Rising Schengen Visa Challenges Push Travelers to Seek Alternative Destinations Amid Post-Covid Travel Boom

Dreaming of exploring the charming streets of Paris, the historic landmarks of Rome, or the picturesque landscapes of Croatia or Switzerland?

The allure of Europe’s diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking scenery beckons travelers from around the globe.

However, for many, the dream of visiting Europe is often dampened by the daunting task of obtaining a Schengen visa.

As the trend of post-Covid “revenge travel” gains momentum, with travelers eagerly planning international trips, securing a Schengen visa for European destinations has become increasingly challenging, particularly for certain countries.

Croatia, having recently joined the Schengen agreement and emerging as a sought-after destination, exemplifies the growing demand for visas.
However, VFS Global, a prominent visa service provider in India, finds itself under scrutiny due to customer dissatisfaction over delays in processing.

Travel agents report instances of applicants resorting to deceit about their intended destinations or navigating through Scandinavian countries to secure appointment slots.

However, this tactic is not without risks, as attempting to apply for a visa in a geographically distant country may raise suspicions and lead to rejection.

Despite VFS Global’s clarification that appointment availability and processing timelines are governed by client governments, frustrations persist among travelers and consultants alike.

Cyrus Sethna, a visa and immigration consultant, highlights the scarcity of available appointments and the prolonged processing period, citing instances where securing a slot was akin to a miracle.

The situation varies across Schengen countries, with Greece experiencing sporadic visa processing delays and Italy facing a complete lack of appointment slots during the previous summer.

Spain, while relatively consistent in visa issuance, currently faces a shortage of available appointments.

The uncertainty and inconvenience surrounding visa applications are prompting travelers to explore alternative destinations in Asia or Africa, where visa requirements are more relaxed.

However, the shift away from European travel reflects a broader trend of mounting frustration with visa processes unable to keep pace with increasing travel demands.

The challenges encountered in securing Schengen visas underscore the need for proactive planning and flexibility in travel arrangements.

As travelers navigate the evolving landscape of international travel, the importance of adapting to changing visa regulations and exploring diverse destinations becomes increasingly evident.

Source : https://www.msn.com/en-in/travel/news/want-to-travel-to-europe-but-are-not-able-to-get-a-schengen-visa-here-s-how-you-can-apply/ar-AA1nik8o?cvid=134a807d67d147f4ad61417fc87121c9&ei=35