BETA VERSION: This site is under active development. Visa information may be incomplete or outdated. Always verify requirements with official embassy sources before making travel plans.

Visa Document Checklist

Ensure you have all required documents for your visa application. Generate a personalized checklist based on your visa type.

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Required Documents for tourist Visa

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Document Requirements Details

Essential Documents

Valid Passport

Always Required

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay

Check expiration date
Ensure at least 2 blank pages
Make color copies
Check for damage

Visa Application Form

Always Required

Completed and signed application form

Fill in black ink or type
Sign where required
No blanks - write N/A if not applicable
Keep a copy for records

Passport Photos

Always Required

Recent photos meeting specific requirements

Usually 2-4 photos needed
Taken within last 6 months
White background typically
Check size requirements (often 2x2 inches)

Financial Documents

Bank Statements

Always Required

Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds

Last 3-6 months typically
Official bank letterhead/stamp
Show regular income
Highlight ending balance

Sponsorship Letter

Sometimes Required

If someone else is funding your trip

Include sponsor's ID/passport
Sponsor's bank statements
Notarized if required
State relationship clearly

Income Tax Returns

Sometimes Required

Proof of tax compliance and income

Last 2-3 years
Include all schedules
Certified copies if required
Translation if not in English

Employment Verification

Always Required

Letter from employer or business registration

On company letterhead
Include salary, position, tenure
Approved leave dates
HR contact information

Travel Documents

Flight Itinerary

Always Required

Round-trip flight reservations

Don't purchase until visa approved
Use reservation services
Show return date clearly
Match dates in application

Hotel Reservations

Sometimes Required

Accommodation bookings for entire stay

Cancellable bookings recommended
Cover entire trip duration
Include confirmation numbers
Show hotel address clearly

Travel Insurance

Sometimes Required

Medical and travel coverage

Check minimum coverage required
Valid for entire trip
Include emergency medical
Some countries require specific insurers

Invitation Letter

Specific Cases

For visiting friends/family or business

Include host's ID/visa status
Host's address and contact
Purpose and duration of visit
Notarized if required

Supporting Documents

Marriage Certificate

Specific Cases

For spouse visas or family applications

Official translation if needed
Apostilled if required
Include divorce decree if applicable
Recent copy

Birth Certificate

Specific Cases

For minor children or proof of relationship

Full birth certificate
Parents' names visible
Translation if required
Multiple copies

Police Clearance

Specific Cases

Criminal background check

From all countries lived 6+ months
Recent (usually within 6 months)
Federal and state level if required
Apostilled for some countries

Medical Certificate

Specific Cases

Health examination results

Use approved panel physicians
Include all required tests
Valid for limited time
Keep copies of results

Passport Photo Requirements

General Requirements

  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • Clear, sharp image with good contrast
  • Printed on matte or glossy photo paper
  • No digital alterations or filters

Common Specifications

  • Size: 2x2 inches (US), 35x45mm (Schengen)
  • Head size: 50-70% of photo height
  • Background: Plain white or off-white
  • Expression: Neutral, both eyes open

Note: Photo requirements vary by country. Always check the specific requirements for your destination country on their official embassy website.

Document Preparation Tips

Organization is Key

Create a dedicated folder for your visa application. Keep originals and copies separate. Use clear plastic sleeves to protect documents.

Make Multiple Copies

Always make 2-3 copies of every document. Keep one set with you, one at home, and scan everything to have digital backups.

Translation Requirements

If documents aren't in the official language of the destination country, get certified translations. Use authorized translators only.

Document Validity

Check expiration dates on all documents. Bank statements are usually valid for 30 days, police clearances for 6 months. Plan accordingly.

Authenticity Matters

Never submit false or altered documents. Visa fraud can result in permanent bans and legal consequences.

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