What Happens if Your Schengen Visa is Rejected

Travelling to Europe is a dream for many, but it often comes with the crucial task of securing a Schengen visa from India. Covering 27 countries, the Schengen area allows travellers to explore most of Europe with a single visa. However, securing this visa isn't guaranteed. In fact, many applicants face a high Schengen visa rejection rate for various reasons. But what happens if your Schengen visa is rejected? 

In this blog, we will walk you through the reasons for rejection, your options post-rejection, and steps to improve your chances of approval in the future.

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

Before diving into what happens after a rejection, it’s important to understand why visas are denied in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Incomplete or Incorrect Application

An incomplete application form is one of the most frequent causes of a high Schengen visa rejection rate. Applicants often leave sections blank or fail to provide required documents, like flight tickets, hotel bookings, or financial statements. If the consulate finds discrepancies in the details, it can lead to rejection.

Lack of Sufficient Funds

To be granted a Schengen visa, you must prove that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. If your bank statements don’t reflect a balance that meets the required financial threshold or the consulate doubts your income's source, this can result in a refusal.

Insufficient Travel Insurance

A travel insurance package is mandatory for obtaining a Schengen visa. Your visa could be denied if your insurance doesn’t meet the required coverage amount (usually a minimum of €30,000). Also, some travellers make the mistake of not attaching proof of valid travel insurance with their application.

Invalid Passport or Documents

Another reason for rejection is submitting an invalid or expired passport. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of three months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area. Similarly, providing outdated or incorrect documents—such as fake hotel bookings—can lead to denial.

Unclear Travel Purpose

If your travel purpose isn't clear, or the consulate doubts your intention to return to your home country, they might reject your visa. This is common in cases where applicants fail to provide solid proof of employment or ties to their home country.

Previous Schengen Visa Violations

If you have a history of overstaying a previous Schengen visa or breaking any visa rules, your new application will likely be rejected. Immigration authorities track such violations and consider them serious.

What to Do if Your Schengen Visa is Rejected

Once you receive the rejection notice, don’t panic. Here's a step-by-step approach to what you can do next:

Understand the Reason for Rejection

The first thing you should do is carefully read the rejection letter issued by the consulate. This letter outlines the specific reason(s) for your visa denial. Once you understand what went wrong, you’ll be better positioned to take corrective action.

Appeal the Decision

You have the right to appeal a Schengen visa rejection. Each consulate has an appeal process, typically giving you 30 to 60 days to file your appeal. In your appeal letter, you must address the reasons for your rejection and provide supporting documentation. Keep in mind that the appeal process can take some time, so plan accordingly

Submit a New Application

If appealing doesn’t seem like the right option for you, or if your initial application had multiple issues, it may be easier to start over with a new visa application. When reapplying, make sure to correct all the mistakes from your previous submission. Ensure that your documents are up to date, that your travel insurance meets all the requirements, and that your travel itinerary is clear.

Seek Legal Assistance

If you're unsure about how to proceed, you may want to consult an immigration lawyer or visa expert. They can help review your application, ensure your documents are in order, and guide you through the appeal process if necessary.

How to Avoid Schengen Visa Rejection

While no method guarantees approval, following these tips can increase your chances of getting your Schengen visa the next time around:

Double-Check Your Application

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to avoid rejection is to ensure that your application form is completed accurately and that all required documents are included. Also, double-check the validity of your passport and other paperwork before submission.

Provide Strong Financial Proof

Make sure your bank statements show that you have sufficient funds to cover your trip. If your financial situation appears unstable, consider attaching a letter explaining any inconsistencies.

Buy Comprehensive Travel Insurance

As mentioned, travel insurance is a critical requirement for Schengen visa approval. Ensure your policy covers at least €30,000 in medical emergencies and repatriation. This will demonstrate that you are prepared for any unexpected circumstances during your trip.

Clear Travel Itinerary

Ensure that your travel purpose and itinerary are clear. Provide detailed bookings, flight confirmations, and hotel reservations. Attach any other supporting documents, such as an invitation letter from friends, family, or businesses you plan to visit.

Proof of Ties to Your Home Country

Attach proof of strong ties to your home, such as a letter from your employer, property ownership, or family connections. This reassures the consulate that you don’t have plans to overstay.

Wrapping Up

If your Schengen visa from India is rejected, it can be disappointing, but understanding the reasons and taking the right steps can lead to success in future applications. One key aspect to remember is that comprehensive travel insurance from a reputed insurer in the market, such as Niva Bupa, is mandatory for visa approval and is crucial in securing your travel plans.

At Niva Bupa, we offer the best Schengen travel insurance plans that meet all Schengen visa requirements. These plans provide coverage and peace of mind as you prepare for your European adventure.