10 Reasons Why Your Schengen Visa Was Rejected and How to Avoid Them
10 Reasons Why Your Schengen Visa Was Rejected and How to Avoid Them
In 2023, Schengen states rejected 1.6 million visa applications, representing approximately 16% of the total applications. This follows a rejection rate of 17.9% in 2022 and 13.4% in 2021. Based on the available data from the last 10 years (as shown in the graph below), the visa rejection rate has shown a consistent upward trend since 2014, with notable increases in recent years.
Source: European Commission
Reason? Well, the most straightforward reason is that as the Schengen Area is moving towards increased free movement, it is also strictly enforcing its rules and laws. This means that even a minor mistake or discrepancy in your application can lead to rejection.
In this blog, we will be covering in detail the small and big, most commonly made mistakes that often lead to visa denials. Whether your application has recently been rejected for, say, "purpose of travel not clear", and you are left wondering what it means, or if you are about to apply for a Schengen visa, this guide will help you understand the rejection reasons for Schengen visas, ensuring a successful visa application.
Common reasons for Schengen visa rejection:
Invalid passport
Lack of sufficient funds
Invalid travel insurance
Incorrect or mismatched information
Unclear purpose of travel
Weak proof of ties to home country
Previous visa violations
Having a criminal history
Fake hotel and flight reservations
Missing supporting documentation
Here’s a detailed account of the above-mentioned reasons for Schengen visa rejection, along with tips on how to avoid them.
1. Invalid passport
Problem: Your visa application could get rejected if your passport doesn't meet the following requirements when applying for the visa:
It must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
It should have at least two blank pages.
It should be issued within the last 10 years.
Additionally, if your passport is damaged or torn out or contains conflicting personal details (e.g., mismatched names or incorrect birthdates compared to supporting documents), it could also negatively affect your application.
What to do? To avoid rejection due to an invalid passport, ensure your passport is up-to-date and meets all the necessary requirements outlined above. If it is nearing expiry or doesn't meet the validity criteria, renew your passport well in advance of your application.
Note: Additionally, if you are residing in another country and applying from there, such as an Indian passport holder living in the UAE, you must provide valid residence proof. This document should be valid for at least three months from the date of your intended departure from the Schengen area.
2. Lack of sufficient funds
Problem: When applying for a Schengen visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to cover your travel expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other costs. This assures the government that in no way would you become a financial liability to the visiting country. So, if the financial documents you submit fail to meet the minimum requirements or show inconsistencies, your application might be rejected.
Typically, showing a minimum balance of around €100-120 per day of stay, translating to approximately €3,000 to €3,600 for a 30-day stay, is enough.
Some Schengen countries also have set financial requirements, like Poland, which requires you to have a minimum bank balance set at 75 PLN per day of the trip.
If you fail to meet this minimum bank balance benchmark, your application is bound to get rejected.
What to do? To avoid rejection due to lack of funds, ensure your financial documents clearly demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover all your travel expenses. Here are the quick to-dos:
Before applying for the visa, research the specific financial requirements of the Schengen country or countries you intend to visit, as these may vary.
If there is no set minimum financial requirement by the respective Schengen country, calculate the total funds you need based on your planned duration of stay and ensure your account balance exceeds this minimum threshold. Generally, it is safe to have €100-120 per day of stay.
Include additional supporting documents, such as salary slips, employment letters, or proof of other assets, to demonstrate financial stability. If a sponsor is funding your trip, include a sponsorship letter along with their bank statements and proof of relationship with you.
Note: Submit official bank statements from the past 3–6 months, ensuring they reflect regular income and consistent transactions. Large, unexplained deposits just before submission can raise red flags, so avoid sudden cash inflows unless you provide a credible explanation.
3. Invalid travel insurance
Problem: One of the mandatory documents when applying for a Schengen visa is travel insurance. It must meet the following criteria:
The minimum coverage shall be €30,000.00.
The insurance shall be valid throughout the territory of the Schengen States.
It should cover the entire period of the person’s intended stay or transit in the Schengen Area.
The travel insurance should cover any expenses that might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, or death during the stay(s) on the territory of the Member States.
If applying for a multiple-entry visa, your travel insurance must cover your first trip, and you can renew it as necessary for subsequent trips.
Moreover, your insurance must be from the Schengen countries' recognised insurance provider.
If your insurance fails to meet any of the above criteria, your application can be rejected.
What to do? Ensure that your policy meets all the specified requirements for Schengen visa applications. If you are having trouble finding valid Schengen travel insurance, consider applying for visas through authorised channels, like Atlys, which also provides travel insurance that meets Schengen requirements.
Additionally, double-check the insurance policy's validity dates to ensure they align with your travel itinerary. Any discrepancies in dates, coverage, or region can negatively impact your visa application.
4. Incorrect or Mismatched Information
Problem: Providing incorrect or mismatched information is one of the most common reasons for Schengen visa rejection. This can include inconsistencies between your application form and supporting documents, such as discrepancies in your name, date of birth, travel dates, or passport details. Even minor errors, such as mismatched addresses, can raise suspicion about the authenticity or accuracy of your application.
Note: Always provide genuine and truthful information. In more serious cases, intentional false statements or forged documents can lead to outright denial and, in some cases, a ban on future visa applications.
What to do? You must carefully review your application form and all supporting documents before submission. Whether it’s your name, date of birth, passport number, or other personal details, ensure they are consistent across each and every document you submit.
When filling out the application form, keep the passport and documents handy to match them parallel, and then enter the details.
If you’re unsure about certain sections, consult the official guidelines provided by the embassy or consulate or seek assistance from a reliable visa consultant.
You can also ask your friends and family to proofread your application, ensuring it’s completely correct.
5. Unclear purpose of travel
Problem: When applying for a Schengen visa, it is crucial to clearly establish the purpose of your trip. The consulate needs to ensure that your intent aligns with the type of visa you are applying for, whether for tourism, business, family visit, study, or medical reasons. Vague, incomplete, or missing information about your travel purpose raises suspicion about your intentions and can lead to denial.
Here is a list of documents you are required to provide depending on the purpose of your visit:
For tourism: A detailed travel itinerary (including your planned activities, destinations, and dates), proof of accommodation and round-trip flight reservations.
For business: An invitation letter from the company or organisation in the Schengen Area, your employment certificate and a letter from your employer outlining your business activities.
For family visit: A formal invitation letter from your host (including their address, contact details, and proof of their residency status in the Schengen Area), along with evidence of your relationship with the host.
For study: An official letter of acceptance or enrollment from the educational institution, proof of tuition fee payment or scholarship documentation, and details of your accommodation during your stay.
For medical reasons: A letter from your doctor explaining your medical condition and the need for treatment abroad, along with an appointment confirmation or treatment plan from a hospital or clinic in the Schengen Area.
What to do? To avoid rejection due to an unclear purpose of travel and easily obtain your Schengen visa, you need to keep these two points in mind:
Submit all the required documents outlined above, depending on the purpose of your trip. Additionally, ensure all documents are up-to-date, consistent, and match the information in your application form. Provide translations for documents that are not in the official language of the embassy or consulate.
Note: For official documents like company and college enrollment letters, ensure they are notarised or apostilled as instructed.
When creating documents like your itinerary and cover letter, make sure you include key details such as travel dates, destination, activities, accommodation and contact details. A well-structured and detailed itinerary and cover letter not only support your case but also demonstrate thorough preparation and genuine intent, helping to strengthen your visa application.
6. Weak proof of ties to home country
Problem: Another key factor consulates consider when reviewing a Schengen visa application is whether the applicant has strong ties to their home country. This assures the authorities that you intend to return after your trip and not overstay your visa. Weak proof of ties—such as inadequate evidence of family, employment, financial stability, or property ownership—can result in your application being rejected, as it raises concerns about your likelihood of returning home.
What to do? To avoid rejection due to weak proof of ties, submit robust and credible evidence that demonstrates your strong connection to your home country. Here is a long list of documents that can serve as strong proof of ties to your home county:
Employment ties: If you are employed, include a letter from your employer that confirms your job title, salary, and duration of employment. The letter should also mention that your leave has been approved and that your position will be held for you upon your return. If you are self-employed, submit business registration documents, tax returns, or proof of consistent income from your business. This demonstrates job security and a strong financial obligation to return.
Family responsibilities: Provide marriage certificates, birth certificates of children, or legal guardianship documents to demonstrate familial obligations. These documents are particularly helpful for housewives, parents, or anyone with dependents.
Property ownership: Submit property documents, such as title deeds, lease agreements, or utility bills for houses, apartments, or land owned in your name. These show significant investments in your home country, ensuring your return. Retired unemployed individuals who own property or land can rely on this as proof of their ties to their home country.
Educational commitment: Include a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment, program details, and term dates. The letter should also state that your studies will continue upon your return.
By presenting clear and comprehensive proof of your ties to your home country, you can reassure consular officials of your genuine intent to return and significantly improve the chances of your Schengen visa approval.
Tip: Combine multiple forms of evidence to create a stronger case. For example, submit proof of employment along with property documents and family ties.
7. Previous visa violation(s)
Problem: Having a history of visa violations (whether Schengen or any other country), such as overstaying a previous visa, working without authorisation, or breaching the terms of your stay, can significantly harm your chances of obtaining a Schengen visa. This affects your credibility, leading the consulates to conclude that you might again breach the set visa rules in place. Even minor infractions, like a late departure from a previous trip, can be a red flag and lead to rejection.
What to do? It is important to note that a visa violation does not automatically result in a visa rejection. Rather, the ambiguity and lack of justification provided result in a negative outcome. In case you have past visa violations, here’s what you can do to ensure a positive outcome:
Provide a strong application: Begin by ensuring all other aspects of your application are robust and flawless. Submit accurate and complete documentation demonstrating your financial stability, purpose of travel, and strong ties to your home country. A well-prepared application can help offset concerns about past visa violations.
Address the issue in your cover letter: If your previous visa violation was due to a genuine reason, such as financial hardship, a medical emergency, or other unavoidable circumstances, acknowledge this in your cover letter. Provide a brief explanation along with supporting evidence, such as medical records, financial statements, or correspondence, to validate your claim.
Be prepared for an interview (if requested): If the consulate asks for an interview, be ready to explain the circumstances of your past violation. Clearly outline the reasons, demonstrate accountability, and emphasise the changes you’ve made to ensure compliance in the future. For example, if the issue was financial, show evidence of current financial stability that will ensure that you do not violate any visa rule this time.
Tip: If you do not have an acceptable reason for a previous visa violation, consult visa or legal experts who can guide you through the application process and ensure visa approval.
8. Having a criminal history
Problem: A criminal history, especially involving serious offences, can be a major obstacle in obtaining a Schengen visa. Authorities assess whether the applicant poses a risk to public security, and any record of criminal behaviour may raise doubts about their intent and eligibility. Even minor offences might be scrutinised, depending on the country and its policies.
What to do? If required, disclose your criminal history honestly in the cover letter. Mention how much time has passed since the offence and any steps you’ve taken to rehabilitate or improve your circumstances. If available, include proof of rehabilitation, such as character references, a certificate of good conduct, or employment records. This will serve as strong proof of how the circumstances have changed.
However, if your criminal record involves serious offences or if you’re unsure how it might impact your visa application, seek professional advice from a visa expert or an immigration lawyer. They can help you present your case in a manner that minimises the risk of rejection.
9. Fake hotel and flight reservations
Problem: Although submitting confirmed proof is not mandatory, you require flight and accommodation reservations when applying for the Schengen visa. Submitting fake hotel and flight reservations results in immediate rejection and, in some cases, a ban on future applications.
What to do? DO NOT SUBMIT FAKE DOCUMENTS! In fact, there is no need to. Take advantage of the many hotels and airlines that offer refundable bookings or flexible cancellation policies. These options are widely available online and provide a legitimate and hassle-free way to meet the Schengen documentation requirements.
10. Missing supporting documentation
Problem: The last reason is missing supporting documents. Each Schengen country has a list of documents that applicants are required to submit. Moreover, the documentation is different not only depending on the type of visa you are applying for but also depending on your social and professional status in society.
These supporting documents generally include a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, financial statements, national identity card, itinerary, flight tickets and cover letter. Failure to include these or inconsistencies in the documents can lead to rejection.
Solution: Refer to the official list of documents required for a Schengen visa from the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you’re applying to. Step-by-step, ensure that you tick off all the documents mentioned in the checklist. If a document is temporarily unavailable, include a written explanation in your application and mention when you’ll be able to provide it.
Here’s what to do after your Schengen visa gets rejected
If your Schengen visa application is rejected, here are three key steps you can take to address the situation:
Reapply: If the issue outlined in the rejection letter is easily addressable, rectify the issue and then reapply with a more robust application.
Appeal the decision: If you believe your application was unfairly rejected, you can appeal the decision. Write an appeal letter to the consulate or embassy explaining why the rejection was unwarranted and provide supporting evidence to strengthen your case.
For further information, read our blog on how you can apply or appeal a decision after Schengen visa rejection.
Conclusion
Although obtaining a Schengen visa can be a meticulous process, understanding the common pitfalls and addressing them proactively can significantly improve your chances of approval. If your application is rejected, don't lose hope—identify the reason and understand it with the help of your blog to address it and reapply for the visa. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can navigate the Schengen visa process successfully and enjoy your European adventure with peace of mind.