7 Schengen Countries Where Getting a Visa is the Easiest

The Schengen Area, encompassing 26 European nations, attracts travellers with its rich cultures, breathtaking monuments and places, and historical wonders. A Schengen visa unlocks the door to this wonderland, allowing visa-free movement across member states. But going through the visa application process can sometimes feel like walking in a maze.

This blog cuts through the complexity, revealing 7 Schengen countries known for their relatively easier visa procedures and travel insurance for Schengen visa. But before we delve in, let's address a crucial part: travel insurance for your Schengen visa application.

Understanding Schengen Visa Insurance

Schengen visa regulations require medical and hospitalisation coverage for your stay, with a minimum value of €30,000 (₹26,98,110). Travel insurance fulfils this requirement, offering peace of mind and demonstrating financial responsibility to immigration authorities.

Look for a Schengen visa insurance policy that covers:

• Medical emergencies: Hospitalisation costs, doctor visits, and medications.

• Medical repatriation: Emergency transport back to your home country for further treatment.

• Personal liability: Coverage for accidental damage caused to others or their property.

• Trip cancellation/interruption: Refund for unforeseen circumstances that disrupt your travel plans.

Finding the Right Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

• Compare quotes: Explore various insurance providers to find a policy that aligns with your budget and trip duration.

• Read the fine print: Meticulously review coverage details, exclusions, and claim procedures.

• Choose a reputable insurer: Opt for an insurance company with strong financial backing and a proven track record.

 7 Schengen countries

Now, let's unlock the gateway to Europe with our list of 7 Schengen countries known for a smoother visa application process:

1. Lithuania

This captivating nation boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Lithuania consistently maintains a high visa approval rate, exceeding 98% in recent years. Fewer visa applications than popular tourist destinations translate to quicker processing times and potentially easier appointments.

2. Latvia

Latvia, Lithuania's neighbour, offers a similar advantage. With a visa approval rate of around 97.5%, Latvia presents a welcoming entry point to the Schengen Area. Explore its medieval towns, pristine beaches, and captivating natural landscapes.

3. Iceland

This Nordic island nation engages visitors with its scenic scenery, including glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal wonders. Iceland generally exhibits a positive visa application approach, with a focus on genuine travel plans and sufficient financial resources.

4. Finland

Finland, known for its stunning lakes, forests, and vibrant capital city, Helsinki, maintains a transparent and efficient visa application process. Gather the required documents and present a well-structured itinerary, and you might be well on your way to experiencing Finnish charm.

5. Slovenia

This nation, nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, offers a captivating blend of high mountain ranges, charming towns, and a cultural heritage. Slovenia's visa application process is known for its clarity and straightforwardness.

6. Slovakia

Slovakia, often overshadowed by its neighbour the Czech Republic, offers a treasure trove of historical sites, majestic castles, and breathtaking natural beauty. The visa application process is generally considered streamlined, with a focus on presenting the necessary documentation accurately.

7. Luxembourg

This microstate, bordered by France, Germany, and Belgium, boasts a high standard of living and a captivating blend of medieval and modern architecture. Luxembourg's visa application process is known for its efficiency, with a focus on demonstrating sufficient financial resources for your intended stay.

Remember: While these countries are known for their relatively easier visa procedures, visa approval ultimately depends on your individual circumstances, travel plans, and supporting documents.

Why Choosing the Right Country Matters?

Even though a Schengen visa allows travel across multiple countries, you must submit your application to either the country where you plan to spend the longest duration or, if your stay is equally divided, the country of first entry.

Each Schengen country follows the same visa framework but differs in approval rates, application volumes, and scrutiny levels. Selecting the most suitable, and often the easiest, Schengen country to apply through can therefore play a crucial role in improving your chances of visa approval.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Schengen Visa Application

• Apply at the right embassy/consulate: Ensure you submit your application to the embassy or consulate representing the country you intend to enter first or spend the majority of your time in.

• Gather complete documentation: Meticulously collect all required documents as outlined by the embassy/consulate. Ensure their validity, accuracy, and proper translations if necessary.

• Demonstrate sufficient funds: Provide bank statements or proof of income to demonstrate your ability to support yourself financially during your stay.

• Present a compelling itinerary: A well-structured itinerary showcasing your planned activities and accommodation strengthens your application.

• Maintain travel insurance: A valid Schengen visa insurance policy is mandatory and demonstrates financial responsibility.

Final Words

Guiding through the Schengen visa application process can be simplified by choosing the right destination and securing adequate travel insurance for the Schengen visa. Among the seven Schengen countries mentioned, each offers unique cultural experiences and relatively smoother visa procedures.

Regarding insurance, Niva Bupa Travel Insurance stands out for its vast coverage and excellent service reputation. Buy travel insurance for Schengen visa from Niva Bupa. By prioritising both visa requirements and insurance needs, travellers can undertake their European adventure with confidence, knowing they are financially protected and well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for a Schengen visa from any country I plan to visit?

No, you must apply through the Schengen country where you intend to spend the maximum number of days during your trip. If your stay is evenly divided between multiple countries, your application should be submitted to the country of first entry. Along with meeting visa requirements, applicants are advised to arrange travel insurance or insurance for travelling, as it is a mandatory requirement for Schengen visa approval.

2. Does applying through an easier country guarantee visa approval?

Applying through a country known for relatively smoother processing does not guarantee visa approval. Final decisions depend on your travel history, financial stability, documentation accuracy, and overall intent to travel. Having valid online travel insurance and comprehensive supporting documents can, however, strengthen your application and demonstrate responsible travel planning.

3. Are Schengen visa rules the same for all member countries?

Yes, Schengen visa rules are largely uniform across all member countries, including requirements for documentation, purpose of travel, and mandatory insurance for travelling that covers medical emergencies and repatriation. However, processing timelines, interview requirements, and approval rates may vary from one country to another.