Top 10 Schengen Countries Most Likely to Reject Your Visa in 2025

As Europe remains a top travel destination, visa rejections across the Schengen Area are on the rise. New data from 2024 highlights the Schengen countries with the highest visa rejection rates, offering a cautionary guide for travelers planning a European trip in 2025.

1. Malta – 38.5% Rejection Rate

Malta had the highest rejection rate, denying 16,905 out of 45,578 applications. Despite its popularity, Malta faces capacity constraints and applies strict screening.

2. Estonia – 27.2%

Estonia rejected 3,291 applications in 2024. The Baltic nation is known for its strict scrutiny, especially for travelers without clear itineraries or financial backing.

3. Belgium – 24.6%

With over 60,000 rejections out of 255,000 applications, Belgium's high demand leads to frequent application errors and omissions, particularly for business and diplomatic travelers.

4. Slovenia – 24.5%

Despite fewer total applications, Slovenia denied about 4,400 requests. Common issues include missing travel insurance or unclear travel plans.

5. Sweden – 24%

Sweden denied 44,576 applications, with stricter checks on applicants from politically unstable or economically challenged nations.

6. Denmark – 23.7%

Denmark rejected over 31,000 of 132,158 applications, often questioning the authenticity of supporting documents and the applicant’s intent.

7. Croatia – 19%

Croatia, a newer Schengen member, denied 8,003 of 42,165 applications due to documentation issues and unmet financial requirements.

8. Poland – 17.3%

Out of 111,538 applications, Poland rejected 19,277. The country has ramped up scrutiny amid growing demand for work and study visas.

9. France – 15.8%

France received the most applications—over 3 million—and denied 481,139. While its rejection rate is lower, small errors in paperwork can lead to rejections due to strict security measures.

10. Czech Republic – 15.8%

Czech authorities denied 23,735 out of 150,629 applications. Inadequate documentation and missing travel reservations are common pitfalls.

Travel Tip: Ensure your application is complete, accurate, and supported by valid financial and travel documents to increase your chances of approval, especially when applying to higher-risk countries.

Source: Schengen Visa Info – Visa Statistics 2024