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Summer 2025 is bringing a Schengen visa rush, but you can beat the delays. Here are the top countries with fast visa approvals and low rejection rates.
As summer approaches, thousands of travellers are rushing to apply for a Schengen visa. While the average turnaround time for approval ranges from 15 to 45 days, the real challenge lies in securing an appointment, especially during peak travel season.
But don’t worry. With the right planning and destination, your dream European vacation is still within reach.
Understanding Schengen Visa Wait Times
Typically, Schengen visas take 15 to 45 days to process after your appointment. However, securing an appointment to submit your documents and biometric data is the real challenge, especially during peak season.
Schengen Visa Wait Times by Country in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the latest information on the easiest Schengen countries to apply to in 2025, along with their current visa wait times and estimated rejection rates, and the best booking tips to help you make informed decisions:
1. France: Quick Processing & Early Appointments
France remains one of the more efficient Schengen countries for Indian travellers. If you’re based in Chennai, Cochin, or Puducherry, France offers visa processing within 2–3 weeks. Appointments are also relatively easier to find compared to Italy or Germany.
• Visa Processing Time: 2–3 weeks
• Earliest Appointment: April 25 (Chennai, Hyderabad)
• Rejection Rate: ~18%
• Appointment Availability: Good
2. Spain: Fastest Turnaround for Visa Processing
If you’re in a hurry, Spain offers one of the fastest visa processing timelines among Schengen states, just 7 working days, according to BLS International. Appointments are open for May across several major Indian cities.
• Visa Processing Time: 7 working days (on average)
• Appointment Availability: May (major Indian cities)
• Rejection Rate: ~12%
• Appointment Availability: Moderate
3. Sweden: Next-Day Appointments at All Centres
Sweden stands out by offering next-day appointment availability at all Indian centres, a rare convenience during peak season. With a low rejection rate and stable processing times, it’s a smart choice for first-timers.
• Visa Processing Time: 10–15 working days
• Appointment Availability: Next-day slots available nationwide
• Rejection Rate: ~11%
• Appointment Availability: Excellent
4. Finland: Smooth Process with Quick Slots
Finland is another friendly Schengen country for Indian applicants. With appointments as early as April 25 and processing times of around two weeks, it’s an underrated but viable choice.
• Visa Processing Time: 10–15 working days
• Earliest Appointment: April 25 (Chennai, Hyderabad)
• Rejection Rate: ~20%
• Appointment Availability: Good
5. Hungary: Short Wait, Lower Rejection
Hungary offers relatively early appointment slots and moderate processing speeds. With a rejection rate lower than France or Germany, it’s a solid pick if you’re aiming for Central Europe.
• Visa Processing Time: 10–20 working days
• Appointment Availability: Early availability reported
• Rejection Rate: ~14%
• Appointment Availability: Good
6. Norway: Reliable Processing and Better Access
Norway is another less crowded option. While not the fastest, its early appointment availability and stable processing system make it a traveller-friendly choice.
• Visa Processing Time: 15–20 working days
• Appointment Availability: Available sooner than Germany and Italy
• Rejection Rate: ~15%
• Appointment Availability: Good
7. Germany: Delays in Major Cities
Germany’s visa system is known to be strict. While the country is a top European destination, appointments are currently backed up until late May, with a higher-than-average rejection rate.
• Visa Processing Time: 20–30 working days
• Earliest Appointment: May 21 (Gurgaon, Chennai)
• Rejection Rate: ~20%
• Appointment Availability: Limited
8. Italy: No Open Slots in Many Cities
Italy remains a top pick for travellers, but it’s also one of the hardest to get a visa for right now. No open slots are available in Delhi, Bengaluru, or Hyderabad. However, if you’ve held a Schengen visa before, you may qualify for a fast-track appointment.
• Visa Processing Time: 15–30 working days
• Earliest Appointment: May 16 (Ahmedabad)
• Rejection Rate: ~21%
• Appointment Availability: Very limited
9. Switzerland: Book Early to Avoid Long Waits
Switzerland offers reasonable processing speeds but limited appointment availability. If you’re flexible with your dates and can apply from Mumbai, you may still make it for summer.
• Visa Processing Time: 15–25 working days
• Earliest Appointment: April 29 (Mumbai)
• Rejection Rate: ~13%
• Appointment Availability: Limited
What Is the ‘Cascade’ Schengen Visa?
The new Schengen ‘cascade’ visa regime allows Indian travellers to obtain a multi-entry visa valid for up to 2 years, provided they have lawfully used two Schengen visas in the past 3 years.
Final Tips for a Successful Schengen Visa Application
• Apply at least 45 days before travel
• Check VFS Global or BLS International for the earliest appointment slots
• Choose less popular embassies for quicker appointments
• Provide complete documentation to reduce rejection chances
Conclusion
If you’re dreaming of a European summer getaway, smart planning and choosing the right Schengen country can make all the difference. Prioritise destinations with faster visa processing and lower rejection rates, and don’t wait too long to book your slot. Europe is calling!
Source: https://travelobiz.com/schengen-visa-wait-times-2025-fastest-countries-appointments/
