To access your Schengen visa chances, the first thing to have in mind is collecting the right list of documents and reports ready with you. Schengen visa process experiences a ton of checking at the Embassy and all your archives are altogether verified at different stages. Therefore, you should give a decent time to list down, assemble, submit your documents. How to check your Schengen visa chances? Well, by following the rules you can get the most on your application. Other than this, here are a few important tips to get your approval on the Schengen visa:

1. Your ID is your Face

Provide all the governmental-issued/ legal IDs as and when asked by the authorities. Make sure your passport isn’t lapsing at any point in the near future. Moreover, present all the documents in a sorted manner.

2. Every Proof Accounts

Give a lot of proof as you can. It will give the authorities a solid confirmation of the documents that you are attempting to demonstrate genuineness or validity. Indeed, over-delivering is constantly something beneficial for you.

3. Travel History Matters

Show that you are well-traveled. The stamps on your passport will lend a positive impact on your visa application. It will send them a message that you have gone to another country previously and have returned back within the given time frame. It shows that you have never outstayed abroad and thus authorities will be convinced for your genuineness.

4. Rules are Meant to be Followed

Make it a point to read the rules clearly and carefully which are given on the official website of the Schengen visa. Moreover, just submit genuine records. Don’t submit counterfeit or ‘modified’ records. There’s a high possibility that you won’t just get denied, but will also be restricted to apply in the future in case the authorities find out about any wrong manipulations done by you deliberately.

5. Check Eligibility & Category

Apply for the right visa and try to find out about the procedures that will guarantee approval. For example, do not start your application without checking your initial eligibility through a certified visa agent. Taking the right way is important to get your approval on the Schengen visa.

Conclusion

Kindly don’t be one of those individuals who disregard the visa guidelines and conditions since that would paint you in a terrible light. Note that we are not promoting being untruthful, we suggest never to lie about anything in your application. Yet, be serious even while providing the minutest of detail. I hope these tips would help you on how to check your Schengen visa chances over your next application.

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Why has Denmark increased border controls?

Denmark has increased border controls because of security reasons. According to the Denmark Ministry of Justice, there have been 13 blasts in the country since February of this year. Two of them have been towards police buildings. This is a serious blot on the security of the country. These are valid reasons to increase border controls.

What do the police have to say?

The police are of the opinion that the explosion carried out on the Tax Agency on August 6, 2019, was by criminals who had traveled across the border from Sweden to Denmark. The police believe that the violent murder witnessed at the end of June this year on the open street in Herlev was a showdown between rival gangs from Sweden.

The terror threat to Denmark remains serious. The police are taking all the necessary precautions.

What does the Ministry of Justice say?

The Minister of Justice, Nick Hekkerup is of the opinion that the explosion at the Tax Agency and the double killing in Herlev are due to the crime coming from the border with Sweden. He has said that we will not accept crime coming to threaten Denmark. To counter-attack, the serious border crime, the internal border controls with Sweden are now put in place (temporarily). The police efforts in border areas against Sweden are being strengthened. He has mentioned that the focus is on organized criminals. The ordinary citizens crossing the border every day are not the target.

The government wants to work in a smart and effective way.

When will the border controls be launched?

The temporary border controls with Sweden will take effect from 12 November 2019. At the same time, the border controls with Germany will extend for another six months.

What does the Prime Minister say?

The Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen, has pledged to tighten border controls since August. The two bomb blasts that took place in Copenhagen were the deciding factor. The former PM of Denmark, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, is of the opinion that the border controls should be permanent. It is a must to deal with illegal migration and terrorism.

What are the other countries doing?

Other countries like Austria and Germany have also extended their internal borders. Austria has done so with Hungary and Slovenia for another six months. Germany has extended its internal border controls with Austria for another six months.

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The EU by building a “technological fortress” is enabling the efficient exchange of information between the member states on criminal convictions and thus reducing a threat to its national security due to illegal immigration. Let us take a look at the way the EU is building its “technological fortress” for travelers.

1. Visa Information System (VIS)

The Visa Information System (VIS) enables the member states to share information about the third-country nationals in need of a Schengen visa.

• It analyzes and processes the data of each applicant through the biometric matching of fingerprints. It helps to finds out the legality of a visa holder and catches those individuals staying illegally on false documents.
• The biggest role of VIS is to fight visa shopping—which is the practice of making further visa applications to other EU states on the rejection of the first application. It also helps to investigate fake identities, detect terrorist offenses and other criminal offenses.
• The VIS applies to all EU states controlled by the EU agency for a large scale IT system.

2. Schengen Information System (SIS)

This system is the backbone for border information and security management in the EU. It helps to enhance internal security. This border guards and the police use it to keep a check missing people, criminal entities, and people banned from entering the Schengen area, stolen objects, etc.

The SIS contains information like palm prints, fingerprints, facial images, DNA testing, making it harder for a criminal to move across Europe and detecting counter-terrorism.

3. European Asylum Dactyloscopy Database- EURODAC

The EURODAC is a database containing fingerprints of every individual that has at any point sought asylum in the EU member states or the associated countries.

This dataset of fingerprints allows the member state’s law enforcement authorities to check for fingerprints linked to criminal investigations.

4. European Travel Information and Authorization System- ETIAS

All the information on travelers with a visa is in VIS and all the information on asylum seekers is in EURODAC.

The information of every visa-free traveler heading to the EU will be in ETIAS which is to be launched in January 2021. ETIAS will make it compulsory for travelers to apply for authorization before undertaking a trip.

• The ETIAS of the EU resembles the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ETSA).
• Its aim is that every visa-free traveler should apply online and get authorization before showing at the EU port of entry.
• The process which may take about 15 minutes asks applicants for information like their name, surname, place, date of birth, address, phone number, email, citizenship, education, work experience, etc.

ETIAS will determine which traveler can enter the Schengen zone and will enable the EU to know who is entering its borders even before they have started their trip.

5. ERICS-TCN

ERICS stands for the European Criminal Records Information System. The main purpose of ERICS is to enable a smooth flow of information between the member states on criminal convictions in the EU.

The database of ERICS contains necessary data to identify a person and also has information relating to third-country nationals as well as dual EU/third-country nationals.

6. Entry-Exit System (EES)

The EES is a new scheme of the EU to be operational by January 2022. This system will register data on the entry and exit of the non-EU nationals into the EU member states, registered at the external borders.

This system will help to strengthen the external borders and safeguard the security for its citizens. This system will replace the passports stamps as EES will register and store all entry/exit data. The data that EES will register is, name, surname, date of birth, facial image, nationality, passport information, and date of arrival in EU, point of entry, date of leaving the EU, and point of departure.

7. FRONTEX

The European Border and Coast Guard Agency FRONTEX helps the EU member states to manage the external borders, harmonize border control, and provide technical support and expertise.

The FRONTEX deals with the responsibility of managing external border security by:

1. Sharing with EU member states all information on irregular migration, criminal activities, though risk analysis.
2. Rapid response in case any EU member state is facing extreme migration pressure.
3. Developing common training standards for border authorities.
4. Practicing on the cordial return of migrants.

What Will These Systems Achieve?

All the information based systems will help the EU to enhance its external border security, improve internal security, detect cross-border criminal activities, and identify the legality of any traveler.

It will also carry out criminal investigations, detect counter-terrorism, and enable the exchange of information between member states.

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What is a Schengen Visa

What is the Difference Between a Passport and a Visa?

The main difference between a passport and a visa is that a passport is issued to a citizen of a country for international travel and identification. This document is used to verify one’s country of citizenship and is needed to regain entry into your own country. A visa is issued to allow the traveler to enter a foreign country and is different for each country.

What is the Difference Between a Tourist Visa and a Business Visa?

The visas issued are mostly divided into nonimmigrant and immigrant categories. The nonimmigrant visa allows a foreigner to stay temporarily in a foreign country. An immigrant visa is issued for permanent residence.

A tourist visa allows a traveler to visit a foreign country temporarily only for tourism and sight-seeing.

A business visa allows the applicant to set up business in a foreign country.

How Obtaining a Visa Become a Hassle?

Obtaining a visa is not an easy task. There are many documents that are needed and even a minor mistake can increase the chances of rejection.

The authorities need to be satisfied that the traveler has an intention to return to his or her home country and will not gain permanent access to the foreign country through a “back door”. The health and criminal records of the applicant are thoroughly checked for security purposes. The applicant also needs to have sufficient funds to support his or her travel.

Why Some Countries have Stringent Visa Requirements?

Certain countries like the USA and France have very strict visa requirements. According to the UN WTO, these countries have developed economies and visas are a way to help improve the security and control immigration to these countries.

Why Do Other Countries Welcome Tourists with Open Arms?

The countries which depend heavily on tourism try and develop a more open world for the tourists. They do so by encouraging diversity and equality in their country and by reducing the visa requirements which is the easiest way to attract tourism.

They are usually the idyllic island nations that depend heavily on tourism to generate revenue.

The global tourism is expected to reach 1.8 billion by the year 2030. In order to gain revenue through tourism, these countries try and develop a less expensive, less time-consuming, and hassle-free visa application process for prospective travelers.

What do the Facts Signify?

As of 2015, a massive 61% of the foreign travelers were required to gain a visa prior to travel and the refusal rate for the US Business Travel Visa was a staggering 32.4%.

However, since then, many countries have removed the requirement of a prior visa and have initiated a visa on arrival for a specified period of time for the Indian citizens.

In some countries, there is no need for a traveler to obtain a visa. A passport suffices, like our neighboring country Nepal, where visa is not required and there is no maximum duration either. Seychelles also does not ask for a visa for a period of 30 days after which you can get a visa on arrival.

What Are the Rankings of the Countries?

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN WTO) released a Visa Openness report in 2018 ranking the countries according to the accessibility granted by them to foreign travelers.

The rankings are mentioned below:

Conclusion

The visa refusal rates are on a decline for many of the developing as well as the developed countries who are trying to create a more open world for global tourism. However, the visa requirements are still an expensive and time-consuming affair. The countries mentioned above have the fewest visa requirements for the tourists and thus literally welcome you with open arms.

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However, the Schengen visa is the most difficult visa to be obtained and the application and interview process can be excruciating. The other crucial fact is that the rejection rate for the Schengen visa has been on the rise and many applicants have been denied their visa in recent years.

The rejection rate for the year 2017 was 8.15%, according to the International Migration and Affairs of the European Commission, which is a drastic increase from the 5.1% rejection rate in 2014.

What is An Easier Alternative?

The requirements of the Schengen visa application remain the same in every Consulate but it is interesting to note that there are some Schengen countries that have a track record for issuing visas. It is advised that an applicant apply to the Embassy of these countries for a smoother application process.

1. Iceland

Iceland has always been defined and renowned for its dramatic and picturesque landscapes like volcanoes, hot springs, geysers and so this Nordic island nation is one of the favorite destinations for the immigrants. This country has a record of accepting 99% of the visa applications with a rejection rate as low as 0.9% in 2017. It has always had a history of low rejection rate and there is a high chance that your visa to this country will be accepted.

2. Finland

This country of the European Union is sparsely populated and has numerous lakes thus the nickname “Land of the Thousand Lakes.” The visa rejection rate of this beautiful country was 1.13% in 2017 which means that approximately 98% of the visa applications were accepted. The rejection rate for Finland has been maintained in the 1% range and so the applicants have a wonderful chance of visiting this country.

3. Lithuania

Lithuania is a former Soviet bloc nation bordering Poland, Latvia, and Belarus. The capital Vilnius is famous for its medieval old town. The Lithuanian language is one of the oldest languages in the world and Basketball is the most famous sport in this country. The visa rejection rate for this country was 1.19% in the year 2017 and so this is a fairly convenient country to get a visa for.

4. Estonia

Estonia which was formerly a part of the Soviet Union is renowned for its castles, churches, and rooftop fortresses. The country has a high rate of visa application because the rejection rate has always maintained in the lower 1% range. In 2014 it was only 1% which increased to 1.7% in 2015 but again fell back in 2017.

5. Latvia

Latvia which is home to first Christmas tree of the world, where ice hockey is the hottest sport, whose flag is one of the oldest in the word is among the world’s greenest countries. Although the visa rejection rate for this country has increased from as low as 0.7% in 2014 to a little over 1% in 2017, this country still issues a staggering number of visas every year.

6. Slovakia

Slovakia is a central European country famous for its picturesque landscapes and castles, vibrant café scenes, and romantic Roman artifacts. The visa rejection rate was 2.08% in the year 2017 which has improved from the 2.9% rejection rate in 2015 and thus 98% of its applications are accepted very easily.

7. Luxembourg

The Luxembourg city is a UNESCO world heritage site and it is interesting to note that this country is the only Grand Duchy in the world which means that this country is ruled by a Monarch. The visa rejection rate for this country has risen from 2.1% in 2014 to nearly 4% in the year 2017 but still, it is very easy to get your visa for this country with over 96% of visa applications being accepted.

8. Greece

Greece is a country that is highly developed with over two-thirds of its population living in urban areas. The official name for this country is the Hellenic Republic and its close to both Africa and Asia. With the largest city as Athens, this country has always been on top of the bucket list of many tourists.

The visa rejection rate for this country too has increased from the 2% range in 2014 to the 4% range in 2017. But with over 96% of the visa applications being accepted, it is still a favored destination.

9. Poland

The Republic of Poland is located in Central Europe and is interestingly the 9th largest country in the EU. With the world’s biggest castles this quaint country is a satisfying destination for the immigrants. Though the visa rejection rates for this country has risen from 2.92% in 2016 to a little over 3% in 2017, this country still has an impressive acceptation rate for visas.

10. Czech Republic

This country which is located in Central Europe is known for its ornate castles, native beers, long history. It is a top drinking country in the world and is known as the castle capital of the world. The visa rejection rates, for this country, has also been on the rise but in terms of acceptation rates, it is still one of the easiest countries to obtain a Schengen visa for, with 95.5% visa applications being accepted in the year 2017.

Conclusion

Thus, even though the Schengen visa may be a difficult one to grab hold of and you might be fearing the application and interview process, the above list of countries with their low visa rejection rates is surely to provide you a sigh of relief and whichever country you choose you will have a high chance of getting your visa approved.

So, do not waste your time in thinking anymore and get in touch with us to make your journey of visa application a smooth one.

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Top 10 Attractions In Finland

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1. Levi

The perfect place to feel the cold and play around in it. Levi is a ski resort that has heaps of snow and ski slopes. From a beginner to an expert skier, it is just the perfect place for all! You can roll around in the snow or have a hot coffee in the nearby restaurants, it’s surely an experience that will make you want winters all year long!

2. Sibelius Monument

In memory and to pay respect to John Sibelius who was a famous music composer, this monument horns together 600 hollow steel pipes that come together to form an organ. It is a sight to behold and represents Finland’s culture and history in its best. Many tourists come here to learn about the monument and the story that surrounds it as well as click pictures to mark the beautiful place in their memories forever!

3. Nuuksio National Park

The best place to witness wildlife as well as enjoy activities like camping, bicycling, horse-riding, hiking, and skiing. You can pick the activity of your choice or maybe just add onto the fun with your own games and plans with friends! This place moreover offers a great view and tourists love clicking scenic pictures here. 

4. Northern Lights

To watch the Northern Lights is a once in a lifetime experience and one just cannot simply miss the chance when in Finland! The best place to see the lights is from the Arctic Circle. Tourists as well as locals come to witness the Lights and the hotels here are packed between September and March when the skies are clear.

5. Kemi

The location best known for the iconic snow castles. The castle which is built yearly can be up-to 3 stories tall and also at times serves as a venue for weddings, live performances as well as other functions and leave the guests in awe of its beauty and charm. People can also stay here overnight and be a part of the whole experience. The place offers an incredible view and one can enjoy a great night life here! 

6. Turku

A great place to witness the culture and history of Finland and see some important landmarks of the country including the Turku Castle and the twin museums that tells a story about the rich history of the country and allows one to witness its past while in the present. It is a place that is a must visit and cannot be left out of your itinerary.

7. Santa Claus Village

The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is like the Disneyland of Finland and it is a great place to visit. The amusement park has various places and activities to explore including Santa’s House of Snowmobiles, ice break cruise and fishing under water! The magic unveils here with ice restaurants, reindeer rides, igloo hotels, husky safaris and excursions, world class spas that offer a relaxing experience, the place is the whole package! 

8. Helsinki

The beautiful capital city of Finland is dotted with modern buildings, lush landscapes, and an aura of the city and is the most famous tourist destination in the country. Take a ferry ride or visit the Market Square to do some shopping and get your hands on authentic things of the area. In Helsinki you are sure to find something of your interest!

9. Tampere

A huge urban area that hides the Finland architecture and culture within. It also houses the Natural History Museum and the Finnish Hockey Wall of Fame. Outdoor activities like skiing and hockey are also very popular here and can be something that one can interest themselves in while enjoying the mesmerizing surroundings and taking in the aura of the whole place!

10. Savonlinna

Housing the Olavinlinna Castle, this place is really famous among the tourists visiting the country! It hosts a ballet festival and an opera festival for enjoyment purposes and also has air theatres, museums, underground caves and galleries as well as many markets and restaurant where one can catch a break after a long day of roaming around the place and witnessing the best it has to offer! One just cannot miss out on Savonlinna when in Finland!

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