Top 8 Countries for Securing a Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa in 2024

Dreaming of traversing Europe’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of repeated visa applications? A multiple-entry Schengen visa is your gateway to seamless travel across 27 countries in the Schengen Area. As 2024 unfolds, some nations stand out for their favourable visa policies, making them the best bets for securing a multiple-entry visa.

What is a Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa?

A Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa allows travellers to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within a specified validity period. This visa provides the flexibility to travel freely between 27 European countries, making it ideal for frequent travellers and those with business or family commitments across different Schengen states.

Top Countries for Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa

From efficient processing times to high approval rates, these top 8 countries offer the easiest and most reliable pathways for obtaining a Schengen Visa that unlocks endless European adventures. Whether you’re a business traveller, a frequent visitor, or planning an extended tour, knowing where to apply can save you time and maximize your travel flexibility.

1. Germany

Germany reigns supreme when it comes to issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas. In 2023, 90.4% of the Schengen visas issued by Germany allowed multiple entries, a slight decrease from 90.6% in 2022. Last year, Germany processed 1,459,560 visa applications and approved 1,233,561 of them, with 1,115,424 being multiple-entry visas.

2. Austria

Austria ranks second after Germany in issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas. In 2023, 75.7% of the visas granted by Austrian consulates were for multiple entries, up from 74.9% in 2022. The country processed 229,613 applications, approving 194,273, of which 147,021 were multiple-entry.

3. Italy

Italy takes the third spot for multiple-entry visas, with 70.2% of the Schengen visas it issued in 2023 allowing multiple entries. Out of 970,073 visa applications, 680,794 were approved as MEVs. Italy’s consistent performance in issuing multiple-entry visas provides travellers with another viable option for flexible travel.

4. Switzerland

Switzerland approved 69.1% of its Schengen visa applications for multiple entries in 2023. Of the 506,499 visas granted, a significant portion allowed for multiple entries, reflecting Switzerland’s commitment to facilitating repeated travel within the Schengen Area.

5. Greece

Greece issued multiple-entry visas for 66.1% of its approved Schengen visa applications in 2023. With 521,825 applications processed, Greece continues to be a favourable destination for travellers needing flexible entry into the Schengen region.

6. Croatia

Croatia, a relatively new addition to the Schengen Area, granted multiple-entry visas to 62% of its applicants in 2023. Out of 29,785 visas issued, Croatia is making its mark as a destination for those seeking multiple entries.

7. Slovenia and Estonia

While Slovenia and Estonia had high MEV issuance rates in 2022, their numbers declined in 2023. This shift indicates a notable change in their visa issuance policies.

• Slovenia: While Slovenia ranked second in 2022 with an 81.6% multiple-entry visa rate, this figure dropped to 59.7% in 2023
• Estonia: Similarly, Estonia’s impressive 81.3% rate in 2022 went down to 60% in 2023.

Countries with the Lowest MEV Issuance Rates

Certain Schengen countries have lower rates of multiple-entry visa issuance, making them less ideal for travellers seeking flexible entry options. In 2023, the lowest MEV issuance rates were observed in:

1. Finland: 21.3%
2. Norway: 22.6%
3. Sweden: 25.7%
4. Spain: 27.2%

Germany’s Low Visa Rejection Rate

In addition to leading in multiple-entry visa issuance, Germany also boasts a relatively low visa rejection rate. In 2023, Germany rejected only 14.3% of visa applications, lower than the Schengen average of 16%.

This was an improvement from 2022, when Germany’s rejection rate was 16.2%, while the Schengen average stood at 17.9%.

So, where to apply for your Schengen visa?

For the highest chance of obtaining a multiple-entry visa and experiencing a smooth application process, consider Germany your top choice.

Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and Greece also offer strong prospects for multiple-entry visas, while Croatia is emerging as a competitive option. If your heart is set on another Schengen country, research their current visa issuance trends to ensure a well-informed decision.

Meanwhile, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Spain have lower rates of MEV issuance, making them less favourable for travellers needing frequent entry into the Schengen Area. Happy travels!

(With Inputs from Schengen.news)