France has emerged as the most popular Schengen country for visa applicants in 2024, surpassing traditional destinations like the UK, Canada, Italy, and the US.
- France has become the primary Schengen visa destination in 2024, surpassing traditional countries such as the UK and Italy.
- Increased visa applications from Africa, particularly North and West African nations, highlight strong ties between France and the continent.
- Over 1.36 million applications were from African countries, with Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco being the leading contributors.
France received over 1.36 million visa applications from Africa, out of a global total of 3 million, marking a 17% increase from the previous year.
The surge in visa applications highlights France’s enduring ties with many African nations, driven by shared history, language, and culture, as well as substantial diaspora communities in France and efficient visa procedures.
For many applicants, family connections, educational pursuits, and business relationships continue to fuel strong interest in France
Based on a recent data from Travelobiz, the following are the top 10 African nationalities that submitted applications for French Schengen visas in 2024
| Country | Total Schengen Applications | Application to France | % to France |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco | 606,800 | 282,153 | 46.5% |
| Algeria | 544, 634 | 352,295 | 64.7% |
| Tunisia | 177,951 | 106,617 | 59.9% |
| Ivory Coast | 77,385 | 62,786 | 81.1% |
| Nigeria | 111,201 | 55,833 | 50.2% |
| Senegal | 72,412 | 36, 323 | 50.1% |
| Cameroon | 51,679 | 31, 349 | 60.6% |
| South Africa | 193,768 | 30,304 | 15.6% |
| DRC | 25,774 | 24,291 | 94.2% |
| Gabon | 18, 395 | 16,913 | 91.9% |
| total: 998,864 | total: 53% |
North and West Africa Lead Applications
The Data above indicates that countries in North and West Africa accounted for the bulk of applications. Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal, and Ivory Coast were among the top countries whose nationals preferred France over other Schengen destinations.
Algeria accounted for over 540,000 applications, with nearly 65% directed to France.
Tunisia and Morocco followed closely, with significant proportions of their Schengen applications also headed for France.
Sub-Saharan Africa demonstrated a strong trend toward France. Nations like Gabon, Benin, and Togo channeled over 90% of their Schengen applications to France, while countries like the Ivory Coast, Guinea, and Cameroon also showed a strong preference.
Remarkably, Djibouti, Chad, and the Central African Republic exclusively applied for French Schengen visas, suggesting a distinct cultural or diplomatic connection.
Notably, The data confirms France’s status as the gateway to Europe for African travelers, driven by long-standing relationships and present-day opportunities. As bilateral ties continue to grow, the country is expected to remain Africa’s leading Schengen destination well into 2025 and beyond.
Olamilekan Okebiorun
