Pakistanis paying millions for visa rejection!
Visas to European countries are becoming increasingly expensive, leading to another kind of inequality
Dubai: New research shows that UK and Schengen countries collect millions of Euros and Pounds on fees from rejected visa applications from Pakistan. The analysis released by Lago Collective, a community of researchers, policymakers, and designers, reveals that nearly 40% of visa applications from Pakistan to both Schengen countries and the UK were rejected in 2023. This resulted in Pakistanis spending £5.3 million on rejected UK visas and €3.344 million on rejected Schengen visas.
Cost as "Reverse Remittance": Marta Foresti, founder of Lago Collective, argues these rejected visa fees act as a "reverse remittance," draining money from developing countries like Pakistan and flowing into wealthier European nations.
EU fees set to rise: The situation is expected to worsen in 2024. The visa application fee for travel to the EU will increase from €80 to €90 on June 11th. The UK is also raising its fees, from £100 to £120.
Unequal Visa Regimes: Foresti highlights the unequal nature of visa regimes. While a European national can obtain a visa to Sierra Leone for a mere £30, a Sierra Leonean seeking to travel to Europe faces a much more complex and expensive process.
“Yet the challenges faced by Pakistani nationals to reach Europe through legal means became tragically clear a year ago when hundreds died in the Greece boat capsize. People have no choice but to resort to dangerous journeys,” Foresti added.
Impact beyond application fees: The report acknowledges that the true cost of rejected visas goes beyond the application fee itself. Many applicants incur additional expenses for services from private agencies and brokers who assist with the application process.
Economic losses for all: Lago Collective emphasizes that restrictions on travel can have a negative economic impact on all parties involved. Limited opportunities for business and leisure travel lead to losses for both potential visitors and European economies.
The high rejection rates and rising fees paint a concerning picture for Pakistanis seeking to travel to Europe. The research by Lago Collective calls for a reevaluation of visa regimes to ensure a fairer and more accessible system for all.