Having a visa would allow you to visit places all over the world. Processing this can require substantial investments of your money, time, and effort. Always makes sure that you bring legitimate papers. Some of the documents may require a notary from a lawyer. This may sound overwhelming and time-consuming, but all of it will be worth it once you have been granted access all over the world. This article will guide you through the process of acquiring a visa.
Accurate, Complete and Genuine Documents
1. Accomplish all the requirements. This is common knowledge, but some people think that skipping out some documents is fine. But truth be told, it is not. You will just end up wasting our appointment and efforts. Make sure you have all the documents beforehand. Also, make sure that your passport is not expiring soon. Make a checklist of all of your requirements, and you won’t be needing any lawyer in doing so.
2. Mind the details. Some embassies will not conduct interviews since they will only rely on the documents that you submit. Take note of all the details provided. Examples would be the specific size of the paper, a specific envelope, and documents that must be notarized by a lawyer. Also, write only with blue ink. These small details can play a crucial role in your application.
3. Only submit authentic documents. Don’t ever try submitting fake documents as it may result in imprisonment.
4. Provide as much proof as you can. One required proof is fine. But bringing with you a back-up can save you time and effort.
5. Show that you are well-traveled. Bring evidence such as travel tickets, passport stamps, credit reports, and travel insurance. The more evidence that you have, the more chances that you will be approved.
Interviews:
As many would know, the interview is part of the process. As long as your papers are correct, there is no need for you to be nervous. You also just have to be honest with your answers
1. True Purpose: Apply for the correct Visa. Research and read all the information and processes the embassy has. You could call the embassy in case you need some clarifications. This part is considered to be crucial. Often times, this part is even missed out. You can save time and not hurt your credit score if you are sure with what visa you will be getting. For instance, you are processing for a tourist visa when, in fact, you would actually be needing a student visa. All of your time and effort will be wasted.
2. Strong and Reasonable Purpose: If you are applying for a tourist visa, then this part is not a problem as it is self-explanatory. Try to provide the embassy some itinerary for them to know that you indeed are traveling. The same applies for different visas, such as student, fiance, work, or marriage. All of which explain your motive but always carry back-up documents to justify it.
Sufficient Funds/Support
Important Reminders: Every embassy would surely want you to convince them that you have money, a high credit score, and a good credit report to support yourself. Below are some ways for you to prove it.
1. For employed persons. This part is easy since your status has already secured that you have a job to come back to:
a. Proof of employment or Certificate of Employment that has a company stamp, that states your position, years of service, and monthly salary
b. Most recent payslips (often for the past 3 months)
c. Income Tax Return (ITR) for the past year
2. For self-employed persons This would be a challenge. Having your own business may require your proof of being stable and that you have enough money. Try to gather all the documents stated below:
a. Business Permit or Copy of Official Business Registration
b. Tax Statements or Tax paying certificate
c. You can ask for help from a financial advisor for this one. Book of the company, Bank Statement, and Financial Reports, for the last 3 months.
d. Bring copies of your personal credit cards, credit reports, bank statements, and bank certificates in the last three months.
Proof of Not Overstaying
Many shared that this is where embassies put most emphasis on. This part plays a crucial role. For many experienced people, the embassy would want you to be bound in your own country. They will not want you to stay longer and most especially reside “illegally.”
1. For employed persons
a. COE or certificate of employment and or Leave of Absence from your employer.
b. A personal letter from you, stating the reasons that you will not overstay.
2. For self-employed persons
a. State an affair that would support your return. Examples would be a company event or board meeting.
b. Proof of possession which can be real estate property (Home Insurance or Homeowners Insurance, Title), Car ( car insurance), business registration, or any other investments.
c. A personal letter from you, explaining any other reasons why you will not overstay.
Based on Materials from I Am Aileen blog
Photo Sources: Daryanani Law Group Blog, Pixabay, Thanakorn Phanthura