If a traveller is holding a Schengen visa, he or she can visit 26 countries, which come under the banner of the European Union and are known as the Schengen area, without any border controls whatsoever. The unique visa is a boon for tourists as they can travel freely across member countries. The visa is a 90-day short-stay permit that allows people to visit 26 nations within the Schengen zone without any hassles. But it is a tall order to get a Schengen visa as you will have to wait for months together to pocket the visa. Don’t be crestfallen as the following Schengen countries issue visa without many hurdles.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg receives the most number of visa applications among the Schengen countries. It is noteworthy that 90 per cent of the Schengen visa applications get the stamp of approval from the authorities concerned in Luxembourg. The landlocked country, which is one of the smallest nations in the European Union, is surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany. Though Luxembourg is a rural country, it has enough financial muscle riding on a vibrant steel and technology industries and financial sector. The bijou nation, which is 82km long and 57km broad, can be toured entirely in one day. But it would be great if you could stay for four to five days and walk through the historic corridors of age-old castles and forts, and also enjoy the pristine charm of virgin villages.
Lithuania
If you are a history aficionado, an art enthusiast and an adventure freak, then Lithuania is the right place for you. Lithuania, which shares borders with Latvia and Estonia in the north, Belarus in the south-eastern side and Poland in the south-western side, grants Schengen visas without much ado. The small country with a total population of close to 30lakh is popular among travellers as a budget destination. Lithuania stands out with its heritage buildings, ancient forts and breathtaking cities.
Slovakia
The Schengen visa rejection rate is minimal in Slovakia as per the numbers of last year. This central European country is known for its spa town Piestany, nature’s beauty that surrounds the Danube River, folk culture, traditional handicrafts, vintage architecture and windows to the medieval period. A peep into the history would reveal that Slovakia was part of many empires and governments, and they had a strong influence on the region. Moreover, the country, which invented the parachute, is replete with many Unesco heritage sites.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is popular for summer palaces, as-old-as-the-hills forts and the best beer in the world. The main attraction is Prague, which is the political and cultural hub of the country. Interestingly, the Czech Republic, which is situated in the heart of Europe, has been a place that often went unnoticed. When it comes to tourism, travellers don’t usually look beyond the capital city of Prague. Though Prague should be on the bucket list of every tourist, there are many spots in the Czech Republic that are worth visiting.
Latvia
Latvia is another country where you can easily get a Schengen visa. When in Latvia, don’t forget to hop on public transport as it is the best way to know the country pretty well with trains and buses connecting all the important cities and towns. The big cities such as Riga, which is the capital city of Latvia, and Daugavpils, have robust public transport that includes trolleybuses and trams. Taxi fares are also comparatively less in Latvia. If you want to travel the length and breadth of the country, then train is the best option.
Hungary
Hungary is definitely an underrated holiday destination in Europe. While compared to the expensive Western Europe, Hungary packs a punch without burning a hole in the pocket. The country is a collage of spectacular natural vistas, rich history, lip-smacking cuisine and affordable nightlife. If you are a nocturnal bird, then Budapest should be your go-to place as the capital city boasts of Europe’s best nightlife. Though many travellers confine their itinerary to various destinations in Budapest, much more is in store in other parts of this beautiful country. Hungary may be situated in the middle of Europe but the tourist footfall is nothing to write home about. You can get a Schengen visa from Hungary without any hiccups.
