In 2024, African nations lost tens of millions of euros due to high rejection rates of EU visa applications, with no refunds for fees paid.

Nigeria faced the highest losses at €4.3 million with a 45.9% rejection rate, followed by Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, reflecting concerns about opaque and discriminatory visa policies.

Other affected countries include Ghana, Cameroon, Kenya, DRC, Angola, South Africa, and Mali, with significant financial impacts despite differences in rejection rates.

The costs compound difficulties for Africans seeking study, work, or residency opportunities in Europe, highlighting systemic mobility challenges and economic bias in visa approvals.