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Europe Visa Check

Schengen Visa Appeal

How to challenge a visa refusal

Quick Facts

You can appeal a Schengen Visa denial within the timeframe specified in your rejection letter. The appeal process varies by country but typically takes 1-3 months.

Deadline Varies by country
Duration 1-3 months
Cost Usually free
Success Rate Low

Your Right to Appeal

If your Schengen visa application was denied, you have the legal right to appeal the decision. An appeal is a formal request to review the refusal — it's free (no additional fee) and gives you a chance to provide additional evidence or clarify misunderstandings.

Appeals are best suited for cases where you believe the embassy made an error, such as overlooking documents you submitted or misinterpreting your circumstances.

Appeal Quick Facts

💶
Cost Free No additional fee
⏰
Deadline 30-60 days Varies by country
⏱️
Processing 1-3 months Or longer
📊
Success rate Low-moderate Depends on case

How to File an Appeal

  1. 1

    Note the deadline

    Your refusal letter specifies the appeal deadline — typically 30-60 days from the date of notification. Missing this deadline forfeits your right to appeal.

  2. 2

    Understand the refusal reasons

    Read the refusal letter carefully. Each reason has a code. Your appeal must directly address these specific points.

  3. 3

    Gather supporting documents

    Collect evidence that counters the refusal reasons. If they said insufficient funds, provide additional bank statements. If weak ties to home, show property deeds or family documents.

  4. 4

    Write an appeal letter

    Draft a formal letter explaining why the refusal was incorrect, point by point. Be factual, polite, and specific. Attach supporting documents.

  5. 5

    Submit the appeal

    Send your appeal to the address specified in the refusal letter. This may be the embassy, a ministry, or an administrative court depending on the country.

  6. 6

    Wait for the decision

    Processing can take 1-3 months or longer. You may receive additional requests for information during this time.

Don't Miss the Deadline

The appeal deadline is strict. If you miss it, you lose your right to appeal that specific decision. Make note of the deadline immediately upon receiving your refusal letter.

When to Appeal vs Reapply

Appeal when:

  • You believe the embassy made an error (overlooked documents, misunderstood your situation)
  • You have strong new evidence that directly addresses the refusal reasons
  • The refusal reasons seem factually incorrect

Reapply instead when:

  • Your application was genuinely weak (insufficient funds, incomplete documents)
  • You need to travel soon (appeals take months)
  • The refusal reasons were valid and you need to make significant improvements

Writing Your Appeal Letter

A strong appeal letter should:

  • Be formal and respectful: Address the authority properly, maintain a professional tone
  • Reference your case: Include your passport number, application date, and refusal reference
  • Address each refusal reason: Go point by point, explaining why each reason should be reconsidered
  • Provide evidence: Attach documents that support your arguments
  • Request a specific outcome: Ask for the refusal to be overturned and your visa granted

Documents to Include in Your Appeal

  • Copy of refusal letter: Show what you're appealing
  • Appeal letter: Your formal written argument
  • Additional evidence: Documents that address each refusal reason
  • Original application copies: In case documents were overlooked
  • Proof of submission: Keep copies and use tracked mail

Consider Legal Help

For complex cases or high-value appeals, consider consulting an immigration lawyer. They can help craft your appeal, ensure you meet all requirements, and represent you if the appeal goes to an administrative court.

Related Guides

Visa Denied

Understanding your refusal

Documents Checklist

Strengthen your evidence

Cover Letter

Writing tips

Appeal FAQs

Is there a fee to appeal a Schengen visa denial?
No. Appeals are free — you don't pay another visa fee. However, you may incur costs for legal assistance, document translation, or certified mail.
How long does an appeal take?
Typically 1-3 months, but it can take longer depending on the country and complexity of your case. Some appeals to administrative courts can take 6 months or more.
Can I reapply while my appeal is pending?
Technically yes, but it's generally not recommended. Having both an appeal and new application for the same trip can complicate your case. It's usually better to wait for the appeal outcome or withdraw the appeal before reapplying.
What happens if my appeal is rejected?
If your appeal is rejected, you can still reapply for a visa with a new application. Depending on the country, you may have further legal recourse (administrative court), but this is usually only worthwhile for exceptional cases.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries while appealing?
No, you cannot travel to the Schengen Area without a valid visa. The appeal doesn't grant you any travel rights — it only challenges the refusal decision.

Related Information

ETIAS Denied Schengen Area Guide UK Travel Requirements Check Your Requirements

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