Dreaming of a European holiday? You might consider checking out the top countries for Schengen visa refusals prior to applying. In 2024, Schengen nations were presented with an incredible 11.7 million visa applications—and 14.8% were rejected, based on the recently published official statistics.
Heading the list of nations most likely to reject visa applications are Malta, Sweden, Belgium, France, and Norway, with rejection percentages much higher than the average. Malta was at the top with a rejection percentage of more than 30%, causing alarm for applicants for whom the Mediterranean island is in the sights for short visits or travel hubs.
Experts point to tough documentation review, overstay issues, and absence of financial evidence as major rejection reasons. Disproportionately high numbers of applications are also received by some embassies, and they filter tighter as a result, giving it longer processing times. Systematic errors in documentation, the lack of adequate travel history, or ambiguous travel plans can all contribute to higher odds of a denial.
To enhance their chances, visa experts recommend that candidates apply through nations with lower rejection rates—such as Lithuania, Finland, or Iceland—and all documents must be error-free, well-documented, and accompanied by solid financial support. For tourists visiting from high-risk countries, it is important to provide proof of strong home roots and a solid reason for the visit.
