5 mistakes to avoid when applying for a tourist visa

Preparation for abroad travel is not an easy task, especially if important things such sorting out the visa hasn’t been dealt with. All the other reparations may be done before the visa is received, but the most important part of travelling is the green passport with a visa in it.

The visa process on its own needs a person to be careful when filling out information and submitting documentation.

Some countries are stricter than others and may not give a chance for a mistake to rectified on the application, once it has been submitted.

To make the visa application process easier we’ve compiled four of the many commonly made mistakes that you need to be warry of when applying for a tourist visa, shared by VisaGov. 

1. Incorrect documentation

Aside from completing the actual application form, it is important to provide documentation that will serve as the evidence to prove that all the information you have supplied is authentic. Common mistakes include submitting a photocopy when the original document is required, not providing all the required documentation or sending an incorrect personal photograph (wrong size, blurry, with inappropriate clothing, or with wrong background). These mistakes may give the impression that you are not trustworthy to be granted a visa.

2. Mistakes with personal data

Making mistakes in personal data is the most common mistake. Names, civil status, addresses, contact numbers, and passport numbers are just some of the mistakes that people commit while filling out the form. It is important to double-check before submitting this information because it will help the visa agent in establishing your identity and evaluating whether you deserve the visa or not. A field applicant should be more careful about is nationality. This mistake can have many consequences, especially when it comes to the eligibility of the person to apply for a visa.

3. Mistakes with travel information

One of the most important criteria to grant a visa is the time you are staying in the country. That’s why providing accurate travel information is important to get your visa approved. This information includes your complete travel itinerary, dates of entry and exit from the country, accommodation details, the address of the place where you are staying, and if possible, a phone to contact you while you are in the country. If you stay in the country outside the visa validity period, you will have problems with the authorities. Be truthful in providing details about your trip to avoid any troubles and severe penalties.

4. Not applying for the right visa

For every country, there are several types of visas depending on the purpose and duration of your stay, or the situation of the applicant. Choosing the appropriate type of visa before applying is crucial. Each visa type has a different set of criteria and requirements which means that if you have selected the wrong visa, you are most likely to supply incorrect information and submit irrelevant documentation. Furthermore, each visa type has its conditions when it comes to how long can you stay in the country, the purpose of your visit and the maximum number of entries. Other restrictions might be the ability to work or study while in the country.