If you’re planning a European getaway in 2025, it’s essential to know where your Schengen visa application is most likely to succeed. The European Commission has released official data from 2024 that reveals critical trends in visa approvals, rejections, and consulate activity.
Here’s a detailed breakdown to help travellers make informed decisions this year.
Busiest Schengen Consulates in India
Certain consulates in India saw an exceptionally high number of Schengen visa applications in 2024. Unsurprisingly, Switzerland and Germany led the charts, with massive volumes of requests.
| Country | Consulate Location | Applications Received |
|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | New Delhi | 217,373 |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | Mumbai | 121,086 |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | New Delhi | 91,003 |
| 🇫🇷 France | New Delhi | 49,348 |
| 🇬🇷 Greece | New Delhi | 41,418 |
Travel Insight: Applying through these consulates might mean longer waiting times due to high volume. It’s best to apply early, especially during peak travel months like May–August.
Top Schengen Visa Approval Rates in 2024
Looking for consulates with the highest chance of success? Germany’s consulates in Bangalore and Chennai top the list with nearly perfect approval rates.
| Country | Consulate Location | Approval Rate | Rejection Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇩🇪 Germany | Bangalore | 98.8% | 1.2% |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | Chennai | 97.9% | 2.1% |
| 🇧🇪 Belgium | Mumbai | 94.7% | 5.3% |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | Mumbai | 93.3% | 6.7% |
| 🇩🇰 Denmark | New Delhi | 91.5% | 8.5% |
Travel Tip: If you’re concerned about rejections, choosing a consulate with a high approval rate may improve your chances, especially if you meet all document and financial requirements.
Countries Granting the Most Multiple Entry Visas (MEVs)
Multiple-Entry Schengen Visas are especially beneficial for frequent travellers, as they allow multiple entries within the visa’s validity period. Here’s where most MEVs were issued last year:
| Country | Consulate Location | MEVs Granted |
|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | New Delhi | 190,711 |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | Mumbai | 106,487 |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | New Delhi | 55,800 |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | Mumbai | 21,338 |
| 🇫🇷 France | Bangalore | 20,992 |
Travel Insight: Frequent fliers should consider applying through consulates known for issuing MEVs, making travel across the Schengen Zone easier without repeated applications.
Schengen Consulates with the Highest Rejection Rates
Some consulates saw a high number of visa rejections. It’s important to be extra careful with documentation if you’re applying through one of these missions.
| Country | Consulate Location | Rejection Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 🇸🇮 Slovenia | New Delhi | 50.8% |
| 🇲🇹 Malta | New Delhi | 44.9% |
| 🇬🇷 Greece | New Delhi | 31.5% |
| 🇱🇹 Lithuania | New Delhi | 31.1% |
| 🇪🇪 Estonia | New Delhi | 28.2% |
Travel Warning: A high rejection rate doesn’t mean automatic denial, but applicants should be cautious. Double-check your documents, travel itinerary, and financial proof.
Preparing for Your 2025 Schengen Visa
While the 2024 data provides valuable insights, remember that visa policies and processing can evolve. However, the trends suggest the following for your 2025 Schengen visa application:
1. Plan Ahead
Start your application process well in advance of your intended travel dates, especially if applying through busy consulates like Switzerland (New Delhi) or Germany (Mumbai).
2. Consider Your Entry Point
If your primary destination is Germany, applying through the Bangalore or Chennai consulates might offer a higher chance of approval based on the 2024 trends.
3. Justify Multiple Entries
If you need an MEV, provide a clear and detailed itinerary demonstrating the necessity for multiple visits. Consulates like Switzerland (New Delhi) have historically been more inclined to grant these.
4. Pay Close Attention to Requirements
For countries with higher rejection rates at their Indian consulates (e.g., Slovenia, Malta), meticulous preparation and adherence to all guidelines are paramount.
5. Stay Updated
Keep an eye on the official websites of the respective Schengen embassies and consulates in India for the latest requirements and procedures for 2025.
Knowing where to apply for your Schengen visa can significantly influence your travel plans in 2025. Use this data to choose your destination and consulate wisely. Whether you’re heading to the Alps or a Mediterranean beach, the right visa strategy can make your European dream hassle-free
