For many Nigerians, visiting Europe for education, business, tourism, or family-related purposes remains a significant dream. However, recent figures from the European Commission reveal that securing a Schengen visa is becoming increasingly difficult, with tighter regulations and rising rejection rates posing new hurdles for applicants.

According to 2024 data, out of 11.7 million Schengen visa applications submitted globally, 1.7 million were rejected. This translates to a 14.8% overall rejection rate—a figure that underscores the growing challenges applicants face in meeting the expectations of European consulates. For Nigerian travelers in particular, these statistics highlight the importance of choosing the right country of entry and preparing documentation with meticulous care.

Below is a breakdown of the ten Schengen countries that recorded the highest visa rejection rates in 2024, based on the most recent data. Each of these nations applies strict entry standards, making it crucial for applicants to be aware of specific pitfalls and prepare accordingly.

10. Czech Republic – 15.8% Rejection Rate

Despite having fewer overall applications compared to major countries like France and Germany, the Czech Republic matched France’s rejection rate. Out of 150,629 applications, 23,735 were denied. Rejections here often stemmed from vague or incomplete travel itineraries. As a result, applicants targeting this country must submit highly detailed travel plans, including hotel bookings, return flight details, and comprehensive schedules.

9. France – 15.8% Rejection Rate

France remains one of the most sought-after European destinations, receiving over 3 million visa applications in 2024. However, nearly half a million applications were rejected, placing France among the stricter Schengen states. For Nigerian applicants, navigating France’s thorough documentation requirements can be particularly daunting. Issues like insufficient financial proof, errors in invitation letters, or incomplete paperwork frequently lead to denial.

8. Poland – 17.2% Rejection Rate

Poland turned down more than 19,000 visa applications despite increased overall interest. A common issue was non-compliance with document standards, especially regarding bank statements, travel insurance, and sponsor letters. Applicants targeting Poland must ensure they meet all specifications without error or ambiguity.

7. Croatia – 19.3% Rejection Rate

Though Croatia only recently joined the Schengen Zone, it has quickly aligned with the region’s rigorous visa standards. Of 42,165 applications, 8,003 were rejected. Being a relatively new member, applicants may underestimate Croatia’s scrutiny level. However, the country has shown it applies the same strict criteria as older Schengen members.

6. Denmark – 23.7% Rejection Rate

With over 31,000 visa denials out of 132,158 applications, Denmark sits firmly in the top half of this list. The country is known for thoroughly evaluating supporting documents, particularly invitation letters and financial statements. Incomplete or unverifiable financial records often lead to rejection.

5. Sweden – 24% Rejection Rate

Sweden rejected 44,576 out of 188,623 applications, showing that even popular tourist destinations maintain high entry standards. Despite its image as a traveler-friendly nation, Sweden scrutinizes every document closely. Applicants should ensure that their submission is accurate and well-organized, especially when applying for tourism or student visas.

4. Slovenia – 24.5% Rejection Rate

Slovenia may not be among the most prominent Schengen nations, but it denied 4,417 out of the 18,171 applications it received. This high percentage highlights that even smaller countries with fewer applicants are applying rigorous checks, especially on documentation that confirms the purpose of travel.

3. Belgium – 24.6% Rejection Rate

With a total of 255,564 applications and more than 61,000 rejections, Belgium has become one of the toughest Schengen states to access. Common reasons for rejection include inconsistencies in travel documents, discrepancies in sponsor details, or failure to prove sufficient financial means.

2. Estonia – 27.2% Rejection Rate

Estonia processed 12,125 visa applications and rejected 3,291. Despite the small volume, its high rejection percentage points to one of the most selective consular systems in the Schengen area. Applicants are advised to be precise and accurate, particularly when applying under tourism or business categories.

1. Malta – 38.5% Rejection Rate

Topping the list, Malta recorded the highest visa rejection rate among Schengen countries in 2024. Out of 45,578 applications, 16,905 were denied—equivalent to nearly 4 in every 10 applicants. Malta’s high rejection rate is attributed to strict enforcement of visa rules, limited consular outreach, and high documentation scrutiny, particularly for applicants from African countries. For Nigerians, applying through Malta may require exceptional care in documentation, especially regarding accommodation, funding, and return plans.

Notable Mentions: Other Major European Countries

While the top ten rejection rates highlight the strictest Schengen nations, several other countries with high application volumes also showed significant visa denial numbers:

• Germany processed about 1.5 million applications and rejected 206,733, leading to a 13.7% rejection rate. Despite being a common choice for study and business travel, Germany enforces comprehensive documentation checks.

• Italy received approximately 1.2 million applications and denied 134,303, marking a 10.9% rejection rate. Although slightly below the average, applicants must still provide detailed proof of funds, purpose, and ties to Nigeria.

• Spain, with its sunny climate and tourism appeal, rejected 244,432 of its visa applications, giving it a 15.7% rejection rate. Common issues include incomplete bookings, invalid insurance, and inconsistent financial statements.

In contrast, Iceland emerged as one of the most visa-approving Schengen nations, with a rejection rate of only 6.6%. This suggests that applicants who meet the entry requirements and apply through Iceland may have a better chance of visa approval, though this also depends on their specific circumstances and documentation.

What Nigerian Applicants Should Do

Given these statistics, aspiring travelers from Nigeria must take proactive steps to improve their visa success rates:

1. Choose consulates strategically: Countries like Iceland, Italy, and Germany may offer slightly more leniency, depending on circumstances.

2. Prepare complete documentation: Ensure that bank statements, invitation letters, travel insurance, and travel itineraries are clear, consistent, and current.

3. Avoid errors: Even minor inconsistencies or missing pages can lead to rejections.

4. Seek professional help when necessary: Immigration consultants or travel agents familiar with Schengen procedures can assist in ensuring applications are error-free.

5. Apply early: Starting the application process well in advance allows time for corrections or follow-ups if required.

Conclusion

With nearly 15% of Schengen visa applications being rejected in 2024 and some countries turning away as many as 40% of applicants, Nigerian travelers must approach the application process with increased diligence. Selecting the right country of entry and preparing flawless documentation are crucial steps in increasing the chances of a successful outcome. As European nations continue to tighten visa processes, applicants must rise to the challenge by ensuring thoroughness, transparency, and compliance in every submission.