A brief introduction
29 European countries are accessible via a Schengen visa. In spite of the fact that visa application fees are the same in all Schengen states (90 euros for adults and 45 euros for children 6-12 as of 2025), the total cost varies from country to country. These factors include:
- Fees are charged by visa centers for processing visas (service charges).
- Reapplications and costs are reduced as a result of an easier approval process.
- Documentation requirements (some consulates require fewer translations or certifications).
- A Nigerian or other non-EU national is less likely to have to pay for air travel or accommodation.
Consequently, these countries are the easiest and cheapest Schengen countries to apply for a visa.
1. Spain
- Although Spain is popular, it is often more affordable than applying through France or Switzerland.
- Moderate rejection rates are experienced by Nigerian applicants with strong financial and travel evidence.
- Aside from that, flights to Spain are more affordable, which reduces the overall cost of the trip.
2. Lithuania
- Among Schengen states, it has one of the lowest rejection rates.
- The documentation requirements are minimal.
- Nigerian visa centers usually charge lower service fees than those in bigger countries such as France or Germany.
- First-time applicants benefit from its higher approval chances.
3. Estonia
- In spite of its small size, it is a member of the Schengen Area.
- The consulates offer relatively fast and affordable processing.
- There are no additional costs associated with travel insurance or document requirements compared to other states.
4. Slovakia
- Due to the fact that it is not a major tourist destination, there is low application traffic.
- There is a higher rate of approval for genuine applications.
- Costs can be reduced with less stringent translations and certifications.
5. Greece
- In spite of its popularity as a tourist destination, the application process is affordable for many Nigerians.
- Visa centers charge a moderate fee for their services.
- The documentation requirements are less strict in countries like Germany and France.
6. Latvia
- Application fees are straightforward, and additional fees are limited.
- The processing time is faster than at high-demand embassies.
- Appointments are less competitive since there are fewer applicants overall.
Here are some reasons why these countries are cheaper
- A lower rejection rate reduces the risk of wasting the €90 fee.
- Simplified requirements mean fewer forms, notarizations, and translations.
- Low service charges → Some embassies and visa centers charge higher handling fees.
- The availability of appointments will be better and there will be fewer delays and rescheduling costs.
Take note of these points
- The embassy/consulate of the country you visit most often (or the first point of entry) is the best place to apply. When it comes to selecting an embassy, you should only do so if your travel plans align with the country’s.
- No matter where you apply for a visa, making sure your itinerary matches the visa rules is crucial.
- The cost of travel insurance, flights, and accommodations may vary depending on the country you choose.
Finally,
Despite the official Schengen visa fee being the same everywhere, Nigerians can apply through Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Slovakia, Greece, or Spain. The service fees in these countries are often lower, more applicants are approved, and fewer restrictions apply than in France, Germany, or Switzerland.
By selecting a country based on affordability and genuine travel plans, Schengen visa applications can be more successful.