A visa is an official document that permits one to enter a foreign country for a specified purpose, such as tourism, study, work or medical treatment. Based on your destination and purpose of travel, you will need to apply for a specific type of visa, such as a tourist visa, student visa, or business visa.

Though differing according to destination, the process generally applies to most visa applications. Here are the general steps:

• Determine your visa type.
• Determine if you require a tourist, business, or any other type of visa.
• Gather the required documents, such as a valid passport (with at least six months’ validity), recent passport-sized photographs, and a travel itinerary, including flight and hotel reservations.
• If applicable, provide financial proof, including bank statements, income tax returns, and an invitation letter.
• Provide travel insurance, particularly in destinations such as the Schengen Area.
• Complete the application form.
• Fill out the application form correctly. In case of an error, it may delay or reject your visa.
• Pay for the visa fee.
• The fee is payable according to the destination and type of visa.
• Book an appointment
• Make a reservation for biometrics and/or interviews at the embassy, consulate, or VAC and attend the appointment.
• Submit your documents, provide biometrics, and attend an interview if necessary. Then, you must wait for the processing. 
• The Processing times differ in each country, from a few days to weeks. After that, you will receive your visa. 
• Once approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport or issued as an e-visa.

Why This Happens: Unaware of the specific requirements of a country.

Solution: Use checklists available online at embassies or consulates. Verify your documents before submission.

Why This Happens: Not having sufficient balance in the bank or being unable to prove a steady income.

Solution: Maintain a healthy bank balance at least 3-6 months before the application.

You can also include sponsorship letters if someone else is funding your trip.

Why It Happens: First-time travellers may not have any previous international travel.

Solution: Start with visa-friendly countries like Thailand or Singapore. Emphasise domestic travel experiences and strong ties to India.

Why It Happens: Applicants do not submit confirmed bookings.

Solution: Book refundable tickets and accommodation. Develop a comprehensive itinerary detailing your travel plans.

Why It Happens: Typographical errors or incorrect information.

Solution: Carefully complete the forms and review them before submission. If you have any questions, seek professional help.

Why it happens: Nervousness or lack of preparation during visa interviews.

Solution: Practice answering commonly asked interview questions. Be confident and respond honestly.

Why it happens: Backlog of applications or incomplete documents.

Solution: Submit applications early enough, say 1-2 months before travelling. If priority processing options are offered, take them.

Type of Visa: Tourist Visa or Visa on Arrival.

Here are the things you require while applying for a visa to Singapore. 

• Passport with at least 6 months validity.
• Recent photographs and a completed application form.
• Proof of onward travel.
• Financial proof (e.g., bank statements).

Processing time takes 3-5 working days for pre-applied visas.

Type of Visa: Tourist visa.

Here are the things you require while applying for a visa to Singapore. 

• Passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• Confirmed travel itinerary and flight tickets.
• Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.

The processing time might take 3-5 working days.

Type of Visa: Tourist visa.

Some documents you require while applying for a visa to Dubai are as follows: 

• Passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Flight and hotel bookings.
• Passport-sized photographs.

The processing time might take 2-4 working days.

Schengen Countries (e.g., France, Germany, Italy)

Type of Visa: Schengen visa (allows travel within 26 countries).

Some documents you require while applying for a visa to Schengen countries are as follows:

• Completed visa application form.
• Travel insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Proof of accommodation, financial means, and travel itinerary.

The processing time might take 15 working days.

Type of Visa: Tourist visa.

• Passport first and last page Color clear scan copy (Passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of exit from Malaysia)
•  Normal passport-size photo with white background recently clicked (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
• Ticket copy onward and return
• Valid email address 

The processing time might take 24-48 hours after submission.

Type of Visa: Tourist visa.

• Passport First and last page (Passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of exit from Sri Lanka)
• Ticket copy

The Processing time might take 24-48 hours after submission.

Type of Visa: Tourist visa.

• Valid Passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of travel. 
• One form that should be typed or handwritten.
• Two photographs (Fresh ones, i.e. not used earlier for any visa with 80% face coverage.) 

Detailed specifications are provided below.

• Detailed Original Covering Letter addressed to the Visa Officer Embassy of China New Delhi.
• Stay Itinerary (hotel)
• Travel Itinerary (tickets)
• An original bank statement for 6 months with the bank’s original seal and signature on all the pages and a minimum balance of Rs 1.5 Lakhs per person should be provided.
• Original bank solvency letter with bank original seal and signature
• A recommendation letter from the respective Country’s Embassy is mandatory for any foreign passport holder.
• For any foreigner working in India on an employment visa, an FRRO authorisation letter is also mandatory.

• Research visa requirements and application timelines for your destination.
• Gather originals and copies of all required documents in one place.
• Approach travel agencies like Madras Travels for professional assistance and enquiries. 
• Provide truthful information in applications and interviews.
• Stay updated on any changes in visa policies or requirements.
• Dress formally and be prepared to answer potential questions.

Travel agencies like Madras Travels simplify the visa process for first-time travellers. Their services include:

• Document verification.
• Application submission and follow-ups.
• Personalised guidance for interviews.
• Assistance with travel insurance and itinerary planning.

Leveraging professional expertise can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure a higher success rate for your visa application.

Visa application procedures are challenging to obtain. However, you can easily overcome this barrier with proper planning. Make proper progress, be attentive to tiny details, and never feel too proud to seek more help. Your dream place will just be a visa ahead!

For hassle-free visa services, visit Madras Travels and start your journey today.