Six documents to gather before any visa application
Most delays start with a missing document. The ones that take longest to obtain, and why to request them first.
Most visa applications are not refused: they are delayed. And most delays start with one document that was requested too late. Below are the six that usually take longest, in the order we ask clients to request them.
1. Police certificates
Some countries issue them in days, others in months. If you have lived in more than one country in the last ten years, you may need one from each.
2. Certified translations
Any document not in the official language needs a translation. A certified translator is often booked weeks ahead.
3. Birth and marriage certificates
Originals, not copies, and sometimes with an apostille. Order a fresh copy if yours is old or damaged.
4. Proof of funds
Bank statements covering a set period, in your name, showing the balance on each day. A statement printed at home is often not enough.
5. Employer’s letter
On letterhead, signed, with your role, salary and start date. Ask early: someone in another department usually has to sign it.
6. Tuberculosis test results
Required for some nationalities, and only from approved clinics, which may be in another city.
This note is general information, not advice on your application. Rules change; check the current requirements, or ask us, before you file.