Schengen Visa Wait Times Soar in 2025—These Countries Still Offer Quick Appointments

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

Tip: Apply early and choose regional centres like Hyderabad or Chennai to beat the rush.

Must Read: Schengen Travel Alert: 10 Countries Reinstate Border Checks in 2025

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

Tip: Choose Spain if you’re short on time but want a reliable processing window.

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

Tip: Perfect for last-minute planners and low-risk applicants.

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

Tip: Have a strong travel history to boost your chances of approval.

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

Tip: Combine your Hungary trip with nearby countries using the multi-entry Schengen visa.

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

Tip: Norway is part of the new Schengen ‘cascade’ regime, allowing easier renewals in future.

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

Tip: Book early and prepare documents thoroughly. Avoid if you’re on a tight timeline.

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

Tip: Previous visa holders can get an appointment within two weeks.

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

Tip: Choose Switzerland if you’re willing to travel to another city for your appointment.

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.

Tip: Use this feature to your advantage if you’re a frequent traveller. It reduces future documentation and processing hassles.

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!