Travel has been on every mind since the prolonged lockdown. And, if you are looking for a European holiday, getting a Schengen Visa is mandatory. By getting this visa, you can travel to 26 countries within the European Union. But not all Schengen country visas are easy to come by, with rejection rates going over 50%.
The easiest Schengen countries to apply for a Schengen visa from, are as follows.
Understanding the Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa gives you access to 26 countries across Europe that have eliminated border control protocols that are usually observed by most countries worldwide. As a result, if you have a Schengen visa, you can travel from one Schengen country to another for a maximum of 90 days within six months without any border checks.
The Schengen visa gives you access to the following countries:
Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, Spain, Slovakia, Portugal, Poland, Norway, Netherlands, Malta, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Latvia, Lithuania, Iceland, Hungary, Greece, Germany, Finland, France, Estonia, Denmark, Czech Republic, Croatia, Belgium and Austria.
It’s best to apply for a Schengen visa in the country where you plan to spend the most time or where you plan to begin your trip.
15 Schengen Countries to Apply for Visa
If you’re planning to explore Europe, a Schengen visa opens doors to 27 member countries with just one visa. Out of these, 15 popular choices for travellers include the following countries.
Switzerland
Switzerland is the easiest country to get a Schengen Visa. It had a rejection percentage of only 5.86% for Indians in 2019. Not only that, France, Italy and Germany surround Switzerland, so you can travel to these major European holiday destinations with minimum travel.
Austria
With the gorgeous castles, this country comes a close second on the list, with just 6.03% of Indian Visa rejections in 2019. Music Lovers can begin their holiday journey here in the city of Vienna, also known as the ‘City of Music’.
Finland
Almost at par with Austria is Finland in the list of easiest countries to apply for Schengen Visa. This country has a visa rejection rate of 6.05% for Indians. Whether saving up for the trip or applying for a personal loan, you can easily travel to the ‘Happiest Country in the World’.
Additional Read: The Top Destinations for your Europe Tour
Denmark
Besides an Indian visa rejection rate of just 6.68%, this country is an ideal place to start for biking and cycle enthusiasts. If that doesn’t entice you, maybe the world-famous Danish pastry from Denmark will begin your holiday on a sweet note.
Sweden
With a rejection rate of a little shy of 7% in 2019, staying at Sweden’s Ice Hotel would be a cool way to begin your European holiday.
Norway
With stunning fjords, captivating northern lights and a low 7.47% rejection for Indian applicants in 2019, Norway would be a great way to begin a European holiday. And if the cost of the trip seems too high, you can always apply for a travel loan.
Luxembourg
One of the smallest countries in the world with an equally low visa rejection rate of 7.48% in 2019, Indians can begin their journey in Luxembourg in the morning and have a Belgium waffle in a couple of hours!
Spain
This country, famous for its La Tomatina festival, had given visas to 91.86% of Indians who applied in 2019. Applications from Mumbai faced a low rejection percentage of 4.54%
Germany
If you are thinking of getting a Schengen Visa from Germany, applying from Kolkata would be your best bet. While the average rejection rate is 8.78% in 2019, only 3.29% of applicants from Kolkata had their visas rejected.
Belgium
Belgium, while last on this list, had a rejection rate of just 8.99% in 2019 from India.
Additional Read: Top Things to Consider before Traveling to Europe
Fun fact: Applicants from New Delhi had the lowest rejection rate for Schengen Visa for various popular European destinations in 2019.
Lithuania
Lithuania is a hidden gem in the Baltics, offering a rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring medieval castles or the unique sand dunes, Lithuania is a country that promises to surprise and delight at every turn.
Places to visit in Lithuania:
- Vilnius Old Town
- Trakai Island Castle
- Curonian Spit
- Hill of Crosses
Greece
Greece is a sun-soaked paradise where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes collide. From its iconic ruins to its crystal-clear waters, Greece invites you to explore its rich culture, savour its cuisine, and bask in its Mediterranean charm.
Places to visit in Greece:
- Acropolis of Athens
- Santorini’s Oia Village
- Meteora Monasteries
- Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
Iceland
Iceland is a land of otherworldly beauty, where fire and ice coexist in dramatic landscapes. With its geysers, waterfalls, and mesmerising Northern Lights, Iceland is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and natural wonders.
Places to visit in Iceland:
- Blue Lagoon
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Thingvellir National Park
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Estonia
Estonia is a country that should definitely make it to your travel itinerary. This northern European country is sure to captivate you with its picturesque towns and lush forests, making it an exciting destination for both history buffs and those looking to get away from the city hubbub.
Places to visit in Estonia:
- Tallinn Old Town
- Lahemaa National Park
- Pärnu Beach
- Saaremaa Island
Latvia
Latvia is a beautiful country where history, nature, and culture converge. From the cobbled streets of its capital to its serene beaches and dense forests, Latvia offers an array of experiences that will leave you inspired and eager to explore more.
Places to visit in Latvia:
- Riga Old Town
- Gauja National Park
- Jurmala Beach
- Rundale Palace
The bottom line
Are your travel Plans on hold because of a low budget? If yes, then look no further than Tata Capital’s personal loan for travel. With customizable repayment terms, low personal loan interest rates, and flexible tenures, you can avail of personal finance with us of up to 25 lakhs.
If you aren’t sure of your EMI affordability, try our online personal loan emi calculator. To know more, log on to our website or give us a call today!
FAQs
In case your visa is rejected, you can either apply again or send a letter of appeal. Refer to the EU’s Article 32 (3) of the Visa Code of the Schengen agreement for the latter.
If you overstay your Schengen visa, you could be deported, fined, jailed or even banned from entering the country again.
Indian citizens and citizens of other countries legally residing in India can apply for a Schengen visa in India. Those who don’t reside in India can only apply if they are legally present in India and can offer justification for applying for the visa in India instead of their residential country.
You can use the European Commission website’s calculator to help determine the number of days you have left on your visa.
Latvia, Hungary, and Lithuania are the easiest countries to get a Schengen visa from, as their processing times are often shorter.
03 December 2024
6 mins read
Previous Post
