What do you need for a visa application?

Answer 1

For a visa application, the exact requirements depend on the country of application; however, most embassies or consulates generally request the following documents:

Common Visa Application Requirements

1. Completed visa application form – filled out online or on paper.

2. Valid passport – usually valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay, with blank pages for the visa.

3. Passport-size photos – recent, biometric-standard photos.

4. Visa fee payment receipt – proof that you have paid the required application fee.

5. Flight itinerary or reservation – proof of travel dates (not always a paid ticket; a reservation is usually accepted).

6. Travel Insurance – required for some visas (e.g., Schengen), covering medical expenses and repatriation.

7. Proof of accommodation – hotel booking, invitation letter, or rental agreement.

8. Proof of financial means – recent bank statements, payslips, or a sponsorship letter showing that you can afford your trip.

9. Purpose of travel documents:

• Tourist visa – travel itinerary, hotel bookings.
• Business visa – invitation letter from the company, conference registration.
• Study visa – admission letter from the school/university.
• Work visa – job offer or work contract.

10. Cover letter – sometimes required, explaining the purpose of your trip and the planned duration of stay.

11. Civil status documents – marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc. (if relevant).

Additional Documents (depending on the country and visa type)

• Police clearance certificate (for long-term visas).
• Medical certificate or vaccination records.
• Proof of ties to the home country (employment letter, property papers) to demonstrate intent to return.

Third-party reservations made under another person’s name are generally not accepted for visa applications. However, bookings from reputable providers, such as Schengen Visa Itinerary, are typically accepted as valid flight and hotel reservations when applying for a visa. These services may also provide affordable travel insurance to support your visa application.

Answer 2

For a visa application, you typically need a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of financial means, travel itinerary, and any required supporting documents such as invitation letters or proof of accommodation.