The UAE residents planning a trip to Europe often encounter a common roadblock: difficulty booking Schengen visa appointments.
Due to high demand and limited time slots at consulates and embassies, getting an appointment can be more challenging than the visa approval itself.
Here’s everything you need to know to improve your chances of securing a Schengen visa in 2025, including the easiest countries to apply, appointment tips, and how long the process takes.
Countries with lowest Schengen visa rejection rate
According to recent reports, the following nine countries offer faster appointments and lower visa rejection rates in 2025:
1. France
France usually processes visas in 2 to 3 weeks. Getting an appointment is a bit easier here compared to many other countries. The rejection rate is around 18%.
2. Spain
Spain is a good option if you’re in a hurry. Appointments are quicker to find, and visa processing can take as little as one week. The rejection rate is under 12%.
3. Sweden
Sweden sometimes offers next-day appointments, even during busy seasons. It’s great for first-time travellers. Visas take around 10 to 15 days to process, and rejection is low—about 11% or less.
4. Finland
Finland is a quiet but solid option. Visas usually take up to 2 weeks, and the rejection rate is around 20%. It’s not as popular, so you might find earlier appointments.
5. Hungary
Hungary is a good choice if you’re heading to Central Europe. You can often get early appointments, and the visa takes 10 to 20 working days to process. The rejection rate is 14%.
6. Norway
Norway isn’t very crowded, and appointments are easier to get. It takes 15 to 20 working days to process visas. The rejection rate is about 15%.
7. Germany
Germany is popular but has strict rules. Visas take up to 30 days, and the rejection rate is higher—around 20%. It’s best to apply well in advance.
8. Italy
Italy is a favorite destination, but getting a visa isn’t always easy. If you’ve had a Schengen visa before, you might get a faster appointment. Processing takes 15 to 30 days, with a rejection rate of 21%.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland has a good processing time (15 to 25 days), but appointments are harder to find. The rejection rate is about 13%.
These countries have streamlined their visa processes, reduced backlogs, and improved online appointment systems—making them a smarter choice for travelers in need of quicker approvals.
High demand, limited availability
In 2025, the demand for Schengen visas has skyrocketed, especially during peak travel seasons. Unfortunately, most embassies offer limited appointment slots, making it difficult for applicants to secure a date for submitting their documents.
Third-party visa service providers
Agencies like VFS Global and BLS International manage visa application centers for many European countries. They provide free appointment booking on their official websites, but appointments fill up quickly. Processing fees vary depending on the destination country.
How long does Schengen visa processing take?
Once you’ve submitted your documents, visa processing usually takes between 15 to 45 days. However, the real challenge lies in booking the appointment itself, which can delay the process significantly.
Pro tips for booking a Schengen visa appointment
1. Plan early
Start your visa application process at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if traveling during summer or holidays.
2. Monitor appointment availability
Check embassy websites and visa center portals like VFS Global and BLS International multiple times a day. Some cancellations may open up last-minute slots.
3. Be flexible with your destination
If appointments in one country are full, consider applying through another Schengen country with better availability but a similar travel route.
4. Prepare all documents in advance
Have your documents ready—including flight itinerary, accommodation proof, travel insurance, and financial records—so you can book and apply immediately once an appointment becomes available.
While securing a Schengen visa appointment in 2025 can be challenging, with the right planning and flexibility, it’s still achievable. Targeting countries with better appointment systems and lower rejection rates—like France, Spain, or Germany—can significantly boost your success.
Make sure to check availability regularly, gather your documents early, and consider using official visa service providers to maximize your chances of approval.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
