Schengen Visa Refusals in 2025 Cost Russians Over 4.5 Million Euros Russians who were denied Schengen visas in 2025 incurred costs exceeding 4.5 million euros for their unsuccessful applications, according to ATOR. While the number of applications from Russians increased compared to 2024, nearly 43,000 applications were rejected. The exact total cost is difficult to pinpoint due to varying visa fees for adults and children, as well as service charges.

• Russians spent over 4.5 million euros on unsuccessful Schengen visa applications in 2025.
• Russia was among the top five countries with the most Schengen visa applications.
• Nearly 43,000 Russian applications were rejected in 2025, a slight decrease from 7.5% in 2024 to 6.4% in 2025.
• Consular fees for rejected applications alone amount to approximately 3.6-3.7 million euros.
• The total expenses, including service fees, potentially exceed 4.5 million euros.
• The EU suspended the simplified visa regime with Russia following the war in Ukraine.
• Despite restrictions, the number of Schengen visa applications from Russians increased in 2025 compared to 2024.