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Top 10 Easiest Countries To Get A Schengen Visa In 2024
Understanding the Schengen Area
The name Schengen comes from a town in southeastern Luxembourg, where France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands signed the original Schengen Agreement in 1985.
The 29 countries in Schengen include Germany, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Bulgaria, Romania, and Switzerland.
Individuals possessing Schengen visas (indicated as “valid for Schengen states” in the language of the issuing country) are permitted to stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180 days, given that their visa remains valid during their stay. Similarly, this rule applies to holders of the majority of national residence permits and national category D visas issued by specific Schengen states for extended visits exceeding three months. It’s important to note that a distinct visa may be necessary to travel to other EU states that are not part of the Schengen area
Countries with the Highest Approval Rates for Schengen Visas
For prospective applicants seeking insights into countries with the highest approval rates for Schengen visas, the following list provides valuable information:
Switzerland: 10.7%
Latvia: 11.7%
Italy: 12%
Luxembourg: 12.7%
Lithuania: 12.8%
Slovakia: 12.9%
Germany: 14.3%
Austria: 14.3%
Greece: 14.7%
Iceland with only a 2.2 per cent rejection rate
Variance in Visa Rejection Rates
The 2023 Schengen Visa Statistics demonstrate a notable disparity in visa rejection rates across diverse countries. Prospective applicants should bear this in mind while strategising their visa applications, as choosing countries with lower rejection rates can substantially boost the likelihood of a successful application.
Countries with High Visa Denial Rates
In 2024, applicants need to take note of the elevated rejection rates in specific countries. In 2023, Malta recorded a rejection rate of 37.6%, marking it as the country with the highest visa denial rate. Close behind were Estonia, with a rejection rate of 33.1% and Belgium at 26.5%. Sweden and Croatia also reported relatively high rejection rates, reaching 23.1% and 20% respectively. The average rejection rate across all member states in 2023 was 54.2%.
Best Options for Obtaining a Schengen Visa in 2024
Based on current data, Germany is a favourable choice for securing a multiple-entry Schengen visa in 2024. The country’s efficient visa processes and approval rates make it an attractive option for travellers seeking flexibility in their Schengen travels.
Furthermore, recent developments indicate that Germany is introducing new migration measures to facilitate Romania’s full accession to the Schengen area. These measures are expected to streamline the visa process for Romanian citizens and enhance cooperation between the two countries in the context of Schengen membership.
Importance of Selecting the Right Schengen Travel Insurance Policy
Ensuring the selection of an appropriate Schengen travel insurance policy is essential in avoiding visa denials stemming from insurance-related issues. Applicants should prioritise comprehensive coverage that meets the specific requirements of the Schengen area, including sufficient medical coverage and repatriation in case of emergencies. Thoroughly understanding the terms and conditions of the chosen insurance policy is crucial for a successful visa application process.
In addition to the insurance aspect, applicants should remain vigilant about common pitfalls encountered during the visa application process. These may include incomplete documentation, insufficient proof of financial means, or inadequate travel itinerary details. By proactively addressing these potential stumbling blocks, applicants can significantly reduce the risk of visa rejection.
Future Changes in the Visa Application Process
By mid-2025, an estimated 1.4 billion travellers will be mandated to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before embarking on journeys to the EU. This system aims to enhance security and facilitate smoother entry processes for visitors.
Notably, the EU is actively developing an ETIAS mobile app, set to debut by mid-2025, with the intention of streamlining the application process and providing greater accessibility for travelers.
Furthermore, the countries mentioned have demonstrated commendable approval rates for Schengen visas, presenting potential applicants with advantageous options to consider for their visa applications in 2024.
In a move to foster skills acquisition and promote economic empowerment, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat through the Department of Mass Education has flagged off a one-week free holiday vocational and entrepreneurship training program.
The program is a collaborative initiative of the FCT Department of Mass Education, The Potter’s Wheel Foundation, and the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS).
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo emphasized the Importance of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship in today’s world describing it as imperative to be self reliant , empowered and resourceful.
He highlighted the Wike- led FCT Administration’s commitment to championing the Renewed Hope Agenda adding that the initiative is a critical strategy for reducing unemployment and building resilience among Abuja residents through practical skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training.
He commended the Department on the synergy between the government and non-governmental organizations noting that it will further empower the people of the FCT with skills and knowledge that lead to viable income-generating opportunities.
He urged the participants to fully utilize the opportunity, network actively and apply themselves diligently to the various training sessions.
In her welcome address,Dr. Favour Edem -Nse,the Director, FCT Department of Mass Education said,the training aligns with Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs) and contributes significantly to reducing the number of out- of- school children, unskilled youths and unemployed women in the Federal Capital Territory.
She added that, the Department goal is not just to train but to guide participants towards becoming self – sufficient and successful entrepreneurs .
She noted that the one week free training program is a manifestation of the Department ‘s broader vision of literacy and lifelong learning.
She revealed that the Department in collaboration with The Potter’s Wheel Foundation and the Nigerian Non- Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services( NOGALSS) will train them hands on session in production of laundry soap,bleach , liquid soap, toilet and car wash , disinfectant,air freshener,snack among others as well as key entrepreneurship modules on Bookkeeping and financial management, marketing and branding with social media management.
She expressed her gratitude to the Mandate Secretary for Education and the Management for the massive support of the life changing opportunity program targeted at women,youths, children and other community residents to equip them with tools for economic self reliance .
The well attended program which drew partner organizations, staff of the Department of Mass Education and enthusiastic participants will run throughout the week with facilitators providing continued support beyond the training period.
A 28-year-old electrician, whose name has not been revealed, has been electrocuted in Oyo State at Eruwa in Ibarapa East of Oyo State.
The victim was electrocuted at the Odo Babaode area of the town.
The man was electrocuted on a high-tension cable belonging to the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
The incident occurred when the victim was trying to rectify an electrical fault on the active power lines without being shut down from the feeder.
The General Manager of Oyo State Fire Service, Mr Yemi Akinyinka, who confirmed the development, said a distress call was received by the agency Wednesday afternoon.
He said, “The distressed call was reported at 15:29hrs on Wednesday, 23rd April, 2025.
“The fire personnel led by PFS1 Peluola Babatunde quickly followed the caller and on arrival at the place, we met the victim already electrocuted, and all necessary precautionary measures were observed so as to safeguard the citizens within the vicinity.
“The man was recovered and handed over to a team of police from Eruwa police Station. The incident occurred when the victim (electrician) was trying to rectify an electrical fault on the active power lines without shutting down the feeder.”
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