Globalization has opened up a world of possibilities for Indian citizens, with many seeking job and study opportunities abroad. As one of the leading sources of global workers and students, navigating the visa process remains a significant challenge. While some countries are more lenient, others impose stricter requirements.
According to SchengenVisaInfo data, Indian citizens submitted a staggering 966,687 Schengen visa applications in 2024, with 811,290 approved and 151,752 rejected. This translates to an overall refusal rate of 83.9% for Indian applicants.
Despite the challenges, there are some Schengen countries where Indian citizens have a higher chance of obtaining a visa. Let’s delve into the top five destinations for Indian visa applicants in 2024:
1. Iceland:
Iceland stands out with a remarkable 95.4% approval rate, granting visas to 2,782 out of 2,904 applications. While this makes it an attractive option, it’s important to note that Iceland issued Multiple Entry Visas (MEVs) to only 18.29% of applicants, one of the lowest rates amongst Schengen countries.2. Germany:
Germany processed 132,825 visa applications from Indian citizens in 2024, approving an impressive 89.5%. Of the 118,819 approved visas, a remarkable 99.6% were MEVs, making Germany a top choice for those seeking the flexibility of multiple entries.3. Switzerland:
Switzerland received the highest number of Indian visa applications in 2023, with 166,919 approvals and an overall approval rate of 88%. The Swiss authorities also granted MEVs to 98.51% of approved applicants, making it a highly convenient choice for frequent travel within the Schengen area.4. Luxembourg:
Luxembourg saw an 85.8% approval rate for the 3,090 visa applications from Indian nationals. However, while the approval rate is high, only 42.59% of the issued visas were MEVs.5. Belgium:
In 2023, Belgium approved 85.8% of the 20,582 visa applications submitted by Indian citizens. A significant 71.9% of these approved visas were MEVs, offering a favorable option for Indians seeking multiple entries within the Schengen zone.While Switzerland processed the highest number of applications, Germany and Iceland stand out with exceptional approval rates for Indian applicants, making them top choices for those seeking a Schengen visa in 2024.
