A Reddit post detailing a challenging Schengen visa application experience has gone viral. The user shared how he initially faced rejection for a business visa to Austria despite providing all necessary documents, only to receive approval shortly after reapplying.
Initial Rejection: Confusing Reasons and Frustration
The Redditor explained that he had applied for a Schengen Business visa via Austria, with entry and exit through Germany. “I am spending 3.5 days and 3 nights in Germany & 3.5 days and 4 nights in Austria,” he wrote. Due to a lack of available slots in Germany, he had planned the final night in Austria, fearing it might be seen as visa shopping.
He submitted his application on 16th September but received his passport back on 30th September with a rejection citing:
- “Purpose of travel not clear” – despite attaching an invitation letter and detailed itinerary.
- “No past travel history” – although he had traveled extensively in South Asia and held a four-year student visa from Singapore.
- “Intention to return not clear” – as he is a 26-year-old unmarried male employed in a family business without property.
“Seems the application wasn’t even read properly,” he remarked.
Appeal and Reapplication: A Happy Ending
The user said he sent an appeal with all documents addressed on 1st October via post and email and received an automated reply. With travel dates approaching (20th October), he decided to reapply on 8th October, paying all fees again.
Interestingly, he received an email on 9th October confirming that his appeal was accepted and instructing him to submit his passport. However, he had already reapplied.
He concluded his post noting the irony: “Received back my passport today (11th Oct) with Visa Stamped!! Should have waited 1 day and saved the fees..”
The story has drawn attention from other Reddit users, with many sharing similar experiences of confusing rejections and visa delays, highlighting challenges applicants often face even with complete documentation.
(This story is based on a post shared by a social media user. The details, opinions, and statements quoted herein belong solely to the original poster and do not reflect the views of Financialexpress.com. We have not independently verified the claims.)