Securing a Schengen visa has become a formidable hurdle for Nigerians aspiring to travel to Europe for education, business, or tourism, according to new data from the European Commission.

In 2024, the Schengen region processed 11.7 million visa applications globally, rejecting 1.7 million—a 14.8% rejection rate—signaling tighter scrutiny and stricter documentation standards across member states.

The data highlights the top 10 Schengen countries with the highest visa rejection rates, presenting significant implications for Nigerian travelers and businesses reliant on seamless cross-border mobility.

Malta topped the list with a 38.5% rejection rate, denying 16,905 of 45,578 applications.

Estonia followed at 27.2%, rejecting 3,291 of 12,125 applications, while Belgium’s 24.6% rejection rate saw over 61,000 of 255,564 applications turned away.

Slovenia (24.5%), Sweden (24%), Denmark (23.7%), Croatia (19.3%), Poland (17.2%), France (15.8%), and the Czech Republic (15.8%) rounded out the list.

“These high rejection rates underscore the importance of meticulous preparation,” said Tunde Adebayo, a Lagos-based travel consultant. “Incomplete documentation, vague travel plans, or insufficient financial proof are common pitfalls for Nigerian applicants.”

Major Schengen destinations also reported significant denials.

Germany rejected 206,733 of 1.5 million applications (13.7%), while Spain turned away 244,432 applications (15.7%).

Italy, a key destination for Nigerian students and tourists, denied 134,303 of 1.2 million applications (10.9%).

Iceland, however, stood out with a notably low rejection rate of 6.6%.

The stringent visa policies could impact Nigerian businesses seeking European partnerships and students pursuing international education.

Industry experts urge applicants to ensure error-free submissions and robust documentation to navigate the rigorous evaluation processes.

10. Czech Republic – 15.8% rejection rate

9. France – 15.8% rejection rate

8. Poland – 17.2% rejection rate

7. Croatia – 19.3% rejection rate

6. Denmark – 23.7% rejection rate

5. Sweden – 24% rejection rate

4. Slovenia – 24.5% rejection rate

3. Belgium – 24.6% rejection rate

2. Estonia – 27.2% rejection rate

1. Malta – 38.5% rejection rate