If you’re planning a European holiday this year, you’ve probably already discovered that getting a Schengen visa is no walk in the park. Schengen visa processing times have stretched longer than ever, appointment slots are scarce, and many South Africans are finding themselves in a race against the clock before their travel dates.
So, what’s really going on with Schengen visa delays in 2025, and how long does it actually take to get approved?
A surge in Schengen visa demand
After a few quiet post-pandemic years, 2025 has seen an explosion in international travel. Europe remains one of the top destinations for South Africans, with Spain, Italy, France, and the Netherlands among the most visited. But that popularity comes at a price: visa bottlenecks.
In June 2025, the European Commission confirmed that Schengen visa requests from South Africans had reached record highs, nearly 40% higher than 2023 levels. As a result, appointment backlogs and longer turnaround times have become the new normal.
Current Schengen visa processing times for South Africans
While each embassy operates differently, here’s what applicants can generally expect in October 2025:
- Appointment wait time: 2–5 weeks (depending on the embassy and city)
- Processing time after submission: 15–45 working days
- Peak period extensions: Up to 8 weeks during high-volume travel seasons (June–September and December)
For example, the Italian Consulate in Johannesburg has been reporting turnaround times of around 30 working days, while the French and Dutch consulates are closer to 20–25 days. Smaller Schengen states, such as Portugal and Greece, may take even longer due to limited appointment slots.
Why are applications taking longer in 2025?
Several factors are contributing to these extended waiting periods:
- High demand and limited appointment availability
Visa centres are overwhelmed by applicants booking months in advance, especially for summer and festive travel. - More thorough background checks
EU member states have implemented new verification systems under the updated Visa Information System (VIS), making the process more secure but slightly slower. - Increased document scrutiny
Embassies are paying closer attention to financial proof, employment verification, and travel insurance coverage after a spike in incomplete applications. - Technical updates and staffing shortages
Many consulates are upgrading to new digital systems, and staff capacity hasn’t quite caught up with demand.
How to avoid delays with your Schengen visa application
If you’re applying for a Schengen visa from South Africa in 2025, timing and accuracy are everything. Here are some key tips:
Apply early. REAL early!
Apply at least 10–12 weeks before your intended travel date. Many embassies now allow you to submit your application up to six months in advance.
Have every document ready
Missing or incomplete paperwork is one of the main reasons for delays. Double-check your supporting documents, including proof of accommodation, medical insurance, and return flights, before your appointment.
Be flexible with your appointment location
If appointments in your city are fully booked, consider applying through another visa centre (for example, Pretoria instead of Cape Town).
Use a visa expert service
Visa professionals can help ensure your documents meet embassy standards and that your file is complete before submission — saving you valuable time.
What’s next: Europe’s digital visa system
The European Union is currently rolling out a digital Schengen visa platform, expected to go live in late 2026. Once active, applicants will be able to submit their documents and pay fees online without visiting a consulate.
Until then, South Africans will have to continue navigating traditional application systems, meaning that planning ahead remains essential for stress-free travel.
Final word
As of 2025, the average Schengen visa process for South Africans takes 4–8 weeks from start to finish. If you’re hoping to travel to Europe over the December holidays, start your application now, not later.
A little preparation today can save a lot of panic tomorrow. The Schengen system might still be catching up with the travel boom, but with careful timing and the right guidance, you can still get that stamp in your passport, right on schedule.
