Breakdown of Visas Issued by Countries in 2024

As international travel continues to rebound in 2024, countries worldwide have seen a surge in visa applications, reflecting an ever-growing interest in global exploration, work opportunities, and academic pursuits. Let’s dive into a breakdown of the top visa-issuing countries and the trends shaping global mobility this year.

Top Visa-Issuing Countries in 2024

1. United States
   • Visas Issued: Over 10 million
   • Key Categories: Tourist (B1/B2), Student (F1), and Work (H1-B, L1)
   • The United States remains a top destination, with a significant rise in tourist and student visas. The relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and the reinstatement of rapid visa processing has helped restore pre-pandemic application volumes.
2. Schengen Zone (Europe)
   • Visas Issued: 15 million (combined for all Schengen countries)
   • Key Categories: Short-Stay Tourist/Business (Schengen Visa), Work, and Family Reunion
   • Details: Schengen countries continue to attract millions of visitors annually due to their interconnected travel benefits. France, Germany, and Italy are among the top issuers within the zone, each processing millions of applications.

   Schengen Visa Issuance by Country (2024)

   Country	Number of Visas Issued
   France	4,200,000
   Germany	3,900,000
   Italy	3,500,000
   Spain	2,100,000
   Netherlands	800,000
   Greece	500,000
   Other	100,000

   • Applicant Origins:
     • Asia: A significant portion of applicants comes from India, China, and Southeast Asian nations like the Philippines and Indonesia, driven by tourism and business travel.
     • Africa: Countries like Nigeria, South Africa, and Morocco are key sources of applications, with many seeking work, study, or family reunion opportunities.
     • Middle East: Nations such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia also contribute substantially to the numbers, often for business and leisure purposes.
     • Latin America: Brazil and Mexico are emerging markets for Schengen visas, with increased interest in cultural exchange and tourism.
3. Canada
   • Visas Issued: 5 million
   • Key Categories: Study Permits, Work Permits, and Permanent Residence
   • Canada continues to attract skilled workers and students, with its Express Entry program facilitating permanent residency for thousands annually.
4. Australia
   • Visas Issued: 4.5 million
   • Key Categories: Visitor Visa, Student Visa, and Skilled Migration Visa
   • With its emphasis on skilled migration and international education, Australia has remained a favorite among professionals and students alike.
5. United Kingdom
   • Visas Issued: 6 million
   • Key Categories: Tourist, Tier 2 Work Visa, and Student Visa
   • The UK’s robust education sector and post-study work opportunities have made it a top choice for international students. Tourist visa applications have also surged thanks to events like the coronation celebrations and increased global interest in British heritage.
6. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
   • Visas Issued: 8 million
   • Key Categories: Tourism, Work, and Long-Term Residency (Golden Visa)
   • Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain tourism and business hubs, with the UAE’s Golden Visa attracting long-term investors and highly skilled professionals.

Emerging Trends in Visa Applications

• Increased Digital Nomad Visas: Countries like Portugal, Estonia, and Barbados are leading the charge in offering digital nomad visas to accommodate remote workers.
• Rise in Education-Related Visas: The global student population continues to grow, with nations like Canada, Australia, and the UK seeing record numbers of study permit applications.
• Simplified E-Visa Processes: Nations such as India, Turkey, and Kenya have significantly streamlined their e-visa processes, making travel more accessible.
• Work Migration Programs: Countries facing labor shortages, such as Germany and Japan, have introduced specialized visa categories to attract skilled workers in healthcare, IT, and engineering.

Notable Changes in 2024

• France: Simplified Schengen visa procedures have led to a record number of applications, particularly from Asia and Africa.
• India: The Indian government’s rollout of a new e-visa system has led to a 30% increase in tourism-related visa approvals.
• China: Reopening its borders has sparked a rise in both inbound and outbound travel, leading to higher demand for tourist and business visas.

Conclusion

The global demand for visas in 2024 highlights a renewed enthusiasm for travel and international opportunities. As countries adapt their visa policies to attract tourists, students, and workers, the competition to offer seamless and efficient processes is fiercer than ever.

At HelpMyVisa.com, we understand how navigating visa requirements can be overwhelming. Whether you’re planning to explore Europe, study in Canada, or work in the UAE, we’re here to simplify the process and ensure your journey starts on the right foot. Get in touch with us today to make your visa application stress-free!