Failed Schengen Visa Dreams: Indians Lose ₹136 Crores in 2024 Rejections
In a disheartening blow to thousands of Indian travellers, over ₹136 crore has been lost in 2024 due to the rejection of more than 1.65 lakh Schengen visa applications. According to a recent report by Condé Nast Traveller, India now ranks third globally among countries facing the highest financial losses from Schengen visa rejections — following closely behind Algeria and Turkey.
Data from the European Commission reveals a 15% rejection rate for Indian applicants this year. Out of 11.08 lakh Schengen visa applications lodged from India, only 5.91 lakh were approved, with the remaining rejections costing Indian applicants approximately €14 million (₹136.6 crore) in non-refundable visa fees.
France emerged as the most frequent rejector, denying 31,314 Indian applications. Other countries with significant rejection figures include Switzerland (26,126), Germany (15,806), Spain (15,150), and the Netherlands (14,569).
Globally, the total number of Schengen visa rejections has surpassed 17 lakh in 2024, generating an estimated €145 million (₹1,410 crore) in fees from unsuccessful applications.
Adding to the woes of Indian applicants, the cost of a Schengen visa has recently increased from €80 to €90 for those aged 12 and above. However, children under 12, students, non-profit organisation representatives, and select other categories remain exempt from this hike.
The surge in rejections and associated financial losses has raised concerns among Indian travel agencies, students, and businesses. Experts warn that such high barriers not only affect individual plans but also strain tourism, academic exchanges, and business ties between India and European nations.
The situation has renewed calls for more transparent visa guidelines and streamlined application processes to facilitate smoother travel for Indian citizens seeking to visit Europe.
Source: Condé Nast Traveller
