-
-
If you’re planning to travel to Europe this summer and have scheduled a Schengen visa appointment with a German mission, be prepared for possible delays and challenges.
Germany will stop accepting appeals (called remonstrations) for rejected Schengen visa applications, making it harder for some people to travel to Europe this summer.
Until now, applicants whose visa was refused could file a free appeal within 30 days. But Germany’s federal foreign office has now ended this option worldwide after testing it in 2023 through a pilot project.
“This decision helps us process more new visa applications and reduce waiting times,” said a German mission statement. Officials stated that the change frees up staff to speed up both Schengen and national visa processing.
What can rejected applicants do now?
They must submit a new visa application, which involves paying the fee again. Another option is to apply through another Schengen country, though this may require changing travel plans.
While tourists are still welcome, this policy change means travelers must be extra careful when applying and make sure their documents are strong enough to avoid rejection.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-term entry permit that allows non-EU nationals to visit any of the countries within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is typically used for tourism, business, or family visits.
The Schengen Area includes 29 European countries, of which 25 are EU member states and 4 are non-EU countries:
- Non-EU Schengen members: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
With a Schengen visa, travelers can move freely across internal borders of participating countries without additional visas or border checks.
