Schengen visa 2025: top countries where it is easiest to obtain

If you are planning a trip to Europe in 2025 and want to minimise the risk of being denied a Schengen visa, it is wise to consider applying through consulates of countries with high approval rates. Learn how to choose the best country to apply in order to increase your chances of a successful trip

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At the end of 2024, more than half of Schengen visa applications were approved, with an overall approval rate of 52.2%. However, in some Schengen countries, it is much easier to obtain a visa than in others, and in 2025, this information may play a key role for those planning a trip to Europe.

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Where is it easiest to obtain a Schengen visa in 2025?

Iceland remains the absolute leader among countries in terms of approval rates, with 91.25% of applications approved. Despite a slight decrease compared to 2023 (94.26%), the country continues to offer some of the most favourable conditions for tourists.

The list of countries with high approval rates also includes:

Slovakia – 89.25%

Italy – 88.72%

Romania – 88.36%

Switzerland – 88.12%

Hungary – 87.23%

Norway – 87.20%

Greece – 85.86%

Austria – 85.78%

Luxembourg – 85.65%

For comparison, in 2023, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Germany were also among the ten countries with the highest chances, but in 2024 their positions shifted slightly.

Which Schengen countries accept applications more often?

Although the approval rate is a key indicator, it is important to consider the volume of applications. For example, Iceland received more than 35,000 applications in 2024, which is 57% more than a year earlier. This means an increase in popularity and trust among tourists.

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Who gets a Schengen visa most often?

Interestingly, a high approval rate was also recorded among applicants from countries with a relatively low number of applications. The leaders among third-country nationals in terms of the number of positive decisions were:

Liberia – 97.6% (125 applications submitted)

Vanuatu – 95.79% (250 out of 261 applications were approved)

Zambia – 88.87%

Botswana – 83.10%

Niger – 78.86%

Burundi – 58.63%

Tajikistan – 60.54%

Haiti – 52.02%

Guinea-Bissau – 43.84%

Comoros – 36.35%

Despite the small total number of applications, these countries demonstrate strong loyalty rates on the part of consulates.

Remember that to apply for a Schengen visa, you must have insurance that covers risks during your trip. You can purchase such a policy on the Visit Ukraine portal.

What does this mean for tourists?

If you are planning a trip to Europe in 2025 and want to minimise the risk of rejection, it is wise to consider applying through consulates with high approval rates — especially if your itinerary allows it. It is also worth considering how busy the consulates are: in countries with fewer applications, it is often quicker and easier to get an appointment.

Reminder! In 2025, Schengen countries continue to face challenges that require the restoration of border controls. These measures are aimed at improving security and managing migration flows. Find out which countries have restrictions in place.

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