Applying for a visa is never easy. Here are some of the common mistakes.
The visa application form must be filled out completely in every section. Do not skip any sections and ensure all information you provide is accurate. There are instructions in every section about what to do if it does not apply to you. If you do not submit the correct data, this can be a reason for your visa being rejected.
There is a chance that your visa will be rejected if your passport is not valid, or is soon to expire, or has no page for a visa. Your passport will need to be valid for at least six months when you submit your application. You cannot obtain a visa if your passport expires in less than six months.
Every immigration department has strict internal guidelines that govern the documentation requirements and visa approval. You risk having your visa refused if any of your supporting documents are inconsistent or if you do not adhere to the rules and regulations.
Before applying for a visa, always check that you are able to provide all necessary documentation, this will prevent delays and reduce the risk of visa refusal.
Providing documents in regional languages is ineffective since the embassy authority cannot verify them.
Certain countries and visa routes require additional checks and documentation.
You will no doubt have researched the requirements for your visa, but it’s important to ensure that you have considered if the visa route requires any extra certification, for example a Health and Care worker visa application will require an accompanying criminal check certificate from the country of residence.
Extra requirements may also be placed upon applications from certain countries. If you’re travelling from a region which presents an increased risk of Tuberculosis (TB) you may need to present a clear x-ray certificate as a part of the visa application process.
The processing times for visas vary among the different visa routes. You should submit your visa application before the deadline processing time. You can make a visa application up to 3 months before your intended travel date. If the processing time exceeds the departure date, you will be granted a visa which is valid from the date you receive a decision and not your intended travel date.
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