Obtaining a Schengen visa in 2026 remains an important step in preparing for a trip to Europe. Find out which Schengen countries have the highest visa refusal rates, why applicants receive negative decisions, and how to prepare documents to increase your chances of approval

The demand for travel to Europe continues to grow, and with it the number of applications for Schengen visas. According to the latest data from the European Commission, in 2025, the consulates of the Schengen area countries processed about 12 million applications, which is almost 2% more than the year before. At the same time, the refusal rate remains quite high - almost 15%.

For tourists, business travelers and those planning to visit relatives in Europe, this means one thing: the quality of document preparation today plays no less a role than the purpose of the trip itself.

Experts note that the difference between an approved and rejected application often lies in the details: correctly executed financial documents, a logical travel route, confirmation of residence and convincing evidence of the intention to return to the country of residence.

Traveling by your own transport gives you freedom of movement and the opportunity to see more interesting places. However, before traveling abroad, it is important not only to prepare documents and a route, but also to take care of mandatory car insurance.

The Green Card policy is a prerequisite for crossing the border in your own vehicle and guarantees insurance coverage outside the country of registration of the car.

Apply for a Green Card in advance and travel around Europe without unnecessary worries.

Which Schengen countries are most often denied visas?

Statistics for 2025 show that the rate of refusals in issuing Schengen visas varies significantly depending on the country. It is most difficult to obtain permission to enter countries that traditionally apply stricter inspection procedures or face a significant tourist load.

Countries with the highest rate of refusals

The group of countries with the highest refusal rates included:

- Malta – 38.4%;

- Belgium – 26.1%;

- Estonia – 24.6%;

- Sweden – 23.3%;

- Portugal – 23.3%.

It was in these countries that consulates most often rejected applications due to insufficient financial confirmation, incomplete package of documents or doubts about the purpose of the trip.

Countries with a moderate level of refusals

Slightly lower figures were recorded in:

- Denmark – 21.7%;

- Slovenia – 21.4%;

- Croatia – 18.5%.

Despite the lower level of refusals, the consular services of these countries also carefully check the financial capacity of applicants and the validity of the travel route.

Countries with a relatively lower level of refusals among the participants of the rating

The following countries completed the top ten:

- Netherlands – 17.7%;

- Norway – 15.7%.

Although the figures here are lower, this does not mean automatic approval of the application. Applicants are still required to provide a full package of documents, confirmation of financial stability and a clear purpose of the trip.

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Why are these countries more likely to refuse?

Despite the difference in indicators, the reasons for refusals in most cases remain similar.

Incomplete package of documents

One of the most common reasons is the lack of necessary documents or errors during their preparation. Even a minor discrepancy between the accommodation reservation, tickets and the questionnaire can cause additional questions from the consulate.

Insufficient financial confirmation

Many countries, including Sweden, Denmark and Belgium, pay special attention to the applicant's financial situation. Consulates must make sure that the traveler is able to cover their own expenses during their stay in Europe.

Doubts about the purpose of the trip

If the route seems illogical or the explanations for the trip are not convincing enough, this may be a reason for refusal. Such issues are checked especially carefully in countries with a high tourist load.

Lack of evidence of return

Consular services assess the risk that the applicant may remain in the EU after the visa expires. That is why documents about employment, education, business or family ties in the country of residence play an important role.

Country specifics

Malta is the absolute leader in the number of refusals

Almost four out of ten applications for a Maltese Schengen visa end in a negative decision. The reason is often incomplete financial documents, an unclear program of stay or insufficiently confirmed purpose of the trip.

Belgium and Estonia

These countries are known for their thorough verification of information in applications. Consulates pay attention to any discrepancies between documents, so applicants are advised to carefully check all data before submitting.

Sweden and Denmark

Scandinavian countries traditionally pay great attention to the financial stability of applicants and their ties to their country of origin. For a positive decision, it is important to confirm a stable income and the intention to return home after the end of the trip.

Croatia

After fully joining the Schengen area, the country has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. High demand has led to a more detailed verification of applications, especially in the summer season.

How to increase your chances of getting a Schengen visa in 2026?

Experts advise following a few simple rules:

- submit documents in advance;

- carefully check all the data in the application form;

- provide up-to-date bank statements;

- confirm accommodation and transport reservations;

- arrange medical insurance with sufficient coverage;

- provide documents confirming work, study or other ties with the country of residence;

- draw up a clear travel itinerary indicating dates and places of stay.

Has it become more difficult to get a Schengen visa in 2026?

Despite the high refusal rates in some countries, the majority of applicants who submit a complete package of documents and meet the requirements of consulates successfully receive entry permits.

In addition, the European Union continues its course towards digitalization of visa procedures. In the coming years, the gradual introduction of an electronic application system and digital Schengen visas is expected, which should make the process more transparent and convenient for travelers.

The main conclusion for tourists in 2026 remains unchanged: the greatest influence on the outcome of the consideration is not the country of application, but the quality of document preparation and the reliability of the information provided.

Many travelers carefully prepare documents for obtaining a Schengen visa, book accommodation and draw up a travel itinerary, but often forget about another important document - the international insurance policy "Green Card". If you plan to travel around Europe in your own car, it will be impossible to cross the border without this insurance.

The "Green Card" is valid in 42 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa and confirms the presence of mandatory insurance coverage for the driver's civil liability. In the event of a traffic accident, the policy helps to resolve the issue of compensation for damages in accordance with the legislation of the host country. Valid insurance is a mandatory requirement for all vehicles traveling outside Ukraine. Take care of a safe trip in advance - apply for a Green Card policy before traveling abroad.

Reminder! Mobile phone prices in Europe vary by 6 times depending on the country. We have already told you where the cheapest tariffs are in 2026, which countries have the highest prices, and what determines the cost of communication for expatriates and travelers.

Photo - generated by Gemini

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