Top 5 Most Difficult Schengen Countries Get Visas

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Top 5 Schengen Visa Countries that are the hardest to enter credit: Richioda Fabora, Shutterstock.

Are you planning a trip to Europe in 2025? you Maybe I want to check which countries have said “no” before You make Travel planning.

New visa data for 2024 shows that some Schengen countries are far more demanding than others. If you come from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Russia, China, Egypt, or Morocco, you are more likely to be rejected. So there’s more reason to prepare!

Here are Schengen countries and reasons why they are most likely to reject a visa.

1. Malta – Rejection rate: 38.5%

Malta may seem like the perfect Mediterranean holiday, but when it comes to visas, it’s on the denial list.

Of the 45,578 applications, 16,905 were denied in 2024.

What are the main reasons? A small number of embassy staff, strict checks, and slow process. even small There’s a mistake average rejection.

2. Estonia – Rejection rate: 27.2%

Estonia is a small country with strict visa policies, especially for first-time travelers.

Applicants from Egypt, India and the UAE were most affected.

Officers will carefully examine travel plans, financial situations and return intent.

3. Belgium – Rejection rate: 24.6%

As home to the EU and NATO, Belgium receives numerous visa applications and rejects large shares.

In 2024, over 60,000 applications were rejected.

Common issues include missing documentation and vague reasons for travel.

4. Slovenia – Rejection rate: 24.5%

Although Slovenia’s applications were fewer than most countries, their rejection rates are still high.

In 2024, we rejected approximately 4,400 applications.

Typical issues include missing insurance, unclear itinerary, and incomplete bookings.

5. Sweden – Rejection rate: 24%

Sweden expects applicants to provide clear evidence of connections with their home country.

In 2024, 44,576 applications were rejected.

People in politically or economically unstable regions often face more scrutiny.

Honorable mention: Denmark – Rejection rate: 23.7%

Denmark rejected more than 31,000 applications last year.

Authorities are strict about checking travel intent and checking fake and inconsistent documents.

Applicants from Pakistan, Iran and Morocco were among the most affected.

Top Secret Tactics to Avoid Schengen Visa Rejection: Apply to Win

1. Do not apply through embassies in third countries

Some Schengen countries do not have embassies everywhere, so other EU countries have their visa processing done.

Problem: These embassies often follow different rules or give them priority My own Domestic embassy.

Tip: Even if your booking takes a long time, always apply directly to the country you wish to visit, through the official visa centre or consulate.

2. Don’t say “sightseeing” – be specific about your trip

Visa Responsible look Thousands of vague applications simply say No “sightseeing” Authentic Plan. It’s a red flag.

Tip: Show clear objectives and plans. include:

Complete travel itinerary (with dates, cities and activities)
Real hotel reservations
Confirmed transport
Combine sightseeing if possible something Structured (events, family visits, business, etc.. )

3. Write a powerful personal cover letter

Many applicants will skip this – And they are rejected for that.

Tip: Your cover letter should be clearly explained:

Why you I chose This country
How to raise travel funds
Why go home (work, family, school, property, etc.)
It’s not just about copying online templates. Keep it personal and accurate.

4. Use actual, verifiable reservations

The consulate is trained to find fake or suspicious hotels and flight bookings. Don’t try it!

Tip: Book via a trusted site or directly with your provider. Avoid booking “free cancellation” tricks or placeholders that do not match your travel date.

5. Apply early – not 15 days ago

Many embassies are overwhelmed. The rule is “Apply At least 15 days before the trip” it’s getting too close.

Tip: at least 6-8 weeks before your trip, especially summer Or Christmas season.

6. Do you want to visit friends and family? Expect a more rigorous check

If your visa is a personal visit, Expect to prove a lot more.

Tip: The host must provide:

Official invitation
Proof of their address and legal status
Support statement (if they cover the costs)
confirm Everything is signed, dated and includes contacts detail.

7. Do not apply for a “gateway visa”

Visa officers will know when you will apply to Schengen, but they plan to spend most of their time at different times. This is the common reason for rejection.

Tip: Apply to the country where you spend the most time. The itinerary must match your actual travel plan.