Clarifying Common Mistakes in Schengen Visa Applications: Insights from EU Delegation Representative
The Deputy Head of the European Union’s Delegation in Uzbekistan, Mindaugas Kacerauskas, recently spoke with Kun.uz about the common reasons for rejecting Schengen visa applications. Kacerauskas emphasized that all Schengen consulates operate under the same rules, debunking the notion of some countries being “easier” or “harder” to obtain a visa from.
Statistical data released by the European Commission revealed that in 2023, citizens of Uzbekistan submitted 46,503 visa applications, with 38,333 being granted and 16.5 percent receiving a negative response.
Kacerauskas highlighted that the number of visa applications from Uzbekistan is increasing and has already reached pre-pandemic levels. The main reasons for rejection include incomplete documentation, providing false information, and applying to the wrong embassy.
While rejection rates are lower in Kazakhstan compared to Uzbekistan, the latter performs better than other Central Asian republics in terms of visa approvals. Each visa application is assessed individually, with factors such as the absence of restrictions in the Schengen Information System, posing a threat to public order or security, and having sufficient means for living conditions being crucial.
Kacerauskas also mentioned instances where applicants failed to provide details of their stay in the Schengen zone or applied to the wrong embassy for a visa. Providing incorrect or false information, as well as doubts about the return of short-term visa applicants, can also lead to rejections.
In 2022, over 10.3 million people applied for Schengen visas worldwide, representing a 37 percent increase from the previous year. The visa application process is complex, and applicants are advised to adhere to the specific requirements of the country they intend to visit to avoid rejection.
