India: Schengen visa rejections in 2023 cost INR 109 crore loss

If reports are to go by, Indian travellers experienced significant financial setbacks last year, losing INR 109 crore due to the rejection of Schengen visa applications. With 151,752 out of 966,687 Indian applications denied, concerns have been raised about the affordability and accessibility of the visa process.

Visa application rejections result in the forfeiture of the application fee, creating a distressing situation for many travellers. As the fee continues to rise annually, this financial burden becomes increasingly challenging for Indians planning to visit Europe. India now ranks third globally for the highest number of Schengen visa denials, following Turkey and Algeria, contributing to a global loss of INR 1,172 crore in application fees.

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Common reasons for visa rejections include vague travel intentions, incomplete documentation, and inadequate proof of financial capacity to cover travel expenses. Additionally, past visa violations and unfavourable employment histories also contribute to the high refusal rates.

The financial strain is further exacerbated by a recent increase in visa fees. The European Commission announced a 12% hike in Schengen visa costs, effective June 11, 2024, impacting applicants worldwide. The fee for adult applicants has increased to EUR 90 (approximately INR 8000) from EUR 80 (approximately INR 7000). For children aged 6 to 12, the fee is now EUR 45 (approximately INR 4000), up from EUR 40 (approximately INR 3500).

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Countries that are deemed uncooperative in repatriating their citizens may face even steeper fee increases, potentially ranging from EUR 135 to EUR 180 (approximately INR 12000 to INR 16000). This decision follows a routine review of EU visa fees conducted every three years under the Schengen Visa Code, highlighting the financial challenges visa applicants face.

As the cost of applying for a Schengen visa continues to rise, the financial impact on potential travellers grows more severe, underscoring the need for more accessible and affordable travel processes.

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Schengen states: The Schengen area consists of 26 European countries These are – Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

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