Planning a European getaway for the summer of 2024? Securing a Schengen visa is a crucial step, but not all countries are equally easy to navigate when it comes to visa approvals. Understanding which countries have higher acceptance rates can make all the difference in your travel plans. This guide will walk you through the easiest countries to obtain a Schengen visa, those with more challenging processes, and essential tips to maximize your chances of success. Whether you’re dreaming of the scenic landscapes of Iceland or the historic streets of Italy, knowing where to apply can help you avoid unnecessary setbacks and enjoy a hassle-free journey across Europe.

When planning your European adventure, it’s essential to know that Schengen visas grant access to a wide array of countries, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Each of these countries offers unique experiences, from the scenic fjords of Norway and the historic landmarks of Italy to the vibrant cities of Germany and the charming villages of Greece. Understanding the visa approval rates of these nations can significantly impact your travel plans, ensuring a smooth journey through Europe’s most captivating destinations.

Easiest Countries for Schengen Visa Approval

For those planning summer travel in 2024, applying for a Schengen visa through certain countries can significantly increase your chances of approval. Iceland, Switzerland, Latvia, and Italy are among the easiest countries to obtain a Schengen visa, with notably low rejection rates. Iceland, in particular, stands out with an impressively low rejection rate of just 2.2%, followed by Switzerland at 10.7%, Latvia at 11.7%, and Italy at 12%. These countries provide a more straightforward path for travelers looking to explore Europe without the worry of visa denial.

Countries with Moderate Schengen Visa Rejection Rates

Several other European countries also offer relatively high approval rates for Schengen visas, though their rejection rates are slightly higher than the top four. Luxembourg, Lithuania, Slovakia, Germany, Austria, and Greece fall into this category. Luxembourg and Lithuania have rejection rates of 12.7% and 12.8%, respectively. Slovakia follows closely at 12.9%, while Germany and Austria both have a 14.3% rejection rate. Greece rounds out the list with a rejection rate of 14.7%. While these countries are not as lenient as the top four, they still offer a reasonable chance of obtaining a Schengen visa.

Countries with the Highest Schengen Visa Rejection Rates

Conversely, some countries have gained a reputation for their stringent Schengen visa approval process. Malta, Estonia, and Belgium are particularly challenging, with Malta leading the pack with a 37.6% rejection rate in 2023. Estonia and Belgium are not far behind, with rejection rates of 33.1% and 26.5%, respectively. Sweden and Croatia also present challenges, with rejection rates of 23.1% and 20%. These countries are considered among the most difficult for Schengen visa applicants, making it advisable to consider alternative destinations with lower rejection rates.

Maximizing Your Chances of Visa Approval

To improve the likelihood of a successful Schengen visa application, it is crucial to apply through countries with lower rejection rates. Utilizing services like MakeMyTrip, Asia’s top travel booking app, can also simplify the process by helping you plan your travels to countries with higher visa approval rates. Additionally, ensuring you choose the correct Schengen travel insurance and avoiding common application mistakes can further boost your chances of approval.

Upcoming Changes to European Travel Requirements

Looking ahead, by mid-2025, around 1.4 billion people will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before traveling to the EU. The European Union is also developing an ETIAS mobile app, set to launch by mid-2025, which will simplify the application process for travelers. Preparing for these changes now will ensure smoother travel experiences in the near future.