The European Commission has released a groundbreaking update on Schengen visa applications, revealing a significant surge in demand. In 2024, a staggering 11.7 million short-stay visa applications were submitted to EU and Schengen-associated countries, marking a 13.6% increase from 2023 and a remarkable 56% leap from 2022. This unprecedented growth signifies the biggest post-COVID recovery in visa traffic, with 9.7 million visas issued in 2024, a 14.1% increase from the previous year.
The top countries with the highest number of visa applications were China, with 1.79 million applications, followed by Türkiye with 1.17 million, and India with 1.11 million. These numbers demonstrate the EU’s enduring appeal as a destination for travelers, tourists, and businesspeople alike. The slight decrease in global refusal rates to 14.8% in 2024 also suggests that more applicants are meeting the necessary requirements. Some countries, such as Russia and Iran, showed notable declines in refusal rates, indicating a possible shift in application quality or changes in national policies.
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The EU’s efforts to digitalize the visa process are set to revolutionize the application experience. The introduction of an online visa platform and simplified application process, expected to be fully implemented by 2025, will likely streamline the submission process and reduce processing times. Bulgaria and Romania’s participation in the Schengen zone, starting from March 2024, has also expanded the region’s reach, allowing these countries to issue Schengen visas and further increasing the EU’s global connectivity.
As the EU continues to adapt to changing circumstances, applicants can expect a more efficient and user-friendly experience. With the ongoing digitalization efforts and expanded Schengen participation, the EU is solidifying its position as a premier destination for international travel and commerce. As you plan your trip or consider applying for a Schengen visa, staying informed about the latest requirements and regulations will be crucial to ensuring a smooth application process.
By understanding the current trends and developments in Schengen visa applications, you can better navigate the system and achieve your goals.
EU Visa Landscape in Numbers
- 11.7 million total applications (up from 10.3M in 2023)
- 9.7 million visas issued (14.1% increase)
- Global refusal rate dropped to 14.8% (from 16% in 2023)
Top applicant countries:
- China: 1.77M
- Türkiye: 1.17M
- India: 1.1M
- Morocco: 606k
- Russia: 606k
Schengen Visa Types for 2025
- Type A: Airport Transit(hort airport transit, no Schengen entry)
- Type C: Short-Stay (tourism, business, family visits, up to 90 days)
- Type D: Long-Stay (study, work, residency, over 90 days)
- LTV: Limited Territorial Validity (valid for specified Schengen countries, used for emergencies or special cases)
Schengen Expansion
As of March 31, 2024, Bulgaria and Romania have joined the Schengen zone, issuing Schengen visas and offering:
- No internal border checks for air travel and sea travelers
- Unified visa processing
- Greater flexibility for multi-country travel plans
This change opens up new possibilities for:
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- Travelers
- Tourists
- Students
- Digital nomads
What To Expect as a New Applicant in 2025
1. Expect More Competition Visa demand is rising fast. With 2025 projected to potentially hit or surpass pre-COVID highs (17M+ applications in 2019), you’ll be competing against a global surge in mobility.
2. Your Chances of Approval May Be Better
Refusal rates are declining overall, especially in countries like:
- Russia: Dropped to 7.5% from 10.6%
- Syria: A dramatic drop from 46% to 27%
- Iran: Now 26%, down from 30.3%
But beware: some countries saw a rise in rejections, including:
- Bangladesh: Shot up to 54.9% (from 43.3%)
- Nigeria: Now at 45.9% (from 40.8%).
3. Visa Digitalization Is Accelerating
2025 will witness the continued rollout of the EU’s Visa Digitalization System, a single online platform for all Schengen visa applications.
This promises:
- Faster processing
- Centralized application tracking
- Biometric reuse for returning applicants.
Where to Expect the Longest Lines?
Countries like China, Türkiye, and Indians are still topping the charts in volume. This may result in:
- Slower appointment availability
- Earlier application deadlines
- Higher scrutiny in documentation
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Apply early, monitor local embassy updates, and use premium/VIP serviceswhere available.
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