Schengen visa appointments are in high demand, especially from May to August.
However, countries like Spain, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Hungary, and France are currently offering faster processing and more appointment availability, improving chances for timely visa approval.
In recent years, securing a Schengen visa has become increasingly difficult due to a post-pandemic travel surge, staffing shortages at visa centres, leaving many embassies fully booked weeks or even months in advance.
The Schengen C visa is a short-stay visa that allows travel across 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It’s typically used for tourism, family visits, business trips, or short-term events like conferences or training.
Despite widespread delays, some Schengen countries offer faster visa appointments and processing. Flexible travelers can boost their chances by applying through these countries.
1. 🇫🇷 France
France is a reliable option if you’re applying from smaller cities, as many VFS centres there have early appointment openings.
2. 🇪🇸 Spain
Spain offers some of the quickest visa processing times, making it a good choice for last-minute summer travel.
3. 🇸🇪 Sweden
Sweden leads in accessibility, making it a top option for travelers looking to avoid long wait times.
4. 🇫🇮 Finland
Finland offers an efficient process with relatively early appointment availability.
5. 🇭🇺 Hungary
Hungary is gaining popularity due to quicker access and relatively lower rejection rates.
6. 🇳🇴 Norway
Norway’s visa appointments are more accessible than those of many crowded Schengen countries, though processing times are moderate.
The EU is set to introduce a new digital Schengen visa system designed to reduce processing times, improve security, and streamline the application process.
By 2026, the EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP) will allow applicants to apply online, upload documents, and pay fees digitally, though first-time applicants may still need to appear in person.
By 2028, the traditional sticker visa will be replaced by a digital barcode visa. Until these changes take effect, applicants must continue to navigate the current manual system.
By 2028, the traditional sticker visa will be replaced by a digital barcode visa. Until these changes take effect, applicants must continue to navigate the current manual system.