Applying for a visa is nerve-wracking, even for us. I have done 20 applications at various embassies over the past 5 years, ranging from Korean visa to Australian visa to Schengen visa to Canadian visa. You might think I should be used to it by now. But the truth is, I still get extremely nervous every single time. Thankfully, I have never been denied. And I hope a first time would never come.
We know we’re not alone in this. Many of the questions we receive are from anxious readers sharing with us the list of documents they plan to submit and then asking us what we think their approval chances are. Will my visa application be denied? Will it be approved?
To be honest, it is difficult for us to give an opinion on and impossible to assess any application because it is based on a whole bunch of factors. The embassies consider several things before making a decision.
I think it’s important that you understand why embassies and consulates screen applicants and have a visa policy in the first place. Visa policies are there primarily to protect the national interest of the country. Tourism-wise, their usual concerns are visitors overstaying and working illegally. It is not uncommon that tourists with a short-term tourist or visit visa decide to stay much longer for employment or other reasons, a clear violation of the rules. Filipinos even developed a colloquial term for it: TNT, which is short for “tago nang tago,” referring to the act of constantly hiding from police or immigration authorities. This prompts embassies in the Philippines to be much stricter in screening tourists. It’s not that they prohibit longer stays or working there. It’s just that you must have the proper papers for it. Having visa policies in place also helps address other serious concerns like human trafficking and threats to national security.
Most reasons for visa rejection are related to overstaying. Thus, it is important to establish that you don’t have ANY reason to stay longer while still being honest about everything. So here are the common reasons why a visa application is rejected and what you can do to prevent them.
Note, however, that I don’t work for any embassy or consulate. All these are speculations based on the patterns and similarities we see in our applications, conversations with travel agents, and experiences of our friends, readers, and members of our Support Group. Much of the evaluation process isn’t visible to outsiders. At the end of the day, it’s an exercise in making educated guesses.
Incorrect or Unjustified Visa Type
If you’re traveling for business, go for a business visa. If traveling purely for leisure, go for a tourist visa. Don’t apply for a tourist visa if your purpose is clearly for business.
Aside from that, don’t be too ambitious because it’s too risky. One of the most memorable messages I received was from someone asking my opinion as to why her Korean application was denied. I asked her a few questions and it became pretty clear early on. She was visiting for the first time and had very little savings in her bank account, but she applied for a 90-day stay in Korea.
Applying for a longer stay especially if it’s your first time raises a lot of questions. Why would you need to stay that long? Would you be able to afford it? What about your job here? Don’t you have strong ties in the Philippines? These questions tick a lot of items on the hmmm-what’s-up-with-that list.
Another incident I remember is a guy who applied for a multiple-entry Schengen visa. He was invited by someone in Europe but he insisted on applying for a multiple-entry visa even though nothing in his itinerary merited it. His application was rejected.
Generally, if it’s your first time applying for a visa at that embassy, go for single entry unless it’s completely justified. When we applied at the German and Greek Embassies for the first time, we had to clearly prove that we would be exiting the Schengen Zone a couple of times, which called for a multiple-entry visa.
Some embassies would still give you a single-entry if they think you don’t deserve it. When I applied for a double-entry Chinese visa, I was still granted a single-entry one. I was lucky because some embassies would just reject it altogether.
Unclear or Unjustified Purpose of Travel
Why do you want to travel to that country? It’s one of the most basic things asked when applying for a visa. It’s in every application form. Are you traveling simply for sightseeing? Will you be visiting friends or family? Will you be attending a seminar or conference? Will you be meeting a client?
Whatever your reason is, it has to be clear and honest. Honest, yes, because you will be asked to prove it. For tourism, you’ll be asked to submit an itinerary or daily schedule. Some embassies will ask you to provide hotel and tour bookings. If your itinerary is far from being realistic, you’re gonna have a problem.
If visiting a friend or family, you will be asked to submit an invitation letter and sometimes guarantee letter and other documents. Other embassies will also ask to prove your relationship. For immediate family, birth certificates often do the trick. For friends or partners, it can get trickier. For Schengen visa, for example, you might be asked to submit pictures together and conversation records. If you have a specific reason — you’re attending a wedding or reunion — mention it. It keeps your purpose grounded, personal, and believable.
Weak Ties to Sponsor or Inviter
Many first-time applicants are under the impression that just because they are invited by someone living in that country means it is easier to be granted a short-term visa. Oh no, that’s not true. Often, knowing someone in that country can actually work against you.
Why? Because knowing someone in that country gives you a strong reason to overstay and not come back. Having an inviter or sponsor abroad doesn’t mean the embassy will not look at your rootedness, employment and financial situation. If anything, they will take a closer look and subject your application to further scrutiny. This is why most Schengen countries zero in on questions like: Do you know anyone in Europe? Do you know anyone in the UK? How are you related to them?
It also complicates things. If you’re invited by someone, you’ll have more documents to submit, some have to be secured by the inviting party abroad. If the relationship appears weak or too distant, it can affect your chances. You should be able to show the embassy why the sponsor is willing to commit to shoulder your trip or be responsible for you. If you just met the inviter online, it will be extremely difficult to convince the embassy because the proof of relationship is weak and unreliable.
You will also have to prove your relationship with them. For Schengen countries, you will be asked to submit photos, conversation records (phone bills, etc.), and other evidence.
Insufficient Proof of Reason to Return
Remember, embassies fear that you would be overstaying, so you need to prove that you have every reason to return after the trip. It’s sometimes called “proof of rootedness.”
Proving your rootedness is basically showing them that you have strong ties in the Philippines and you can’t just disappear. Here are the most common forms of proof of rootedness:
- Employment. They look at your job description, salary, and tenure. If you’ve been with that company for a long time, that’s a good sign for them. This is why they require that these details be included in your Certificate of Employment. This is also why those who are unemployed or who have no stable job are most likely to refused a visa. Embassies fear that you would be working in their country.
- Business. If you own a business in the Philippines, even if it’s a small one, it’s a good proof of rootedness. You can submit business registration documents. Some embassies even ask for the financial reports.
- Properties. If you own a piece of land, a house, condo unit, or even a car, you can submit a copy of the title or deed of sale.
Shaky Employment Status
Another case I will never forget involves a guy who wanted to visit Europe. He had ok funds in his bank account but he couldn’t prove that he was employed. He said he was manning a small sari-sari store and he practically owned it. I said that’s great and that he should submit registration papers. He said that his problem was that all store docs were under the name of his grandmother. That’s bad because on paper, his grandma owns the store, not him.
He then said that he also ran another small business, but unfortunately it was not registered with DTI, BIR or any government agency. He asked if he could write that down as employment in the form. I told him it would be impossible to convince the embassy without documentation.
He remained pretty optimistic about the whole thing. He said he would just explain it in a cover letter. I told him it would very risky because he had no proof. None of the papers had his name. But he said he would still give it a shot.
Of course, his application was denied.
Imagine yourself on the embassy’s side for a minute. Would you believe someone who would tell you he had a job but no documents to prove it? Embassies cannot just take your word for it. They need solid proof.
For freelancers, this is the most challenging part of the application. I was a freelancer when I applied for a Schengen visa via German Embassy. Even when I have business registration docs and ITR, they still asked to see my contracts with clients. Imagine if you had none at all?
If there are documents that you can’t provide, supply alternatives. Submit a copy of the contracts and invoices. Get letters from clients complete with contact details so the embassy could easily get in touch with them to confirm.
Questionable Financial Records
Obviously, you need to prove that you can financially support the trip and not end up in the streets after. Hence, they need to see your proof of income and your bank documents.
How much money should you have in your bank account? Most embassies do not explicitly state an amount. But in general, the unofficial rule of thumb is to add the cost of airfare, hotels, and then daily travel provisions, which is different per embassy. For example, the French embassy requires 120 euro per day. In my travel circles, most follow the P10,000 per day rule. I have friends who have been granted Japanese, Korean, and Australian visa even though they have only around P50,000 in their account because they only applied for a stay of 3-4 days.
The point is, how much you have in the bank should be proportional to your stay. Don’t apply for a 30-day or 60-day visa if you only have P50,000 in your account. That just doesn’t make sense.
Some embassies like the Japanese require only a bank certificate. Others like the Korean and Schengen countries’ embassies want to see both the bank certificate AND bank statements. It’s not enough that you have sufficient funds. They also look at account maturity and transaction history.
You see, some applicants and illegal recruiters try to game the system by either opening an account or depositing a large amount just for the purpose of application and then withdrawing that money after they get the visa. Because of this, embassies want to see the account activities for the past 3-6 months. It should present a steady cash flow. If your account history shows something unusual like a one-time big deposit, it will raise a red flag.
A friend of mine wanting to attend an event in Europe was refused a Schengen Visa by the Norwegian Embassy because she had little savings. But my friend made an appeal and showed that aside from her savings, she also had a Paypal account with some money in it. She printed the transaction history and submitted it together with a letter. Her appeal was approved.
Weak Travel History
Sometimes, applying for a visa feels like applying for a job. All the stamps and visas on your passport? That’s your resume.
Having a strong travel history certainly gives you an advantage. It shows the embassy that they should trust you. It’s like saying, “Look, I’ve been to all these countries and I have returned each time and never overstayed.”
Of course, having all those stamps isn’t a guarantee. In the same way, having no stamps at all doesn’t mean your application will be denied right away. But a good history definitely builds your case. That’s why it’s always a good idea to visit visa-free countries first before visa destinations.
If you have a record of overstaying, you have a problem. It will be much harder for you to convince them to trust you again. Hence, never ever break your visa restrictions!
Inconsistent Information and Interview
First up, take the application form seriously. It is the most important document when applying for a visa. It contains the most essential information about you and your trip, and all the other documents will be run against it. Make sure you have spelled everything correctly. Make sure you follow instructions. Most importantly, make sure everything is accurate, truthful, and consistent.
If you write on the form that you’re staying for only 4 days, don’t submit a 2-week itinerary. If you write you’re self-employed, provide business documents. If you write you’re invited by someone, present the necessary paperwork.
That’s critical if an interview is mandatory. We always say, be confident during interview. The truth is, it’s easier said than done. It can be terrifying sometimes, haha. Under all that pressure, it’s easy to buckle. Hence, you have to be prepared for it. You need to be familiar with every nook and cranny of your trip. That’s why it’s best to be heavily involved in the planning so you get to memorize the details by heart.
It’s also why you have to be honest all the time. If you’re telling the truth, it’s easy to be consistent. No matter how the interviewer twists the questions, you will have the same answer because it’s the truth. It’s not difficult to see who’s lying and making up stories. One tough question about a detail can make your facade crumble.
If you feel like you have to lie during the application, it probably means you’re not ready for this trip.
Incomplete, Fake or Dubious Documents
Every visa application involves a set of requirements that must be submitted by the applicant. The problem arises when applicants don’t have some of these documents. Some choose to submit fake or forged documents, which is the biggest no-no. Some docs like birth certificates are hard to fake, but things like Certificate of Employment, pay slips, and bank statements can easily be produced. But DON’T DO IT.
If caught, your application will automatically go straight to the trash bin. It reflects your character. It shows your willingness to break the rules, which is exactly what they DON’T want in their country. Some embassies do verify documents. The Korean Embassy sometimes calls the company you work for to confirm the details in your Certificate of Employment. For embassies that require flight reservation, they may check the booking code of the flight to confirm it exists and is under your name.
If a certain requirement doesn’t apply to you, don’t fake it. Find alternatives. For example, most OFWs who are back in the country won’t be able to produce an ITR released by BIR because they didn’t work here. But that doesn’t mean you can’t submit anything. You can submit that country’s equivalent tax document.
There are also workarounds. For instance, if you’re applying for a Japanese visa and you don’t have an ITR or bank certificate, you can find a guarantor, ideally immediate family. This way, the burden shifts to the sponsor and you just need to submit their documents instead (among others). Take note that this is only for Japanese Embassy. Most other embassies will still ask for your financial documents even if your trip is sponsored.
Bottomline, submit a complete set of documents. If you can’t, don’t fake anything. If you can’t find a workaround or alternative, it’s probably not a good time for you to apply for a visa yet.
However, having complete requirements doesn’t mean approval. They will inspect the documents and must find them satisfactory.
Who knows?
The 10th reason? We don’t know.
You can be adequately prepared for it, but sometimes, we just don’t know what the eff is going to happen.
I have heard about cases wherein I just couldn’t figure out what the hell went wrong. I have a friend who has a great travel history, financial records, rootedness proof. Everything was great, in my opinion. And yet her application was denied. I also know another who was applying for a Japanese visa for the third time. He meets all the items of someone who would surely be guaranteed approval, but was refused a visa, too.
We were thinking, was it just a mistake? Was the assessor having a bad day when they evaluated their application? Haha. It’s just perplexing.
Then, I also have another friend who had never been to any visa country, had shaky finances and was new to her job, but she was granted a multiple-entry visa!
As you know, Vins and I often travel together, so when it comes to travel history, we’re on equal standing. In one of our visa applications, we applied at the same time. When it comes to all the other requirements, Vins has much better odds than me. He had a full time job; I was a freelancer. He had more money in the bank, more stable employment history, more properties under his name. Naturally, I was more nervous. Guess what, my application was approved 2 weeks earlier than his. Haha. He was even called to submit more documents. It boggles the mind. LOL.
In another incident, I applied for an Australian visa with friends. They were visiting for the first time so I even assisted them through the process. I had been to Australia before, and my travel history and other requirements are definitely much stronger. My friends were granted a multiple entry visa. I was granted single entry. We were all shocked.
Really, sometimes, you just never know. But don’t count on these hiccups. These are more exceptions than rules. Always be prepared.
Other Useful Visa Posts
- Korean Visa Requirements
- Japan Visa Requirements for Tourists
- Japan Visa Requirements for Visiting Friends or Relatives
- Australian Visa Online Application
- Canadian Visa Online Application
- French Schengen Visa Requirements
- German Schengen Visa Application Process
- Greek Schengen Visa Application Process
- Indian Visa Online Application
- Turkish Visa Online Application
- UAE Visa Application
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Is this post helpful to you?
Very good article. I have worked in an embassy for a while and can confirm what is written here.
However, there is something you should keep in mind: during peak season embassies (shengen countries) have about 5 min per visa application.
So since the printing process takes around two minutes there are about 3 min to check the documents.
If you know that you will understand that the most important thing is to not stand out. Means have all the documents and make them look unsuspicious.
— Some parts deleted —
Hi Sven! Thanks so much for sharing this.
I hope you won’t mind that I deleted the last sentence of your comment because it might send the wrong idea to readers, haha. But thanks again for sharing that.
Hi I’m kelvin snow I will like to have a visa two south korea please help me
hi! i would like to ask a question, we applied for a Japan Visa and only put 5 days in our itenerary when we plan to really stay for 8 days. Do you think, Is that okay? Our visa is a single entry valid for 60 days.
Hi Jessica, yes, it’s okay. Standard Japan Visa allows you to stay up to 15 days. :)
Hi Yoshke,
I retired from my previous work in a cruise ship last January and there’s someone offered me a job in Australia. Until now he just saying to me that I should be there as tourist. He will help me to have a job when I arrive there. What’s the right visa for me when there’s someone sponsor a job?
Hi Virgilio, naku, di ko po alam. :(
Hello!
I’m a business owner and also do work online as a Digital Marketing Consultant. Should I put both on the application or stick to one?
Hi Kaye, generally it’s best to stick to one, so pick one na sa tingin mo mas malaki ang chances mo or mas maraming relevant documents na masusubmit. Mas complicated kasi pag andaming isusubmit.
Pero if weak pareho, dun lang sa tingin ko may sense na magsubmit ng pareho.
I thought of that, too. I’ll go with the business since complete naman the requirements and it’s somehow established na.
Thanks for taking the time to reply. I really appreciate it!
No worries! Good luck with your application! :)
Hi good day!
Travelled to countries na HK Macau and Taiwan.. All not requiring a visa kaya knakabahan po ako sa japan trvel with a friend on feb 2019.. Pnakaworry ko po is ung bank cert.. Question po i have 2 bank accounts one where I get my pay from every 2wks.. And usually nssimot ko sya.. Or ung isang bank account na once in a blue moon ko lang lagyan mostly 4 -5 digits lang po nggng laman.. Mdalas withdrawal pa.. Pro im planning magipon npo starting this sept pra mkta cash flow.. Sang bank acct po mas mlaki chance ko maapprove?ung with monthly salary or ung savings pro mostly wla dn po syado cash flow? TIA =)
Hi Joan, if bumababa sa 4 digits yung isang account mo, malabo din yun. Unless nga mag-iipon ka since matagal pa naman ang Feb.
Bank cert lang naman ang hinihingi ng Japan Embassy, hindi bank statement, so hindi makikita yung mga transaction details. Ang most likely lalabas lang ay yung balance, maturity, and ADB. So kahit alin dyan sa dalawang accounts mo, pwede, basta mag-ipon ka na. May time pa naman.
Thank you for your article! very informative and also sets my expectations in applying for a visa.
Thanks too for visiting our blog!
hi! im going to apply for an australian visa. okay na po ba mag submit lang ng coe, payslips, and itr? or kelangan po talaga na may bank statements? i have been employed for 11 yrs na po and still employed with the company. il just be visiting for 8 days.
another question po, how much po kaya yung ideal pocket money for an 8- day trip in australia? because u mentioned po sa europe it’s about 120 euros per day.
thanks po in advance!
Hi Johanna, please read our Australian Visa Guide. You’ll find the answer to your questions here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2016/06/successfully-get-australian-visa-online-requirements-steps-filipino-tourists/
Hi po, i just got denied in my visa application for south korea last sept 26, i have submitted all the requirements for employee, with itr, bank cert and statement of account, coe, all intact. Ive already traveled to hk last 2 years ago, i wonder why nreject ako., is there any way to re appeal po? Thank u
Hi Elma, according to some members of our Support Group, you can apply via the Korean Consulate in Cebu even if you’re denied in Manila. Just hire a travel agency in Cebu to submit the docs for you. But make sure you have additional documents to support your case.
Hi!!! Kasalukuyan po ako nag fifill up ng application for online pero suddenly its showing …An error has accured …ano po ba ang dapat kong gawin….thanks in advance
Thank u so much sir yoshke, i have now a contact person in cebu, hope for a positive result. Your response is a big help for me to know na its possible to re appeal.thank u
Hi! Was it approved, and is your contact person in cebu a travel agency? Thanks
No prob, Elma! Good luck with your application!
Hello, I already commented in another post but forgot to ask another question. So here it goes:
My boyfriend and I are planning to visit France (hopefully) next year. We’re not exactly the travelling type-I’ve been to Macau and HK twice, he hasn’t been out of the country. We want to go to France to visit our favorite authors’ graves, do the Van Gogh Walk in Arles, mostly we’ll be in Provence. These sites are not the more famous sites [for Pinoy tourists, based on my googling], too. My question is, can we, at the very least, explain in the cover letter why we want to visit France despite us not having a passport filled with stamps? Funding and rootedness in PH are not an issue for us.
Your blog has been very helpful kahit na next year pa plano naming, I’m saving all the info got from here.
Thank you!
Hi E! Yes, you can explain your purpose in a letter. :)
Thank you! :)
Hello, Im planning to visit canada. Pwede po ba gamitin yung business name ng In-laws ko and yung husband ko meron maliit na tindahan. Kakaresigned ko lng last May dahil naoperahan ako. Please advise.
Thanks
It has to be named after you. You should be the registered owner of the business.
Hello po, i just wanna know because im planning to travel in xi’an china for 4-5days ideally magkano po dapat un laman ng bank account to use for the visa application, i closed my deposit account so.im.planning to use my card where i get my salary from, but just like the other reader i really use it for withrawing the money but since im planning to travel on december so im thinking not to use it for any withrawal transactions up until the time i apply for chinese visa. And super helpful ng blogs nyo i have been following you guys whenever i travel to some countries.
Hi Jaypee, di namin alam magkano dapat ang laman. May mga nagsasabi na nag-apply sila for Chinese visa na around 50K na naapprove, pero may mga travel agencies na ang sabi dapat daw minimum 100K. So it’s hard to tell kung magkano ba talaga dapat. :(
I think the amount is not important, but the tenure of the bank account and the cash flow. Importante may pumapasok. My friends even presented payroll account from landbank na laging empty with less than 10k and they got approved for China, Japan, and Korean Tourist Visas. I dunno if factor din ang permanent employment sa government kaya madali approval. Ako, I got approved for Chinese Visa with 117k deposit pero sa 6 months, my ADB is only 13k
Hello po tnong q lng po plano ksi ng boyfriend ko mg visit ako sa country this 2019 khit 2weeks and ng travel ndin po kmI ng non visa country anu po ung dpat eh prepare ko po salamat
Hi Joan, saang country? And is your boyfriend Pinoy or citizen dun?
Hi,
I’ll be applying for a japan visa this week for my Nov 2018 trip. I opened a new account last March 2018 where I’ve been depositing my savings. Would it be fine with the embassy if my account started just last March? It now amounts to 100,000 and I’ll be staying for 6 days. Thank you for your help!
Hi Nikki, hard to say, but I’d give it a try if I were in your shoes. That’s just me though.
Thanks for the advice Yoshke! Will surely give it a try. I got my bank certificate today from BDO and they only have 1 standard format. It only shows the current balance to date. I can’t customized it to have an ADB nor a Created Date. Oh well, it won’t hurt to try. It’s just me being anxious haha :) Thanks again!
Hi Nikki, I just checked my BDO bank cert and yeah, you’re right. The ADB and maturity date are no longer indicated. You should be fine, when bank cert is concerned. :)
Hi. I applied for a Korean Visa and part of it is the declaration of my out-of-the-country travels for the past 5 years. I have indicated United Arab Emirates and Malaysia in my application. Originally, I submitted by application including my old passport since the stamps for my Malaysia travel including other countries (more than 5 years ago) are there.
Since the application for Korean visa is already through agencies, I asked my friend to process my application. However, 2 days after the application, my friend told me that the agency gave back my old passport. I am now worried that my application might be denied since I have no other proof that I traveled to Malaysia aside from my old passport.
I am currently on my 8th year in the company where I am working and am already in a manager position. My Bank Statement and Bank Certificate are also quite okay for the application.
According to the agency, the estimated date of release of the result is on November 15, 2018. I am really really worried.
I hope you could respond to my inquiry. Thank you!
Hi Harry, hindi ko alam if SOP yung hindi pagtanggap ng old passport sa Korean Embassy. Di ko rin matandaan kung sinubmit ko ung old passport ko when I applied. Sorry. :(
But at this point, since you have already submitted the application, there is nothing that you can do. Hintay-hintay na lang. :)
Thanks for responding Yoshke.
My fingers are crossed that the embassy would consider my other qualifications.
I hope the wait is all worth it. :)
Sana nga! Good luck! :)
Hi Yoshke. I got approved just now. :)
Yayyyyyy!!! Congrats!!!
If you need help planning your Korea trip, check out our Travel Guide here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/01/korea-travel-guide-seoul-itinerary/
Hi!
I am planning to visit UK next year. What is the requirement that I need to submit.
Hi Catherine, I haven’t tried UK visa application yet. :(
Hi. Do I really need an invitation if Im going to visit Canada alone. Ano po kaya ang chances na makapasa if walang invitation letter? And how much will be the needed money in my account? Btw, I’m 8yrs employed with no travel experience out of the country. :) TIA
Hi Chin Chan, if no one is inviting you, you don’t need an invitation letter. You can apply as a tourist. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/07/canada-visa-requirements/
Hi! I submitted our(with my 2 siblings) online visa application to Canada last Nov 19, and till now no email receive yet. How long kaya malalaman if approve or not?
According to the latest update ng website nila, the average processing time this month is 18 days, so normal pa rin yan. :)
The 10th reason was so true. I applied for korean visa recently with my friends. They all got approved except me. I even filled up my friend’s application form for her. We all have the same requirements, more travel abroad (though all visa free), I even have higher ADB and savings on the bank but I’m the one who got denied. Sometimes we never know.
Thanks for sharing, Den!
Hi, Ano po chance ko ma approved Australian visitor if my previous visa was US visa 10 yrs multiple, Japan visa 5yrs and italy schengen visa.
Hi Mar. Hard to say. It depends on many things aside from travel history. But it sure is a plus, but not a guarantee.
Hi, Thank you for sharing these very helpful info. I am planning to apply for a Korean visa next year. I have an online-based job for more than two years now. The company does not give COE but they give certificate of service, it just don’t include how much I earn though. I’m also a concessionaire in our local groceries but my business is not registered and I only have receipts as a proof that I am earning in this small business. (transactions are under my name). For my rootedness, I am single and
I am enrolled in my second year for graduate school. I have traveled three southeast asian countries before and all didn’t require visas. I have two bank accounts and no cc. first one is for payroll and the other one is for my savings. (it only has 5 digits savings.) I don’t have an ITR. I always travel solo.
What do you think about my chances of getting approved for my first time to apply for visa?
I am earning but cannot provide the COE and ITR.
I have savings but cannot justify how I earned it since I don’t have the COE and ITR.
If you are the officer, are you going to approve my application?
Thank you for reading!
caveat: my job and business are all legal :)
Hi Amri, it’s hard for me to assess. But there have been applicants without COE or ITR who were granted a visa, so I know it’s not impossible. But that was before the Korean Embassy had designated travel agencies.
Now that there are designated travel agencies, there is an extra gatekeeper who will assess it first. What I suggest is to contact your chosen agency first and ask them about your chances instead since they will know it better. :)
Hello. Thank you for sharing this helpful info. Me and my friends wants to get a korean visa thru travel agencies on May. We are planning for a group application and to travel in July. Some of us are first timers. And sa case ko po. I just finished my studies last October 2018. And Im reviewing for my board exam. Paano po yung sken anong requirements po yung susundin ko. Since unemployed po ako. Nagbook na po kami on July. But wala pa ping return flight. My friend is suggesting na maghanap na din po kami ng flight pabalik before our application. But we are afraid na baka madeny po kami. Mas malaki po yung pera na mawawaste namin.
Hi Zarah,
For your application, write a letter explaining that you have recently graduated, then submit proof na kaka-graduate mo lang. Tapos best if may guarantor ka na immediate family member.
Hello, My Aunt in Canada sent an invitation to me for 6 mos. visit visa. Can I apply for 3 months visa or even shorter than 3mos. kahit naka-indicate sa invitation letter that I should stay there for 6 mos.? Also, is it required to have itinerary for 3-6mos. stay?
Thanks
Hi Dane, baka makalito ung 6 months na nasa invitation letter tapos 3 months ung applyan. Iwasan mo na lang yung mga inconsistencies kasi red flag yung ganyan.
Hello I am engage to an Australian last Nov. lang and I was planning to go on Australia as a tourist in May of this year, my question is need ba niya i indicate sa invitation na I am his fiancee or dapat girlfriend lang and how much po dapat show money?
Hi po good morning salamat s blog nyu po at super malaking tuñong hingi po sna aku adv regarding po sa plan k po mg apply ng us ir canda anu po mas madaling applyan po and my prev po akung tour more on asia po the japan single and not multiple from japan mkktlong po b ito at kungsakali my business po aku at merung DTI and mayors permit kso wla po akung ITR ok lang po b un salamat po.
HI RC, di pa kasi ako naka-try mag-apply ng US visa so hindi ko macompare.
Sa Canada naman, malaking bagay yung ITR. Kung wala naman, pwede rin ang registration. Matagal na po ba ang business nyo? May iba po ba kayong proof of income and business activity like invoices? Makakatulong din iyon.
hello po, just wanted to ask po, our family is planing to apply for a south korean visa. my father had his early retirement and at the same time he has a small business. but most of the funds in his bank po ay galing na po from his retirement. he have complete business papers rin naman po, kaso yung itr niya states no income, kasi po small business lng siya. what should we check po sa portion na current personal cirsumstances? the retired or self employed? or should we check both po? then submit both the retirement papers and business papers po? thanks!
Hi Sharmaine, since no income yung nasa ITR, parang mas okay na retired? Pero make sure na may sponsor. Opinion ko lang po ito ha. Best to ask an embassy-designated travel agency po.
Hi. I have a question po, since i am a graduating student po, my tita is planning to sponsor me a trip to Korea as a birthday and graduation gift for me. Kaya lang po, my parents doesnt have bank accounts. :( ano po kayang pwede kong gawing alternative? Pwede po kayang iapply ko sya as sponsorship kasi yung tita ko naman po talaga magcocover ng expenses ko to Korea? And incase paano ko po iaapply yung for sponsorship. Pls help po. Thankyou
Hi Russelle, ang alam ko pwede naman po yun. Pagawa ka na lang po ng Affidavit of Support tapos pa-notarize para mas safe. Tapos need mo ipakita yung bank docs and ITR ng tita mo.
Hi! Your article is extremely comprehensive and informative. I have one question. I intend to do an open-jaw trip, Manila-Toronto, New York- Manila. In terms of visa application, do I first apply for Canadian visa or US visa. My first destination is Canada, the USA. WHich visa application do you think I should initiative first? thank you very much
You can do both at the same time. You can already schedule an appointment for US Visa and while waiting, apply for Canadian visa online.
Do you have tickets already?
But if I were in your shoes, I’d take care of the US visa first and then use that as a supporting document for my Canadian visa application.
Hi po Good Morning.
Ask ko lng po, my aunt po is 50 years old. She availed of the early retirement in their company (after 30 years of service) but she is single and wants to travel to japan (though family trip po ito) is it possible not to provide any guarantee letter since she will be sponsoring her own trip (she has sufficient fund to support her own trip)? Medyo confusing lng po kasi dahil mejo kakaiba po situation nya dahil po 50+ years old sya pero retired na.
Thanks po and hoping for your response.
Hi Reginald, feeling ko pwede naman yun. Anong visa po?
Hi Yoshke. We are planning to apply for Australian Visa, my husband as the main applicant. I’m a small time online seller on Shopee with no business registration. I have my personal savings account. Should I declare that I’m an online seller and submit Shopee Income Statement or declare as a housewife? Thanks!
Hi Sheena, naku, di ko alam kapag ganyan, pero if I were in your shoes, I would apply as a housewife.
Okay ba ung kita mo sa Shopee? If okay, write a letter that you also do online selling and submit the Shopee Income Statement. If hindi naman ganun kalaki kita mo sa Shopee, baka best na wag na lang imention kasi baka maka-confuse lang.
Hi Yoshke. I am married po with Italian and I am just waiting po only for 2 years to be an Italian Citizen. Since, I’ve been in Europe a couple of times, is there a big chance po ba na ma-approve korean visa application ko?
Depende po sa maraming factors yan. Ang travel history ay isa lang sa mga yun. Pero titingnan pa rin nila ang employment and financial capacity n’yo. :)
Hi Yoshke,
Firsrly, Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences. This is much appreciated. I just want to ask if I can use the Contract to Sell for the one unit Townhome I bougth under my name thru Pag-ibig if I apply for a tourist visa let say to Europe or Canada. As we all know since it is under financing scheme, the legal owner is si Pag-Ibig until such time n ma fully paid na and the title has been tranfered to my name, which would take many years before it happens.
Do you think this is a good evidence to support my rootedness aside from my COE?
Thanks and hope to hear it from you soon :-)
P
Hi Phy, unfortunately, di ko alam kung pwede yung contract to sell. :(
H, okay lang ba if yung ITR 2316 walang stamp from BIR?
Usually pag employee, okay lang na wala.
Anong visa po ba yan?
Thank you Yoshke,
Actually, kaka received ko lang ITR ko ngayun with certification from BIR with seal. This for my tourist korean visa application
Good luck with your application!
It is very useful when I read your articles and it gives me the right amount of competitiveness to pursue my visa applications. I was able to visit “visa and non-visa” countries but that’s quite long time ago. Last week, my Korean application was approved. I had this fear feeling it won’t be approved since my current account is only 30k. I don’t have also the ADB to support my account. I’m travelling with my Christian friends and they’re all with their families. Last year, I booked my flight ticket and hotel accommodation since it’s quite affordable during that season. Tho, I think the embassy has this matrix or pointing system who gives specific weights per criteria of all the requirements needed. I asked my travel agency to add my application to the group tour to have higher chances in appraising my documents. Moreover, I submitted my COE with tel. no., monthly and annual gross, current position and date hired. I’ve give my ITR too and with regards to my bank cert. given by my company since I am working in a rural bank, I made a letter since the current system cannot issue my ADB signed by the branch manager and teller with a seal. I have printed my transaction history in my passbook and have given my statement covering the 3-month progress. I am just so overwhelmed and happy that all my efforts really paid off. Now, I can’t sleep and I’m really excited to visit SoKor with its Cherry Blossoms Season. God bless you always. I’m sorry ‘coz this was quite long to read. Gamsahamnida Sir Yoshke :)
PS: There are hmmmm, let’s say small grammatical errors as per my first message. I am sorry. Inshallah, I will have this amazing break this April 2-7 in SoKor. God bless you po Kuya. :)
Yayyy! Congrats!
Don’t worry about grammar errors. I have those too when I’m too lazy to proofread (which is most of the time, hahhaha)!
Enjoy Korea!
Hi Yoshke, I have a special friend in Canada for more than 1 year and 4 months and he wants me to visit him this coming August and he will shoulder all the expenses and i am staying at his apartment for the duration of my visit.
He already sent me the invitation letter and he stated there that he will be the one responsible for all the expenses and he will look after me.
My friend have voice dissability due to accident since September 1984.
He wants me to visit him to see also the place and the way of living of a Canadian people.
Is there a possibility to grant me a visitors visa.
Please advise.
Thanks,
Fely
Hi Felicidad,
They will still look at your financial and employment records even if your trip is sponsored. So nakadepende doon kung approved or hindi.
Also, is your special friend Canadian? How did you meet? I’m asking because mas strict ang PH Immigration pag foreigner ang bibisitahin, lalo na if sila yung sasagot sa expenses. So even if magka-visa, baka mahirapan ka sa Immigration.
Hi! Mag apply po ako sa Australia.ok n po ba yung 10 itinerary ko and during week end lng mkkpasyal.
Salamat po
Thank you for this article, I will follow this to my future visa applications!
No prob, Janna!
I’m planning to go to South Korea this fall, I already have a Japan Multiple Entry Visa do you think its easier for me to get a Korean visa?
Great article!
My cousin’s Japan Visa application got rejected a few weeks ago. He is working abroad and applied from there but the bank he declared is here in PH. His account has around 100k balance. I applied for Japan Visa here in PH with a bank account of 50k and got approved. Is there a minimum amount required if applying from a different country? And can he apply for japan visa again when we comes home to PH in a few days? Thanks.
Easier, yes, kasi OECD ang Japan, but not a guarantee.
hello, 1st time ko po mag-apply ng student visa sa canada and hindi pa po ako nakakapag-out of country (sa june pa yung Thailand trip ko hehe) possible kaya maging reason yun for refusal? thank you for the answer :)
Hi Jesselyn, di kami ganun ka-familiar sa rules kapag student visa. :S
Hi there,
My cousin wants to join us for a planned trip to the US this year. He is into buy and sell business. Travelled to Asian countries with Visa and some Southeast Asian countries too. He inherited some fortune from his father. Do you think he’ll be lucky enough to be granted visitor visa?
Hi Charlie, US visa is said to be the hardest to predict kasi they don’t ask for too many requirements. Much of the result depends on the interview.
Hi, balak ko po sanang mag apply ng US tourist visa para dalawin ang pamilya ko, mama, papa and kaptid ko nakatira na sa US naiwan ako kasi na over 21 po ako. Turning 3 years na po ako sa work ko dito sa pinas may ipon na din po ako. Malaki po ba ang chance na madeny po ako saapplication ng visa?
Hi Yoshke,
Im so happy i was able to visit your page. It’s really helpful. I am planning to apply for visit visa in canada. My boyfriend and i decided to do so. Yearly silang nagvivisit sa philippines but natigil yun, 2016 yung last visit nila dto with his family. Medyo wala na kasi silang enough time to visit ph kasi lahat sila may regular job na it’s hard for them to schedule their trip so we just decided na ako nlng magvisit dun. We’ve been together since 2015. He’s my best friend’s cousin. He’s half pinoy.
I’ve never been in out of the country trip. We’re just planning to have just 2 weeks vacation there because I can’t have my working leave longer than 2 weeks. I have bank account since november 2018, i have 700k there. I also have land title under my name. I’ve been working in bank since july 2018. Is it possible for me to get a visit visa? And what are other documents that i need for me to justify my 2 weeks trip there. Hoping for your respond
Hi Cha, naku, hard for me to say kung ano yung chances of approval. :( Ang medyo questionable lang is medyo bago pa yung bank account mo and wala ka pa travel history. Pero di ko alam if ano chances of approval talaga.
Hi Carisse, mahirap po masabi pero pinakaimportant ay maprove mo na babalik ka talaga and maging consistent ka sa interview, which is a big big factor.
Hi Yoshke, I want to share my experience with my US Visa application. I had an interview last April 4, 2019. Everything went well and I thought that I will be granted a US Visa. However, to my surprise, the Consul Officer gave back my passport and said that he cannot grant me a US Visa. I was so prepared that day and had all the necessary documents ready. Sadly, the Consul Officer did not give me a chance to show my documents to support my application.
Here is the exact words that he said: “You are very much qualified to be granted a US Visa. However, you applied for a wrong visa type. You should’ve applied for L-1 Visa.” Then he gave back my passport. He added: “Re-apply for a visa. Good luck on your project.”
My boss sent a letter to the US Embassy to clarify the recommendation made by the Consul Officer because based on our review on the conditions set for L-1 Visa Type, my purpose of visit does not fall on this visa type. We also sent a letter to their consular communications group with regard to our request for clarification.
The following day, April 5, 2019, I received a call asking me if I am available on April 8 for a supplemental interview. To cut the long story short, I was given a second chance to discuss my case and luckily, I was granted a 12-month multiple entries visa.
This was a roller coaster experience for me. I hope that everyone who got denied won’t be hindered by a single rejection. This is just a hump but you will get over it. You might stumble but not fall.
Thank you for letting me share my experience.
Hello! This is very helpful. Thanks for sharing this! :)
Hey Yoshke! I have a dillemma. My COE travel dates are July 13-24, 2019 while my booked Aussie roundtrip tix is July 22-30, 2019. Also, my Payroll account address is different from my personal address in the application form. Wasnt able to change the address when I requested it. Should I just explain the discrepancies in the cover letter? Or request docs again? 2 weeks kasi ang docs! I’m travelling July 22, when can I apply for Visa te latest? AU visa :) thanks!!
Hi Annie, best to requiest new docs since may time ka pa naman. :)
Hi! Planning to apply for Korean Visa sa September and kaka start ko lang as freelancer this April. Paano kaya yun kung di ako makapag submit ng ITR? What do I need to submit as an alternative sa ITR? Sabi nila I can submit a cover letter explaining why I can’t provide an ITR pero I don’t know what to include in the letter. Thanks.
May full time job ka ba before ka nag-freelance?
And also, about applying for korean visa, baka kasi mag push through yung invite sa akin ng isang Church doon sa Seoul. Do you think that’s enough para ma grant ako ng Visa? Do I still need to submit an ITR kung may invitation nman sa akin ng Church doon?
Hello! I applied for a visa going to NZ last year (twice thru online) and this April (thru an agent) and got denied, their reason is I am not a bona fide applicant. My third attempt to apply, I have added an NBI clearance and a sponsorship letter from my bf and other stuff that is needed like his bank details. I have also supplied a booked roundtrip ticket. They cited that they are not convinced that my relationship with my bf is legitimate. They are not also satisfied with my employment status given that I have been working in this company for 6 years and I have provided a certificate of employment from HR and no objection letter from my service manager stating that I need to report back to work on the next business day after my return ( I thought that they are thinking that I might not come back to the Philippines given that the company I am working for is an Australian and New Zealand company and that there is an office in NZ). Is there any way to know what are their requirements for me to prove that I am a bona fide applicant and that I will not stay in NZ illegally and will go back to the Philippines after my planned trip?
Hi Jhackie,
In my opinion, mas issue sa kanila yung relationship mo. Embassies usually frown upon applications of those supported by boyfriend/girlfriend. It’s just not a reliable or strong enough relationship for them. I know it can be frustrating but that’s usually how it is. It’s often much easier to apply showing that you will be supporting yourself financially and independently.
Hello we are applying for a Spain Visa. Ano po dapat ang ilalagay if my mom will sponsor our trip?
Hi
My passport just came back without a sticker/visa (nz) and no email explaining whether denied or what.
Last 2017, they mailed back the passport with stickers. No email too that i hv been approved. Just that sticker.
I am praying that they will send the visa through email (mailing it will cost them.money so i dnt think that is possible). But the question is, why did they return my passport without the stickerif i am not approved in the first place.
What do you think?
Nice post thanks for sharing
hi, this is my 2nd time na magapply ng TV to Au po ung first time sponsored po ni boyfriend but now po is it ok if invitation letter lang po ang ibigay ni boyfriend? I have business namn po dito sa pinas. This time hindi sponsored ni bf kasi medyo mababa ung nasa bank statement nya kasi ngloan sya ng house.
Hi. gusto ko lang itanong. may nabili ako house and lot but as of now wala pa ang deed of sale, in process pa din po. kaya ang nakuha ko lang contract of sale. Gusto ko po kasi i add yun sa proof of assets ko na I have a strong tie here in the Phils na talaga nga babalik ako. I travelled to Japan 3 years ago. I also have DTI cert. bank cert/satement. meron din po ako invitation letter and she sent all her proof of funds na kaya nya i provide lahat ng needs namin like accomodation, airfare even tickets. almsot complete na ang requirements namin ng partner ko which is sya talaga ang relative nung sponsor.. may chance po kaya? thank you
Hi Yoshke,
This is Harry. I and my partner is planning to have a trip to japan this December. I have my bank account in security bank but there is no usual activities there. Mostly are deposits but not on a regular basis.
We already had a history applying for a Korean visa last year. Mine was approved but his was denied. Now, we are planning to apply for a Japan trip. He already went to HK and Vietnam just to have stamps on his passport.
I am currently in the US but I am planning to go back by October this year. Is it okay if we apply a month before the actual travel date to Japan? Will there be a problem since my partner was previously denied of Korean visa?
Thank you
Hi Harry,
Yep, you can apply 1 month before the trip since the usual processing time is just a few days to a week.
The Japanese Embassy is much less strict than the Korean Embassy, so if your partner is currently employed and has good savings, there’s a good chance of being granted a visa. :)
For Japan Visa, can I just apply as individual even if I will be travelling with my partner and his mom?
Thank you.
Yep.
Thank you Yoshke! It’s nice to visit your page because I get a lot of ideas about visa processing. Btw, I got approved with my Korean Visa Application last December because I followed what you wrote on your blogs. More power!
All the best.
Yeyyy! Thanks for sharing this. :D
Hi. I am about to apply for a tourist visa to Canada. I will meet my bf’s parents for thanks giving. I have a job, i owned a business (room for rent), i am a single parent. I made a letter to consular that i am not going to overstay because i have a son who is studying and will be waiting for me. I will attach there my sons birthcert and schl enrollment cert. And also i said in the letter that i am going to leave my son to my mother while i am on vacation, who is old and has an asthma so i cannot leave my son to her care for a long period of time. I am worried about that letter. Should i mention about my mother’s asthma or it could be a reason for visa rejection? Please give me some advice. I am really a genuine visitor.
Hello Yoshke :)
Nag’apply po kami ng korean visa dito sa Manila. Denied po kami. And we’re planning to apply to Cebu. Ask ko lang kung need pa ba namin magpasa ng cover letter / appeal letter? Thank you.
Hi Ma’am/Sir,
Can you give me an idea reason of applying multiple Visa in Japan.
Applied in March and I just wrote I wanted to see Japan in spring and autumn so I was planning to return in November. I explained a little bit but that was the gist.
Hi.
Im planning to apply for Spain visa. However they require ITR with stamp based sa requirements listed sa webite. My ITR doesn’t have stamp since my company is part of large taxpayers. Sabi sa BIR “There is no need for it to be stamped received by the BIR as your company already filed their Alpha list where your income and withholding tax are submitted to the BIR.” Nag inquire din ako sa BLS sabi pde daw nila tangapin yung walang stamp pro di nila maguarantee na ndi magrequest ang consul pag nireview yung requirements. By any chance na may experience ka or may kilala ka sa ganitong situation? Thank you
Hi Lara, I haven’t tried applying via Spanish Embassy. But I suggest that you post this sa Support Group namin kasi baka ung ibang members may maitulong: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepoortraveler/
Hi,
I am planning to go to Japan this Oct 2019 with my boyfriend and we will apply for visa this first week of September. My problem is when i got my birth certificate last month, delayed registration ang nakalagay, but yung mga previous birth certificate na nakukuha ko sa PSA was not late registered. And nakakapagtaka pa kasi yung surname ko sa delayed registered ko na birth cert is yung sa mother ko. Iba sya dun sa unang birth cert ko, which is yung sa father ko ang surname ko. Lagi kong ginagamit yung unang birth certificate ko, kahit sa mga valid IDs and pagkuha ng passport. So nagulat ako na may isa pa pala akong birth certificate (late registration) then surname pa ng mother ko yung nakalagay. Now, kumuha ulit ako ng bagong birth cert, hoping na yung unang birth cert ang mabigay sakin. Question ko po is:
1. Naveverify ba ng Japanese embassy na dalawa yung birth cert? Pano po pag yung isang birth cert ko ang isubmit ko (since yun na yung nabigay sakin ngayon ng PSA) sa mother ko yung surname ko which is di ko naman ginagamit?
2. I am new to my current company, but I am already regular na po,okay lang po ba na yung ITR ko from previous company ang ibibigay ko, since wala pa kong ITR na makukuha dito sa bagong company? Do i need to submit a letter stating that i’m new to my current company?
Thank you in advance po. :)
Hi Che, I’m not sure but this is what I think:
1. I don’t think so. I think they will just rely on the documents at hand. If you submit a birth cert with no “Late reg” indication, then you probably don’t need to worry abt the supplemental docs. Kaya lang, if ung isang late reg birth cert ang ibigay sayo, di ko alam ano dapat gawin. Ask mo na lang ung travel agency kung saan ka apply kasi mas alam nila for sure.
2. Yes, okay lang po yan. Just write a letter explaining bakit iba ung current employer mo sa naka-indicate sa ITR. Nagawa ko na sya before, wala namang problem. Just say that you recently moved to another company.
Hi Yoshke,
I received my first birth cert (not late registered) from PSA, and that’s what I submitted to agency. I just also submitted an explanation letter regarding my ITR. And now my boyfriend and I were approved!! I’m so excited. :) Just letting you know.
Thank youuuu! ;)
Wow! Congrats, Che! Saan sa Japan kayo punta? :)
Hello. New viewer here. Nainvite po ako ng friend ko sa Japan, working po sya dun as Engineer she offered na isponsor lahat even my plane tickets at expenses pagdating dun. nahhomesick kasi sya at gusto may familiar face na kasama dun. since hndi available ngaung fall/winter ang family nya ako ang inofferan nya. Btw, may asawa at anak na ko and Freelancer din po ako.. Online ang work ko. however sa work ko po wala kaming napprovide na COE. ung salary po namin is naittransfer lng po online sa kmga bank acct nmin. Working as online auctioneer na po ko since july 2015 pa. sa tingin nyo po ba may chance na maapprove ako for japan? if maapprove po kasi ako gusto ng friend ko is sabay kami uwi. Dec20 uwi sya ng Pinas. thanks po.
**isa pa lng po ung out of d country trip ko. sa shanghai china last yr. nung nanalo po ako ng trip for 2 dun galing sa boss ko. :)
Hi Martha,
For Japan visa, when you have a guarantor, you don’t need to submit COE or bank certificate. The burden shifts to your guarantor, who should be able to provide the documents from Japan.
More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/japan-visa-requirements-with-guarantor/
Hello Yosh! Thanks for replying, Nasend na po nya yung original documents na nakuha nya from Japan ung mga certificate po duon.. yung express mail ba yun. Bale now po, waiting na lang po ako marelease ung PSA document ko. Birth cert to be exact. orig birth cert ko po may cross out ung gender ko na female nung kumuha po ako NSO i think 4 or 5 yrs ago nakita namin walang cross out sa gender. i got a ctc from qc city hall na may cross out na sya kaya inaccept dati ni dfa.. then fast forward ngayon 2019 pagkuha ko po PSA ng birthcert wala pa din cross out ung gender part, nagpanotaryo and everything na po para ung document ko maayos na din at hndi na magkaproblema pa sa pagapply ko ng visa. hoping maapprove po ako! :) thank you guys sa guide, npakahelpful nyo po
Hi!
I badly need some advice.
[REDACTED]
When I knew about BPI’s promo about their partnership with the Korean embassy for the multiple entry visa, I immediately signed up for a ‘secured’ BPI Gold Mastercard. Ang concern ko lang din talaga ay yung unemployment ko.
[REDACTED]
What do you think? Should I…
1) STICK WITH THE BASICS. Just stick with the three-month bank statements, bank certificate, and ITR
2) GO BIG OR GO HOME. Continue applying for the gold card. (Although they said it’s not a guarantee that I’ll be granted the multiple entry visa)
OR
3) PLAY SAFE. Apply for a single entry visa with my bank statements + certificate and still secure a gold card so that I can still use it on my upcoming travel and later on I can apply for the multiple entry visa. (How I wish this is an option)
[REDACTED]
Maybe you can share some advice? :)
Hi Lei,
I have no idea about the intricacies of an application by someone invited to Korea for a cultural/educational program. I dunno if they’re stricter or more lenient for such cases.
But if I were in your shoes, I’d PLAY IT SAFE for the following reasons
1. Having a GOLD card DOES NOT guarantee being granted a multiple entry visa. Even if you have a card, they CAN still ask for more documents especially given that you’re unemployed.
2. Even if you’re able to get a GOLD credit card, they can still look at your transaction history. If they see that your credit card is new and that you barely had any transaction, that card won’t help your case. I think it can even hurt your case because…
3. Applying for a multiple entry visa when you’re unemployed raises a lot of questions.
These are just what I think. I would still recommend consulting a designated travel agency for a more enlightened take on this.
My concern might be very confusing. But it concerns unemployment, financial capacity, ITR, and credit cards. I hope you can give me an advice. If not, please delete the comment since I’ve stated too many information. Thank you very much! :)
You replied! Thank you very much for replying! I think you are right. At least my mind is at ease. I also think that the ‘unemployment’ part is really suspicious. I should have opted for other jobs while waiting for my license to practice my profession. Anyway, the card will still be helpful for overseas transactions. Thank you very much! I really appreciate it.
(Would like to request my original comment to be deleted since I’ve given too much information. I thought I was able to delete my comment. I hope this is possible. Thank you! I hope you understand. :) )
Hi Lei!
No prob!
I removed the parts with a lot of info, but I retained the gist of your question, without the details. Okay lang ba?
Yes! I wish I knew about this blog sooner. Thank you very much! :)
hello,
i am planning to visit both Korea and japan ( 4 days + 7 days ) next October. Korean visa is already accepted. I still just need to apply for Japanese visa.
The purpose of my visit is tourism only, in addition to meet up with my Japanese friend. we have been online friends since a year and a half. it happened that we both have been able to take time off from work at the same time.
i have all the documents needed from my side . ( bank account balance 4000$ , salary, permission from work, flight tickets..)
i also have all the documents from my friend’s side including proof of friendship.
I am just concerned about the proof since we are online friends. we can only show call logs , chat pictures, video call pictures , letters and gifts sent ( we sent birthday gifts for each others ).
i was worried that the amount of money i have won’t be enough . This is why they offered to be my guarantor to help with the extra expenses in addition to a place to stay in. They will also show me around.
I can guarantee that i have enough proof for getting back. i’m just worried about the proof of friendship ( i have like 20 pictures which are more than enough i think ).
do you think i should apply as a tourist , or it’s better to say that i have a guarantor.
which has higher chance for getting accepted ?
I really want this to work, and i really want to see my friend as well.
Hi Adam,
Your account balance is 4000$? USD?
If so, that’s more than enough. If I were in your shoes, I’d just apply as a tourist. The online friend just complicates your case.
Hi po,
I’m planning to apply a tourist visa sa Canada. Nakausap ko kasi ung travel agency namen at ang sabe kailangan may kasama daw ako sa Canada, like my mom and dad. Hindi kasi ako sure, ang alam ko kasi malaki ung chances of denial pag kasama sila. My dad is an Assistant Vice President on a big company while my mom is a housewife, dependent sya kay dad pero nakapunta na sya sa iba’t ibang bansa icluding US. Below are my details:
Travel History:
South Korea = 4 days (Tourist Visa)
Australia = 2 months (Working Visa) I was deployed by my company (Disadvantage, hindi nagpoprovide ng stamps ang Australia, I’m thinking of attaching a photo of me on Melbourne, I’ll do the same thing on my SoKor stay)
Medyo weak ang travel history ko :(
Employment Status:
Currently working on a very well known international IT company for 5 years. My occupation is Database Administrator, position is IT Operations Analyst. I earn P 35K a month. Meron na akong COE at ITR. Hinihintay ko na lang ung approved leave ko. Oks lang po ba kung ung ipepresent ko na docu for my approved leave is ung email thread po namen na nagpapakita na inapprove na ako?
Financial Status:
I currently have P 670K plus (17K CAD plus) on my savings account
I already have my bank certificate with me as well as my bank statement. Wala akong one time big time na deposit. Ung pag deposit ko ranges between 5 K to 10 K only.
I also decided to get a copy of my payroll account na rin para malaman or makita nila kung saan nanggagaling ung deposit ko.
Only planning on staying sa Canada for 10 days.
Ang problem ko is ung credit card ko, meron akong functioning credit card kaso ginagamit ko lang sya pag nasa ibang bansa ako. Ang rule kasi is kunin ung at least last 3 months of transaction ko with that card eh ung last na transaction ko pa was July – August of last year, that was during my stay in Australia. Pede ko po ba un iexplain sa mga cover letters ko? Nagwoworry kasi ako baka kasi isipin nila hindi ako creditable na person. Ginagamit ko ung payroll account ko sa panggastos ko sa pang araw araw, which is food lang and tricycle.
I’m also 26 years old male and single.
Would like to know your thoughts on this. Sorry for the long post. Salamat po in advance. :)
Hi Josh,
What’s your purpose in traveling to Canada? Do you know anyone there?
To be honest, your profile is much better than mine when I applied. You also have a lot more funds than I did.
I don’t have any other reason but just to go there and experience winter in Canada. I have my aunt and uncle both from my father side living in Toronto but I don’t have any plans on visiting them. December lang talaga ako pinayagan ng company ko mag leave. Kaya not sure kung malakas ung reason ko na dahil gusto ko lang makatapak at makaexperience ng Canadian culture. Any thoughts about my travel agent saying na magpasama daw ako sa mom and dad ko para mas kapani paniwala daw stay ko? For me kasi parang pag sinama ko sila, baka mapahamak pa application ko.
Hi Josh,
I think, where they’re coming from is, in theory kasi ay mas lenient ang embassies sa family applications. Mas convincing nga rin kasi sya.
Pero di ko rin alam what to advise you, to be honest. I think your profile is great. Normally, I would urge someone with your profile to just go for it. But apparently may kamag-anak ka dun so baka nasa record nila. When you apply kasi, you need to fill out a Family Information form (parents, siblings) so baka madetect nila ung dad mo (sibling ng aunt/uncle mo). Not sure if they really do this, but I won’t be surprised if they do.
Thanks po for the advice. Let’s see na lang siguro. Mom wanted to play it safe. Sabi nya try na lang daw ung sinuggest nung travel agency. Salamat po ulet ng marami. This is such an experience talaga. Sabi nga nila, matututo ka sa journey kesa sa destination. So I guess I’ll take this as a lesson if in case madeny ako. I’ll try my best na di ko damdamin.
Good luck!!! :)
Additional question. Nung nakalapag po ba kau ng Canada, may mga tinanong pa po ba sila sa inyo na questions?
Thanks,
Josh
If I remember correctly, tinanong lang ako until when ako stay. Basta walang ganap yung saken. Mabilis lang.
May mga countries na po ba kayong napuntahan like US nung nag apply po kau ng TRV sa Canada for the first time?
Mostly European and Asian countries + Australia. :)
Additional question ulet hehe. Sensya na. Dun po ba sa Philippine Immigration papuntang Canada, nanggigisa po ba sila dun? Hiningan pa po ba kau ng documents bago tatakan passport nyo po at pasakayin sa eroplano?
Thanks,
Josh
Mahirap po for me to say.
Depende po kasi yan sa matatapat na Immigration Officer sa’yo, sa profile mo, and sa demeanor mo pag kausap mo sila.
Hi!!! Just an update for my status!!!! Our Canadian tourist visa application is now approved!!!! Words can’t describe how happy I am right now. I keep pinching myself if this is really true!!!! Thank you so much for you advice!!!! :D
Congratulations! Have fun in Canada!
And please help recommend our blog to your friends! :)
Hi,
I applied for US Visa twice, the first one was back in 2015 then the recent one was just this Sept. 21, 2019.
I think kasi, I am red flag– Single, early 20s and Female.
I was thinking of applying again next year with my OFW father (53y/o). Do you think may chance kapag kasama ko father ko?
Thank you!
Hi! I applied for Korean Visa last September, unfortunately I got denied.
Now, I submitted a re-application in Cebu. These are the following documents I submitted.
1. Standard requirements with COE, ITR with BIR Stamp
2. Approved Visa ,& Passport BIo of my friends
3. Concert Ticket Confirmation (I will be watching a BTS Concert this coming 29th of October)
4. Winning Confirmation & Fanclub Membership. (The concert was a fan club raffle which you required to be a official member & once you won you are enable to buy tickets nearby the stage)
5. duly notarized Affidavit & Undertaking stating that I have no intention to over stay & work illegally.
6. Approved Leave Form good for 3 days.
7. Sample itinerary good for 3 days with costing. Including estimated plane ticket.
8. Hotel Booking Confirmation
9. Offer to Purchase of Lot under my name with attached official receipt which I was purchase last Jully 2019.
10. Cover Letter- telling that I will be traveling to South Korea & the highlight of my trip is to watch the said concert. I also stated that this is my birthday wish since my birthday is on the 7th of this month. :)
– In my cover letter & attached documents, I put markings such as Annex 1 so on & forth just for my arrangements . But I found out the embassy has it own arrangement. My friend who submitted my application arranged it according to embassy want., is it okay that my marking was rumble? In short it was disregarded.
– In my application form, I put intended to stay 3 days, estimated budget is 30K including my Hotel & Plane Fare. My Bank Account has a 77K ? Do you think that this was enough ?
Please check the documents I submitted. if this okay.
I am waiting the results by next week. Hoping for the best! Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s really a big hekp.
Hi Euphoria,
Thanks for sharing.
Medyo pointless na kasi nasubmit mo na. There’s nothing you can do about it na. Wait na lang and hope for the best.
Hello
I’m planning to go to Korea this Nov.2019. My concern is that i have no job as of now and my brother who is working in Qatar is going to sponsor my trip however he can only provide salary certificate, COE, working contract. He doesn’t have bank statement but i have my personal bank account. is it still possible to have the visa?
Thank you
Hi Dan,
Naku, best to contact the designated agency where you plan to lodge your application para po mas sure. :S
Tbh, in the Who Knows part I think you forgot one important thing. It’s prayer.
Hi,
My sister was denied for Japan visa but she did not know the reason, but they stamped her visa and encircled the small letter ‘c’. May we know what is the meaning of ‘c’ on Japan visa denial.
Also same as mine, they only encircled the small letter “c” on the stamp.
Hi Nenelyn,
We have no idea. But you said she was denied? What visa did they encircle?
Hi
I would like to ask for your opinion po. I’m planning to apply for a Japanese Visa next year but I’m worried about the PSA and Local Civil Registry Birth Certificate. The travel agency told me to just send both birth certificate. Do you think its a big factor for visa denial?
Hi Angel,
Why are you worried about your birth certificate? What’s the issue?
Hi sir
My name is mary ann i want to ask kung magkakaproblema po b ako sa pag kuha ng working visa taiwan. If may error sa marriage certificate ko. Pero last 2016 n nagvisa po ako ay hindi naman ito na denied. Gusto ko lng po malaman is. Kung nakafile na ito at for finallity nalng ang wait . At may documents naman na naka attached sa marriage contact ko ay maari parin po ba akong ma visahan.
Hi! Sorry po pero wala po akong alam sa working visa.
Hi Sir Yoshke, I forgot to mention hehe. i’m worried cause my PSA is unreadable. The travel agency told me to get a copy from the Local Civil Registrar (which i’ll do once i get my latest PSA) but I’m not sure if its already readable. I asked what if both are unreadable and they told me to just submit both. Does that a big factor of denial?
Hi Angel, I dunno how much it can affect the application. But if I were in your shoes, I would do the same. I would submit both the PSA and the copy from the local civil registrar. :)
Hello po. I’m planning to travel sa UK sa next year where sponsored po lahat ng expenses ng aunt ko but unfortunately I have no ITR since nag AWOL po ako noong March. I was wondering po if okay lang po ba mag provide ng Affidavit or a letter explaining why wala akong ITR in lieu of an ITR? I tried po asking for an ITR galing sa previous work ko and they said na I can just provide the affidavit daw for visa pusposes? Please advise. Thank you!
Hi po, im planning to travel to japan this february 2020. Actually i already applied my visa with my mum yesterday (P.S. OFW from Middle East po kame). Just in case lang po ma reject andame ko kaseng naririnig na comment from common friends na may mga na dedeny for visa approval. If thats the case pwede po ba kong mag apply from manila and how long yung process and if need prior booking + which bank statement do i need to show. All related travel documents are booked na kase sayang naman if ma dedeny ako. We have our air ticket, hotel booking, connection flights. Bali po kase ang aking ticket ay Dubai – Manila – Tokyo – Manila – Dubai.
In terms of travel history po medyo okay naman, for the past 3 years nakapag travel na po ako ng UK, Korea, Hong kong, Macau, Georgia, Singapore.
Hello po I’m interested to travel to Japan via tour package from an accredited agency since it may look cheaper for me. Question lang po what if due to unforeseen event nadeny ang VISA is it possible for the agency to refund the majority of the payment? Kung baga kahit di na 100% refund kahit 10% sa kanila lang as long as I can get something in return dahil sayang naman ang binayad sa airline, hotel and sightseeing package kung dahil lang sa VISA masasayang ang lahat ng nagastos like 30K-50K range din un. I know I should try to ask the agency about it but ang tagal nila mgreply and wala akong makuhang sagot sa mga T&Cs ng website nila. So I thought you guys have an idea for this type of situation. Thanks in advance!
Hi Mary,
Depende kasi talaga yan sa policy nung agency. Iba-iba kasi ang policy ng agency. So sila talaga ang best to ask.
Hi if I have approved visa last year in China Beijing, then we want again to go to Shanghai, it’s possible to be approved again our 2nd visa for Shanghai, is our 1st visa approved can help
Yep, nakakatulong ang past trips. Sa case ng China, pag second time mo na as tourist, no need to submit financial and employment documents. :)
Hello. I already got my japan visa but the problem is nagkaron kami ng financial trouble suddenly. Might it be a reason for rejection next time mag apply ako? Sana po hindi pero may idea po ba kayo?
Hi Jajaaaan,
Ako di ko pa naranasan personally, pero yung members ng support group namin who had the same experience, di naman daw naging problem na hindi nila nagamit yung visa. Wala naman daw hininging anything and naapprove din ung next application nila. Yung iba, multiple pa ung binigay after.
Dear Sir, My wife’s visa for accompanying spouse visa got denied from the Korean Embassy Twice. The Embassy did not mention any cause for the first time but this second time, they mentioned that the purpose of her arrival in Korea was not clear to them , plus, her present status and economic condition dont confirm that that she would got back from country soon. I , as an inviter, prepared all docs and financial proofs. Now, my question, if she tries for Student Visa (D2) , may she get visa or her previous rejection will affect the next application. She may apply again after six months. She can get student visa ? Thanks for your kind reply in advance
Hello! Really loved reading the article. Puts things into perspective. I just have a question regarding the application form for South Korea Visa Application. If freelancer (i.e. freelance graphic designer/artist, home-based) mas appropriate ba (for consistency sake) na I-check yung OTHERS then write my designated job title or should I check SELF-EMPLOYED?
I searched on the difference of self-employed vs freelancers tas vague yung answers :( it was mentioned that self-employed may mean may sariling office or business ka pero may iba ring nagsasabing under self-employed din naman yung freelancers hahaha. I’m caught up which might be the best one to check na hindi makaka-add sa confusion when I apply.
Thank you.
*hindi makaka-cause ng confusion when I apply and submit the forms and documents.
Hi Nic,
Here in PH, freelancers are classified as self-employed professionals, so I think self-employed is the right choice, technically speaking.
But I have tried applying for a South Korean visa as a freelancer twice. Magkaiba yung sinagot ko kasi magkaiba yung documents na meron ako at the time. Yung first time was, bagong freelancer pa lang ako so wala akong documents, no updated ITR, etc. But I was able to get a sort of Certificate of Employment from my client, so I answered Employed. Then I just explained it in the cover letter. Di ko alam if tama yun but naapprove naman.
Yung second time, I had all the BIR registration, DTI reg, and latest ITR na so I answered Self-employed. Di rin nagka-problem.
Hi I applied for an Australian Tourist Visa pero denied po for the reason that I don’t have strong ties to return here in PH. I only applied for a short 6-day vacay, attached Cover letter, itinerary, COE with date started working and annual salary, bank cert, payslips, and BIR 2316 but still she isn’t convinced. Could it be that its because I am only working in my current company for 1.2 years? Or is it because the person who reviewed my application was having bad day?haha Please do help me what else do I still need to attach. Thank you.
Hi Reysa,
When you applied, were you invited by someone or were you to visit someone in Australia?
Is your trip self-funded?
I was invited by a friend but I didn’t declare it in my application since I’ll be funding my own trip. I thought its gonna be unnecessary to even include that. What should be the right thing to do?
I would have done the same. If their concern was your ties in PH, declaring that you were invited by a friend would have given them more reason to deny.
Since you weren’t sponsored/invited, I have no clue what the reason was for the rejection. Your profile seems better than most of my friends who were granted visas. haha. You have family naman in PH no? How’s your travel history?
Oh btw, I am considering going to a travel agency for my 2nd application.. can you recommend any good travel agency?
thank you so much.
Yeah, travel history naman isn’t a deal breaker, but it surely helps pag may doubts sila sa other reqs. Anyway, like I said nun sa #10, some cases are really perplexing. Ang hirap ifigure out why na-deny.
Regarding travel agency, we haven’t tried applying for an Aussie visa through one kasi lagi kaming online. But you can check out Constellation Travels. Their Head of Visa Apps used to be a visa officer sa embassies, so they might be able to help. They usually help us when we need clarifications sa mga requirements (pero for other visas yun, not AU).
Yes I do have my entire family here. About travel history that’s what I am concerned about, I don’t have any previous international trips but I know a few people who were able to get a visa grant even though they don’t have any travel history. I even attached a letter explaining why I can’t show any evidence of previous travel.
Hello! I’m so glad that I came across your blog. I find it very informative! Kudos to everyone behind this blog!
Anyway, I plan to travel to Europe in two years (in time for my 40th birthday!). This gives me plenty of time to prepare financially. Even though I’ve been to the US twice already many years ago, and then recently to South Korea, I still feel nervous applying for a Schengen visa. My question is – will my US Visa still add points even if it expired 10 years ago? My record is clean anyway.
Thanks!
Yes, it’s a pogi point if you have traveled to strict countries before. It’s not the be-all and end-all but surely helpful.
I have a 62 year old canadian fiance.. he wants to come here in the philippines so we can marry but the flights are not open yet and still have to quarantine for 14-days.. he wants me to come with him in canada after being married. What will you suggest , should i apply for a visit bisa first so if ever i can come with him or just wait for my spousal visa? Pls. I want to hear from you?
Hi!
We are planning to go to South Korea for our honeymoon next year March 8-14. Both of us don’t have any international travel history yet but we’re confident naman that we can provide all the documents needed since we both have stable jobs naman. It’s just that nag woworry ako na baka madeny kami. Any tips po ba? Actually we already have plane tickets na. Na-score ko nung nagka- seat sale nung nakaraan. Would that help? Hopefully I can get tips here. Kasi it has been our dream to visit SoKor together and ngayon pa lang I feel anxious about it na. Haha. Thank you
Hi! All our South Korean visa tips are here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/05/new-korean-visa-requirements-application/
My mom wants me to go in Paris. She’s a resident. She lives with my aunties and cousins. I dont know if its possible that, my moms boss wants me to be in Paris to experience tje life. Sponsored by my moms boss. Is this possible? Btw, i work in a bank for 2yrs now at present. Please help
Can I staying establish ment in phillipines?
Is a loan from a bank a reason for the denial of a tourist visa in South Korea?
Hi, I just came across your blog and I’m wondering if it’s still possible for me to get a schengen visa even if I don’t have an ITR? I haven’t got the chance to register yet as a freelancer so my old ITR is still from my corp days. My client wants us to have a meet and greet in Europe but we will be paying for most of the expenses. I’m worried because I don’t have any ITR and I don’t have any properties to show as proof of rootedness. Based on your experience, is it still possible for me to get one or should I just let go and tell my client that I won’t join them?
Wow thank u for ths article. But I would like to ask something. I am planning to visit my bf in UK but I dont want to declare that I am meeting him because we haven’t meet yet. I would say I will apply purely for tourist. I am a bank employee fot 5yrs and I can provide all the documents needed. Also, if ever I will get the visa, I am still going to stay at the hotel that I will book. Question is, are they going to find out I am with my bf or not?
Hai I am olive sordilla, 26 years old, married and one son, I want to apply for a business visa for germany I’m from Philippines, One investor who owned a company came in our province last February we meet in my workplace in a resort, im 2 years in that work a full time employee, we owned a land but it named by my husband, me and my husband have a work. This business man wants to invite and wants to train me how to handle business appointments here in the Philippines because I know the language and culture and if I trained well thats the time that I will handle all the business appointments here in the Philippines. But I’m just thinking about the rootedness sir, what I’m going to do?
If my Schengen tourist visa gets rejected, how soon can I reapply? For example, if I plan to reapply with another country by changing my itinerary.
What can one do if you want to travel and don’t have enough funds but have a car and a land property and have the intention of really coming back and not overstaying
To what country?
Good day,please I have a question about my sponsors bank statement,because I have an appointment with the embassy soon,the financial records are ok but there’s a little problem on his native name,a letter was misplaced ie( the correct name is UKAOBOSI but it was written on the bank statement as UKAOBASI) is it necessary to get an affidavit for the correction of the name or it won’t be a problem.(Note that’s not his surname just a native name)
Hi Cindy. Unfortunately we don’t know the answer to this as we haven’t tried applying via any Hungarian Embassy. :(
And the visa appointment is with a Schengen country (Hungary)
Hi,
I am glad I was brought to this site as it is very informative. I and my family of 4 (2 kids ages 5 and 7) are planning to visit Japan in December. I have traveled to different countries with a visa prior to having kids but I am worried about applying this time with them. I have a full-time job (been with the company for 15+ years) and my husband is a freelancer. What I am most worried about is the finances. You mentioned the 10,000-per-day rule and I was wondering if the same should apply to kids. We are planning to stay in Japan for 5 days and I wanted to make sure that I am saving up enough money to meet this.
Haha… An entire article dedicated to the struggles abd nightmares of obtaining a Schengen visa. Pity you and the many others here who have to go through the eye of the needle to travel to Europe. Thankfully and fortunately I have a German father which makes me entitled to German citizenship by descent whilst also enjoying the advantages and privileges of the dual nationality system.
I am planning to go to Japan February next year with my partner, I have only been to 2 countries so far, HK and Thailand, I have a stable job and a good income and savings… but I am a little dubious about my stamps… I dont know if it is a big factor for approval…. anyway I hope I get approved I will go back to this comment in January next year :p
Japan is not that strict. Just make sure you meet all the other requirements.
Hi, I’m about to send my application for a Schengen visa (Germany to be exact). My car registration is expired and I’m just about to register it again (which is late already) but my visa appointment will come in first. Should I still include my car registration in the documents I will be giving them or would you recommend to just not include it?