For most Indians, a trip to the famed places in Europe is always on their travel bucket list. This includes exploring the Schengen Area countries as well. However, a major setback to fulfilling this dream is long visa waiting times and rejections. According to a recent report, rejected Schengen visa applications in 2023 have cost Indian applicants a whopping amount of Rs 109 crore (roughly €12.1 million) in visa fees.
Schengen visas allow tourists to travel to around 26 European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy and others. While the initial application process may appear affordable, the non-refundable visa cost is a major financial concern for many. Reportedly, a lot of Indian applications are refused each year, leading to a significant loss.
As per Schengen News, 151,752 of the 966,687 visa petitions filed by Indians were rejected, resulting in a loss of more than 100 crores. India is now among the top five nationals with the most denied Schengen visas. Reportedly, last year, Schengen states denied 1.6 million visa applications, resulting in a loss of Rs 1,172 crore in fees in total.
The report mentions various reasons why the visa applications are getting rejected. Some of the most common factors for visa rejection are incomplete documents, insufficient verification of trip finances, and a lack of clarity about the motive to travel. Also, some applications have been rejected because the applicant has a history of visa violations or poor employment.
Meanwhile, the visa fee rates have also increased this year. The European Commission has levied a 12% increase in Schengen visa prices, which came into effect on June 11, 2024. This increase applies for applicants of all countries. Adult applicants will now pay €90 (approx. Rs 8000), which was formerly €80 (approx. Rs 7000). Minors aged 6 to 12 will pay €45 (approx. Rs 4000), was previously €40 (approx. Rs 3500). Countries judged uncooperative in the EU’s efforts to bring back their citizens may reportedly face greater increases, with costs reaching €135 (approx. Rs 12000) to €180 (approx. Rs 16000). This decision was made as a result of a scheduled review of EU visa fees in December 2023, which occurs every three years as required by the Schengen Visa Code.
