Top Consulates with Record-Breaking Schengen Visa Approvals

Schengen visa approvals surged in 2023, with several consulates processing record-high applications. Leading the list is the Swiss consulate in New Delhi, India, which issued the most Schengen visas worldwide.

With a staggering 166,919 visas granted, the Delhi consulate outpaced all others, solidifying its position as a key hub for European travel. Other consulates, including those in Morocco, Türkiye, the UK, and Russia, also saw significant approval rates.

This article highlights the top consulates that granted the highest number of Schengen visas, revealing key trends in visa demand and approvals.

Record-Breaking Numbers

According to data from the European Union’s Migration and Home Affairs, the Swiss consulate in New Delhi received 186,646 visa applications last year. Impressively, 88% of these applications were approved.

This high approval rate reflects efficient processing and a strong interest in travel to Switzerland and the Schengen Area.

• Key Statistic: 166,919 visas issued, the highest globally.
• Approval Rate: 88% of applications were approved.
• Multiple Entry Dominance: 98.5% of issued visas were multiple-entry, facilitating frequent travel.

Multiple-Entry Visas: A Boon for Indian Travellers

A significant highlight is the prevalence of multiple-entry visas. With 164,440 multiple-entry visas issued, representing 98.5% of the total, Indian travelers are granted greater flexibility and convenience. This allows for repeated visits to the Schengen Area over a set period, which is ideal for business and leisure travel.

Top Consulates Issuing the Most Visas in 2023

1. Swiss consulate in New Delhi ranked as the world’s top visa-issuing consulate in 2023, processing 186,646 Schengen visa applications and approving 166,919, achieving an impressive 88% approval rate. Closely following were:

2. French Consulate in Rabat, Morocco – Received 146,998 Schengen visa applications, approving 127,724, ranking as the second-highest consulate for visa approvals in 2023 with a strong success rate.

3. Greek Consulate in Istanbul, Türkiye – Handled 152,778 Schengen visa applications, granting 124,894 approvals, securing its place among the top three consulates issuing the most visas in 2023.

4. French Consulate in London, UK – Processed 130,181 Schengen visa applications, approving 123,880, making it one of the busiest consulates with a high approval rate for travelers in 2023.

5. Italian Consulate in Moscow, Russia – Received 122,970 Schengen visa applications and granted 116,189 approvals, placing it among the top five consulates issuing the most visas last year.

Most Visa Applications Received in 2023

The Swiss consulate in New Delhi also topped the list of consulates receiving the highest number of applications. Below are the top 10 consulates based on the number of visa applications received:

Global Visa Application Trends: Who’s Travelling?

SchengenVisaInfo reports that Chinese nationals filed the highest number of visa applications in 2023, followed by applicants from Türkiye, India, Morocco, and Russia. Meanwhile, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands were the most sought-after destinations for Schengen visas.

Insights for Schengen Visa Applicants

• Plan Ahead: Given the high volume of applications, apply for your visa well in advance.
• Multiple-Entry Benefits: Take advantage of multiple-entry visas for flexible travel.
• Explore Options: Consider diverse Schengen destinations beyond the popular hubs.
• Visa Information: Always refer to the official consulate websites for up-to-date information.

Conclusion

With its high volume of applications and approvals, the Swiss consulate in New Delhi continues to play a crucial role in facilitating travel for Indian nationals. The dominance of Indian applicants in the Schengen visa process underscores the growing travel aspirations of Indian citizens, reflecting their increasing interest in European destinations.