residents.

• France: Received 201,774 applications, ranking second. France’s rich cultural heritage, Paris as a shopping and honeymoon destination, and its role as a Schengen gateway make it highly appealing.

• Germany: With 145,929 applications, Germany ranked third. Its strong economic ties with India, student mobility, and ease of connectivity contribute to these numbers.

• Spain: At 97,478 applications, Spain secured the fourth spot, driven by its popularity for leisure travel, beaches, and Mediterranean appeal.

• Netherlands: Recorded 92,706 applications, making it another key destination, especially for those travelling for business or transit purposes.

Mid-Tier Destinations

• Italy: With 66,657 applications, Italy remains a popular destination for cultural tourism, history, and Indian weddings abroad.

• Austria: At 41,027 applications, reflecting interest in Alpine tourism and proximity to Switzerland and Germany.

• Greece: With 34,446 applications, Greece is increasingly popular for its islands and honeymoon tourism.

• Sweden: Registered 29,660 applications, a smaller but consistent figure, often linked to academic or professional mobility.

• Belgium: With 20,830 applications, it remains a secondary choice, mostly business and EU institutional travel.

Least Popular Destination

At the bottom of the list, Lithuania received only 681 applications from Indian residents, highlighting its limited role as a destination for Indian travellers compared to Western European counterparts.

Key insights from the above statistics:

• Switzerland’s top position suggests a strong aspirational pull for Indian tourists, especially families and luxury travellers.

• France and Germany remain solid favourites, balancing both leisure and professional purposes.

• Mediterranean destinations, including Spain, Italy, and Greece, continue to draw increasing interest from India.

• Smaller Schengen states, particularly in Eastern Europe, still attract very limited demand.

Here’s a list of the easiest countries to get a Schengen visa from.

Common reasons behind Schengen visa rejections

According to Atlys, there are some common reasons for which Schengen visas are usually rejected, and the main reasons are as follows:

• Doubts about intention to return – If consulates suspect weak ties to the home country (unstable job, no family obligations, limited financial or social roots).

• Financial insufficiency – Failure to show enough funds or reliable financial documents to cover the trip.

• Incomplete/incorrect documentation – Missing paperwork, mismatched details, invalid insurance, or lack of accommodation proof.

• Unclear travel purpose / itinerary – Recently, a lot of applications have been rejected due to vague, inconsistent, or unconvincing explanations of why and how the trip will take place.

You can check out this detailed article on Schengen visa rejection reasons and how to avoid them effectively.

Schengen visa applications from India saw a sharp rise in summer 2025

As mentioned in the beginning, Schengen visa applications from India have surged by 29% compared to last year, according to data from Atlys.

The increase reflects the growing demand for international travel as Indians gear up for the summer holiday season, with Europe emerging as a top choice not only for metropolitan travellers but also for those from tier-two cities.

Southern European countries such as Portugal, Greece, Spain, and Italy have emerged as the most sought-after destinations for Indian travellers in 2025.

These nations appeal not only for their mild Mediterranean climate but also for their rich cultural heritage and world-renowned cuisine. With average summer temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, the region offers ideal conditions for a comfortable and enjoyable holiday, making it particularly attractive to families and leisure travellers.

According to Atlys, applications from Gen Z and millennial travellers saw a remarkable 23.5% year-on-year increase, underscoring a growing preference for immersive experiences and longer travel itineraries. This younger demographic is increasingly drawn to exploring local cultures, food traditions, and offbeat experiences rather than short sightseeing trips.

Major metropolitan hubs, such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, continue to drive the largest share of applications. However, a significant 17.8% rise in demand from tier-two cities such as Pune, Ahmedabad, and Chandigarh highlights how international travel aspirations are expanding beyond India’s metros.

Another notable trend is the surge in luxury travel, particularly to destinations such as France, Italy, and Switzerland. These countries remain popular for their beaches, vineyards, lakeside towns, and upscale resorts, making them prime choices for high-end travellers. At the same time, adventure tourism is steadily gaining ground, with countries such as Austria, Slovenia, and northern Spain becoming hubs for activities like hiking, water sports, and nature-based travel.

Overall, the 2025 data paints a clear picture: Indian travellers are not only travelling to Europe in larger numbers but are also diversifying the way they experience the continent, balancing luxury escapes, cultural explorations, and adventure holidays.

Schengen Visa Statistics [During Pandemic 2020–2022]

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an unprecedented disruption in international travel, and the Schengen visa system was no exception. Between 2020 and 2022, the number of visa applications submitted to Schengen and EU-associated countries plummeted by over 86%, reflecting the strict travel restrictions, lockdowns, and border closures imposed globally.

On average, only 4,474,408 Schengen visa applications were received annually during this three-year period, compared to 11.7 million applications in 2024, highlighting the dramatic decline in international mobility.

Top applicants during the pandemic

Despite the overall drop, certain countries continued to account for a significant share of applications, as seen in the chart:

• Russia: Maintained the highest number of applications, even amid the pandemic, underscoring strong historical and cultural travel ties with Europe.

• Türkiye: Came second, reflecting continued travel demand despite economic and political uncertainties.

• India: Ranked third, illustrating that Indian outbound tourism and business travel ambitions remained resilient even during global travel disruptions.

• Morocco and Algeria: Followed, indicating that North African countries continued to generate substantial demand for Schengen visas.

• Other countries: Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, China, Ukraine, and Thailand contributed smaller but notable numbers of applications, indicating pockets of sustained international travel even in restrictive circumstances.

Most popular Schengen countries from 2020 to 2022

• France remained the largest recipient of Schengen visa applications throughout the pandemic years. In 2020, applications dropped sharply to 658,247 due to global travel restrictions, reflecting the severe impact of COVID-19 on international travel. The following year, 2021, saw a slight decline to 652,331, indicating that restrictions and processing delays continued to affect the inflow of applications. By 2022, however, France experienced a dramatic surge, with 1,918,515 applications, nearly three times the previous year, demonstrating a strong recovery and reaffirming France’s status as one of the most popular European destinations.

• Germany experienced a similar pattern of decline and recovery. In 2020, visa applications decreased to 411,826, reflecting the impact of pandemic-related travel restrictions. In 2021, the number decreased further to 346,284, suggesting stricter travel limitations or slower consular operations during the ongoing health crisis. By 2022, Germany saw a remarkable recovery, with 1,043,297 applications, a threefold increase over 2021, showing renewed traveller confidence and a robust return of international travel to the country.

• Spain followed a slightly different trajectory. While applications in 2020 were low at 340,062, Spain showed early signs of recovery in 2021, with applications rising to 483,469. This increase may reflect Spain’s comparatively quicker reopening of borders and the continued appeal of its beaches and cultural destinations. The upward trend accelerated in 2022, with applications more than doubling to 1,197,457, indicating a strong rebound and highlighting Spain’s enduring popularity among international travellers.

• Italy also faced a steep decline during the pandemic, with 293,553 applications in 2020. Data for 2021 is unavailable; however, by 2022, applications had risen to 727,490, more than doubling the number compared to 2020. This surge highlights Italy’s enduring appeal as a historical and cultural hub, as well as the strong resurgence of travel interest following pandemic-related restrictions.

Impact on Global Travel:

The pandemic years fundamentally altered travel patterns:

• Decline in leisure travel: Most leisure tourism came to a near halt, particularly from Asia and Europe, as countries imposed entry bans and quarantines.

• Rise of essential travel: The majority of approved visa applications were for business, academic, or family emergency purposes.

• Shift in destination preference: Applicants tended to focus on nearby or strategically important Schengen countries where travel restrictions were less stringent.

• Delayed recovery: The steep decline created a backlog of travel demand, which partially explains the surge in applications seen in 2024.

The pandemic period thus represents a stark contrast to pre-2020 levels, serving as a benchmark to assess the scale of recovery in international travel. The rebound in 2024–2025 illustrates both pent-up demand and the resilience of global tourism markets.

Schengen Visa Statistics [ Pre Pandemic 2014–2019]: A Detailed Analysis

Between 2014 and 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent restrictions on global movement, Schengen states processed an extraordinary number of applications. In total, 96,492,839 visa applications were received over this six-year period.

Nationalities with the Highest Number of Applications

Visa demand was far from evenly distributed. A handful of countries accounted for a disproportionately large share of applications, according to the Migration and Home Affairs, EU.

1. Russia – 24,127,790 applications

   • Russia dominated the list, representing nearly a quarter of all global applications. This reflects both the country’s population size and its citizens’ strong travel ties with Europe, including tourism, business, and family visits.

2. China – 14,696,303 applications

   • As China’s middle class expanded and international travel surged, Chinese citizens filed almost 15 million Schengen visa applications. This placed China firmly in second place, far ahead of the third-ranking country.

3. Türkiye – 5,409,427 applications

   • With historic and geographical ties to Europe, Turkish applicants have consistently maintained a high demand for Schengen visas.

4. India – 5,212,636 applications

   • India ranked closely behind Türkiye, with just under 5.3 million applications. The figure reflects both leisure travel and the strong Indian diaspora across Europe.

5. Ukraine – 5,142,964 applications

   • Ukraine also featured prominently, underscoring its cultural, economic, and geographic connections to the Schengen region.

6. Belarus – 4,372,062 applications

7. Algeria – 4,233,670 applications

8. Morocco – 3,465,746 applications

9. Saudi Arabia – 2,110,186 applications

10. Thailand – 1,727,096 applications

Together, these ten countries accounted for the bulk of all applications, reflecting strong demand from Eastern Europe, North Africa, and Asia.

Trends in Schengen Visa Applications (2014–2019)

Over the years, Europe has remained a prime destination for travellers worldwide, with certain countries consistently attracting the highest number of Schengen visa applications. Examining data from 2014 to 2019 highlights trends in traveller preferences and shifting interests across the continent.

• 2014:
  France led the pack with 2,894,996 visa applications, followed by Italy (2,164,545), Germany (2,061,137), Spain (1,923,016), and Greece (1,375,287). France’s top position reflects its enduring appeal, bolstered by iconic landmarks, rich culture, and diverse attractions.

• 2015:
  France maintained its leading position with 3,356,165 applications, a significant increase from the previous year. Italy (2,023,343) and Germany (2,022,870) remained popular, while Spain saw a decline to 1,629,753 applications. Poland appeared in the top five with 970,907 applications, indicating growing interest in Eastern European destinations.

• 2016:
  France continued to dominate with 3,265,865 applications. Germany (2,004,235) and Italy (1,806,938) were close followers, while Spain’s applications slightly decreased to 1,583,848. Poland maintained its presence with 1,096,465 applications, showing a steady rise in popularity.

• 2017:
  France further strengthened its lead, receiving 3,684,404 applications. Germany (2,049,055), Italy (1,850,260), and Spain (1,624,276) remained in the top ranks, while Greece reentered the top five with 1,029,564 applications.

• 2018:
  France set a record with 4,010,604 applications, confirming its position as Europe’s most sought-after destination. Germany (2,056,296), Italy (1,844,140), and Spain (1,701,379) continued to attract high numbers, with Greece (855,285) sustaining its appeal as a cultural and summer destination.

• 2019:
  France remained the top choice with 3,980,989 applications. Germany (2,171,309) and Italy (2,053,521) were strong contenders, followed by Spain (1,912,500) and Finland (895,775), which entered the top five, reflecting a rising interest in Northern European destinations.

Visa approvals and rejections by nationality (2014–2019)

Approvals

• Russians not only applied for the most but were also granted the most visas: 23,772,950 visas were issued to Russian citizens during the period.

• Belarusian applicants had the highest approval rate, with 99.72% of their applications being accepted.

Rejections

• Algerian applicants faced the highest number of rejections, with 1,446,698 visas denied.

• The Macanese (from Macau) were the least likely to secure a Schengen visa, with an approval rate of 95.74% and a denial rate of 4.26%.

Broader implications:

1. Russia’s Travel Dominance

   • Russia’s position as the largest source of Schengen applications reflects deep-rooted ties with Europe. High numbers of approvals also suggest relatively smooth travel facilitation during this pre-pandemic period.

2. China’s Rising Middle Class

   • The nearly 15 million applications from China underscore the country’s transformation into a global travel powerhouse. Demand was fueled by tourism, shopping, and educational exchanges in Europe.

3. Approval Disparities

   • The contrast between Belarus (with near-universal approvals) and Algeria (with high rejection rates) highlights how acceptance varies significantly depending on nationality, raising questions about fairness, migration concerns, and regional politics.

4. Financial Stakes

   • Visa fees represent a significant financial outlay, particularly for applicants from countries with low success rates. Rejected applicants, especially those from Algeria, not only lost access to travel opportunities but also incurred unrecoverable costs.

5. Pre-Pandemic Benchmark

   • These figures provide a crucial benchmark of travel demand before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global mobility. They reflect the openness of travel networks during the years leading up to the pandemic and may serve as a reference point for recovery patterns in the years since.

Between 2014 and 2019, Schengen visa applications revealed stark contrasts among nations. Russia and China dominated in volume, Belarus topped approval rates, and Algeria struggled with high rejection figures. The financial burden of visa fees, especially when tied to rejections, was a significant aspect of the process, disproportionately affecting some nationalities more than others.

Schengen Visa Rejection Trends (2014–2019)

2014:

Top 10 Schengen States with the Highest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Belgium: 37,120 rejections only, out of 219,758 applications (16.89%)

2. Malta: 8,441 rejections only, out of 56,886 applications (14.84%)

3. Sweden: 19,764 rejections only, out of 191,009 applications (10.35%)

4. Portugal: 18,435 rejections only, out of 183,216 applications (10.06%)

5. France: 277,355 rejections only, out of 2,894,996 applications (9.58%)

6. Norway: 15,559 rejections only, out of 179,550 applications (8.67%)

7. Spain: 116,945 rejections only, out of 1,923,016 applications (6.08%)

8. Netherlands: 29,386 rejections only, out of 485,267 applications (6.06%)

9. Switzerland: 28,105 rejections only, out of 466,329 applications (6.03%)

10. Slovenia: 1,548 rejections only, out of 26,492 applications (5.84%)

Top 10 Schengen States with the Lowest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Latvia: 1,396 rejections only, out of 207,185 applications (0.67%)

2. Lithuania: 4,253 rejections only, out of 463,709 applications (0.92%)

3. Iceland: 37 rejections only, out of 3,923 applications (0.94%)

4. Finland: 12,262 rejections only, out of 1,205,034 applications (1.02%)

5. Estonia: 1,777 rejections only, out of 170,731 applications (1.04%)

6. Slovakia: 1,693 rejections only, out of 104,988 applications (1.61%)

7. Poland: 19,477 rejections only, out of 1,125,520 applications (1.73%)

8. Greece: 27,465 rejections only, out of 1,375,287 applications (2.00%)

9. Luxembourg: 241 rejections only, out of 11,567 applications (2.08%)

10. Czech Republic: 11,509 rejections only, out of 519,819 applications (2.21%)
    

2015:

Top 10 Schengen States with the Highest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Malta: 9,928 rejections only, out of 39,445 applications (25.17%)

2. Belgium: 33,420 rejections only, out of 239,500 applications (13.95%)

3. Portugal: 23,383 rejections only, out of 192,220 applications (12.16%)

4. Sweden: 19,277 rejections only, out of 192,852 applications (10.00%)

5. France: 333,657 rejections only, out of 3,356,165 applications (9.94%)

6. Spain: 124,323 rejections only, out of 1,629,753 applications (7.63%)

7. Netherlands: 39,197 rejections only, out of 520,809 applications (7.53%)

8. Slovenia: 1,837 rejections only, out of 26,895 applications (6.83%)

9. Switzerland: 29,517 rejections only, out of 481,886 applications (6.13%)

10. Germany: 114,118 rejections only, out of 2,022,870 applications (5.64%)

Top 10 Schengen States with the Lowest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Iceland: 12 rejections only, out of 3,987 applications (0.30%)

2. Luxembourg: 98 rejections only, out of 10,267 applications (0.95%)

3. Latvia: 1,787 rejections only, out of 164,000 applications (1.09%)

4. Finland: 9,571 rejections only, out of 784,286 applications (1.22%)

5. Lithuania: 5,757 rejections only, out of 423,189 applications (1.36%)

6. Estonia: 2,234 rejections only, out of 130,197 applications (1.72%)

7. Poland: 24,926 rejections only, out of 970,907 applications (2.57%)

8. Hungary: 8,194 rejections only, out of 290,798 applications (2.82%)

9. Slovakia: 2,190 rejections only, out of 76,491 applications (2.86%)

10. Czech Republic: 13,263 rejections only, out of 421,355 applications (3.15%)

2016:

Top 10 Schengen States with the Highest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Malta: 5,868 rejections only, out of 27,767 applications (21.13%)

2. Belgium: 33,659 rejections only, out of 219,687 applications (15.32%)

3. Portugal: 26,788 rejections only, out of 204,596 applications (13.09%)

4. France: 363,454 rejections only, out of 3,265,865 applications (11.13%)

5. Sweden: 22,176 rejections only, out of 227,005 applications (9.77%)

6. Netherlands: 48,733 rejections only, out of 558,101 applications (8.73%)

7. Spain: 127,607 rejections only, out of 1,583,848 applications (8.06%)

8. Italy: 126,300 rejections only, out of 1,806,938 applications (6.99%)

9. Switzerland: 32,187 rejections only, out of 460,653 applications (6.99%)

10. Slovenia: 1,732 rejections only, out of 25,876 applications (6.69%)

Top 10 Schengen States with the Lowest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Iceland: 12 rejections only, out of 5,771 applications (0.21%)

2. Lithuania: 4,472 rejections only, out of 421,143 applications (1.06%)

3. Latvia: 2,262 rejections only, out of 165,814 applications (1.36%)

4. Estonia: 1,745 rejections only, out of 122,872 applications (1.42%)

5. Finland: 7,984 rejections only, out of 550,046 applications (1.45%)

6. Slovakia: 1,397 rejections only, out of 62,472 applications (2.24%)

7. Luxembourg: 252 rejections only, out of 9,902 applications (2.54%)

8. Greece: 27,359 rejections only, out of 986,032 applications (2.77%)

9. Poland: 32,050 rejections only, out of 1,096,465 applications (2.92%)

10. Austria: 8,173 rejections only, out of 268,388 applications (3.05%)

2017:

Top 10 Schengen States with the Highest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Malta: 9,557 rejections only, out of 37,881 applications (25.23%)

2. Belgium: 37,062 rejections only, out of 231,437 applications (16.01%)

3. Portugal: 39,351 rejections only, out of 263,502 applications (14.93%)

4. France: 502,526 rejections only, out of 3,684,404 applications (13.64%)

5. Netherlands: 62,778 rejections only, out of 621,431 applications (10.10%)

6. Sweden: 24,598 rejections only, out of 248,347 applications (9.90%)

7. Slovenia: 2,481 rejections only, out of 29,257 applications (8.48%)

8. Spain: 134,394 rejections only, out of 1,624,276 applications (8.27%)

9. Italy: 141,722 rejections only, out of 1,850,260 applications (7.66%)

10. Germany: 156,393 rejections only, out of 2,049,055 applications (7.63%)

Top 10 Schengen States with the Lowest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Iceland: 73 rejections only, out of 7,610 applications (0.96%)

2. Finland: 9,337 rejections only, out of 827,520 applications (1.13%)

3. Lithuania: 4,932 rejections only, out of 413,966 applications (1.19%)

4. Estonia: 1,671 rejections only, out of 138,249 applications (1.21%)

5. Latvia: 2,579 rejections only, out of 166,800 applications (1.55%)

6. Slovakia: 866 rejections only, out of 41,639 applications (2.08%)

7. Luxembourg: 370 rejections only, out of 10,004 applications (3.70%)

8. Greece: 39,969 rejections only, out of 1,029,564 applications (3.88%)

9. Poland: 32,292 rejections only, out of 823,101 applications (3.92%)

10. Czech Republic: 27,936 rejections only, out of 623,255 applications (4.48%)

2018:

Top 10 Schengen States with the Highest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Malta: 6,611 rejections only, out of 32,331 applications (20.45%)

2. Belgium: 36,906 rejections only, out of 219,827 applications (16.79%)

3. Portugal: 44,179 rejections only, out of 266,516 applications (16.58%)

4. France: 629,997 rejections only, out of 4,010,604 applications (15.71%)

5. Netherlands: 89,038 rejections only, out of 682,484 applications (13.05%)

6. Sweden: 29,604 rejections only, out of 253,292 applications (11.69%)

7. Slovenia: 2,632 rejections only, out of 26,403 applications (9.97%)

8. Norway: 15,633 rejections only, out of 164,591 applications (9.50%)

9. Spain: 157,494 rejections only, out of 1,701,379 applications (9.26%)

10. Germany: 186,699 rejections only, out of 2,056,296 applications (9.08%)

Top 10 Schengen States with the Lowest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Lithuania: 4,701 rejections only, out of 353,059 applications (1.33%)

2. Estonia: 2,048 rejections only, out of 127,561 applications (1.61%)

3. Iceland: 156 rejections only, out of 9,334 applications (1.67%)

4. Finland: 13,439 rejections only, out of 769,049 applications (1.75%)

5. Latvia: 3,374 rejections only, out of 161,709 applications (2.09%)

6. Poland: 16,669 rejections only, out of 526,715 applications (3.16%)

7. Luxembourg: 401 rejections only, out of 10,876 applications (3.69%)

8. Slovakia: 1,118 rejections only, out of 26,797 applications (4.17%)

9. Czech Republic: 31,206 rejections only, out of 662,902 applications (4.71%)

10. Greece: 42,013 rejections only, out of 855,285 applications (4.91%)

2019:

Top 10 Schengen States with the Highest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Portugal: 60,321 rejections only, out of 297,236 applications (20.29%)

2. Malta: 6,830 rejections only, out of 34,765 applications (19.65%)

3. Belgium: 46,649 rejections only, out of 248,021 applications (18.81%)

4. France: 635,489 rejections only, out of 3,980,989 applications (15.96%)

5. Netherlands: 96,861 rejections only, out of 739,248 applications (13.10%)

6. Sweden: 33,879 rejections only, out of 275,239 applications (12.31%)

7. Slovenia: 2,803 rejections only, out of 27,722 applications (10.11%)

8. Spain: 191,909 rejections only, out of 1,912,500 applications (10.03%)

9. Germany: 213,306 rejections only, out of 2,171,309 applications (9.82%)

10. Denmark: 14,412 rejections only, out of 165,191 applications (8.72%)

Top 10 Schengen States with the Lowest Visa Rejection Rates

1. Iceland: 223 rejections only, out of 18,183 applications (1.23%)

2. Lithuania: 4,728 rejections only, out of 359,484 applications (1.32%)

3. Estonia: 2,062 rejections only, out of 145,711 applications (1.42%)

4. Finland: 16,894 rejections only, out of 895,775 applications (1.89%)

5. Latvia: 3,987 rejections only, out of 167,743 applications (2.38%)

6. Poland: 16,606 rejections only, out of 454,026 applications (3.66%)

7. Luxembourg: 460 rejections only, out of 11,723 applications (3.92%)

8. Greece: 39,342 rejections only, out of 880,892 applications (4.47%)

9. Austria: 16,775 rejections only, out of 323,262 applications (5.19%)

10. Czech Republic: 38,929 rejections only, out of 739,818 applications (5.26%)

Key Insights:

1. Countries with the Strictest Rejection Rates

• Portugal (20.29%), Malta (19.65%), and Belgium (18.81%) stand out as the toughest countries to secure a Schengen visa.

• These countries consistently appear among the top strictest over the years, indicating that their visa authorities apply more rigid checks compared to larger countries.

• Interestingly, despite Portugal not processing as many applications as France or Germany, its rejection percentage is significantly higher, suggesting a more conservative approach to approvals.

2. Large Volume, High Rejections

• France processed nearly 4 million applications, the highest among all, and rejected 635,489 of them (15.96%).

• This indicates that, despite France accepting a large number of applicants, the absolute number of rejections is also the largest.

• Similarly, Germany and Spain both handled over 2 million and ~1.9 million applications respectively, with rejection rates close to 10%, reflecting stricter scrutiny at scale.

3. Northern & Western Europe: Generally Tougher

• Countries like the Netherlands (13.10%), Sweden (12.31%), and Denmark (8.72%) also feature in the higher rejection tier.

• These are high-income Western/Northern European countries where stricter entry controls may be influenced by immigration policies, higher asylum claims, or demand from applicants with perceived risk factors.

4. More Lenient Approvers

• Iceland (1.23%), Lithuania (1.32%), Estonia (1.42%), and Finland (1.89%) emerge as the most lenient Schengen states.

• Despite processing significant volumes (e.g., Finland handled ~900k applications), their rejection rates remained low.

• This suggests that Nordic countries (except Sweden and Denmark) and smaller Baltic states tend to grant visas more readily, possibly due to lower overall risk perception or fewer problematic applications.

5. Disparity Between Small and Large States

• Smaller Schengen states like Malta, Slovenia, and Luxembourg often show higher volatility in rejection percentages due to their smaller application volumes (tens of thousands). A relatively small increase in rejections significantly impacts their percentages.

• On the other hand, larger states (France, Germany, Spain, Italy) maintain stable mid-to-high rejection rates because of sheer application volume.

Schengen visa applications by Indian passport holders in the pre-pandemic years (2014–2019)

Between 2014 and 2019, India emerged as one of the top countries applying for Schengen visas, reflecting the growing middle-class appetite for tourism, business travel, and cultural exchange.

• Total Applications: Indian residents submitted 5,212,636 Schengen visa applications between 2014 and 2019.

• Global Share: This figure represented 5.41% of all Schengen visa applications worldwide.

• Global Ranking: India ranked 4th globally in terms of total Schengen visa applications filed by residents.

This high ranking underscores India’s importance as a major travel market for Europe, only behind Russia, China, and Türkiye.

The choice of destination countries varied significantly during this period:

• France emerged as the most popular destination for Indian applicants, with 1,042,230 visa applications submitted. This reflects strong cultural ties, tourism appeal (Paris, the French Riviera, and beyond), and academic or professional exchanges.

• Iceland, in contrast, saw the fewest visa applications from India, with only 644 applications filed during this six-year period. This stark difference highlights how Indian travellers focused on Western Europe’s traditional hubs over niche destinations.

Rejection and approval rates between 2014 and 2019:

Overall Rejection Rate

• Out of more than 5.2 million applications, 449,817 were rejected, resulting in an overall rejection rate of 8.63%.

Country-Specific Outcomes

• Malta had the highest rejection rate for Indian applicants, denying 25.05% of visa requests.

• France, despite being the top destination, also recorded the highest number of rejected visas in absolute terms: 103,806 applications were denied.

Rejection Rate Per Capita

• When calculated against the population, India’s rejection rate per thousand residents stood at 0.33%, a relatively small fraction considering the country’s population scale.

These figures illustrate a mixed picture: while Indian applicants were overall successful in securing visas, some destinations were far more restrictive than others.

Expenditures on Visa Applications

Visa applications also carried a significant financial impact:

• Indian residents collectively spent €417,010,880 on Schengen visa applications prior to the pandemic.

• Given that application fees are non-refundable, this expenditure included both successful and unsuccessful applications, meaning rejected applicants also incurred costs.

This expenditure highlights the growing financial commitment of Indian households towards international travel and Europe’s substantial visa-related revenue from India.

Additionally, this period marks not only the rapid growth of Indian outbound travel but also the growing importance of Europe as a destination for both tourism and professional opportunities. As post-pandemic travel resumes, these pre-2020 figures remain an important benchmark for understanding travel patterns and anticipating future demand.

Overall Analysis: Schengen Visa Travel Statistics, Trends, and Impact on Global Tourism

Over the past decade, Schengen visa statistics have revealed significant insights into international travel patterns, the evolving preferences of travellers, and the broader implications for global tourism.

1. High-Demand Countries:

France consistently topped the list, with applications ranging from 2.8 million in 2014 to nearly 4 million in 2019. Germany, Italy, and Spain were also perennial favourites, attracting millions of travellers due to their cultural landmarks, economic opportunities, and leisure appeal. Smaller Schengen states, such as Finland, Malta, and the Baltic countries, attracted fewer applications but often exhibited higher rejection rates, highlighting the disparity in scrutiny between high-volume and smaller destinations.

2. Rejection Trends:

Visa rejection rates have shown a consistent pattern of higher scrutiny in high-demand countries. For example, France’s rejection rate increased from 9.6% in 2014 to 16% in 2019, while Germany and Spain saw moderate rises. Italy remained relatively stable, with a rejection percentage of around 7–8%, and smaller states like Greece and Finland maintained low rejection rates.

Globally, refusal rates declined slightly in recent years, indicating improved approval chances despite stricter assessments in some destinations.

3. Impact of Global Events:

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound effect on Schengen visa applications. Between 2020 and 2022, applications plummeted by over 86%, dropping to an average of just 4.47 million annually. This decline reflects the global travel restrictions, border closures, and health concerns during the pandemic. Post-pandemic recovery is evident, with 11.7 million applications recorded in 2024 and a 29% surge in Indian applications in 2025, signalling a strong revival in international travel demand.

4. Emerging Trends Among Travellers:

• Diversification of Destinations: While traditional Western European hubs remain popular, there is growing interest in Northern and Eastern Europe (Finland, Poland) and Mediterranean countries (Portugal, Greece) among Indian travellers.

• Generational Shift: Gen Z and millennial travellers are increasingly seeking immersive experiences, cultural exploration, and adventure-based travel rather than short sightseeing tours. Applications from these age groups rose sharply in 2025.

• Luxury and Adventure Tourism: High-end travel is on the rise, with France, Switzerland, and Italy being preferred for luxury experiences, while Austria, Slovenia, and northern Spain are attracting adventure tourists.

• Geographical Expansion within Source Countries: Beyond major metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, tier-two cities such as Pune, Ahmedabad, and Chandigarh are contributing to the rising number of applications, reflecting a broader democratisation of international travel.

5. Implications for Global Tourism:

• Economic Impact: High-volume Schengen visa applications result in substantial financial contributions to European countries, both through visa fees and subsequent tourist spending. For example, Indian travellers alone spent over €417 million on visa applications prior to the pandemic.

• Tourism Diversification: As some travellers face rejections in high-demand countries, there is growing interest in smaller or less-visited destinations, which helps spread tourism more evenly across Europe.

• Strategic Planning for Tourism Boards: Data on applications, approvals, and rejections enables tourism authorities to anticipate demand, enhance visa facilitation, and strategically promote destinations to attract specific traveller segments.

• Global Mobility: Schengen visa trends highlight how travel access, policy, and geopolitical events influence the movement of people, shaping both short-term tourism flows and long-term travel behaviour.

Schengen visa statistics over the last decade reveal Europe’s enduring appeal, evolving traveller preferences, and the impact of global events on mobility. While traditional Western European hubs remain dominant, emerging destinations and experiential travel trends are shaping the future of European tourism, with Indian travellers playing an increasingly pivotal role.