main purpose for visit visa

• Europe Visas Visa Application

Why is purpose of visit important for visa applications?

• Jun 13, 2023

When applying for a visa, one of the crucial aspects that applicants need to address is stating the purpose of their visit. This information holds immense importance and plays a significant role in the visa application process. Understanding why visa applications require details about the purpose of the visit is essential to ensure a successful outcome. Is purpose of visit important when it comes to visa application?

Correctly identifying and disclosing the purpose of the visit is vital for several reasons. It demonstrates transparency, credibility, and adherence to immigration regulations. Providing accurate information helps immigration authorities assess the applicant’s intention to comply with the visa conditions and return to their home country within the permitted timeframe. A well-defined purpose of visit also enables immigration officers to match the applicant’s plans with the appropriate visa category, ensuring compliance with immigration laws and facilitating a smoother application process.

This article will cover the following topics such as :

Purpose of Visit

Impact of visit purposes on visa applications, significance of accurate purpose disclosure.

Explanation of why visa applications ask for the purpose of the visit

Visa applications ask for the purpose of the visit to ascertain the applicant’s intentions and assess their eligibility for entry. Immigration authorities need to ensure that the purpose of the visit aligns with the permitted activities and conditions of the requested visa category. By understanding the purpose, immigration officers can evaluate the potential risks associated with the applicant, such as overstay or unauthorized employment, and determine whether the individual qualifies for the desired visa type.

Importance of accurately stating the purpose of visit for legal compliance

Accurately stating the purpose of visit is crucial for legal compliance and maintaining the integrity of the visa process. Providing truthful and comprehensive information about the purpose of Travel visit Family demonstrates transparency, credibility, and respect for the immigration laws of the host country. Failure to accurately disclose the purpose of your visit may result in visa denial, complications during the immigration process, or potential legal consequences, such as being barred from future entry. It is essential to ensure that the stated purpose aligns with the intended activities and follows the guidelines of the chosen visa category, fostering a smooth and legally compliant visa application process.

The purpose of one’s visit has a significant impact on the visa application process and the outcome of the application. Different visit purposes require specific visa categories, each with its own set of requirements and considerations. Understanding the impact of visit purposes is crucial for applicants to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.

Here are some key points to consider:

Different visit purposes and their corresponding visas or travel permits

• Tourism and vacation : For tourist visas, applicants need to meet specific requirements, such as providing a valid passport, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses during the trip.
• Business and professional activities : Various types of visas cater to business purposes, including work visas, business visitor visas, or conference visas. Applicants may need to provide documents such as invitation letters, proof of business activities, and details of the sponsoring organization.
• Study and educational pursuits : Student visas are required for individuals seeking to pursue education in another country. Requirements typically include an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution, proof of financial capability, and sometimes language proficiency certificates.
• Medical treatment and healthcare : Those seeking medical treatment abroad need to apply for medical visas. This may require providing medical documentation, letters from healthcare providers, and proof of sufficient funds for medical expenses.
• Family visits and reunions : Family visit visas allow individuals to visit their relatives in another country. Requirements may include relationship documentation, invitation letters, and proof of financial capability to support the visit.

How different visit purposes can affect the visa application process

• Duration of stay and visa validity : The purpose of the visit often determines the allowed duration of stay and visa validity. Student visas may be valid for the duration of the academic program, while tourist visas have specific validity periods.
• Additional documentation required for specific purposes : Certain Travel purposes may necessitate additional documentation. For example, business visa applicants may need to provide details of the sponsoring organization or conference, while medical visa applicants may require medical reports or treatment plans.
• Eligibility criteria and background checks : Each visit purpose has its own eligibility criteria. Immigration authorities conduct background checks to ensure the applicant’s intentions align with the purpose of the visit. This may involve verifying educational institution credentials, financial standing, or medical treatment necessity.

Accurately disclosing the purpose of one’s visit in a visa application holds great significance and can greatly impact the outcome of the application process.

Here are key points highlighting the significance of accurate purpose disclosure:

Legal Consequences of Misrepresenting the Purpose of the Visit

Accurately disclosing the purpose of the visit is crucial to avoid legal consequences. Misrepresenting the purpose of the visit, such as stating tourism when the actual intention is to work or study, can lead to visa denial, deportation, or even being barred from future entry. Immigration authorities take misrepresentation seriously and consider it a violation of immigration laws, which may result in severe penalties and jeopardize the traveler’s reputation and legal status.

Impact on Future Visa Applications and Travel Opportunities

Misrepresenting the purpose of a previous visit can have a lasting impact on future visa applications and travel opportunities. Immigration records are maintained, and inconsistencies or discrepancies can be flagged, leading to increased scrutiny and potential visa denials. Immigration authorities value honesty and transparency in visa applications, and a history of misrepresentation can significantly diminish the chances of obtaining future visas or travel permits.

Another important thing you might be interested in is new travel regulations. The European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS , is the EU’s new European travel and security framework. By launching the system in November 2025, the European Union intends to strengthen its external borders and enhance its threat-curbing capabilities.

Statistics and Official Data Supporting the Importance of Accurate Purpose Disclosure

Official data and statistics highlight the significance of accurate purpose disclosure. Immigration authorities analyze trends and patterns to identify individuals who may pose security risks or violate immigration regulations. By providing accurate information about the purpose of the visit, travelers help authorities make informed decisions, contributing to the overall integrity and effectiveness of the visa application process.

Purpose of Visit Duty

Purpose of Visit Sample Letter

A purpose of visit sample letter is a document that outlines the reason for the visit to a specific country. These letters typically include information about the purpose, duration of stay, planned activities, and any supporting details relevant to the visa application. It is important to tailor the letter to match the requirements of the specific visa category and provide accurate and truthful information.

Purpose of Visit Evidence

Purpose of visit evidence refers to the supporting documents or evidence submitted with a visa application to substantiate the stated purpose of the visit. This may include invitations, conference registrations, employment contracts , itineraries, or any other relevant documentation that validates the purpose and intended activities during the visit.

Sample Purpose of Visit Letter for Visa

A sample purpose of visit letter for a visa is a template or example letter that helps individuals draft their own personalized letter for visa applications. It provides a structure and guidance on how to effectively communicate the purpose of the visit, including details about the visit, intended activities, and any supporting information required.

We mentioned that ETIAS is going to be important after next year when it comes to travel to Europe. Completing the ETIAS application will take you no more than 15 minutes, and once submitted, you’ll get your application feedback within hours.

Purpose of Visit Leisure

Purpose of visit leisure refers to traveling for recreational or vacation purposes. When applying for a visa for leisure travel , it is important to provide details about the planned activities, such as sightseeing, attending cultural events, or visiting tourist attractions. It may also involve providing details of accommodations and itineraries to support the purpose of the visit.

Purpose of Visit Australia

Purpose of visit Australia refers to the specific reason for traveling to Australia. It could include tourism, business meetings, visiting family or friends, studying, or other purposes. The purpose should align with the visa category being applied for, such as a tourist visa, business visa, student visa, or family visa.

The purpose of visit example holds immense importance in visa applications. Accurately identifying and disclosing the purpose of the visit is crucial for a successful visa outcome. By understanding the significance of purpose disclosure, applicants can navigate the visa application process with confidence and increase their chances of approval. Providing truthful and comprehensive information about the purpose of the visit demonstrates transparency, credibility, and respect for immigration laws. It enables immigration authorities to assess the applicant’s intentions, evaluate eligibility, and match the purpose with the appropriate visa category.

Failure to accurately disclose the purpose of visit travel can lead to visa denial, complications during the purpose of visit immigration, and potential legal consequences. It is vital to understand the specific requirements of the desired visa category and purpose of visit in visa application to ensure that the stated purpose aligns with the intended activities. By doing so, applicants can maintain the integrity of the visa process and enhance their prospects of a successful visa application.

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B1/B2 Visa Interview: Top 10 US Visitor Visa Questions

Introduction:

Welcome, future travelers, to the ultimate guide on cracking the US Tourist/Visitor Visa interview! As you embark on your journey to the land of dreams, it's important to prepare for the face-to-face interview that determines your visa approval. Fear not, as we've compiled the top 10 most common questions asked during US Tourist Visa interviews, along with expert tips and sample answers to help you impress the consular officer and secure your ticket to the US.

Why Do US Visa Officers Ask Questions in Tourist Visa Interview?

When you step into the US visa interview room, you may wonder why the visa officers ask a barrage of questions. Well, there's a method to this seemingly intense process. Visa officers have a crucial responsibility of determining your eligibility and assessing the genuineness of your intentions for US travel. Through their questions, they want to understand your purpose of travel, the duration of your stay, your ties to your home country, and your ability to cover your expenses financially. Their goal is to ensure that you meet the requirements of the US tourist (B1/B2) visa category you're applying for and that you will adhere to the US immigration laws. So, while it may feel daunting, remember that the visa officers are there to make fair assessments and help facilitate your travel aspirations within the legal framework.

1. Why do you want to travel to the US?

Tip: Be sincere and specific about your purpose. Discuss the aspects of American culture or places you find interesting and why they appeal to you. If possible, add personal anecdotes or experiences that have shaped this interest.

Sample Answer: I've always been fascinated by American history and culture, and I would love to explore this firsthand by visiting landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and museums like the Smithsonian.

Reasoning: Honesty is the best policy. The visa officer wants to understand your interest in the US. Your desire to experience American culture demonstrates genuine curiosity and aligns with the purpose of a B2 Visa.

2. Have you travelled to other countries before?

Tip: Share a detailed account of your travel history. Include the duration of your stay, purpose of travel, and experiences respecting immigration rules of the countries visited. This will build a portrait of you as a responsible traveller who respects international laws.

Sample Answer: Yes, I have travelled to the United Kingdom, France, and Japan. Each trip was for tourism and lasted approximately two weeks.

Reasoning: This gives the interviewer an idea of your travel history and indicates your compliance with immigration rules in other countries.

3. What is your occupation?

Tip: To answer "What is your occupation? or Why is your income source?", you have to be clear about your current employment status and role. If possible, elaborate on your responsibilities, your tenure, and the industry you are working in. This can paint a fuller picture of your professional life, showcasing stability and commitment.

Sample Answer: I am a software engineer working with XYZ corporation for the past five years.

Reasoning: Having a stable job back home is a strong tie, indicating you're likely to return after your visit.

4. How long do you plan to stay in the US?

Tip: Align your planned stay with your visit's purpose. Explain the rationale behind the duration. For instance, if you plan to visit several cities or attend a special event, factor that into your response.

Sample Answer: I plan to stay for three weeks to fully enjoy my vacation and visit the major tourist spots.

Reasoning: A reasonable timeframe for your visit shows you respect the visa conditions and plan to leave before your visa expires.

5. Where will you stay in the US?

Tip: Provide specifics about your accommodations. Whether it's a hotel or a friend's place, give details like the address, the duration of stay at each location, and why you chose those particular accommodations.

Sample Answer: I have a reservation at the Hilton in New York for the first week and then an Airbnb booked in Los Angeles for the remaining two weeks.

Reasoning: Concrete accommodation plans exhibit your responsibility and planning abilities, which are positive indicators to visa officers.

6. How will you sponsor you trip?

Tip: To answer "How will you sponsor your trip?" or "Who is your sponsor for this trip?", mention your financial stability by talking about your savings, salary, or other income sources such as real estate and investments. Explain how you've budgeted for this trip, considering all possible expenses including travel, accommodation, food, attractions, and emergency funds. Or, if you have a company or other people sponsoring your trip, mention their financial details.

Sample Answer: I have been saving for this trip over the past two years and it is around $10,000. Plus, I have a steady income of $1500 from my job and two apartments building, which will cover the cost of this trip without financial strain.

Reasoning: This shows your financial self-sufficiency and reassures that you will not seek employment during your stay, which is against B2 Visa rules.

7. Who will take care of your home/job while you're away?

Tip: Indicate that you've made responsible arrangements for your absence. Share details of who will manage your responsibilities and how they're prepared to do so, further showcasing your planning skills and intention to return.

Sample Answer: My neighbour and other family members has agreed to check on my house regularly, and I've delegated my job duties to my co-worker during my absence.

Reasoning: Demonstrating arrangements back home affirms your intention to return.

8. Do you have relatives in the US?

Tip: Be upfront if you have relatives in the US. However, clarify your main purpose of the trip, underlining that while you may visit them, your primary aim is tourism or business, not family reunions.

Sample Answer: Yes, my cousin lives in Florida, but my primary purpose for this trip is tourism, not to visit family.

Reasoning: Having relatives in the US might raise concern about your intent to stay longer. You have to clarify your intentions and priority of your visit.

9. What are your plans after the visit?

Tip: Strongly stress your intention to return home. Talk about your commitments at home—professional, personal, or community-related—that you need to attend to post your visit. This reflects your rootedness in your home country.

Sample Answer: After the visit, I plan to return to work at ABC company and share my experiences with my friends and family.

Reasoning: This shows you have compelling reasons to return home and aren't planning to overstay your visa.

10. Why should we grant you a US Visitor Visa?

Tip: This questions gives you a chance to present a summary of your intentions. Highlight your respect for immigration laws, your well-planned travel itinerary, strong ties to your home country, and your anticipation to experience and learn from the US. Make it clear that you're a genuine tourist/business visitor who will uphold the terms of the B1/B2 Visa.

Sample Answer: I want to experience the culture, sights, and sounds of the US and share these experiences back home. I assure you that I'll abide by the rules and conditions of the B1/B2 Visa.

Reasoning: This answer demonstrates your respect for immigration laws and reiterates your intentions to be a genuine tourist.

Conclusion:

Getting your US Tourist Visa interview can be intimidating, but with proper preparation and the right mindset, you'll be ready to take it on with confidence. Remember, the visa officer wants to see genuine intent to enjoy the US as a tourist or business travel and a strong commitment to respecting the legal terms of your B1/B2 Visa.

We hope that with this guide, your path to "US Tourist / Business Visa" is clearer and simpler. Bon Voyage!

Need more info? Check out these B1/B2 blogs below!

B1/B2 Tourist Visa Series

A Step-by-Step Guide to US Tourist (B1/B2) Visa Application

7 Mistakes NOT to Make in Your US Visa Interview

Transforming Tourist B1/B2 Visa to Green Card: Is it Possible?

B1/B2 Visa: What is your current job?

Purpose of Visit to USA – What is it? [ANSWERED]

What is the “Purpose of Visit to USA”? Decoding the Many Shades of American Adventures!

🌍🦅 If you’ve ever filled out a U.S. visa application or even just chatted with someone about traveling to the States, you’ve probably bumped into that age-old question: “What’s the purpose of your visit?”

Well, the USA isn’t just a one-trick pony.

From business meetings to road trips, let’s unravel the diverse reasons people hop on a plane to Uncle Sam’s land!

Apply Online

In this article…

Tourism & Leisure (B-2 Visa)

The most common reason for many! This includes:

• Vacationing: From the neon rush of Las Vegas to the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
• Visiting friends & family: Because reunions are a universal love language.
• Medical treatments: The U.S. is home to some world-renowned medical facilities.
• Participation in social events: Think conventions, music festivals, or even a wedding.

💡 Tip: Buy travel health insurance before your trip.

Check out popular travel insurance plans and choose one that suits you.

Most plans only cost less than $20 a day.

Business (B-1 Visa)

Not just skyscrapers and suits. Business visits can encompass:

• Conferences & Seminars: The U.S. hosts a plethora of global events year-round.
• Negotiating contracts: Closing deals and forging partnerships.
• Training: Whether it’s a two-day workshop or a month-long course.
• Short-term projects: Got a task that doesn’t require an actual work visa ? This is your stop.

Study & Exchange (F, M, and J Visas)

The States is a hub for global education:

• Academic Studies (F visa): From Ivy Leagues to community colleges.
• Vocational and Non-Academic Training (M visa): Think cooking schools or technical institutes.
• Exchange Programs (J visa): From internships to cultural programs.

Employment & Work (Various Visas)

For those chasing the American dream:

• Temporary Workers (H visas): From agriculture to modeling.
• Specialty Occupations (H-1B visa): Think techies, doctors, and other professionals.
• Artists & Athletes (O and P visas): Because the U.S. is where big dreams come to life!

Transit (C Visa)

Just passing through? Whether it’s a layover in L.A. or a connecting flight in Chicago , this is for travelers who need to make a short stop in the U.S. before jetting off to their final destination.

Immigration & Family (Various Visas)

The heartwarming tales of family and fresh starts:

• Fiancé(e) to marry U.S. Citizen (K visa): For lovebirds taking the plunge.
• Family-based Green Cards: For those joining close relatives who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Diplomatic & International Representatives (A, G, NATO Visas)

For the folks who work on the world stage:

• Ambassadors, public ministers, and consular officers: The big wigs of international diplomacy.
• International organization employees: Think United Nations or the World Bank.
• NATO representatives: For those working on behalf of NATO in the U.S.

So, whether you’re presenting a paper in Palo Alto, sunbathing in Florida, or just breezing through en route to Ecuador , the U.S. has a visa category (or exemption) tailored to your journey.

Each purpose paints a unique shade on the vast canvas of American visits. Wherever you fit, here’s to an amazing and purposeful U.S. escapade! 🇺🇸🌆🚖🌄

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Sample Letter for UK Tourist Visa Application (2019 Cover Letter Template)

In this article, we are going to discuss how  you can write your UK visitor visa supporting letter in 2019.

This is because your goal is going to be the same whether you are applying for a UK, US, Canadian or a tourist visa for another country – to convince the person deciding your application that you will return to your home country and not overstay .

This is one of the most helpful things that you can do to increase your chances of a successful UK visitor visa application .

After all, the Home Office caseworkers are very suspicious people and you should do everything that you can to persuade them that you are a ‘genuine’ and ‘credible’ visitor.

There is no one set letter template that can be effectively used for all UK visitor visa applications since every application is different and unique to your own individual circumstances.

There are different aspects that your visit visa supporting letter should discuss and we will discuss each of them in turn:

• An introduction / summary of your visit visa application
• List of documents that you are including
• The purpose of your visit
• Why you will not overstay your UK visa
• The dependants that you will be applying with (if any)
• Your ability to adequately maintain yourself during your UK visit
• Whether your sponsor meets the sponsor requirements (if you have one)
• Confirmation that you are not using frequent and successive visits to make the UK your main home (if relevant)
• Potential weaknesses in your application
• Contact details of other relevant persons

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 1

Introduction/Summary

My name is [NAME] and I am [NATIONALITY] . I am applying from [COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE] and I am applying for a standard [6 month/2 year/5 year/10 year] UK visitor visa.

In discussing that I am a genuine and credible UK visitor visa, this letter will cover:

• A list of the supporting documents that have been submitted alongside this supporting letter

The purpose of my visit

• Reasons why I will comply with the terms of the visa and why I will  not overstay
• Information relating to  dependants applying with me (delete if appropriate)
• My ability to adequately maintain myself [ and any dependants (if relevant) ] during intended UK trip
• Information relating to my sponsor (delete if appropriate)
• Why I am not using frequent and successive visits to make the UK my main home [( if relevant )]
• Potential perceived weaknesses in my application
• Contact details of other relevant persons you may wish to contact

Why is this section important?

This section provides a clear outline of the things that Home Office caseworkers are most interested in.

By providing a clear and relevant structure , you are immediately letting the Home Office caseworker know that you have a good understanding of the Immigration Rules as they apply to visitor visas.

It also makes it easier for the Home Office caseworker to read. The clearer and easier you make it for the Home Office caseworker, the happier that they will be.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 2

List of included documents

In support of my UK visitor visa application, I have included the following documents:

The Home Office tend to lose documents quite often, unfortunately.

By stating that you list a certain documents, the Home Office caseworker will then know that the document may have indeed been lost on the way.

This increases the likelihood of the Home Office caseworker getting into contact and asking for the missing document .

By having something similar to the above table, you again increase the clarity and ease of reading for this cover letter.

The Home Office caseworker will be able to refer to this table to quickly identify the relevant document when considering your application and it will again provide good impression.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 3

The main purpose of my visit is to [INSERT ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY] .

[Discuss what you intend to do in the UK in more detail here]

I am fully aware of the permitted and prohibited activities found in Immigration Rules Appendix V: visitor rules .

Example Itinerary #1

The main purpose of my visit is to attend my niece’s university graduation .

The following is my itinerary and includes the likely costings of the UK visit:

23rd May (Day 1)

Hopefully, I will be flying to London Heathrow from Bangkok, Thailand. As evidenced by the attached return flight tickets and return flight ticket receipts (Appendix 8 and 9), the cost of return of this flight is £884.

24th May (Day 2)

I will be picked up at the London Heathrow by my sister and will stay at her accommodation, 22b Iverson Road, London, NW6 2HE for two nights.

Please see the attached letter of support from my sister, which has been labelled Appendix 11.

Whilst I expect that I will spend around £30 on airport food, I will incur no costs for accommodation.

25th May (Day 3)

I will attend my niece’s graduation on this day, which is the main purpose of my trip to the UK.

The graduation is taking place at the University of Leeds campus.

We will travel from my niece’s accommodation in London to the University of Leeds by train, the expected cost of which is £80 for a return train ticket (see Appendix 13).

In support of these plans, please see the attached letter from my niece’s university (Appendix 5), confirmation of my niece’s graduation (Appendix 4) and the letter of support from my niece (Appendix 7).

Since the graduation is scheduled to finish at 11.30am, this will give us plenty time to enjoy a nice meal at our favourite restaurant, ‘Almost Famous’ in Leeds.  I will have £50 set aside for this meal.

Once we have arrived back in London, I will again stay at my sister’s accommodation, which will mean that I will incur no extra costs with regards to accommodation.

26th May (Day 4)

My last day is expected to start early in the morning as my sister will drive me to London Heathrow in time for my 8am flight back to Bangkok.

I have set aside £30 for food and drink at the airport.

The total expected cost for this trip is therefore £190 for my 4-day trip, not including the return flight tickets that I have already paid £884 for.

In light of my personal savings account at Appendix 17 that shows savings of £12,200 (as converted by oanda.com), it is therefore clear that I can adequately provide for myself during my 4-day visit to the UK.

Example Itinerary #2:

The main purpose of my visit is to attend my niece’s university graduation.

The purpose of your visit is a key consideration when deciding whether the Home Office should grant your UK visitor visa application.

The clearer that your purpose for visiting the UK is, the more genuine and credible you will appear to be .

Because of this, it is therefore helpful if you are able to use this letter of support to clearly discuss your plans and the costs associated with the UK trip .

In this section of the letter of support, it will be good if you cross-reference your stated intentions with evidence that you submit in your application.

For example: I will be taking the train on the 25th May, 2020 from London Heathrow to Leeds train station, which will cost £80. Please see appendix 13 that shows this .

It will also be good to get letter of supports from family or friends that supports your stated intentions.

For example, if you are visiting a specific family member or friend in the UK, a letter of support from them will also be helpful to include.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 4

Why I will not overstay the UK visitor visa

I fully intend to return to [my home country OR make an onwards journey to COUNTRY] before my UK visitor visa expires.

I have a good life back home and I would absolutely not want to trade it for a life as an outlaw in the UK.

The following are reasons that I would you to consider when deciding my application:

#1 My good immigration history

My unblemished UK immigration history is one indication that suggests that I am likely to comply with the terms of the UK visit visa and return to my home country prior to the visa expiration.

Example : “In 2012, I was issued a UK visitor visa for 6 months (see appendix 13 which is a copy of page 34 of my attached passport). In 2015, I was also issued a UK visitor visa (see Appendix 14 which is a copy of page 36 of my attached passport. In all of the above instances, I left before the expiration of the visa. I also complied with all of the visa conditions.”

#2 My family ties to my home country

My family back home is another strong indication that I will return to my home country prior to the UK visitor visa expiring.

[Discuss family members back home here, especially if they are dependant on you].

Example : My son, Jeremiah (13 years of age) and my daughter, Jodie (15 years of age), will stay in my home country of Bangladesh during my 9-day trip to the UK. Please see their attached passport scans at Appendix 8 and 9. During my UK visit, Jeremiah and Jodie will be cared for by my husband, Andy Jones, as evidenced by my husband’s letter of support at Appendix 14, which includes a copy of his passport at Appendix 15.

#3 My financial and economic ties to my home country

My financial and economic ties to my home country are other factors that strongly suggest that I have no reason to trade my life in [HOME COUNTRY] with a life as an illegal alien in the UK.

My assets and income are discussed in more detail below, under the sub-heading ‘My ability to adequately maintain myself in the UK’.

#4 Other links with my home country

Example : I am currently studying a degree at Chiang Mai University, Thailand. Please see the attached letter from my university at Appendix 6 that confirms this. Please also see the attached term dates for my course at Appendix 7 that confirms that my intended trip to the UK is not during term-time but rather during the summer holidays.

The main reason why visit visa applications are refused is that the Home Office are scared that you will use the UK visitor visa to enter the UK,  disappear and overstay your visa illegally .

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 5

Dependants I am applying with (if relevant)

As stated in the online application form, I am applying with child dependant(s), [NAME(S) AS STATED IN PASSPORT(S), AGE(S) & THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO YOU] .

Obviously, if you are not applying with any child dependants, you can ignore this sub-heading .

However, if you are applying with child dependants, it is important that you are fully aware of the additional requirements that will apply.

In summary, you must show:

#1 That you (or your sponsor) will be able to adequately provide for any child dependants that are also applying for a UK visitor visa.

This is obviously linked with your ability to adequately maintain yourself – i.e. by the showing of assets and income.

In order to maintain a clear structure for this letter of support, you should make sure you sufficiently discuss your finances in the subheading ‘My ability to adequately maintain myself during the UK visit’ below.

#2 That all duties of care obligations with regards to child dependants will be met

Simply showing sufficient financial assets and income will not always suffice.

If, in light of all the circumstances, it is not clear how the child’s welfare will be looked after in the UK, it is likely that the application will be refused .

Like many UK visa applications, the child’s welfare is of an extremely high importance .

#3 That parental consent is given

Parental consent is a requirement for children’s UK visitor visas.

This requirement is usually satisfied where the visit visa applications are made on behalf of a child, although i t is important that you are aware of the situations where the requirement will not be met .

If you are divorced with your child’s other parent, the parent with sole responsibility or legal custody must provide parental consent, which can be met via a letter of support.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 6

My ability to adequately maintain myself during the UK visit

I confirm that I can adequately maintain myself [as well the dependants who are applying with me] . To support this, I will now discuss my sources of income and financial assets.

#1 My sources of income

#2 My assets and/or cash savings

#3 My on-going financial commitments

Example : I am employed as a journalist for The Daily Paper Company in Pakistan. I receive a gross annual salary of PKR 3,000,000 and I have permission from my employer to have paid leave for the week that I will be visiting the UK (see Appendix 8, which is a signed letter from my employer). For clarity, PKR 3,000,000 equates to 15,102 pounds sterling, as stated by the closing spot exchange rate found on www.oanda.com . As evidenced by my attached bank statements (see Appendix 3), I saved a total of PKR 1,500,000 over the past 8 months to help fund my UK visit. This is the equivalent of £7,550 pounds sterling. I also own my own house in Pakistan. Please see the attached documentation (Appendix 11-13) for 12 Wahdat Road, Lahore. The property’s worth, as stated on zoopla.com, is PKR 13,000,000 (Appendix 14).

It is crucial that you are able to convince the Home Office caseworker that you have sufficient resources to maintain and accommodate yourself adequately for the whole of your planned visit to the UK.

This includes the additional costs associated with applying with any dependant children.

If the expected cost of the visit is high when compared to your overall resources (or your sponsor’s overall resources), then questions may be raised regarding the genuineness of your intentions .

Unlike a UK spouse visa , there are no set rules regarding the amount of funds that you (or your sponsor) will need to show.

For example, there is no rule saying that an income of £10,000 is required or cash savings of £5,000 or more.

Instead, the Home Office caseworker will look at your circumstances (and your sponsor’s circumstances, if you have one) and your stated intentions and then make a decision based on that.

At the very minimum, it is clear that you have to prove that you can afford:

I) The cost of travelling to and from the UK ;

II) Any costs associated with applying with dependant children ;  and

III) What you say you intend to do in the UK (e.g. shopping or visiting a family in London).

There are a few points to note regarding evidencing assets and income .

Firstly, both your supporting letter as well as the documents that you submit should make the source of cash savings clear.

If your personal bank account shows a sudden and relatively large injection of cash into your bank, this may seem suspicious.

Secondly, you should make it clear that you can access  to the cash savings.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 7

My sponsor (include this sub-heading only if you have one)

I am being sponsored by [ SPONSOR’S NAME ], who is my [ RELATIONSHIP TO APPLICANT ]. As evidenced by the attached documentation, [ SPONSOR’S NAME ]’s [ASSETS/INCOME] is more than enough to adequately provide for myself [and my dependant children who are applying with me] during my stay in the UK.

I can confirm that the relationship between [ SPONSOR’S NAME ] and I is genuine. Please see the attached documentation regarding this, as well as the attached letter of support from [ SPONSOR’S NAME ] that confirms [ HIS/HER ] intention to sponsor me.

• Whether the relationship is personal or professional
• How you met,
• Where you first met,
• How often you meet,
• How often you communicate with each other]

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 8

Why I am not using frequent and successive visits to make the UK my home (include this sub-heading if you have previously been issued a UK visitor visa only)

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 9

Potential weaknesses in my application

Include this section only if there are any potential weaknesses in your application.

I recognise that [ REASON 1 ] can raise doubts about the genuine and credibility as a visitor.

[Discuss this here and explain why that should not adversely affect your UK visitor visa application]

I recognise that [ REASON 2 ] can raise doubts about the genuine and credibility as a visitor.

Example : In 2016 I was previously refused a UK visitor visa on the grounds that I was not able to adequately show that I can maintain myself. Please see appendix 3, which is a copy of this refusal letter. It was unfortunate that important financial documents, such as employer pay slips and bank statements, were not received by the Home Office – hence not being able to show that I could have adequately maintained myself. In any event, one month after receiving the refusal letter, I submitted another UK visitor visa application. Fortunately, the Home Office received all of the supporting documents and my UK visitor visa application was swiftly approved. In light of this, my previous UK visitor visa refusal should not adversely affect this application as not only have I shown adequate funds to cover my trip to the UK in this application, but the reason for the previous refusal does not apply to my case.

It is important to directly address the potential weaknesses of your application.

This is because Home Office caseworkers are trained specifically to identify weaknesses in applications.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 10

Relevant contact details

I can appreciate that you may want to contact my friends and family.

If you would like to do so, the following are some friend and family member’s contact information:

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 1], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 2], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 3], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 4], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 5], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

If you would like to contact any other individuals or organisations and I have not provided their contact details, please feel free to get in touch and I will be more than happy to provide them.

In some cases, the Home Office caseworker may want to contact relevant third parties in your application in order to validate information to help decide whether they think you are a genuine and credible visitor.

Hopefully you found this article helpful.

Spending time writing a comprehensive covering letter is certainly a worthwhile activity as it is the best place for you to discuss relevant pieces of information in detail.

When writing the covering letter, remember:

• Using simple, straightforward English is best .
• Try to keep the contents of your supporting letter as relevant as possible
• When you can, cross-refer to documentation throughout your supporting letter
• As long as the structure of the letter is clear, it is worthwhile discussing different aspects of your application in great detail .

Related Articles

UK Visitor Visa Requirements in 2020

Long Term Visitor Visa 2019 and 2020 Guidance

Visitor Visa UK Application Form 2020 [45 things you NEED to know before submitting]

The Ultimate UK Visitor Visa Guidance for 2020

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USA B2 Tourist Visa Applications – 20 Consul Interview Questions You Could Be Asked and How Best to Answer Them

For first-timers, it is sometimes intimidating to apply for a US Tourist B1/B2 Visa. Hearing ‘denied’ stories from your friends and relatives may add to your worries too. You thought, “If they have been denied a US tourist visa, then what are the chances for me to get approved?”

My first tip for you, STOP being PESSIMISTIC. Stop attracting the negative vibes and start thinking that you have been approved already – even if your appointment is days or weeks from now. You know me, right? I believe in the Law of Attraction .

You see, when you keep on thinking that you will be denied, it will manifest during your interview. You will look nervous, your voice will crack, and the consul might feel that you are hiding something. That’s the perfect formula for a denied visa.

You wouldn’t want that. Would you?

Just so you know, aside from the documents required by the US embassy, it is also important that you know how to respond to the questions correctly. While it matters that your documents can prove that you will go back to your home country, you still need to have conviction during the interview proper.

To help you prepare for your visa application, here are some of the basic questions during a US B1/ B2 tourist visa consul interview. Always remember, NEVER LIE. They already did a background check on you when you applied online!

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Table of Contents

1. Why do you want to go to the USA?

Say you want to go on a tour and to see what the USA has to offer.  After all, you are applying for a US TOURIST visa so your answer should be as simple as that.

2.  Have you been to the USA before?

You might think that the best answer is YES, and you feel that this is your instant ticket for getting a visa. You are wrong! If you haven’t been to the US, don’t lie. Just be honest because lying will get you nowhere.

3. Why do you plan to travel at this time?

Simply answer that it is your most available time or it is your annual leave from work. If you have other reasons such as having enough savings recently for the trip, then tell the truth.

4. Who are you going with to the USA?

Are you going with your relatives or friends? Just make sure you know the basic information of the people you are going with. If you wanted to meet your American boyfriend who you met online and never met in person, I highly suggest you ask him to visit you in the Philippines first!

5.  Which places are you planning to visit?

It wouldn’t hurt to do research on the places you plan to visit before you go to your interview. Let me know if you need further help with this and I would be more than willing to help you. I suggest that you start with the spots near your accommodation because it is more feasible.

6. How long do you plan to stay in the USA?

Carefully study your itinerary and base your answer from there. Or if you are an employee, check your leave credits and talk to your Human Resources representative on your allowed leaves. If you can bring a form or letter during your interview stating your leave credits, that can help as well.

Remember, if you get an approved USA visa, you’ll surely get a 10-year multiple entry visit visa!

7. Can you stay for a shorter period of time?

Similar to the above, you can defend and defend your answer based on your itinerary. And if someone from the US will act as your ‘tour guide’, simply say that you need to adhere with their schedule as well. Hence, a need for a longer time to stay in the US.

8. How much do you think will it cost you to stay in the USA?

This is why we strongly suggest that you create an itinerary for your US trip. This will give you an idea of how much you need to spend for the entire vacation. You can contact me and I could help you with your USA Itinerary, details here .

9. What do you do for a living?

Tell your job, your businesses, and other side jobs, if any. This will give the consul an idea if your employer is credible enough. Similarly, they need to know that you are established in your home country and that you are not going to the US for greener pasture. Here are few requirements to strengthen your claim that you will be back and will not look for job opportunities while on ‘vacation’.

• Certificate of Employment
• Proof of Income for the last 3 months
• Business permits
• Bank statements

Be prepared and bring these documents on your interview, most of the time the Consul won’t ask you to show the proof! For people who work online, I know that feeling of not having those Income Tax Return report etc. I highly suggest you print your income transactions on your Paypal account if you’re a writer or a designer then compile all of your online portfolios.

10. How much do you earn for a living?

Just tell the correct figures. After all, these can all be seen from the documents you have presented during your online application. And if they feel that it is not enough for your trip, might as well prepare for the next question.

11.  How will you finance your trip?

Show proof that you have saved if any. Or if you are going to be sponsored, get the information from your sponsors. Know what they do for a living and get necessary supporting documents like bank statements, job certificate, tax details etc.

12. Do you have relatives in the USA?

Never lie or deny this even if you won’t visit them on your trip, you must know their names and a few basic information including their status in the US. Sometimes, it would help if you have photos with you to further prove your claim.

13.  Do you have friends in the USA?

Similar to the above, know their names and also the basic information but if they’re not really significant to you then just say so.

14. What are their exact addresses?

Try to get their exact addresses before the interview. Don’t just say that they live in Los Angeles or in New York but rather, be specific. Review the information before you go to the interview and always come prepared especially if you mentioned about them on your online application.

15. (For visiting Relatives/ Friends)  How long have they been living in the USA and what are their current status?

I strongly encourage that you spend time chatting and interviewing your relatives and friends in the US if the purpose of your visit is to meet them. It will really help you to become more confident in front of the consul.

16.  (For visiting Relatives/ Friends)  Where are they working and what will you do during the office hours?

As I have said, get as much information because the consul would like to know if you are just making up stories. Expect to be bombarded with questions. The questions might be redundant but that’s how they will know if you are indeed telling the truth. And when asked what are your plans during the hours and days that your ‘sponsors’ are working, you can say that you are planning to go on short solo day trips near the area so that you can maximize your stay.

17.  Do you have plans of working in the USA?

HUGE NO, and never attempt to work in the US while you are there on a TOURIST VISA. Otherwise, you might get deported and will never see US soil once again. Never even mention that you’re looking for opportunities. NEVER EVER!

18. Have you already booked your plane tickets?

Look for possible booking dates and say that you are eyeing on those dates for your US trip. Have the flight details ready, if possible but don’t pay for the flights yet until you get your visa approved. The flight ticket is not a requirement!

19. Have you traveled to other countries before?

Be honest because they will know if you haven’t. Everything can be validated easily and they have the means to check if you are telling the truth. I always tell my travel coaching clients that it’s better if you get more passport entry stamp from any nearby countries especially those that are visa-free or visa-on-arrival for Philippines passport, you can check the list of those countries here .

20. How can you assure that you will come back home?

Show the letter from your employer, if you have any. If you have businesses that you currently take care of, explain it. Or, you can tell them that you don’t plan on ruining your travel records because you still plan to see more places in the future.

My general tip, BE PREPARED and NEVER LIE ! These consuls are trained to know if you are lying, so always have the best intentions if you are going to the USA. We want you to have clear records so you can travel the world without facing challenges in the future.

If you need further help with your US Visa application, contact me here.  I’ll be also releasing some prepared Itinerary that you can use for visa applications.

Related Articles

• How to Apply for USA Tourist Visa
• Visa Free Countries with Valid USA Visa on your Philippine Passport
• Consul Interview Questions and How to Answer them for US Tourist Visa Application
• How to Travel and Work in The USA Legally – Complete Guide on Getting J1 US Visa
• 10 USA Visa Denial Rumors – Is it a Myth or Fact for USA Visa Application of Philippines Passport Holders??

Note: I am not a ‘travel agent’ but I can help you with your online application. Let me assist you in preparing for your interview. I can also assist you in organizing your requirements and I can even suggest an itinerary which is obviously all-important when you apply for a visa.

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200 thoughts on “ USA B2 Tourist Visa Applications – 20 Consul Interview Questions You Could Be Asked and How Best to Answer Them ”

I’m Amina nanjirah from Kenya and I want to visit U S once in my life time ! I love U S My aunt and cousins are there I want to visit them but I don’t know the procedure on how to get reach there

You can follow this guide: USA Visa Tips for Filipinos (Non-Immigrant B2 Visa)

It is true if your first US visa was rebooked you cannot get another US visa.

REbook po? Parang walang ganyan – i think ibang term like na-cancel?

Hello…,This is Mr Jampel Kinzang from Bhutan!! I want to visit USA once in my life! It’s a my dream to visit before die….America is great country and power country around globe….may my dream come true to visit ur great nation!! Thank you

I applied for for tourist visa and I got denied. I want to apply again to have vacation there and to see my relatives. Can you help me how to get it right this time?

Yes, kindly e-mail us at [email protected]

I am a tourist visa holder for 10 years, and I want to bring my sisters to take care of the kids while on vacation in the USA. My question is that is this possible for them to get approve if i applied for their tourist visa this month. our plan is to go back to the USA on June 15, 2022.

Thank you in advance. 🙂

I been denied for a US visa twice and canada visa once. I have an american boyfriend he wants me to visit him.He visits here in the Philippines 4 times already. I dont want to Get married yet so we did not try to het a fiancee visa.whatvi want is to visit tjere and see if i like to live tjere before i will decide to get a fiancee visa. I am a widow. Do i still have a chance to get a tourist visa after i was denied for 3 times?

Yes po. If you need assistance you can check out our service here: https://mrandmrshowe.com/visa-application-bundle-service

Hi, am Edith from Uganda, My online boyfriend who stays in Missouri US will be visiting me next year in April and it will be our first time meeting, hez planning to spend 2months here in Uganda then I go back with him to the US on a B2 visa My question is, what are chances of my visa being approved coz it will be my first time travelling outside my country??

Aslam Shahzad from Pakistan. Questions and Answers for VISIT Visa to USA at US Embassy Islamabad Pakistan

I’m applying US tourist visa together with my 4 yo daughter without her father.. Can you give us tips and sample questions from consul? Im planning to take her to LA (Disney, Universal studios, zoo museum and beach). How much do they want on my account for them to approve it also? How to hear from you, thanks!

I’m in a long distance relationship for almost two years, we didn’t meet my boyfriend yet and he requested me to spend my Christmas vacation in his places in the Library ,South Carolina of America. It will be my first time to travel out of the country, can I ask on how to increase my chances to get my tourist visa approved because I’m still students I don’t have an income yet but my boyfriend will be sending me enough money to cover my trip. Thank you.

How did it go? What country you travel from?

Thanks very much for assistance on questions and answers, butt sir, can you enlight me questions can ask o my business of selling phone ,laptop gadget, CCTV etc Thanks

I would like to ask for an help sample itineraries for California. Thanks

Hi My I’m in Singapore currently and Planning to visit my BF this July.If sponsored ang holiday what are the possible supporting documents na pwede ko i provide..

~Thanks a lot

Hello, so I’m actually in a long distance relationship with my boyfriend and it’ll be the first time that we’ll see each other. He’ll be visiting the Philippines first then he said I should go with him to tour the US. The problem is, I’ve never been to any other country before and the USA will be the first country that I’ll go to. How can I possibly increase my chances of getting the visa if I haven’t travelled internationally and I don’t have the money nor the time to so so now? My interview is scheduled in 2 weeks and I just happen to read about your article now.

It’s possible you stand a high chance of getting the visa if you answer the interview questions appropriately and with less pressure.

Hi Agatha, how did your interview go.

Can I know you

I am a Ghanaian and we are a number of four attending a funeral of our late sister in the US , what are the likely questions should we expect and answers?

Thnx for your help

First question for the Non Immigrant Visa Tourist visa ask. What is your Purpose going to US? for your Advise I will answer like this: My purpose going to US is to see your Beautiful Country and visits my relatives particular in California

Is this Good answer please help me and advise me

The article is of help to me..atleast i have a clue now..on what to expect during an interview

How much it cost if i asknyou to assist me on my online application and organised my requirements and my itenirary how much you will ask from me?? Thanks..

Hi i live in the philippines i just want to ask if there is any chances of having a US tourist visa if i am a call center agent for 2 years in my current company with 25k php monthy income, my company already let me to file a 15 days leave, already travelled in malaysia and dubai. while i am in dubai way back 2016 my cousin ask me to get a job just resign if i don’t want it, so tried less than i month i resigned bec i do not want to work abroad, my question is, will the consul deny my US visa application since i told to the immigration that i will be having a vacation in dubai but i worked there?

Hi Greetings , Anyone can suggest any website/agency providing Itenerery for US Visit visa application . Thanks in Advance .

hi how was the interview?

Hello there! Can I send you a personal msg on email? Thank you!

Hello there. I applied for the us visa on 2013, On that application I put my father’s childrens, they are from another mother, I got denied in 2013. Now i have applied again and i put all the information about my father but i did not put his 2 children on the application, because i have never met them and i have not contact with them. Do you think is a problem that i put them on the first application and i did not on this one? Thanks

please ma’am I want to know the posibility of me getting a visa my Uncle is the one sponsoring for my trip to the US but he havent send any Document to me so far as he is in The US am going to visit him now am worried though I know so many things like were his staying his office adress is there a posibility that I might get the Visa it on the 8th of October thanks

What if mam/sir I have no work here for now and my boyfriend is the one will sponsor my whole trip..but I’m just there to visit him…and I don’t have plan stay there and I want to go back to the Philippines cause I’m the one taking good care of my mom

Should I bring my old Philippine passport during my us visa interview?

Hi Anne, Just bring it with you incase it will ask for it. Good luck

I’m worried that I do have schedule for interview now but my renew passport is coming by 17th if this month . What should I do with my schedule for interview ?

Hi, i think the best way you can do is to reschedule your interview appointment. Good luck!

Its very helpful and thanks for your help. I have an upcoming Interview to go.. Can you please help me with an invitation letter.

Hey Solomon, It’s a bit complicated to make an invitation for you as no one knows your intentions for visit. You have to remember that you have to be fully aware the content of the letter. Anyhow, wishing you Good luck!

Hi tinny me i know some information first before i apply a tourist visa,what requirements should i get and one more thing my bf is going to cover up all the expenses here snd when i get there in US.

I HAVE APPLIED VISA WITH MY WIFE AND I HAVE A INTERVIEW DATE 17-09-2019 . MY VISA HAVE BEEN DENIED LAST YEAR JUNE 2019 THEN I HAVE APPLIED WITH MY WIFE AND MY SON .I HAVE REQUIRED YOUR GUIDANCE IN THIS REGARD. THANS

Am interested,

Need some more guidance what specific reasons I should highlight for tourist visa

This is very helpful!!! I have an interview coming 🙂 Thanks a lot!

Hi, after I have applied for a visa how long does it take to be called for an interview?

My interview is 2moro wish me luck

you make the appointment to get your interview schedule!

Excellent and very useful information for the freshers who are going to Visa

Hallow sir / madam I hope you’re doing well. I just want to ask few questions about tourist visa for USA and and some best answer to say about interview to consular.

Please reply… Waiting…

Is it a must for one to produce their birth certificate during a visa interview?

Nope. you dont need it.

Please am caleb from Ghana and my mom and dad will be going to an interview on 15th August 2019 but their own the staying visa please can you help us with some of the questions because this is their second interview at the America embassy they were refuse on he first interview thanks and wish to hear from you

Hey what to answer when they Why Are You Travelling Alone to US?

with my lovely wife

What is the difference between some one funding the trip and the contact person? Is it a must to move with my job appointment letter to show that I work for a certain school or a recommendation is enough?

Hi! Im jasmen and my boyfriend was planing to get me to bermuda hamilton. His asking to the bermudian immigration on how to get a filipina fgf to his country. And the immigration said that she only need a transit visa only that then she can fly. So i need your help and advices on how to get a transit visa to new york and whats the documents needed..

Im hoping for your response.. Thank you!!

Talofa would be happy to hear from you through email please?

Hey! So, I want to apply for a US tourist visa soon, but I’m just a bit worried it might get denied because of these: 1. I am a fresh graduate. I recently got a job, but I am not regularized yet 2. I got a J-1 visa last 2017 and I have a temporary Social Security number (with DNS authorization)

Will it be grounds for denying the visa app? How can I have a better chance in my application?

Hi! i already has an appointment on next month of this year. I will accompany my Senior citizen mother and i tag along my child who is 24 yo because i dont want to left him alone here. My husband is OFW, my other child has her own family that’s why. Mother was invited by her sibling whos my Aunt , and I also have a sibling there. We just want a tour, and see US as long as my mother was not too old and sickling.

Whats our chances? Can you give me some points or tips for this interview? thankyou!

Hi. 0% (zero) chance po ma’am. Hope this helps.

This really helps so much thanks

Very helpful tips Ms Kach, but I have question regarding number 14, exact address of relatives.

I only have distant relatives in the US na di ko rin close. I declared them, pero di ko alam address nila and wala rin akong ways to contact them, as i’ve said, di ko sila halos kilala. I only know the State where they are. So red flag ba to? Hirap rin kasi mag bigay ng address tapos baka di mag match sa pag verify nila edi mas lalong lagot. hehe

To follow up on this question of mine. I already got approved. So for this case, I just told the consul, “distant relatives”. Then he asked where are they and I just said Hawaii. No exact address, he didn’t divulge on the details.

I must say, the US Visa application is almost certainly, 90 percent luck and this luck significantly goes down if you applied in the Philippines.

I applied here in Tokyo where I currently work. The US Embassy here doesn’t have that vibe of rejection as most Japanese are approved (by the way, the Japanese don’t need B1/B2 Visa to visit USA as tourists so they’re mostly applying for other types of visa, usually for study in the US).

To be honest, I was prepared to waste the application fee as i have a hunch that i will be rejected (sorry I’m pessimistic. lol). I actually have no long plan of going to the US, I just applied spontaneously because i got frustrated that we are even required a Transit Visa to the US when I was planning to go to South American visa-free countries. So i just told myself to apply full B2 Visa. lol. That said, I have no itinerary going to the US, I just put some random hostel in my DS160 form and thought of a generic tourist place to go when asked in the interview.

Part of my feelings that I had no chance of getting approved is because I’m single, I’ve only been living in Japan for 7 months, and most of all, I have zero proof of ties to PH and of course in Japan. My profession is also quite in-demand in the West so it’s another red flag. Aside from that, my travel history is mediocre as I have only been to 3 countries so far, 2 of them in visa free SEA, and the other one is here in Japan. That’s all, and that is not anywhere near “extensive travel history”.

I did have proof of stable and active income but i don’t have millions. They only asked for bank book and payslips, not bank certificates as they’re aware of temporary loan schemes.

The interview itself, i was not really confident and my nervousness is quite apparent. So this is another red flag to consul supposedly. I have even answered something that do not match in my DS160 but it’s unintentional and an honest mistake. The consul didn’t raise it though, and at the middle of the interview, the consul went somewhere with my documents in his hand and at this point i knew i fucked up. After he came back, he just asked some few more questions without even looking at me, just chewing bubble gum and typing in his PC.

The funny thing is, i thought he hesitated to approve my visa as he said a long “hmmm” but followed by, “ok your visa is approved and it will be sent back to you in one week”. I was speechless but managed to croak “thank you so much” and left still in disbelief. lol

So, as I was saying, this is just luck.

Hi ma’am ! I am a retired nurse from Saudi 3 yrs ago. And we have our alumni homecoming to be held in San Francisco, California on oct. 3 to 7, 2019. I just want to meet my classmates for 28 yrs I’ve not seen them. Invitation letter was already sent to me. Will they allow me to have a tourist visa ? I travelled already to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. I want to know how I will process my papers. My first interview in the US embassy was 8 yrs ago when I was in Saudi and I was denied. Pls reply me on what I will do. Thanks ma’am !

Hi, am so being thankful bout the blogs u made for us,, it was very informative and helpful, BTW am asking me a favor bout the itinerary, would you mind to help me. am looking a right people just to get my wish for this coming of my birthday in july. thank you!

Hi,maam um cherrie my partner visited me here in phil.last march And we got married in simply way And he bring the papers going back to USA.after 2 weeks of stay.and now he started apply visit visa for me so that i can go there.what could be the possible documents could i bring if i will report for interview in the embassy? And were married last march do i really need to change my surname?he applied visit visa for 90 days.pls help me.thank you

Can u give me some tip for C1 transit visa?? Requirements and some possible questions. Salamat po.

Hi Miss Kach, I’m so glad reading your tips and suggestions. It would really help a lot. Actually, I’m planning to apply for a tourist visa with the help of my friend in US, both of us wanted to celebrate Christmas together. With this matter, how much money will I need for a 2 week vacation in US? And is it possible to be approved though I didn’t travel any countries so far or I don’t have any stamp in my passport that I’ve been travelling other countries before? Thank you so much. Your reply would be a great help tho.

My interview was not fair An interviewer just made conclusions for herself

Hey, What should I answer if asked whether this is my first time applying for us non immigrant visa, if I had participated in the green card lottery.

Di po kayo pinoy? How can you possibly participate in a green card lottery (known as diversity visa) if you’re a Filipino, as Filipinos are barred for diversity visa since in its launch in 1995?

FYI, ang green card lottery po ay para sa mga nationalities na may maliit na representation sa US. Napaka dami pong Pinoy sa US kaya di tayo eligible for green card lottery.

im booked to go to the U S in june,my old passport with my valid visa has expired,i have a new pass port and have been advised that i can still travel to the U S so long as i take my expired passport with the valid visa in and my new passport to present to the american customs, is what i have been told about being able to travel taking both passports correct

Yep. just bring both passports!

I have some questions my visa application submitted on April 11 but until now I’m still waiting it’s takes so long visa for Japan In philippine

I live in Canada and my wife is in India. I have applied for my permanent residency here in Canada and have recently added my wife to my currently processing application. Since it is going to take a while before she can move in with me, I’m planning on applying for US B2 visa for my wife. I do have a B1/B2 visa and have travelled to US multiple times. Only travel history my wife got is that she visited Maldives with me. She works full time in India for an IT firm. She got no property under her name. I’m sponsoring her. What is the best way to convince the consul that she will return after vacation? What are the chances that she might get visa approved? Any suggestions/tips is appreciated. Thanks

Hi i need more info about applying a US tourist visa?

what if the person is a student and has no income or bank account? but the family in the usa will provide accomodation and pay for plane tick

Hello sir..i was denied last march 22 for a tourist visa. I am currently working as a public school teacher for almost 23 years. I really didn’t know why the consul did not approve me. I answered all her questions. Like.. Purpose in going US – i want to visit my relatives maam What place? – california How long do you stay? – 3 weeks only maam Have you gone to other countries? – yes maam..dubai and singapore What did you do in dubai? – visit my daughters What did your daughters do in dubai? – they are working maam What are their works? – the eldest is a nurse and the youngest is civil engineer How many children do you have? – only two maam..there in dubai

Then she told me ” unfortunately your visa is not approve.

What’s wrong sir?

Just wanted to know because i will be having interview again on may 3..thank you!

Wala pong mali sa sagot niyo. unfortunately, minalas ka sa consul.

Hi Miss Kach,My online boyfriend want me to visit him in USA,and He hired an agent to make my visa.It really work?or I still need to go consul?thank you

Nakita mo na sya in person ??

Can u help me to process the papers

Sure po, make an appointment with me here –> https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/travel-mentoring-coaching

I want to travel to USA for my first wedding anniversary in April but in 2016 my visa was dined ( may be I was single at that time). What are the changes as I have my employers letter,bank statement, account maintance letter and have no intentions to stay in USA. It’s just a visit. What should I do??

i want to go canada who can help me from pakistan

To all my kababayan, why insist to apply to this shitty country who gets millions a day in Ph and keep turning down the application without clear reason but they will tell you that you can re-apply again? It’s all just business for them. Their rate is even a joke, $1-P55.. This 8,640 pesos can be your flight to other beautiful asian countries. if they have 700 applicants a day, they get 6million a day.. Big business in the Philippines! And don’t you know that China has higher percentage of approval like above 90%? Why not Ph? Maybe because they have a big debt to china.. Wake up.. This country always pretend they are friend of many country but “looks can be deceiving..”

What if you got denied already years back(when I was a college student) Now I’m 27yrs old and I have a stable job.

I have an upcoming interview with US embassy here in Vietnam for a tourist visa application. What if I don’t have enough money yet on my bank account, will i get denied?

hi kamusta po ang interview ninyo

Hi! I would like to know if I have a high chance in getting my US tourist visa approved since I am planning to visit my boyfriend this year. Probably in December. I am on a student visa in Australia good for 3 years. Do you have any advice for me on how to nail my interview?

I actually wrote an article here –> https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/visit-boyfriend-usa-tourist-visa

Hi what type of visa if I’m accompanying my employer to US as a domestic helper and what are the questions to be ask in interviewing me getting visa? Thanks

HI…My daughter has an American book, she’s a year old. She was born here in Accra, Ghana but due to my girlfriend citizenship, she was able to transmit her citizenship it to our daughter. My girlfriend is currently in the US, I and my daughter wants to go for a visit, would they grant me a visa if i try to get b2 visa. And how is the possibilities of me getting the visa

I have an American boyfriend,we met online,he ask me to come visit him in the USA and he sent me a letter of invitation and his Own company ID card,I was denied one and reapply again.please what can I do to get my visa approved,I have 3 property on lease which was given to me by my late dad because am the only child…so I really don’t know why my visa was denied,maybe the reason was I said he is my boyfriend and I met him online…please what should I say instead of that

Hello, did your boyfriend also sent you his bank certificate, bank statement, or any financial proof? Or is it just his Letter of Invitation and Company ID that he sent you? Maybe that’s one more reason why you got denied.

Is it okay you haven’t met before? I have a boyfriend in us and we never met each other but he wanted me to go there on his all expenses

Hello.. So far, this is the best blog I saw in terms of tips when applying for a US visa. My concern right now is that I’m a Freelancer (like what you mentioned on your blog – I can show my remittance, etc.) as proof that that is my current source of income. However, I am getting anxious on the part where the Consul may ask if I have any plans in working in the US. Currently, I work for a US company for a little over 2 years. They were the ones who invited me to go to the US so I can join the company’s 1st quarter strat planning. I feel this is not an edge for me because it may give the consul the notion that I am going to stay there for good because I already have someone to work for. Any thoughts or tips on how I’ll overcome my anxiety? Will really appreciate your reply.

Hi Lucy! I have the same situation right now. May idea kaba if ma aapprove ito?

Hi isa po akong domestic helper dito sa Singapore and yung uncle ko sa california asked me to apply a us tourist visa. Yung katulad ko bang working permit holder ay may chance na makpasa sa or ma grant ng visa?

Hello, I have a boyfriend from US, he visited me here in Philippines (twice already). Now he wants me to visit (tourist visa) his place and meet his parents and after we will proceed of getting married here in the Philippines. He just want me to meet his parents first. It is my first time to travel in other country. My passport has no stamps at all. We will share the expenses. I am worried on the interview and what should be the document I need to prepare first? What will my chances of getting approved?

Parehas tayo ng sitwasyon sis.

I just want to let you know that we passed the interview! Eto unang sinundan kong blog regarding applying for a tourist visa. Thank you so much! Super saya!

Hi.. I’ve been planning to apply for us tourist visa.. i here in saudi arabia at the moment working as a nurse..honestly i feel nervous for the interview..im just confuse what to answer in the ds-160 form that says,who will fund for my trip..something like that..wherein the choices are self etc…my company will be responsible for my ticket..and for house,i will stay with my aunt..and for other staff i have my own money..so what i will put? thanks…

hi, Im applying tourist visa in US but two times denied can you please give me suggestion to approved my visit visa in GUAM .

I’m traveling to Canada for 3 weeks with confirmed booking. The plan is to drive to New York for 4 or 5 days and be back to Canada. Do you think I can get the visa approval if I will stay for less than a week in US? Thank you.

i want to like canada who help me

Hello. Just to thank you for these questions, it really helped me a lot in obtaining my visa. Five questions from this blog were asked by the consul, and because of practice ( and ofcourse honesty) I answered them with conviction. So, just THANK YOU! ?

Hi Miss. Kach,

Paano po mgaaply ng appointment if family kayo? me my wife and daughter. Thanks a lot.

Can we give the answer in Hindi for USA

Good Day, We applied in US consulate in Dubai last June 5,2018. Im working as a nurse for 11 years and my wife is working as a respiratory therapist for 10 years.We are both working in a government sector.We have a clean record here and in our homeland in Philippines.And we traveled in different places like in UK 2 times in France,Italy,Netherland,Germany,Japan,Singapore,Malaysia and Hongkong. I have a brother in America and he is already US citizen there. Our purpose of our visit is to celebrate our 10th year wedding anniversary in US and to see my brother. Finally when we received our passport we are approved but its only 1 year validity with multiple entry.And we noticed that there is an annotation mentioned in our visa “UAE TCN”. My concern are why is there an annotation like that in our visa and why only 1 year. Most of our colleagues here who also a Filipinos like us who applied US visa got their tourist visa with 10 years validity and no annotation of UAE TCN? Kindly enlighten us please. Thank you!

Hello Jeffrey, I think I also received your email? UAE TCN means you’re a third country national! I think it has something to do with your work and to see if you’ll return back after this visit but to be honest, the only best way to know this is by emailing the USA consulate themselves! Other than that, proceed with your trip! Return back to UAE and apply again, maybe they’ll give you the 10 year next time!

Hi miss kach, I have a boyfriend from US, he visited me here in Philippines last April. It was his first time visit here. Now he wants me to visit (tourist visa) his place and meet his parents. And this is my first time to travel in other country. My boyfriend provide all my expenses. I am worried on the interview and what should be the document I need to prepare first.

Hi Karch, a friend in the usa who wants to invete me. I want to go there with my girl friend (fiancé). I am seperatws from my wife and I am currently seeking divorcé. She is also separated and seeking too divorcé. If we need to travel, will our complicated marital statuses mess our interview?

Hello, my Filipina girlfriend and I read your blog and loved it. I traveled to Negros a couple months ago and met Helen. We fell in love and she would like to come visit me and my family (Tourist Visa) before we decide to get married. If marriage was right for us, we would apply for a Fiance Visa.

We were VERY prepared for the Tourist visa interview. Her application was PERFECT, she was relaxed, happy, and more than prepared to answer any question.

Here is what happened at the interview – Why do you want to go to the US? Helena says “to visit my boyfriend and his family.” How long have you been dating? Helen says ” a couple months. The consular then handed her a denial paper and said “sorry mam.” She walked away in tears. The interview lasted less than a minute. She had all sorts of documents to give him that would help prove she was returning to the Philippines, but he just asked 2 questions and handed her a denial. She has a squeaky clean history as well.

We don’t know what to do now. It seems as though she will be denied again if we try a second time. Would applying for a Fiance Visa have better chances of success than a Tourist Visa?

Thanks for any help you can give ?

David Hardy

its because you said a few months -is this girl you are dating employed? -has she traveled outside of the philippines? -how was she dressed and how did she answer – her accent, her english etc etc.

logic – you only dated a few months and she wanted to visit your family in the US (the consul must have sensed something wrong here)

Hi miss Kach! I really do hope you can answer what I am going to ask you. I’m just 17 years old and I have a boyfriend in the USA and we are in a relationship for a year and half.He is filipino and a green card holder for about 1 and half year now. He’s inviting me to spend my vacation in the USA and also to meet his parents . He is 22 and we have a 5 year age gap. Does our age gap will affect the the approval of my visa? A tourist visa to be exact. And he is going to sponsor my trip. We’re worried that I might get denied because of my age, and the gap between us. We’re hoping for your answer asap and Thank you so much in advance! have a nice day

Hi! I delivered my child in the states last 2014… I have a good insurance that’s why it was convenient to give birth there. I stayed in the states for less than 2 months and went back to Nassau, Bahamas. I reapplied for tourist visa after it expired but sad to say, I was being denied. The consul was asking me why I chose to deliver the baby there when I worked in the hospital in Bahamas… He also asked me if I paid all the bills? I was being honest, telling him I still have a balance because I thought my insuRance had paid all. I wasn’t able to present a receipt… Well, it all started when he asked me how long haveI stayed in the states, so I told him that it was about 2 months … and he followed a question why I stayed there long… so got to answer him honestly that I delivered a baby there.. and I admit I was nervous and wasn’t able to answer him clearly… sigh… but pls give me an advise what to do next… well i paid the bills already but want the best answer I can give next time… would gladly appreciate ur opinion…. Thanx!

Hi Pls Help ME I travel before in US with my employer IM wprking as a nanay before then my employer stay in Hongkong now and I decide to Go back to Philippines then I apply again Tourist in US I denied bec he ask ME if. Have bussiness and How much my money… I Show UP. Have 100 thousand but still denied now I try again to Go to US for Tourist Pls Help ME

I’m going for a business conference

Hi, I received letter of invitation from my friend for a visiting but now I am 7 months pregnant does it makes a problem to get visa?

Possibly – if your boyfriend has red/ginger hair that it is highly likely that your application will be rejected

Hi Katch, i just want to ask, i have double jobs at the moment but the thing is there’s only one employer to put into the application form? I put on my full time employer, but the question is what salary should i declare on the application form ? Should i combine them or not? THank you for the help.

hi can you help me i was just confused if what im going to answer with this questions. Im applying for tourist visa in the usa. here’s the first question (purpose of your trip) and (specify) what im going to answer their?

Same case here, can’t wait for an answer

Hi -How many days did you wait for the interview? Is it depending on tha slot? -does it take 3 weeks to wait because i have only 3 weeks vacation in the philippines. -do you need history in traveling?

Im planning to apply in philippines because i think its better than here in UAE on my vacation leave.

Thank you soo much.

apply 1-2 months before your planned schedule. since applicants in us embassy in the philippines is quiet a lot (esp summer), you have to apply your visa ahead of time. be always prepared to answer such question like “why you applied for visa here in the PI and not in UAE?” its always been asked since your staying in UAE much more than in the philippines. God Bless. Ajja :*

AIREEN NUEVA March 29 2018 at 5:55am

Hi Ms. Kach…

Can you help me how to get visa My boyfriend was visited me here last march 2017…and he will visit me again this coming April 16 2018 he really wanted me to visit and meet his parent and bring me also to those wonderful tourist pot in his country.its my first time to apply US visa so i didnt know what to do…am afraid to denied because it was happened to me before when i got flight to thailand for vacation at cebu pacific last feb,18 it gives me a terrible interview redundant questions that gets me in trouble cuz im not prepare for this,only i know is nothing problem to visit near country and this will be suddgest of friend to me that it helps also if your passport has a stamp from any country of asea u visit if ever u had a plan to visit US ,and thats why my boyfriend help me some of my expenses…but things happened are i guess ruined my travel record so really need your help Ms. Kach

I await your reply, Aireen

Hello AIreen, you can contact me here – https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/travel-mentoring-coaching

Here is what happened at the interview – Why do you want to go to the US? Helena says “to visit my boyfriend and his family.” How long have you been dating? Helen says ” a couple months. The consular then handed her a denial paper and said “sorry mam.” She walked away in tears. The interview lasted less than a minute. She had all sorts of documents to give him that would help prove she was returning to the Philippines, but he just asked 2 questions and handed her a denial. She has a squeaky clean history as well.

We don’t know what to do now. It seems as though she will be denied again if we try a second time. Would applying for a Fiance Visa have better chances of success than a Tourist Visa?

Thanks for any help you can give 🙂

Good day, Admin, I need your help iam about to book my appointment for B1/B2 visa, iam a family man I have my wife and my children’s. And am working , what can do to boost the chance of my approval. Thanks

Hello I am planning to get a tourist visa in the US to visit my relatives and attend alumni homecoming in Las Vegas together with my cousin in California she will be sponsoring my stay in the US. Do I have a chance to get a US visa

definitely yes, just present all the proofs you have to show to the consul esp the backgrounds of your sponsor. Best of Luck :*

Me and my Mom got rejected for B1/B2 USA visa,i want to know if we want to reapply should we still apply together or separately?thanks.

I await your response.

Hello! I suggest you reply together and make sure your appointment is the same time!

I won a lufthansa airline economy return ticket, during my form filling i put them as my sponsor. do you think it will be helpful? i only have my congratulatory letter with me and not the ticket . im just curious .. my interview is in the next 30days.

Hi I m a BHMS doctor praticing in India .. my tourist visa got rejected .. could you let me know the answer that I should give if the interviewer asks me who will look after the clinic after I go to Usa .. I m guessing my answer to this question rejected my visa ..

Thank you in advance

Please can you give me the list of places I can visit in New York city, because it’s the city I am going to stay at if given a visa. Thanks

Here are my New York guides –> https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/?s=new+york

Hello sir/mam.. I have a query.. I filled my us visa D160 form n submitted my application n got my interview appointment fixed in next 2 weeks. While in my form I filled that I ll b self sponsoring my trip since I have around 10lakh in my account. But NW when I talked to my CA he said that since all the properties u Have are on ur father’s name so it will b ur father who will b sponsoring ur trip..now tell me what should I do?? Please help me.

If you will solely be paying for your trip – no relatives to stay within the USA and you’ll be buying your own flights etc, it’s okay to declare that you’re self-funding your trip! Your father’s property will just be the proof that you have family to return to in your country.

Good day, i would like to ask some advise from you maam. I would like to visit my mother this april 11, 2018 and staywithherforatleasta week, just to want to have a surprise visit to her for her on her 85 birthday her age. Im 54 years old. I am planning to go to Philippines after a week for there are huge work back home… my question is do i have a big chance to get visit visa in USA? beside i am oldmaybe they willnot think that i will work in USAandi haveno intention of working there.afteralli am 54 now. No need plan working there it would be hardfor my age working there. Hope that you reply soon thank you and have a nice day ahead

Am Muh-Awwal Tajudeen Olaonipekun from Nigeria, I received an invitation from my uncle last year and I was denied from the US embassy, my travel experience is Benin, To go and Ghana and have booked another appointment date before coming across you. Please tell me tips to gain a visa for this second time coz am totally confused

Just fill up the application form properly and make sure you know how to answer the consul questions. Practice!

Hi kach,my boyfriend wanted me to visit him but i dont have any job here in the philippines even bank accounts..but he can afford all of my expenses when im there in the US and also my plane ticket.is there a chance that my visitor visa will approved?im very hoping your for your reply..

HELLO HOPE YOU HELP ME TO ANSWER A FEW QUESTION IN MY MIND IM PLANNING TO FLIGHT WITH MY AMERICAN HUSBAND AND MY CHILD TO AMERICA JUST TO VISIT NOT TO MIGRATE ALREADY CAUSE STILL PLANNING TO STUDY AS A NURSE HERE IN PHIL. IS IYOU THINK THEY CAN GRANT ME?

Yes as long as you can answer the consul interview prepared and with supporting documents from your Husband! =)

I have a few questions if you don’t mind. My girlfriend is an Indian national now living in India. I am an American. We first started dating when she was a graduate student here in the US (we broke up but then decided to get back together – long story short). We would both like her to come here for the intent of getting engaged, but want to see how it goes for a few months before and spend the summer traveling. She is not currently working in India. I am a PhD student. Do you think this sounds problematic? Originally she had lived in the US for about 4 years while a graduate student, and would be coming to the place where she was in school. Obviously, we would follow the law and conditions of the visa. But we’re a little afraid that the “going to see my boyfriend about getting engaged” coupled with “not currently employed” will make things difficult. I have heard that specific invitations can make things easier. If I send her a wedding invitation for my brother’s wedding this summer might that help? Any advice you have would be great – thanks a lot.

It will be my schedule interview on friday, january 12, 2018! Wish me luck, Kach! You are such a big help woth your tips and blogs! More power! Mwah mwah!

How was it?

hi! Kach, how you will know if they gonna give you a 10 year multiple entry visa or a single entry visa?thank you.

If you apply for Personal Tourist trip, they will automatically give you 10 years visa.. for business trip, it will depend on the consul.

Hi! Kach, thank you for all your info. What about in port of entry in us? do you still need to bring supporting documents?If YES what are those? thank you…

Just to make sure you will also bring all the supporting documents you brought at the Embassy.. they don’t usually ask for it but most of the time they’ll ask your itinerary and return flight/ onward flight ticket.

Hi kach,this is my first time to get an online application as tourist visa in the US.wish me luck for the incoming interview.

MY NAME IS DAVID MY FAMILY AND I APPLIED ON 12TH OCT 2017 WE WERE DENIED FOR NO REASON ,BUT I GET MAYBE BCOS IS ONLY GHANA IS MY TRAVELED EXPERIENCE,AND TALK OF FAMILY TIE,I VE A GOOD JOB WITH WELL PAY SALARY BUT NO WAY TO LET HIM KNOW AM NOT INTERESTED IN STAYING MORE THAN 3 WEEKS,AND PLANNING OF GOING BACK FEBRUARY 2018. IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO DO PLS ADVICE ME THANKS

what can i do btter this time

There are no tricks fancie visa

mr kach it would be soo nice to hear from you as soon as possible.

Hello Mr cach I RECIEVE A LETTER OF INVITATION FROM A AMERICAN FRIEND and ive been recently at embassy for interview but i get denied for a visit visa B2, on december 27 , but my friend call me to reapply as possible for november is that ok or i should wait along ?

A blessed day Ms. Kach,I want to visit my weak uncle, last week only he rushed to the hospital for emergency happened in their house. He wanted to visit us again here in the Phils after a long years but his doctor not allowed to travel, will you please help me to have a tourist visa even if I have no work here in the Philippines? But I assured you that the eldest son of my uncle give me an Affidavit of Support if needed. God bless.

Hi Ms. Kach, i admire how confident you are, I have my sked interview this coming Oct 24 and i feel nervous maybe its because im not fluent in English, do you think it maybe a reason to be denied, anyway im thinking it positively and hoping for a US VISA, I need more info. Hope you have time to talk with me. God bless.

Hi im interested to apply for a US tourist visa but i have a pending immigrant application.Will it affect the approval of my application? Im a nurse by profession and has worked in the US for almost 3 years.Pls help me on the process of obtaining a tourist visa.Thanks.

hi ms.kach. i’m planning to get a us tourist visa hir in dammam saudi arabia. is it easier to get approved hir while im working in the kingdom ? wat are the requirements and tips about getting approved ? thank u?

It was real a great tips you have mentioned and it seems like i need little help filling my form can you please take some time out

Please, kindly send me Itinerary.

Hello there, I don’t know where to start my tears over flowing. I need help regarding my sister denial.

I’m here sitting next to my mother who fighting for her life, we been here in the ICU for 15 days, she have intracerebral hemorrhage.

My sister just recently apply to her tourist visa to see my mother( that nobody know when she will be waking up).we had all the document from the hospital medical record to the Doctor’s letter.

My name is lolita a US citizen who asking a help for my sister tourist visa. Please help sister to hold my mother for her last breath.

Any reply with this email would greatly appreciate. Thank you and God Bless

HI KACH, PLEASE CAN YOU SEND ME A SAMPLE ITIRENARY FOR US TOURIST VISA THANK YOU SO MUCH, GOD BLESS YOU.

Hi Kachi, I have bf online we dont meet yet. Because of his business at home can’t leave and he got 6yrs.old daughter.. he suggest to visit him and he sponsor for everything.. What kind of documents he need to send me.

Thanks betty.

Hi Kach, I recently applied on a business USA visa and got rejected twice. My employer had given me an opportunity to train in the US. But so far, I was the first one to be rejected in our team. That time, I was working for less than 2 year, had been to one country only. Today, I’ve been to 5 countries already and will be going to Japan soon, and my salary’s increased too. Do you have any suggestions on how I can have higher chances of getting a US VISA next time? I was told being young and a female were a few of the red flags they’d seen in me.

we have same experienced, missed all business trips cuz of denied visa. I have another interview Next week and worried if will reject again. Last question i remembered was “r u single”? when i answered yes he handover my passport and says i can apply again anytime?

Please,kindly send me itinerary.

If everything but you have been traveled before can deny you?

If everything but you have been traveled before.

Hi. Thanks for the info. My sister is getting married and she and her husband wanted me to attend the wedding so they want me to apply for a tourist visa. I am currently unemployed but I have a bank account will that be enough proof for the embassy that I will go back to my homeland? Thanks

how do i apply for a usa visa can you help me with there website as to apply thanks

Hello Calvin 🙂 you should read this one: https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/usa-visa-tips-for-filipinos/

Hi miss katch thank you for helpful information. I’m planning to apply this year, i have some question hope you can assist me. Thanks

Comment here and will see if I can answer your questions! Thanks!

Hi Kach, I am going to get married in the US and I am planning to bring my sisters there to attend. They are 42 and 43 of age. They both have their family here in the Philippines. One of them has an established work here . The other one is a housewife since. husband is a seafarer. Both of their sons are still studying still. Do you think they will have a good chance of getting approved?

Thank you so much

What is meaning section214 (b) interview

Hello Glend, yes of course! Just make sure that they will fill up the application form properly!

Hi Kach, how long does it take to get your passport back if approved? Priority: Regular (Via delivery)

I’m carolina working in libya for 15 years planning to apply a tourist visa on march shall i apply now ?i will go for holiday on march in the philipines for 3months….

Very helpful citizens good job….

Thank you very much….a Big big help to us.God bless u.

Great post as always, Kach! This is extremely beneficial for those who’d always wanted to go to the US, but is always denied a visa! Thanks for sharing 🙂

airinaapril.blogspot.com

on my application in the US Embassy they always asked if im married since im a gay i told them i am partnered and showed them our bond ring it helped me

Hi miss kach,,good eve..i read your tips how to apply in US as a tourist visa..i need more info,and more information..i hope u have time for me to talk..god bless you always.pls msg me back.as soon us possible..

When it comes to travel, I have absolutely no plans of going to the USA. It’s just that I got curious and decided to read the questions. I think you have a good suggestion with one thing being very clear. HONESTY. For me, I cannot take it when I have to be scrutinized. I feel that to question my character is a violation of my person. That explains why I am not going to the USA, and instead, go to countries where I do not have to go through the process of proving I am worthy of being their visitor.

I feel you, exactly my sentiments, those u.s. consuls are not too friendly, to saythe least….

Don’t be so sensitive. Americans are practical ppl. As long as the job is done….no hard feelings!!!!

Thanks …big help

I would like to apply an EMPLOYMENT VISA to USA what is the requirements.

HI miss kach.. Thank you ..very informative and clear information.. Looking forward for your more blogs soon.. Been a fun for a couple of months now.. By the way.. What are the easiest way to get a fiancée visa and how? Thanks in advance! Godbless..

There are no tricks in applying for a fiance visa. Everybody has to go through the same process. I will advise you to do it yourself though, instead of hiring a lawyer to do it on your behalf. Goodluck!!

Thank you so much for this! Huge help! ???

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Shachi Mall

Travel & Visa Coach

How to answer – ‘Purpose of Visit’ – USA B1 Visa

One of the most important questions asked in the B1 visa interview is “What is your purpose of visit”. Since this is often the first question of the interview, the way you answer this question sets the tone for the interview and greatly influences your chances of visa approval or denial. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into this and also look at a very simple rule to frame your answer. 

Requirements for a valid purpose of visit(POV): 

A good POV answer needs to have three essential ingredients: 

• Clear: POV should be simple and  easily understood by the visa officer 
• Genuine: POV  should be supported by valid proofs and documents 
• Essential: POV should not be something that can be done on an email, video call, postponement to a different date, or substituted by someone else.

Appropriate answer length for purpose of the visit(POV):

A good POV answer needs to be just the right length. You cannot keep it too short and brief because you will miss out on giving important details to the visa officer. 

At the same time, preparing very lengthy answers with a lot of technical details is not advisable as well. This is because visa interviews are short, just about 3-5 minutes. Hence giving lengthy answers poses the risk of being cut off in the middle by the visa officer. 

The optimum strategy here would be to prepare answers which are about 4-5 sentences long, this way you can keep it concise and at the same explain your reasons clearly. 

How to prepare your answer:

Here I will share with you a very simple framework which will help you arrive at the perfect POV answer. This is called ‘The three golden rules’ and this is something which I advise all my clients to use as well. 

Rule #1: 

Always start with a one-line introduction about yourself. This can include your educational background, work experience and current job/ project you’re working on.

Sample answer:

“I am a computer science engineer with five years of experience in the field of project management. Currently, I am the team lead for a US-based telecom company “ 

Go straight to your role in the US office and tell the visa officer why you are required to be physically present there. 

“Since I am the team leader, the client wants to meet me before we start the project to finalize the project goals, timelines, and resource requirements “ 

Finish your answer by stating the need for a face to face meeting or training 

“This is a significant and sizable value project for my company that involves multiple stakeholders and a lot of confidential data” 

Putting the three golden rules together, your final answer will look something like this:

“I am a computer science engineer with five years of experience in the field of project management. Currently, I am the team lead for a US-based telecom company. Since I am the team leader, the client wants to meet me before we start the project to finalize the project goals, timelines, and resource requirements. This is a significant and sizable value project for my company that involves multiple stakeholders and a lot of confidential data”

This example is built using one particular scenario. However you can apply these rules and arrive at your answer for any scenario at hand. 

Extra precautions to take: 

Since POV is such an important question, it is also important to know what you should avoid using or doing during the interview.

• Technical jargons 

Keep the POV simple and avoid using too many technical terms and jargons. These will complicate your answer and there is also a chance the visa officer does not understand or relate to them.  

• One word / One-line answers

Many times candidates  give one word or one-line  answers for POV. Such as saying that they want to attend a business meeting or training. But not adding the relevant details will make it impossible for the visa officer to understand the importance of the trip for you. Hence avoid giving very short answers and use the three golden rules described above to prepare your POV. 

• Lack of confidence/ eye contact 

Since USA visa interviews are based on a personal 1:1 interaction, having enough confidence and maintaining eye contact is essential. Both of these things can be developed by practice. Once you have prepared your answer, practice it by saying it out aloud in front of a mirror or in front of a friend. If both of these things are not possible, you can book a practice interview session with me. 

You can find more details of this here : https://shachimall.com/interview-preparation/

Hope this article gives you a very clear framework for preparing one of the most important interview questions. For more information, you can check out the other videos on the YouTube channel or get in touch with me via the links mentioned below.

For more in-depth preparation, book a personalized consultation session with me here https://shachimall.com/1-1/   OR take a practice interview here: https://shachimall.com/interview-preparation/

About Shachi Mall

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I will enter SFO by ESTA in August for a holiday. We will go to San Francisco, Napa, Hawaii, San Diego, Vancouver And home from there.

I am Italian but living now in London so I think my English has gotten better and I can handle easily the situation but maybe I think too much. When I am asked “What is the purpose of your visit” am I expected to go into details. That is to say “I take a vacation starting here in San Francisco then moving to Hawaii, San Diego and I go home from Canada” or do I just say “I am on holiday”

Is “I am on holiday” sounding cheeky, too short? It does to me but then everyone I know says don’t ever tell too much or you open up to many questions and then I would panic and lose my English maybe. My friend and his wife said before to that question that he was celebrating a marriage anniversary and officer did not seem to like it so much and gave them a rude, hard time so I try to get it right.

Thank you for any help on this one.

“I am on vacation/holiday” suffices.

If this is a genuine question, then "Holiday" is all I say if asked.

There is no need to give any other information unless asked for it.

I usually just say “On holiday”. Sometimes they ask what I plan to see or do and I answer truthfully, saying things like “shopping, sightseeing, beach or [whatever]”.

If they want to know more they will ask. Often we are asked where we are staying and then briefly list the places.

Just say you are on vacation - if they want to know more they'll ask

'I'm on holiday' is fine. I made the mistake once of saying 'I am here to celebrate my 40th' and that led to the worst quizzing I've had in 20+ trips to the US. Less is better.

If they want to know more they will ask and I see from your question on the Vallejo ferry that you are preparing a detailed itinerary so you should have no trouble answering any follow questions.

By the way, I thought this was a good question and don't know why it wouldn't be genuine. I remember being very nervous the first time I travelled outside the EU and had to face an immigration officer.

"For holidays" is perfectly fine.

If the immigration officer wants to know more, he/she will ask.

>> By the way, I thought this was a good question and don't know why it wouldn't be genuine. <<

Totally agree - the OP may be overthinking it a bit, but that's an easy thing to do, these processes do worry people, particularly if they haven't done it before. I remember transiting in the US where I was only spending about 4 hours in the country before leaving again, yet still got a bit flustered by the questions about why was I visiting, how long would I be staying and where was I going next...

In terms of the official question, all they want to know is whether you are travelling for holiday/vacation/leisure, or business, or to study or some other general aspects. If they want to ask further questions they will.

As many of my trips to the USA are long and complicated, if they ask me for more info on the trip, I ask back 'how long do you have?' before reeling off my first half dozen stops. That's usually enough for them. I've seen far more the USA than the average immigration officer, it seems!

I cannot see how or why 'I am on holiday' would sound cheeky (or wrong).

I find the best answer to give worldwide is simply “tourism.” Going on holiday, while perhaps understood, is not a phrase used in the United States. A holiday is national or religious holiday and not a “vacation,” as we would say here.

It also sounds weird (to me and perhaps to locals) if you went to Aushwitz or the Killing Fields or the Cape Coast slave fort on “vacation” or “holiday.” All of these places are visited by millions of tourists, but that doesn’t make them “vacation spots.” And I realize this is a picky answer, but you asked an question about semantics and it’s true that these words don’t carry over exactly through cultures. The meanings are subtle, but different. As someone who is rather drawn to dark tourism, I find myself making these distinctions often.

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What Is A Tourist Visa?

Published: November 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Beryle Gamache

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Introduction

A tourist visa is a travel document that allows individuals to visit and explore a foreign country for recreational, sightseeing, or leisure purposes. It is typically granted to individuals who do not have the intention to work or engage in any business activities during their stay. A tourist visa is a temporary authorization and is subject to certain limitations and conditions.

For travelers planning to venture abroad, understanding the concept of a tourist visa is crucial. It serves as the key to unlock the doors of various countries, granting access to their rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and memorable experiences. Whether you dream of exploring ancient ruins in Rome, basking in the sun-soaked beaches of Bali, or witnessing the marvels of wildlife in the African savannah, obtaining a tourist visa is often the first step.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the intricacies of a tourist visa, including its definition, purpose, application process, requirements, duration, and limitations. By familiarizing yourself with the ins and outs of a tourist visa, you will be better equipped to plan your travel adventures and make the most of your time in a foreign land.

Definition of a Tourist Visa

A tourist visa is a legal document issued by a foreign country’s government that allows individuals to enter their country for a temporary period of time for tourism-related activities. It is an endorsement or stamp placed in the traveler’s passport, indicating that they have permission to enter the country as a tourist.

The specific regulations and requirements for obtaining a tourist visa may vary from country to country. However, the common thread among all tourist visas is that they grant individuals the right to explore the country for a limited duration, typically ranging from a few days to several months.

Tourist visas are generally categorized as single-entry or multiple-entry visas. A single-entry visa allows the traveler to enter the country once and stay for the designated period. Once they leave the country, the visa becomes invalid. On the other hand, a multiple-entry visa permits the traveler to enter and exit the country multiple times within the specified validity period.

It’s important to note that a tourist visa does not confer the right to work, study, or engage in any business activities. If the individual wishes to engage in such activities, they must obtain the appropriate visa, such as a work visa or a student visa, respectively.

Each country has its own policies and requirements for issuing tourist visas. Some countries may have specific visa categories based on the purpose of travel, such as a tourist visa, business visa, or transit visa. It’s essential to understand the specific requirements and limitations of a tourist visa for your desired destination before applying.

Purpose of a Tourist Visa

The primary purpose of a tourist visa is to allow individuals to visit a foreign country for recreational, sightseeing, or leisure purposes. It enables travelers to explore new cultures, experience different landscapes, and indulge in the local traditions and attractions of the destination country.

Here are some key purposes and benefits of obtaining a tourist visa:

• Leisure Travel: A tourist visa allows individuals to take a break from their routine lives and enjoy a vacation in a foreign country. Whether it’s lounging on pristine beaches, exploring historical landmarks, or immersing oneself in vibrant city life, a tourist visa provides the opportunity to relax and have a memorable travel experience.
• Sightseeing and Cultural Exploration: Many travelers seek tourist visas to explore the rich cultural heritage of a country and witness its iconic landmarks, monuments, and attractions. It offers the chance to visit famous sites, museums, art galleries, and historical sites that are unique to the destination.
• Visiting Friends and Family: A tourist visa allows individuals to visit their friends or family members residing in another country. It provides an opportunity to strengthen relationships, spend quality time with loved ones, and experience the local customs and way of life.
• Attending Events and Festivals: Festivals and events are an integral part of a country’s culture and traditions. Tourist visas enable travelers to participate in various cultural festivals, religious celebrations, music concerts, or sports events that take place in the host country.
• Exploration of Natural Beauty: Many countries are known for their breathtaking landscapes, such as mountains, waterfalls, national parks, and wildlife reserves. A tourist visa allows nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the destination.

Overall, a tourist visa opens up a world of opportunities for travelers to satisfy their wanderlust, immerse themselves in new experiences, and create lasting memories. It is the gateway to discovering the wonders and diversities that the world has to offer.

Duration and Limitations of a Tourist Visa

The duration of a tourist visa varies depending on the country issuing the visa and the specific regulations in place. In general, tourist visas have a validity period ranging from a few days to several months. It’s important to note that the duration of stay allowed under a tourist visa is distinct from the validity period of the visa itself.

Typically, the duration of stay permitted with a tourist visa ranges from 30 days to 90 days. However, some countries may grant shorter or longer periods of stay based on their individual immigration policies. It is important to check the specific details and limitations of the tourist visa for the intended destination before planning your trip.

It’s crucial to adhere to the limitations and conditions of the tourist visa. Failure to comply with the visa regulations may result in penalties, deportation, or future difficulties in obtaining visas for other countries. Here are some common limitations to keep in mind:

• No Work Permitted: The primary restriction on a tourist visa is that it does not allow individuals to engage in any form of employment or work-related activities. This includes both paid and unpaid work. If you wish to work in a foreign country, you will need to obtain the appropriate work visa or permit.
• No Business Activities: Similarly, a tourist visa also prohibits individuals from conducting business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiating business deals. If you have business intentions, you must obtain a business visa that suits your specific needs.
• No Study or Education: A tourist visa is not intended for individuals seeking to pursue educational opportunities in a foreign country. If you plan to study, attend a course, or engage in any form of education, you will need to apply for a student visa.
• No Public Benefits: Individuals holding a tourist visa are generally not entitled to receive any public benefits or support from the host country, such as healthcare services or social security benefits.
• Restrictions on Extensions or Renewals: Some tourist visas may have limitations on extensions or renewals. It’s important to confirm the rules regarding extensions or renewals of a tourist visa before your initial entry to avoid any legal issues or overstaying situations.

It is vital to familiarize yourself with the specific limitations of the tourist visa for your desired destination. By respecting the restrictions imposed on a tourist visa, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience while staying compliant with the laws and regulations of the host country.

Application Process for a Tourist Visa

The application process for a tourist visa may vary depending on the country you plan to visit. Each country has its own specific requirements and procedures. It is important to thoroughly research and understand the process before applying for a tourist visa. Here are the general steps involved in the application process:

• Research and Gather Information: Begin by researching the specific tourist visa requirements for your desired destination. Visit the official website of the country’s embassy or consulate to find detailed information about the application process, necessary documents, and any additional requirements.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill out the tourist visa application form accurately and legibly. Provide all the required information, such as personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit.
• Compile Required Documents: Gather all the necessary documents as per the requirements specified by the embassy or consulate. Common documents include a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry, recent passport-sized photographs, proof of travel arrangements, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, financial statements, and proof of health insurance coverage.
• Pay the Application Fee: Most tourist visa applications require payment of a non-refundable application fee. The fee amount and payment methods will be specified by the embassy or consulate. Ensure that you have the funds available to cover the fee before submitting your application.
• Schedule an Appointment: Some countries require applicants to schedule an appointment at the embassy or consulate to submit their visa application and supporting documents. Follow the instructions provided to schedule an appointment within the designated timeframe.
• Attend the Visa Interview: Depending on the country and visa requirements, you may be required to attend a visa interview. Prepare yourself by reviewing your application and supporting documents thoroughly, and be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and intent.
• Submit Application and Supporting Documents: On the scheduled appointment day, visit the embassy or consulate to submit your completed visa application form and supporting documents. Ensure that you have all the required documents in the specified format, as per the instructions provided.
• Wait for Visa Processing: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the visa processing period. The processing time can vary, depending on the country and other factors such as the time of year and current workload of the embassy or consulate. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.
• Collect your Visa: Once the processing is complete, you will be notified to collect your passport with the visa attached. Follow the instructions provided by the embassy or consulate to retrieve your passport. Ensure that all the details on the visa are correct before leaving the embassy or consulate.

It is essential to follow the instructions carefully and submit all the required documents as per the guidelines to avoid any delays or issues with your tourist visa application. If you have any doubts or questions, seeking assistance from a visa agency or consulting with the embassy or consulate can be helpful.

Requirements for Obtaining a Tourist Visa

Obtaining a tourist visa requires fulfilling certain requirements set by the country you plan to visit. These requirements may vary depending on the destination and the specific policies and regulations in place. It is important to thoroughly research and prepare the necessary documents to meet these requirements. Here are some common requirements for obtaining a tourist visa:

• Valid Passport: A valid passport is a fundamental requirement for obtaining a tourist visa. Your passport should have a validity of at least six months beyond your intended stay in the country.
• Completed Application Form: Most countries require applicants to complete a specific tourist visa application form accurately and legibly. Make sure to provide all the required information and double-check for any errors or omissions.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Prepare recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications of the country you are applying to. Typically, these photographs should have a white background and adhere to specific size and format guidelines.
• Proof of Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed travel itinerary that showcases your planned activities, including information on accommodations, transportation, and sightseeing. This includes flight reservations, hotel bookings, and any organized tours or activities you plan to undertake.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to cover your expenses during your stay. This may include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or any other evidence that shows you can afford your travel and accommodation costs.
• Proof of Health Insurance: Some countries require proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay. Make sure to have valid travel medical insurance that meets the requirements of the country you are visiting.
• Letter of Invitation (if applicable): If you are visiting friends or family, they may need to provide a formal invitation letter outlining your relationship and the purpose of your visit. This letter may need to be notarized or authenticated by relevant authorities.
• Travel History and Intent: In some cases, you may need to provide evidence of previous international travel, such as previous visa stamps or entry/exit records. It is important to demonstrate a genuine intent of visiting for tourism purposes only and not for any other activities like work or immigration.
• Additional Documentation: Depending on the country, there may be additional requirements specific to the destination or the applicant’s circumstances. These may include proof of employment, educational qualifications, marital status, or any other supporting documents deemed necessary by the embassy or consulate.

It is essential to carefully review the specific requirements for the tourist visa of your desired destination and ensure that you gather all the necessary documents before submitting your application. Failure to provide the required documents may result in delays or rejection of your visa application, so it is crucial to pay attention to detail and meet all the stipulated requirements.

Cost of a Tourist Visa

The cost of a tourist visa varies depending on the country you intend to visit and your nationality. Each country sets its own visa fees, which can range from a nominal amount to a significant sum, depending on factors such as visa type, duration of stay, and reciprocity agreements between countries.

When planning to apply for a tourist visa, it is important to consider the visa fees as part of your travel budget. The fees cover administrative costs associated with processing your application and are generally non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected.

The cost of a tourist visa can vary greatly from country to country. Some countries offer different pricing tiers based on the duration of stay or the number of entries allowed. For example, a single-entry short-term tourist visa may have a lower fee than a multiple-entry long-term tourist visa.

In addition to the visa application fees, there may be additional costs involved in the visa application process, such as courier fees for returning your passport, visa processing fees, or fees for any required supporting documents such as health insurance or invitation letters.

The best way to determine the exact cost of a tourist visa is to refer to the official website of the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit. They will provide detailed information about the visa fees, payment methods, and any additional costs associated with the application process.

It is important to note that visa fees are subject to change, so it is advisable to check for any updates or changes in the fees before submitting your application. Additionally, some countries may offer expedited processing services for an additional fee if you need your visa quickly.

When planning your trip, make sure to account for the cost of the tourist visa to ensure that you have sufficient funds available to cover all travel expenses, including visa fees. By budgeting accordingly and being aware of the costs involved, you can smoothly navigate the visa application process and focus on enjoying your travel adventures.

Renewal and Extension of a Tourist Visa

The renewal and extension policies for tourist visas vary from country to country. While some countries allow for the renewal or extension of a tourist visa, others may require individuals to exit and reapply for a new visa after a certain period of time. It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of the country you are visiting to understand the options available for extending or renewing your tourist visa.

In countries that do allow for the renewal or extension of a tourist visa, the process typically involves submitting an application to the immigration authorities. Here are some key points to consider:

• Eligibility: Not all tourist visas are eligible for renewal or extension. Some countries may impose limitations on the number of times a tourist visa can be extended or the total duration of stay allowed as a tourist. It is crucial to check the eligibility criteria before applying for a renewal or extension.
• Application Process: Generally, the application process for renewal or extension involves completing the appropriate forms, providing the necessary supporting documents, and paying any applicable fees. The required documents may include a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of travel itinerary or accommodations, and a letter explaining the purpose and need for the extension.
• Timing: It is advisable to start the renewal or extension process well in advance of the expiration date of your current visa. The processing time may vary, and it is important to ensure that you have a valid visa while your application is being reviewed.
• Fees: There may be fees associated with the renewal or extension of a tourist visa. These fees can vary depending on the country and the specific circumstances of the application. It is important to check the fee schedule and make necessary payments during the application process.
• Decision and Notification: Once you have submitted your renewal or extension application, it will be reviewed by the immigration authorities. The decision will be communicated to you through the appropriate channels. It is essential to regularly check your email or mail for updates and follow any instructions provided.

It is important to note that the renewal or extension of a tourist visa is not guaranteed. The immigration authorities have the discretion to accept or deny an application based on various factors, including the applicant’s compliance with visa regulations, the purpose of the extension, and the overall immigration policies of the country.

If your renewal or extension application is approved, you will typically receive a new visa or an extended validity period attached to your existing visa. On the other hand, if your application is denied, you may be required to leave the country before the expiration of your current visa.

It is highly recommended to consult the official website of the country’s embassy or consulate and seek guidance from immigration authorities or visa service providers for detailed and up-to-date information on the renewal or extension process for the specific tourist visa you hold.

Differences between a Tourist Visa and Other Types of Visas

While a tourist visa allows individuals to visit a foreign country for recreational or leisure purposes, there are other types of visas that cater to different purposes of travel. Understanding the differences between a tourist visa and other visa categories is crucial to ensure that you apply for the correct visa based on your intended activities and duration of stay. Here are some key distinctions:

• Work Visa: A work visa, also known as an employment visa, is issued to individuals who intend to work in a foreign country. Unlike a tourist visa, a work visa authorizes the holder to engage in specific employment activities, whether it’s temporary employment or long-term employment with a company or organization in the destination country. Work visas often have stricter requirements and may require sponsorship from an employer.
• Student Visa: A student visa is designed for individuals who wish to pursue their education in a foreign country. It allows students to enroll in educational programs, such as universities, colleges, or language schools. Student visas typically have specific conditions regarding the length of stay, enrollment in a recognized educational institution, and financial requirements to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Business Visa: A business visa is granted to individuals who need to travel for business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or establishing business connections in a foreign country. While a tourist visa prohibits engaging in business activities, a business visa allows individuals to participate in specified business-related activities for a limited duration. The requirements and restrictions for business visas may vary depending on the country.
• Transit Visa: A transit visa is intended for individuals passing through a country en route to their final destination. It allows for a short stay during a layover or when changing flights. Transit visas generally have a limited validity period and may require proof of onward travel or a valid ticket to the final destination.
• Residence Permit/Visa: A residence permit or visa is a long-term visa that allows individuals to reside in a foreign country for an extended period. It is typically granted for purposes such as employment, study, family reunification, or investment. Unlike a tourist visa, residence permits allow individuals to stay in the country for an extended period and often come with additional rights and privileges.

It’s important to note that the requirements, application processes, and limitations of these visa categories can vary significantly from country to country. It is crucial to thoroughly research and understand the specific regulations and requirements for each visa type based on your intended activities and duration of stay.

Applying for the correct visa type ensures that you comply with the immigration laws of the country and enables you to engage in the activities you plan during your time abroad. It is advisable to consult with the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit or seek assistance from a trusted visa agency to navigate through the visa application process smoothly.

Important Considerations for Tourists Holding a Tourist Visa

When traveling on a tourist visa, there are several important considerations that tourists should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some key points to consider:

• Adherence to Visa Regulations: It is essential to adhere to the regulations and conditions of your tourist visa. This includes respecting the permitted duration of stay, refraining from engaging in unauthorized work or business activities, and abiding by any other restrictions outlined by the immigration authorities. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties, deportation, or difficulties in future visa applications.
• Valid Passport and Visa: Always carry a valid passport and your tourist visa while traveling. Make copies of these documents and keep them in a separate place as a precaution. In the event of loss or theft, having copies will facilitate the replacement process.
• Health and Travel Insurance: Obtain suitable health and travel insurance coverage before your trip. It is essential to have insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and any other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your travels. Check the specific requirements and coverage needed for your destination.
• Respect Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws, customs, and cultural norms of the country you are visiting. Respect the local traditions, dress codes, and religious practices. It is important to conduct yourself in a manner that is considerate and appropriate to the local culture.
• Currency and Finances: Be aware of the local currency and familiarize yourself with the prevailing exchange rates. Carry a mix of cash and internationally accepted credit or debit cards for payments. Keep track of your expenses and be mindful of any currency exchange fees or transaction charges that may apply.
• Safety and Security: Prioritize your safety and take precautions while traveling. Research and be aware of any potential safety concerns, such as high-crime areas or health risks. Stay vigilant, secure your belongings, and follow any safety advice or warnings issued by local authorities or your embassy.
• Communication and Language: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to facilitate communication. Carry a translation app or guidebook for assistance. Having a basic understanding of the local language can help you navigate more effectively, interact with locals, and enhance your overall travel experience.
• Travel Itinerary and Flexibility: Plan your travel itinerary in advance, but also allow for flexibility and spontaneity. Be prepared for unexpected changes or delays, and have contingency plans in place. Make sure to provide your contact details to a trusted family member or friend so they can reach you in case of emergencies.
• Responsible Tourism: Practice responsible tourism by respecting the environment, wildlife, and local communities. Observe and follow guidelines for sustainable tourism, such as avoiding littering, supporting local businesses, and being mindful of your environmental footprint.

By considering these important factors, tourists can make the most of their time on a tourist visa, ensuring a memorable and rewarding travel experience. It is always a good idea to stay informed, remain respectful, and embrace the opportunities for cultural exchange and exploration that come with international travel.

Obtaining a tourist visa is a crucial step for individuals who wish to explore the wonders of a foreign country for leisure, sightseeing, and recreational purposes. Understanding the definition, purpose, and limitations of a tourist visa is essential to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience.

Throughout this guide, we have explored various aspects of a tourist visa, including its definition, the purpose it serves, the application process, requirements, and important considerations for tourists. We have also highlighted the differences between a tourist visa and other types of visas, and provided insights into the renewal and extension processes.

As a tourist visa holder, it is important to comply with the regulations and restrictions imposed by the issuing country. Respect the permitted duration of stay, refrain from engaging in unauthorized activities, and adhere to the local laws and customs. By doing so, you can avoid any legal complications and make the most of your travel experience.

Remember to carefully research the specific requirements and guidelines for obtaining a tourist visa for your desired destination. Each country has its own unique visa policies and procedures, and it is crucial to stay informed and prepare the necessary documents to ensure a successful visa application.

Finally, as you embark on your travels, embrace the adventure, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create lasting memories. Traveling provides an incredible opportunity for personal growth, cross-cultural understanding, and breathtaking experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying the beauty of nature, or indulging in culinary delights, a tourist visa enables you to embark on a journey of discovery and create cherished moments that will last a lifetime.

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anyone here : letter purpose of visit (should i revise it or not)

• Thread starter honey0308
• Start date Apr 13, 2015

Full Member

hi ! everyone who did a letter for purpose of visit .. is it okay or i should revised some parts?? i need suggestions from you guys .. thanks! To Whom It May Concern, My name is -------- from --------, Philippines and presently residing now here at ______ for my work. I'm the girlfriend of Mr.---------, who is living in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. I'm writing this letter in the hopes of demonstrating why I would like to apply for a visitor visa in Canada. My main purpose of applying for a visitor visa is to visit and spend time with my boyfriend. I would like to visit in Canada for eight ( 8 ) weeks, starting from ____ to _____ of this year. My boyfriend and I plan to have me living in his home in Windsor, Ontario, where he will take care of all expenses, including food, living expenses utilities, transportation, and entertainment. He is a 8th year machine operator in ______ with a salary of about ________ a year with a healthy bank balance, and no debts. On weekdays, he will continue to to work while I stay at his house, so that he will continue to have an income during my stay. On weekends, we plan on taking a weekend trip to Niagara Falls together and a trip to Ontario Park. Niagara Falls trip expenses will be covered by my boyfriend while the Ontario Park trip is only a few hours drive (see attached document “Plans While in Canada”). My boyfriend will be my only source of transportation, so I will not have to spend on taxis or public transit. He will also buy me a private health insurance during my stay. Any extra funds that I'm bringing to Canada will likely only be used as a last resort, as my boyfriend has a good job and salary, and will take care of all expenses. My travel history is in Dubai (where I currently work). My family ties include my daughter, ------ (6years old), my older sisters, -------- (in-born blind) and ------, my younger brother, -------- , my aunt and my cousins, ------ (aunt), ----------- (cousins), and my grandparents (mother's side) --------- living in ------------ , Philippines. I've lived with my immediate family my entire life, so my family ties back in Philippines are still very strong. My plan is to spend a time with my boyfriend, to know him better as well and to meet his family, relatives, and friends personally, but it doesn't mean that I'll overstay my visitor visa and not return home. I've lived in Philippines almost my entire life, I have virtually all of my friends and immediate family living there, my family ties strong back home, and I will absolutely return home before my visa expires. Last, but not the least, I have absolutely no intention of overstaying my visit, not only would that be a violation of the terms of my visa, but there is no need anyway because we know that we can still keep in touch through social networking and also I can visit him maybe twice a year, just in case you will approved my multiple visa entry. To show my further intention of not overstaying my visitor visa, I've attached another document, (“Plans for trip with my family in 2015”) that shows my detailed plans for my family after my visit here in Canada. I've stayed here in Dubai for two (2) years and I really missed my family so much especially my kids who are both studying in the Philippines. I hope this letter will help convince you of my genuine desire to visit my boyfriend and leaving Canada at the end of my stay. Thank you very much for your time.  

honey0308 said: I'm the girlfriend of Mr.---------, who is living in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Click to expand...

My main purpose of applying for a visitor visa is to visit and spend time with my boyfriend. Click to expand...

Bryanna said: Hi, I feel you must revise your Purpose of Visit document. These are potential red flags..... you have also stated plans about visiting twice a year.... all this indicates that you want to establish stronger ties to Canada..... and regardless of what you may write about not overstaying your visit, it may wrongly seem that you are likely to overstay. I would also advise not to use words like boyfriend/girlfriend.... there have been pretty quick refusals in such cases. Based on your draft, my advice is : a. Mention a shorter duration visit.... 8 weeks means your employment ties to Dubai are not strong b. Your overall financial dependence on your boyfriend is quite a bit.... as you are applying for a TRV, you must prove you have the financial means to fund the trip.... try to show that you have liquid funds of approx. CAD 1000/week of visit + airfare.... and he can support your visit by way of accommodation, local travel expenses, etc c. Most of your family resides in Philippines while you are working in Dubai.... hence, you will have to show stronger ties to Dubai.... your family ties in Philippines won't help much d. Do not mention about future plans to visit twice a year, etc You can submit documents such as : a. Your employment letter, salary slips, bank statements, time off work letter for 2-3 weeks b. Your financial investments c. Family ties in Dubai, if any d. Credit Card statements showing credit limits (if the dues are low) d. Submit separate documents like Cover Letter (synopsis of your visa application) + Day-by-day Itinerary/Purpose of Visit with expense estimates in CAD.... purpose of visit is to meet your friends/typical sightseeing etc e. If you're sending money back to the Philippines to your family/kids then you can write in the Cover Letter that you must resume work by XX date.... this will indicate that you are not likely to stay back in Canada because you have financial responsibilities.... you can also provide supporting evidence for this f. If your plans for a holiday with your family (after your Canada visit) are to another country/Philippines + you have made travel reservations/bookings then it would help for your TRV.... otherwise these plans are only tentative g. Any other ties to Dubai (not really to the Philippines because you're based in Dubai) Hope this helps Click to expand...

canadalover4987

Hero member.

I think the word "boyfriend/girlfriend" will be a red flag..... but my opinion it is not that bad because that's the TRUTH and the truth matters to CIC. Otherwise, if you want to lie about the relationship, its all up to you. Do not attempt to tell a lie, that he is just your friend as CIC will not buy that. Your case is very similar to mine. You need to show on your letter that you are financially capable of visiting your bf. You dont need to tell how much money does your bf have. As this will sounded like you have financial ties to your bf to the extend that you are financially depended on him. This is his money not yours. he is just a bf not a common law,conjugal or even fiancee. do you get the picture? Ask your bf to give you the following: -letter of invitation ( this should be carefully written- need to included day by day itinerary and how much money on planning to spend) -a copy of his certificate of employment stating how much he is earning, position and how long hes been employed there. -a copy last year t4. (for tax) -a copy of his birth certificate if he is born in canada or PR card for permanent residence -a copy of his drivers license as you will stay with him and scan copy of his passport is good too please see this http://www.cic.gc.ca/ENGLISH/visit/letter.asp NOW, Prove your ties in your family, your work and in the Philippines. For example: -submit a copy of your house title or lease in an apartment or any property you have in the Philippines. how many people live in the same household, you also need to submit that you are regularly sending money to your family back in the Philippines. In order to proof that your family lives in the same household, ask your family to get a barangay clearance, ask them to scan and send it to you. This will show how many people live in your house. get it? -a copy of your work certificate in dubai- 2 months is too much try to consider 3 weeks. it also need to state when does your company expect you to come back at work, how much you are earning, your current position, how long you have been working for them and if this is a paid vacation or a leave of absence. your contract in your work, or anything that is significant that you will NEED to go back to work. -credit card statement if you have any and your bank account statement showing significant amount of money that you can afford the trip without your bf help. This is very important if CIC sees that there a huge deposit in your acct, they will wonder and assume that your partner sent that. if you can prove that you have borrowed money, like loan or investment, then show proof. - NEVER state that your bf will shoulder all the expense, try to show that you can fund your self like you will buy the ticket, travel insurance, medical expenses, pocket money for shopping etc. try to sound like you are not financially dependent on him. That he will provide you basic commodities like shelter and food but the rest is all yours. get the idea? - you dont need to tell in your letter that you no reason to overstay, as this sounds like you are eager to go in Canada. You sounded like begging for a visa. CIC expect you to come back and do not over stay. DO NOT SAY YOU WANT MULTIPLE ENTRY VISA AS CIC WILL BE THE ONE TO DECIDE THAT NOT YOU. do not say you want to visit him twice a year. -REVISE THE LETTER and concentrate and highlight what you have not your bf.  

honey0308 said: waaaaaah .. I'm waiting for your advice Bryanna. Thank you so much. I'm just planning to visit my bf and take some infos so that I know what to do if that day comes. Maybe in 2017 . About my work in Dubai , that is contractual. Its a 2 years contract. How will I revise that? Do I need to go back first in my home country, Philippines, to have a strong ties in my place? In my proof of Assets, 10,000CAD in my account , is that enough for my stay? 4-6 weeks is that okay? because after going back to my home country , my plan is to work again abroad. Click to expand...

Bryanna said: Regarding your employment ties, when does your contract finish? Perhaps, you can show combined strong ties to Dubai and Philippines.... however, do stress more on your Dubai ties because you live and work there Will you be visiting Canada after you go to the Philippines (ie you go back home on a holiday or after your Dubai contract finishes)? CAD 10000 for a 4-6 weeks visit is good enough.... again, though I will advise to keep the visit to 3-4 weeks when you request for the TRV Cheers Click to expand...

honey0308 said: My contract finish in 2017. My plan is after my 2 years contract in Dubai, I will go to Canada then , go back to my home country and apply again in abroad , which is my agency is in the Philippines. Or I should go back here in the Philippines, fix all my needed documents to strong my ties here, then go to Canada for the visit then go back again here. Lol .. What is the best way to do, honestly? I'm confused .. Click to expand...

canadalover4987 said: are you moving from 1 work to the other? do you have contract to show? 10,000 CAD is enough if that comes from you alone. again you are asking 1 month and 2 weeks. then most of the employer will not allow unless you can show proof or letter that they want you back because you are in a contract. do you have bond in your contract? show them too that if you didnt complete your contract then you are in deep trouble. Click to expand...

Bryanna said: I'm trying to understand your situation.... when would you like to visit Canada? In 2015 or 2017? Click to expand...

honey0308 said: Thanks a lot canadalover. I'm so thankful for replying on my topic. Yeah! After my 2 years contract in Dubai , my plan is to apply again to my agency here in the Philippines. 10,000 CAD, it comes from me alone, save money from my salary. That's my goal fund to support myself staying in Canada. My work in Dubai is contractual. I can provide a Certificate of Employment. Click to expand...

do you have vacation leave stipulated in your current contract in dubai? are you allowed to have a vacation in your contract?  

honey0308 said: In 2017 , Bryanna .. Click to expand...

canadalover4987 said: OK then that means your ties in dubai is IRRELEVANT since by then your contract in dubai is finished. Apply while you still have job and/or a contract to show that you are tied up with a company. high chance of denial if you are unemployed. Click to expand...

TOURISM, LEISURE AND FAMILY VISIT VISA

The Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa is for individuals who wish to come to the UK for a short-term stay for the purpose of visiting friends and/or family or for a short holiday.

The Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa is a sub-category of the Standard Visitor route, which is a route for persons who wish to visit the UK for a temporary period of up to 6 months.  

The route does not lead to settlement in the UK and all visitors must make a separate application, even when travelling as part of a group.

Requirements for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa

In order to qualify for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa you will need to satisfy UK Visas & Immigration that:

• You are a visa national (a non-visa national can normally seek entry as a Visitor on arrival at the UK border);
• You are genuinely seeking entry to the UK for a purpose that is permitted by the visitor routes;
• You will not undertake any prohibited activities;
• You have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to your visit (including travel, maintenance and accommodation costs) without working or accessing public funds;
• You will leave the UK at the end of your visit;
• You will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home;
• Your application does not fall for refusal under the general grounds for refusal;
• You have obtained an Electronic Travel Authorisation, if required.

The exact requirements you will need to satisfy may vary depending on your circumstances.  You may want to speak to an immigration lawyer for expert advice.

To discuss your Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa application with one of our immigration barristers, contact our UK Visit Visa lawyers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

Visa National Requirement

A visa national is someone who, by reason of their nationality, requires a Visit Visa in order to enter the UK as a Visitor.  Visa nationals must generally apply for a Visit Visa before travelling to the UK.

The Home Office has published a list of nationalities that are required to apply for a Visit Visa prior to travelling to the UK as a Visitor.  The list includes a number of exceptions, which allow certain visa nationals to seek entry as a Visitor on arrival in the UK.

A non-visa national can normally seek entry as a Visitor on arrival in the UK.   A non-visa national must still satisfy the requirements for entry as a Visitor and so, on arrival, should be prepared to explain, for example, the purpose of their visit and how they will be maintained and accommodated in the UK, as well as their return travel arrangements.  

EU citizens are non-visa nationals and can seek entry as a Visitor on arrival in the UK without needing to apply for a Visit Visa.

As well as preparing Visit Visa applications for visa nationals, our barristers regularly assist non-visa nationals to satisfy the requirements for entry as a Visitor on arrival in the UK.

Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa Permitted Activities 

In order to qualify for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa you will need to satisfy UK Visas & Immigration that you are genuinely seeking entry to the UK for a purpose that is permitted by the visitor routes and will not undertake any prohibited activities.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa holders may undertake the following permitted activities:

• Visit friends and family in the UK;
• Travel to the UK for a holiday;
• Take part in an educational exchange or visit with a state funded school, academy or independent school; 
• Attend a course of study (other than an English language course) for a maximum of 30 days.

Because the Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa is a sub-category of the Standard Visitor route, Tourism, Leisure and Family Visitors may also undertake other activities that are permitted under other sub-categories of the Standard Visitor route. This includes permitted paid engagements, provided the paid engagement is arranged before travelling to the UK and is completed within 30 days of arrival in the UK.

Intention to Leave the UK Requirement for a Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa

In addition to satisfying the Home Office that you are genuinely seeking to enter the UK for a permitted purpose, as part of your application for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa you will also need to satisfy the Home Office that you will leave the UK at the end of your visit and will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home.

In assessing your application, the Home Office will consider a range of factors including:

• Your previous immigration history, including visits to the UK and other countries;
• Your financial circumstances as well as your family, social and economic background;
• Your personal and economic ties to your country of residence.

Factors which may cause the Home Office to doubt that you are a genuine visitor include having few or no family and economic ties to your country of residence, whilst having several family members in the UK, previous attempts to deceive the Home Office in an immigration application and discrepancies between statements made by yourself and your sponsor.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa Financial Requirement

You will need to have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to your visit (including travel, maintenance and accommodation costs) without working or accessing public funds.

Your funds will need to be held in a permitted financial institution.

Your travel, maintenance and accommodation costs may be met by a third party if the third party has a genuine professional or personal relationship with you, they are not, and will not be, in breach of immigration laws and they can support you throughout the duration of your stay as a Visitor.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit  Visa English Language Requirement

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa applicants do not need to satisfy an English language requirement.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa Validity Period

If you wish to enter the UK for the purpose of a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit you may apply for a Visit Visa that is valid for either 6 months, 2 years, 5 years or 10 years.  

You may enter and leave the UK multiple times during the validity period of your Visit Visa, unless your Visit Visa is endorsed for a single or dual entry.

Each visit to the UK must not exceed 6 months.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa Right to Work

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visitors are not permitted to work in the UK or, with few exceptions, receive payment from a UK source for any activities undertaken in the UK.

This means that Tourism, Leisure and Family Visitors cannot take employment, establish or run a business as a self-employed person, work for an organisation or business in the UK, undertake a work placement or internship in the UK or otherwise provide or sell goods or services in the UK.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visitors are permitted to work remotely while in the UK, but remote working must not be the primary purpose of the visit. The main purpose of the visit to the UK should be to undertake a permitted activity, rather than specifically to work remotely from the UK.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visitors are also permitted to come to the UK to seek employment and attend job interviews. However, if successful in obtaining employment, you will be expected to leave the UK and seek the appropriate entry clearance prior to commencing work.

Tourism, Leisure and Family Visit Visa Application Fees

The Home Office application fee for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa for a short stay of up to 6 months is currently £115.

If you wish to apply for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa that is valid for either 2 years, 5 years or 10 years then the Home Office application fee will be £400, £771 or £963 respectively.

How Our Immigration Barristers Can Help

Our immigration barristers are experienced in assisting individuals from across the globe to secure visas to visit the UK for the purpose of tourism, leisure and family visits.

Whether you are seeking advice on the merits of applying for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa, assistance with preparing a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa application or legal representation to challenge a decision to refuse an application for a Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa, our immigration barristers can assist.

We pride ourselves on being approachable and proactive in understanding and meeting our client’s needs. We are a highly driven team, dedicated to providing clear and reliable immigration advice to our clients as part of a professional and friendly service.

We can also assist with

The UK offers a range of partner and family visas for family members of British citizens in the UK, persons settled in the UK, persons with limited leave to remain in the UK under Appendix EU or persons in the UK with refugee leave or humanitarian protection status, who wish to settle here.

The main partner and family immigration routes include:

• Spouse Visa
• Civil Partner Visa
• Unmarried Partner Visa
• Fiance Visa
• Proposed Civil Partner Visa
• Adult Dependant Relative Visa

Our immigration barristers regularly advise and assist partners and family members to relocate to, and settle in the UK, with their family members.

Whether you require expert advice on the requirements of the Immigration Rules, an independent assessment of your prospects of qualifying for a visa or professional assistance with preparing an immigration application, our immigration barristers can help.

The UK offers a range of long term work visas and short term work visas .

The main long term work visa routes include:

• Skilled Worker Visa
• Scale-up Visa
• International Sportsperson Visa
• Minister of Religion Visa
• Media Representative Visa

The main short term work visa routes include:

• Graduate Visa
• High Potential Individual Visa
• Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
• Temporary Work – Creative Worker Visa
• UK Ancestry Visa

Our team of business immigration barristers has experience in assisting employers and workers across a variety of industries in companies of all sizes.

The UK offers a range of business visas (for those who wish to start a business in the UK) and global business mobility visas (for employees of overseas businesses who wish to be transferred to the UK temporarily).

The main business visa routes include:

• Start-up Visa
• Innovator Visa

The main global business mobility routes include:

• Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
• Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa
• Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa
• Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker Visa
• Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa

Our team of business immigration barristers has experience in assisting employers, skilled workers and entrepreneurs across a variety of industries in companies of all sizes.

If your application for a Visit Visa has been refused, our immigration barristers can advise on the merits of making a fresh application or challenging the refusal decision.

In many cases, a professionally prepared fresh application will be the quickest and most economical way of securing a Visit Visa following a refusal decision.  Our immigration barristers have an excellent track record of securing Visit Visas for clients who have previously been refused a Visit Visa following a self-prepared application.

If the decision to refuse your Visit Visa application was unlawful, unreasonable or procedurally improper, our immigration barristers can advise on merits of applying for Judicial Review of the decision, draft grounds for Judicial Review and provide representation at Judicial Review hearings.

WHAT CAN WE HELP YOU WITH?

To discuss your Tourism, Leisure or Family Visit Visa application with one of our immigration barristers, contact our Short Stay Visit Visa team on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

Want to keep up to date with the latest immigration news, events and legal developments?

Sign up and receive our latest expert briefings, case-law alerts and immigration guides. We’ve got our finger on the pulse, making sure you’re up-to-date.

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Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

• You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
• Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
• You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

• have a valid travel document, like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

• criminal activity
• human rights violations
• organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons.

Find out more about inadmissibility .

Biometrics fee

• Individual  applicant: CAD $85
• Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
• Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

• visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
• super visas (for parents and grandparents)
• transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

• access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
• a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

• Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

• Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
• Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
• Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
• Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

Having issues with the form?

• I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
• After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

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The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. When you apply at a U.S embassy or consulate, a consular officer will determine based on laws, whether you are eligible to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate.

Nonimmigrant Visa Categories

The chart below contains many different purposes of temporary travel and the related nonimmigrant visa categories available on this website. Select a visa category below to learn more:

*What the abbreviations above mean  - Before applying for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, the following is required:

• DOL = The U.S. employer must obtain foreign labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, prior to filing a petition with USCIS.
• USCIS = U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval of a petition or application (The required petition or application depends on the visa category you plan to apply for.)
• SEVIS = Program approval entered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
• (NA) = Not Applicable - Additional approval by another U.S. government agency is not required prior to applying for a visa

Important Notes:

• About this chart – It is not a complete list of all travel purposes for the visa category. Select a visa category webpage for more information. The chart lists almost all nonimmigrant visa categories, with the exception of several not listed above. Refer to the Foreign Affairs Manual, 9 FAM 402.1  for all nonimmigrant visa categories.
• Canadian NAFTA Professional workers – A visa not required; apply to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at border port of entry.
• K nonimmigrant visas – For U.S. citizen fiancé(e) and spouse for immigration related purposes. Refer to Immigrant Visa Categories .

Immigrant Visa Categories

The chart below contains different purposes for immigrating to the United States, and the related immigrant visa categories for which information is available on this website. Select a visa category below to learn more:

* K Visas – Listed with immigrant visas because they are for immigration related purposes.

About this chart - This chart is a list of many immigrant visa categories, but not every immigrant visa category.

** Refer to the Foreign Affairs Manual, 9 FAM 502.1  for a listing of all immigrant visa categories.

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News Diversity Visa Program What is a U.S. Visa? Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

Global Visa Wait Times

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