Why France Was the Popular Schengen Visa Destination for China, Morocco, Algeria, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and 26 Other Nationalities in 2024 – Travel And Tour World

In 2024, France firmly established itself as the leading Schengen visa destination, capturing the attention of travelers from over 190 countries. The country received more than three million visa applications, marking a 17% increase from the previous year. This surge reflects France’s enduring appeal, not only as a global cultural and tourist hotspot but also as a prime entry point to the Schengen Area for travelers requiring visas.

The reasons behind France’s popularity as a visa destination are multifaceted. Its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, world-class cuisine, and well-developed transport infrastructure make it a natural choice for tourists, business travelers, and expatriates alike. Additionally, France serves as a strategic gateway to Europe, offering easy access to neighboring Schengen countries.

Interestingly, France was the top Schengen visa destination for applicants from 32 different nationalities, many of whom do not benefit from visa exemption agreements. For several countries, France was the only Schengen state where visa applications were submitted. This dominance underscores France’s vital role in international mobility and European tourism.

This article explores detailed statistics, highlights key nationalities applying for visas, and analyzes why France remains at the heart of Schengen visa demand, providing insights for travelers, policymakers, and industry experts.

France’s Schengen Visa Statistics at a Glance

• Total visa applications received by France in 2024: Over 3 million
• Year-on-year increase: 17% compared to 2023
• Countries filing most visa applications to France: 32 nationalities topped their lists with France as their preferred destination
• Unique cases: France was the sole destination for visa applications from several countries

Top Nationalities Choosing France for Their Schengen Visa Applications

France attracted a diverse range of nationalities seeking Schengen visas in 2024. Below are some of the most significant groups, highlighting the volume and proportion of visa applications directed to France:

• Chinese nationals: 1,779,255 total Schengen visa applications; 458,018 (25.7%) to France
• Moroccans: 606,800 total applications; 282,153 (46.5%) to France
• Algerians: 544,634 total applications; 352,295 (64.7%) to France
• Ivorians: 77,385 total applications; 62,786 (81.1%) to France
• Saudis: 505,455 total applications; 191,388 (37.8%) to France
• Tunisians: 177,951 total applications; 106,617 (59.9%) to France
• Nigerians: 111,201 total applications; 55,833 (50.2%) to France
• Sri Lankans: 25,721 total applications; 9,555 (37.1%) to France
• Haitians: 4,614 total applications; 3,661 (79.3%) to France
• Gabonese: 18,395 total applications; 16,913 (91.9%) to France
• Guineans: 17,887 total applications; 14,000 (78.2%) to France
• Qataris: 105,290 total applications; 24,274 (23.1%) to France
• South Africans: 193,768 total applications; 30,304 (15.6%) to France
• Beninese: 15,148 total applications; 13,801 (91.1%) to France
• Togolese: 9,113 total applications; 8,240 (90.4%) to France
• Vietnamese: 110,093 total applications; 43,999 (39.9%) to France
• Cameroonians: 51,679 total applications; 31,349 (60.6%) to France
• Malagasy: 16,618 total applications; 15,423 (92.8%) to France
• Cambodians: 13,871 total applications; 10,498 (75.6%) to France
• Lebanese: 115,890 total applications; 49,096 (42.3%) to France
• Kuwaitis: 170,754 total applications; 35,023 (20.5%) to France
• Senegalese: 72,412 total applications; 36,323 (50.1%) to France
• Zimbabweans: 8,288 total applications; 2,199 (26.5%) to France
• Chadians: 7,243 total applications; 100% to France
• Djiboutians: 5,090 total applications; 100% to France
• Laotians: 4,684 total applications; 2,432 (51.9%) to France
• Central African Republic nationals: 2,996 total applications; 100% to France
• Comorians: 2,853 total applications; 100% to France
• Nationals of Vanuatu: 261 total applications; 100% to France
• Congolese: 25,774 total applications; 24,291 (94.2%) to France
• Iraqis: 65,944 total applications; 19,617 (29.7%) to France
• Azerbaijanis: 90,634 total applications; 23,708 (26.1%) to France

These countries represent the highest concentration of Schengen visa applicants who chose France as their primary or sole destination in 2024.

Foreign Nationals Residing in Visa-Exempt Countries Who Prefer France

While citizens of some countries do not require Schengen visas due to visa exemption agreements, foreign nationals living in these countries must apply for visas if traveling to Schengen states. Among these, France was the leading destination for visa applications in 2024:

• United Kingdom: 470,569 total applications; 132,469 (28.1%) for France
• Malaysia: 6,113 total; 1,741 (28.4%) for France
• Mauritius: 838 total; 100% for France
• Saint Lucia: 207 total; 100% for France
• Spain: 367 total; 62.3% for France
• Japan: 14,698 total; 27.2% for France
• Ireland: 27,761 total; 5,415 (19.5%) for France
• Singapore: 38,188 total; 9,450 (24.7%) for France
• Brazil: 2,083 total; 432 (20.7%) for France
• Switzerland: 120 total; 34 (28.3%) for France
• Canada: 42,265 total; 14,520 (34.3%) for France
• South Korea: 4,362 total; 707 (16.2%) for France
• Norway: 16 total; 10 (62.5%) for France
• Malta: 19 total; 9 (47.3%) for France
• Belgium: 89 total; 40 (44.9%) for France
• Romania: 1,292 total; 329 (25.4%) for France
• Hong Kong: 13,345 total; 3,912 (29.3%) for France
• USA: 201,602 total; 61,152 (30.3%) for France

This data reveals France’s appeal extends even to residents of traditionally visa-free countries, likely due to France’s cultural ties, economic opportunities, and tourism infrastructure.

Why Is France So Popular for Schengen Visas? Expert Insights

Several factors contribute to France’s position as the top Schengen visa destination:

• Cultural Magnet: Home to world-renowned art, museums, historic architecture, and festivals, France is a bucket-list country for many.
• Economic Hub: France’s robust economy, multinational corporations, and opportunities for employment and study attract skilled workers and students worldwide.
• Travel Gateway: With its central location in Western Europe, France serves as a natural entry point for travelers intending to visit multiple Schengen countries.
• Consular Efficiency: France has an extensive network of embassies and consulates worldwide, facilitating visa processing.
• Strong Diaspora Links: Large expatriate communities, especially from North and West Africa, maintain ties with France, influencing visa demand.
• Tourism Infrastructure: France’s well-developed transport systems, accommodations, and tourist services enhance its appeal.

Impact on Tourism and Travel Industry

The high volume of Schengen visa applications reflects growing international interest in France as a travel and business destination. This trend is positive news for the French tourism industry, which benefits from increased arrivals, hotel bookings, and spending in cultural sites and local businesses.

Travel agencies, airlines, and hospitality sectors can leverage this demand by tailoring services and marketing efforts toward the top applicant nationalities.

What This Means for Visa Applicants

If France is your primary destination in the Schengen Area, understanding this trend is essential for planning your visa application. Anticipate potentially higher demand, longer wait times, and stricter documentation requirements.

Applicants from countries with strong ties to France should prepare their paperwork carefully and consider applying well in advance of their planned travel dates.

Summary: France’s Leading Role in the Schengen Visa Landscape

• France dominated Schengen visa applications in 2024 with over 3 million applications, a notable 17% increase from 2023.
• It was the number one destination for 32 nationalities, many without visa-free access to Schengen countries.
• Some countries submitted all their Schengen visa applications exclusively to France, underscoring its unique position.
• Residents of visa-exempt countries also preferred France as their primary visa destination.
• Factors driving this trend include France’s cultural richness, economic opportunities, travel connectivity, and strong diaspora ties.

For anyone planning to visit Europe in the coming years, France remains a pivotal gateway and an enduring beacon for culture, work, and tourism.