Travelling abroad can be an exciting adventure for most but ensure you don’t fall at the first hurdle by being refused a travel visa.

Most nationalities require a travel visa or Schengen visa if they intend to travel within most countries with the European Union.

What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa is a visa issued by a country within the European Union who forms part of the Schengen State. Foreign citizens from a country which is not part of the European Union require a Schengen Visa if they intend to travel to a country which is part of the EU or EFTA. A Schengen Visa enables the passport holder entry into countries which form part of the Schengen State who are then able to travel freely throughout the Schengen zone. Internal border controls have disappeared and there are little or no stops and checks within the zone.

Visa Guru has put together a checklist to follow to ensure you receive your travel visa first time.

Travel Visa Checklist

• Check application form is up to date and verify all requirements with embassy

• Ensure you give enough time to obtain your visa

• Application forms must be signed

• Check with relevant embassy that you require or don’t require a visa prior to entry

• Some countries allow those with biometric passports in without a visa – check with relevant embassy

• Some countries allow those with service or diplomatic passports in without a visa – check with the relevant embassy

• Ensure you have at least 1 blank page in your passport for the visa (Some embassies require 2 – 4 blank pages)

• Original documents are always best to provide

• Send in the correct number of photographs with application (ensure they meet guidelines – recent, taken in last month, colour, taken with white background, dimensions etc)

• If travel insurance is required ensure you have sufficient level of cover for the entire area visiting and duration

• For proof of financial means ensure you have sufficient money in your bank account

• Remember to send all documents including your passport

• Ensure you send copies or all documents where required (including passport information pages, residency permits etc)

• Ensure you have sufficient validity for your passport

• Proof of residency or renewal or UK residency visas where required (This may be required to be in the same passport)

• Ensure all dates on the application form match tickets, letters accompanying the application etc

• All fields should be filled in on application forms

• Application forms filled in black ink where stated

• Application forms filled in block capitals where stated

• When sending passports do not send in passport covers

Follow these guidelines and you will have a relatively stress free start to your next holiday abroad.