10 Schengen Countries With the Fewest Visa Applications

The Schengen Area is a favorite destination for travelers having historic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures. While some can travel freely within the zone, many require a Schengen visa. Interestingly, the number of visa applications varies widely across member states, often reflecting economic conditions, travel preferences, and the popularity of specific locations.

Here Are 10 Schengen Countries With the Fewest Visa Applications

Based on data from SchengenVisaInfo for 2024, here are ten Schengen countries that received the fewest visa applications:

1. Luxembourg

Luxembourg processed the least applications in 2024, with just 11,227 submitted. This represented a mere 0.1% of the 10.3 million applications across the Schengen Area. Most applicants were from India, Türkiye, China, and Russia, accounting for 64.5% of the total.

2. Lithuania

Lithuania received 25,364 applications. Many came from Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia, reflecting its geographical proximity and cultural ties to these nations.

Also Read: EU Issues New Visa System For The Schengen Countries

3. Slovakia

Slovakia processed 13,468 applications. The majority came from Türkiye, the UAE, and India, followed by Egypt. These countries accounted for thousands of submissions.

4. Slovenia

With 19,990 applications, Slovenia saw submissions mainly from Kosovo, India, and Türkiye. Its approval rate was 63%.

5. Iceland

Iceland handled 21,542 applications in 2024. Despite its stunning landscapes, the country often sees fewer applications due to its remote location. Applicants came from the US, China, and Russia.

6. Latvia

Latvia received 18,897 applications and boasted a high approval rate of nearly 87%, one of the highest in the Schengen Area. Applicants were primarily from Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Belarus, the UK, Russia, and Türkiye.

Also Read: Bulgaria Gets The Support Of The Main European Powers For Joining Schengen

7. Malta

Malta processed 22,871 applications and had the lowest approval rate in the Schengen Area at 60%. Key applicants included individuals from Libya, India, and Egypt.

8. Estonia

Estonia handled 13,190 applications, placing it second on this list. While its approval rate stood at 61%, this was among the lowest in the region, just above Malta. Russians, Indians, Turks, Belarusians, and UK citizens made up 70.1% of its applications.

9. Finland

Finland processed 28,710 applications. Travelers from Russia made up a significant portion, alongside applicants from China and India.

10. Hungary

Hungary rounded out the list with 31,562 applications. Most submissions came from Türkiye, China, and Serbia, reflecting its role as a gateway for travelers from Eastern Europe.

Also Read: UAE Residents Will Soon Be Able To Apply For A Schengen Visa Online

Final Thoughts

This list shows how factors like geography, cultural ties, and travel trends shape visa application volumes. Whether planning a trip to one of these destinations or another Schengen country, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions about your travel plans.