If you are a Pakistani planning a trip to Europe in 2025, securing a Schengen visa is essential. However, high rejection rates in some countries can derail your plans.
According to the European Commission, Schengen countries received 11.7 million visa applications in 2024, of which 1.7 million (14.8%) were rejected. Avoid applying to countries with the highest rejection rates to boost approval odds.
Countries with High Schengen Visa Rejection Rates
The following Schengen countries had the highest visa rejection rates in 2024, based on European Commission data:
Certainly! Here is your data presented in a professional table format:
| Country | Rejection Rate | Applications Rejected | Total Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malta | 38.5% | 16,905 | 45,578 |
| Estonia | 27.2% | 3,291 | 12,125 |
| Belgium | 24.6% | 61,724 | 255,564 |
| Slovenia | 24.5% | 4,417 | 18,171 |
| Sweden | 24.0% | 44,576 | 188,623 |
| Denmark | 23.7% | 31,013 | 132,158 |
| Croatia | 19.3% | 8,003 | 42,165 |
| Poland | 17.2% | 19,277 | 111,538 |
| France | 15.8% | 481,139 | 3,072,728 |
| Czech Republic | 15.8% | 23,735 | 150,629 |
With a 13.7% rejection rate (206,733 of 1.5 million applications), Germany has also eliminated its visa appeal process, making rejections final.
Certain nationalities face higher rejection rates:
- Nigeria: 45.9% rejection rate, third-highest globally, making it challenging for Nigerian applicants.
- Pakistan: 47.5% of 78,362 applications rejected, with Austria being the toughest at 83.5%.
- India: 15% rejection rate, with 165,000 rejections costing ₹1.36 billion in non-refundable fees.
Dr. Elena Martinez, a migration policy expert at the University of Brussels, explains, “High rejection rates often stem from incomplete documentation or failure to prove strong ties to the home country. Applicants must prioritise thorough preparation.”
Tips to Improve Your Schengen Visa Approval
To increase your chances of success:
- Choose Wisely: Apply to countries with lower rejection rates, such as Iceland (2.2%) or Switzerland (12.1%).
- Prepare Thoroughly: Submit complete documents, including a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of funds, and Schengen-compliant travel insurance.
- Avoid Errors: Double-check forms for accuracy to prevent rejections due to minor mistakes.
According to global residency data, over 32 countries, including Barbados, Dominica, and the Maldives, offer visa-free access for Pakistani citizens, facing high Schengen rejection rates. These destinations provide hassle-free travel alternatives.
Travellers should apply through the consulates of countries with lenient policies and ensure all requirements are met.
