1.65 Lakh Schengen Visa Rejections Cost Indians ₹125 Crore: What Travel Agents Need to Know

1.65 Lakh Schengen Visa Rejections Cost Indians ₹125 Crore: What Travel Agents Need to Know

Europe’s Travel Dreams Come at a Cost

Europe continues to top the bucket list for Indian tourists and business travellers alike. But for many, the cost of getting there in 2024 was more than just a visa fee—it was a financial setback. Recent data reveals that over 1.65 lakh Schengen visa applications from India were rejected, resulting in a staggering ₹125 crore in lost application fees.

For B2B travel agents, consolidators, and corporate planners, these statistics underscore the growing need for strategic planning and client education.

The Price of a Schengen Visa in 2024

In 2024, Indian travellers paid an estimated €94.2 million (₹840+ crore) on Schengen visa applications. With a mid-year fee hike from €80 to €90 (June 11, 2024), the average cost per applicant increased—amplifying losses from denied applications.

Visa Application Fee: Now €90 per person
Rejection Impact: Over ₹125 crore lost due to 165,266 rejected applications

Top Destinations – and Where the Money Went

While country-specific breakdowns for Indian applications aren’t published yet, France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands remain top European destinations for Indian travellers. Notably, France alone earned €261.1 million from Schengen visa fees in 2024, followed by Germany at €128.5 million.

Approval Rates: Which Consulates Performed Best?

If your clients have some itinerary flexibility, advising them to apply via consulates with high approval rates can significantly improve success rates.

Pro Tip: Recommend consulates with the best track records to boost your clients’ approval odds.

Why Are Indian Applications Being Rejected?

Travel professionals should be aware of the common pitfalls that trigger Schengen visa rejections:

• Missing or inaccurate documents

• No valid travel insurance

• Incomplete or vague itineraries

• Insufficient proof of funds

• Inconsistencies in travel history
  

How to Improve Your Clients’ Approval Chances

Submit Early
Encourage clients to apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance.

Prepare Comprehensive Documentation
Ensure all supporting papers—bank statements, hotel bookings, insurance—are clear, up-to-date, and credible.

Focus on Financial Proof
Bank balances, tax returns, and employment letters should collectively reflect the ability to fund the trip.

Choose High-Approval Consulates
Use the approval-rate table above to guide applications.

Verify Insurance & Bookings
Only work with trusted insurance providers and booking platforms.

The B2B Takeaway: Education = Approval

As more Indians set their sights on Europe, travel professionals have a key role in ensuring clients are not just hopeful—but prepared. These rejections don’t just affect individual travellers; they ripple across agencies, airlines, and entire travel ecosystems.

Final Thoughts

Schengen visa success is no longer just about filling forms—it’s about informed guidance, strategic choices, and precise documentation. Travel agents who proactively coach clients through this process will stand out as trusted advisors in a market where rejection rates are rising.

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