5 Reasons why your Schengen Visa May be Rejected – here’s what you can do to fix it

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European vacations are becoming a big hit among Indians. According to a report from the European Commission, Schengen visa applications by Indian nationals saw a huge jump of 43% in 2023 compared to the previous year. In fact, India ranked third in the total number of Schengen visa applications in 2023, with a whopping 966,687 filings.

Last month, the European Commission rolled out a new visa “cascade” system specifically for Indian nationals seeking Schengen visas. This new regime aims to make it easier to get multiple-entry visas with longer validity periods.

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However, getting a Schengen visa isn’t as simple as it might seem. Indians were actually among the top five nationalities with the most rejections in 2023. Schengen states turned down a total of 1.6 million visa applications that year, bringing in around €130 million in fees from these rejected applications, as reported by SchengenNews.

What Should I Do If My Schengen Visa Is Rejected?

If your Schengen visa gets rejected, don’t worry; you can reapply whenever you’re ready. There’s no strict rule on how long you need to wait before submitting a new application. However, it’s a good idea to address the reasons for your initial rejection before applying again. This way, you can avoid facing another disappointment.

How to Write an Appeal Letter If Your Visa Is Denied?

Receive the Refusal Notification:
When your Schengen visa application is turned down, you’ll receive a “Standard Form for Notifying and Motivating Refusal.” This document outlines why your visa was rejected, and you should keep a copy for your records.

Determine Whether You Have the Right to Appeal:
Before you start the appeal process, make sure that the Member State that refused your visa allows appeals. Contact the embassy of that particular Member State to confirm whether you can appeal. If they give you the green light, you can move forward with writing your appeal letter.

Analyze and Address the Reasons for Your Visa Refusal:
The refusal letter you received will detail the reasons behind your Schengen visa rejection. It’s crucial to address these specific reasons in your appeal letter to have a shot at overturning the decision.

Collect the Supporting Documents:
The supporting documents you’ll need to appeal your visa refusal depend on why your application was rejected. For instance, if your visa was denied due to false documents, criminal charges, or insufficient funds, you’ll need to gather evidence that addresses these issues. Some common reasons for refusal include an unclear purpose of visit, concerns that you might not return to your home country, insufficient travel insurance coverage, or not providing proof of adequate funds.

FAQs

Q: Can I reapply for a Schengen visa immediately after being rejected?
A: Yes, you can reapply at any time. However, it’s wise to address the reasons for the initial refusal before submitting a new application to increase your chances of approval.

Q: What are the most common reasons for Schengen visa rejections?
A: Common reasons include an unclear purpose of visit, suspicion that you may not return to your home country, insufficient travel insurance coverage, and not providing proof of sufficient funds.

Q: How can I improve my chances of getting a Schengen visa after a rejection?
A: To improve your chances, carefully review the reasons for your initial rejection, gather all necessary documents, and make sure you fully address each concern in your new application or appeal letter.

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