“Visa shopping” refers to the practice of applying to multiple embassies to get a visa, often targeting those perceived as “easier.” In 2025, this practice is under strict scrutiny, and it could get you banned from entering certain countries.
What Counts as Visa Shopping?
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Applying for a Schengen visa in a country you don’t plan to visit.
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Submitting inconsistent applications to multiple embassies.
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Providing different reasons for travel to different countries.
How Embassies Detect Visa Shopping
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Shared databases like the Visa Information System (VIS) in Europe.
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Cross-checking travel history with airlines and immigration records.
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Comparing applicant intent with submitted itineraries.
Consequences of Visa Shopping in 2025
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Immediate rejection of your visa application.
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Travel bans from Schengen states for up to 5 years.
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Damaged credibility, affecting future visa attempts worldwide.
Advice: Always apply to the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. Transparency and consistency are the keys to avoiding suspicion.
