Lilshira
Schengen visa refusal rates rise in 2025, affecting European tourism
European Commission data show Schengen visa refusals increased to 14.6% in 2025, with Malta, Belgium and Portugal recording the highest national rates. The figures highlight growing accessibility concerns for travelers planning trips to affected destinations.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Overall Schengen visa refusal rate rose to 14.6% in 2025
- Timing
- Data cover applications submitted in 2025
- Who is affected
- Applicants needing a Schengen visa for Malta, Belgium, Portugal and other high‑refusal countries
The details
- Announced by
- European Commission
Overall refusal statistics
The European Commission reported that more than 12.2 million short‑stay visa applications were filed in 2025, with an overall refusal rate of 14.6%. This marks a slight improvement from the 14.8% rate recorded in 2024, but national differences remain pronounced.
Countries with the highest refusal rates
Malta recorded the highest national refusal rate at approximately 38.4%, followed by Belgium at 26.1% and Portugal at 23.3%. Sweden and Denmark also posted rates above 20%, while larger markets such as France, Spain, Germany and Italy remained near the EU average.
- Malta – 38.4% refusal rate
- Belgium – 26.1% refusal rate
- Portugal – 23.3% refusal rate
Implications for travelers and tourism businesses
Higher refusal percentages can create uncertainty for visitors who must secure a visa before booking flights, accommodation or tours. Tourism operators in affected destinations may experience fluctuations in advance bookings as travelers adjust timelines or seek alternative markets.
The data do not indicate a direct decline in visitor arrivals, but they underline the importance of clear documentation, realistic processing times and early application submissions for those requiring a Schengen visa.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing bookings to Malta, Belgium or Portugal should verify visa approval status before departure.
- Visitors planning trips to high‑refusal countries may need to allow extra time for visa processing.
Cost and documents
- Visa application fees and required supporting documents remain unchanged; no new costs are introduced.
- Applicants must continue to provide proof of travel purpose, financial means and intent to leave the Schengen Area.
What you need to do
- Apply for a Schengen visa well ahead of intended travel dates, especially for Malta, Belgium and Portugal.
- Monitor official embassy communications for any updates on processing times or documentation requirements.
Who this affects
-
Applicants from Bangladesh
Bangladesh recorded a 54.5% refusal rate in 2025, the highest among source markets.
What to do Applicants should ensure thorough documentation and consider early submission.
-
Applicants from Senegal
Senegal experienced a 51.9% refusal rate, indicating heightened scrutiny.
What to do Applicants must provide clear evidence of travel purpose and financial resources.
-
Applicants from Nigeria
Nigeria’s refusal rate exceeded 45%, reflecting strict assessment standards.
What to do Applicants should double‑check all required paperwork before applying.
-
Applicants targeting Malta
Malta’s national refusal rate reached 38.4%, the highest in the Schengen zone.
What to do Applicants need to meet all criteria and may face additional verification.
-
Applicants targeting Belgium
Belgium reported a 26.1% refusal rate, posing a notable barrier for visa‑required travelers.
What to do Applicants should prepare comprehensive supporting documents.
Frequently asked questions
What is the overall Schengen visa refusal rate for 2025?
The overall refusal rate for short‑stay Schengen visas in 2025 was 14.6%, according to European Commission statistics.
Which Schengen country had the highest visa refusal rate in 2025?
Malta recorded the highest national refusal rate at approximately 38.4% in 2025.
Did the Schengen visa refusal rate improve from 2024 to 2025?
Yes, the rate fell slightly from 14.8% in 2024 to 14.6% in 2025, showing a modest improvement.
How do high refusal rates affect travel planning?
Higher refusal rates can cause travelers to allow extra time for visa processing, verify approval before booking, and ensure all documentation meets the EU Visa Code requirements.
Are there new fees or documents required for Schengen visas in 2025?
No new fees or document requirements were introduced in 2025; applicants must continue to provide the standard proof of purpose, finances and intent to leave the area.
