Spain and Italy have long been favorites for travelers, each offering something distinct: Italy’s culinary prowess and rich artistic heritage, while Spain draws visitors in with its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. But when it comes to Schengen visa applications, there’s more than just allure at play. Practical factors, like the chances of rejection and how easily one can secure an appointment, often make the difference.
Looking at the numbers, Spain topped the charts for Schengen visa applications in 2023, with 1.4 million requests. Italy, while still a top contender, trailed behind with 1.1 million applications. Spain ranked third in total applications among all Schengen countries, while Italy was right behind in fourth.
For the past few years, Spain has steadily become a go-to for visa seekers. Since 2020, it has consistently been near the top, often holding the second or third spot in terms of applications. Last year, Spain was third, followed by Italy in fourth. In 2022, Spain even claimed the second spot, while Italy faced a slight dip, receiving 727,490 applications. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic still rippled through the application process during that time.
2020 and 2021 saw a sharp decline in applications across the board as the pandemic curtailed international travel. In 2021, Spain jumped to second place, while Italy fell to sixth. Before the pandemic, Italy had been one of the leading destinations, with over two million visa requests filed in 2019 alone.
But as travel patterns shifted in the wake of the pandemic, Spain found itself becoming an increasingly popular choice, while Italy saw fewer applications. Spain’s rise mirrored a broader shift in global travel trends, positioning it as a key destination for Schengen visa applicants.
For Spanish visas, the bulk of applicants come from South America, particularly countries like El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. In contrast, Italy tends to attract visa seekers from countries like Bangladesh, Libya, and Ethiopia.
When it comes to approval rates, Italy has a clear edge, consistently approving between 86% and 92% of all applications. In 2023, Italy’s approval rate stood at 87.5%, well above Spain’s 77.4%. Even though Spain’s application numbers have surged, Italy continues to maintain a higher success rate for those looking to secure a visa.
