Appeal A Denied Schengen Visa Application: Appeal Letter
Last Updated : Oct 31, 2023
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30-Second Summary
Schengen Visa denial happens when an applicant's request for entry into multiple European countries is rejected by the consulate or embassy.
Reasons for denials can be
Incomplete documentation.
Insufficient financial proof.
Insufficient explanation for the purpose of my trip.
To appeal the decision you need to write an appeal letter for the Schengen Visa rejection.
Despite meticulous planning and preparation, your Schengen visa application may face refusal. The good news is that a visa refusal is not the end of the road.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of understanding Schengen visa refusal, reasons for rejection, and most importantly, how to craft an effective appeal letter to give your European adventure another chance.
Understanding Schengen Visa Refusal
A Schengen Visa denial occurs when an applicant's request for a Schengen Visa, which allows entry into multiple European countries, is denied by the consulate or embassy due to various reasons, such as incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, or other issues.
Common Schengen visa denial reasons:
Incomplete Documentation: One of the most common reasons for Schengen visa denial is incomplete documentation. Ensure that all required documents, such as passports, application forms, and photographs, are correctly filled out and submitted.
Insufficient Financial Proof: A lack of financial proof is another leading cause of visa rejection. Make sure you provide bank statements, proof of income, and sponsorship letters, if applicable, to demonstrate your financial stability.
Lack of Travel Insurance: Schengen countries insist on travelers having adequate travel insurance. Failing to provide proof of insurance can lead to visa denial. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to avoid this issue.
Travel Itinerary Issues: Your travel itinerary must be well-structured and make sense to the consular officer. Ensure that your flight bookings, hotel reservations, and day-to-day plans align with each other.
Previous Visa Violations: If you have previously violated visa rules or overstayed in a Schengen country, it can result in visa refusal. Address this issue in your appeal letter by explaining any past violations and highlighting your commitment to abiding by the rules.
Make sure to avoid some of these common mistakes made during the Schengen visa application.
Visa Refusal Appeal Letter Sample
For your convenience, I'll add a Schengen Visa appeal letter sample used for issues with insufficient explanation for the purpose of my trip.
[enter letter date]
[enter the address of recipient]
To Whom It May Concern,
I'm writing to appeal the denial of my Schengen visa, which I received on [date]. On [date you filed your application], I applied for a [type of Schengen visa you applied for] from [country Embassy where you applied for a visa].
The reason for my Schengen Visa being rejected were as follow:
[Enter the reasons provided by the Schengen Visa rejection letter]
I believe that the consulate/embassy of [in my case: Greece] was wrong to reject my Schengen application, for the following reasons [why you feel your visa shouldn’t have been rejected].
Quick note: Remember, don't be arrogant or condescending. Try and understand your Schengen visa was denied. If applicable, acknowledge that you didn't provide the correct documents (or whatever the reason may be).
I understand my ethical responsibility to only include truthful and correct information alongside my application. Therefore, I attest that this letter does not contain any falsehoods or exaggerations about my ability to [reason you were denied, such as: afford my trip, leave the Schengen area within the required period, etc].
I would be grateful if you could reconsider my Schengen Visa application. To help you make a more informed decision, I have attached additional supporting documents that will help strengthen the reason for my trip.
Please contact me if you have any further questions.
Thank you so much,
Sincerely,
[enter your full name]
[enter your email address]
[enter cellphone number]
Be mindful that this is only a simple template of the appeal letter. You should evaluate your situation and write a letter that is well-equipped to explain your reason for writing an appeal letter.
How To Appeal A Schengen Visa Refusal
To be clear, you have 2 options:
Reapply for your visa
Appeal the initial decision made on your first visa application.
Keep in mind that when you reapply for your Schengen Visa, it might be automatically refused due to the refusal of your first application. For this reason, rather follow the visa appeal process rather than reapplying.
You only have 15 days to start the visa appeal from the date you received your refusal form.
Writing My Appeal Letter - Step-by-Step Instructions
Now you'll have to write an appeal letter for the Schengen Visa rejection. Follow this step-by-step example of how to approach the appeal process.
Quick tip: Usually the appeal letter you plan to submit must be translated. You should translate it into the language of the country you plan to visit. So, if you're appealing to Spain, your appeal letter should be in Spanish. My best advice would be to write your letter in English (or your own language) and get it translated by a certified translator. You can find certified translators here.
Step 1 - Gather All The Missing Documents
Knowing the reason for your refusal, gather all the documents that would support the missing part of your application.
Example: If your visa was denied due to insufficient explanation for the purpose of my trip, you will now need to add travel itinerary details, return flight tickets, a cover letter, a letter of invitation from a friend or family member, proof of payment for different hotels or accommodation, proof of accommodation like a hotel booking and cover letters to support your case.
These documents should be attached to the appeal letter to help support the traveller's case.
Step 2 - Writing An Appeal Letter
Ensured you include the current date and the Embassy address. Be as formal and understanding as possible, knowing that there may be many appeal letters that the official needs to read through.
Acknowledge the Refusal: Mention the date of your visa refusal and clearly state that the mistake was on your part.
Gather Supporting Documents: Collect all necessary documents that prove the purpose of your trip. Include travel itinerary details, return flight tickets, a letter of invitation, and proof of accommodation.
Strengthen Your Appeal: To enhance your appeal, add additional documents that further support the purpose of your trip.
Apologize for Inconvenience: Express regret for any inconvenience caused by your initial application and request for reconsideration.
Create Urgency: Add a departure date to your appeal letter to emphasize the urgency of your situation, especially if time is running out.
Express Gratitude: Politely thank the reader for considering your appeal and their time in reviewing your case.
Include Personal Details: Provide all necessary personal information, including your full name, surname, email address, passport number, phone number, and signature for authentication purposes.
Tone: Do not be condescending or arrogant when writing your letter. Your appeal will most likely not be successful, and you'll need to start your Schengen Visa application from the start with a bad reputation.
Quick tip: When writing your letter, try not to write more than 2 pages. In the same sense, don't write one paragraph. Only include the information and reasons you think are important when appealing.
Step 3 - Attaching the Supporting Documents
Ensure that you have all the supporting documents attached to the appeal letter.
If these documents are not included, the decision will not be reversed.
Step 4 - Head Over To The Embassy To Hand In The Appeal Letter
Go to the Embassy/VAC to submit the letter to the officials.
The travelers' appeal will be reviewed, and you will receive feedback soon.
Example Of A Visa Denial
In 2019, my friends and I planned a trip to Greece for our university graduation celebration. We gathered the required documents and applied for a Schengen Visa. After a seemingly smooth process, my visa application was unexpectedly rejected.
The Reason Behind the Refusal
The reason for my Schengen Visa denial was inadequate explanation of my trip's purpose. I lacked sufficient supporting evidence to clarify my intention for tourism in Greece.
Researching the Appeal Process
I decided to appeal the decision and began researching Schengen Visa appeals. I realized my mistake: I hadn't collected essential documents to support my trip's purpose. These documents included travel itinerary details, return flight tickets, a letter of invitation, and proof of accommodation.
Learn from my Experience
To avoid a similar situation, provide detailed information during your interview and gather all necessary documents. Small details can make a big difference in securing your Schengen Visa.
After Your Appeal Letter
The processing time for visa appeals can vary. Be patient while waiting for a response. Continue to monitor your communication channels for updates.
Once a decision is made, you will be informed of the outcome. If your appeal is successful, follow the embassy's instructions for visa issuance. If it is unsuccessful, you may explore other visa options or reapply after addressing the issues mentioned in the refusal letter.
Before applying for your Schengen visa, I recommend you research the refusal rates of the Schengen country you intend to visit. Ensure that you understand what documents you need and what the minimum visa requirements are. This may save you the whole appeal process.
In the case where your Schengen is refused, try to be as understanding as possible. Your visa could be denied for a simple reason, such as a missing signature or unclear information. Be open-minded and respectful when writing your appeal letter, as officials will be more inclined to help reverse the visa refusal.
The Visa Appeal Process: A Few Things To Consider
Unfortunately, the visa appeal process is not as easy as it seems, and even if you submit the correct documents during the visa appeal process, it may still be refused.
This section will briefly explain a few key points you need to consider when starting the visa appeal process.
How Long Does It Take To Get Visa After Appeal?
The Schengen visa appeal processing time takes around 4 weeks. However, in some cases, you might have to wait 8 weeks.
After your visa appeal has been approved and processed, your visa needs to be issued by competent authorities. This shouldn't take too long as authorities will be instructed to issue your visa after the appeal is successful. You can expect your visa to be issued within 4 - 7 business days after the appeal processing time.
As such there are plenty of factors that play a role in the processing time. These can include:
The time it takes for your visa appeal to be approved,
When authorities are informed to issue your visa,
The current demand in visas at the embassy/consulate.
What Are The Chances Of Getting Schengen Visa After Rejection?
The chances are very high. Remember, in most cases your Schengen Visa is denied due to incorrect documents or small mistakes made on the application form.
If you can correct any mistakes and provide the required documents as requested by the embassy, there is no reason for them to refuse your visa application. Simply put, if you can prove that you're eligible and meet all the requirements to receive a Schengen Visa, there is no reason for authorities to deny your visa application.
For a better chance at securing a Schengen visa after rejection, always be truthful during your interview and ensure your documents are genuine. Lying or using fake records significantly lowers your chances.
What Happens Behind The Scenes At The Embassy?
When you submit your visa rejection letter, along with any required documents that were missing or incorrect. Your visa rejection letter will be reviewed by the appropriate appeal processing authority of that country.
Generally, you'll submit your visa rejection letter at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen Country you plan to visit. After doing so, a higher-ranking officer who deals with Schengen visa appeals/visa rejection letters will decide whether or not the decision on your visa application's denial should be reversed.
If the visa decision is reversed, authorities responsible for issuing your visa will be notified and you should receive confirmation. However, it's best to contact the embassy responsible directly afterward to learn about the next steps you should take and if they have been notified.
The unfortunate reality is that some embassies and consulates don't notify you of your visa appeal status. As such, you should follow up after a few weeks of submitting your rejection letter.
What To Do If Your Trip Is Imminent?
Even though appealing the initial visa decision is the correct option, it may take some time. If your trip is imminent, the best option is to reapply for your visa.
When reapplying for a Schengen visa, correct the errors mentioned in your rejection letter. Authorities may scrutinize your new application, so ensure it's flawless and meets all requirements.
Apply through AtlysBlack to get expedited visa appointments, perfect if you need your visa fast. You will also receive end-to-end management that will help ensure your visa application is perfect.
If Schengen Visa Rejected When Can I Apply Again?
If your Schengen Visa is rejected, there is no specific waiting period before you can apply again.
However, it is essential to address the issues mentioned in the rejection letter, gather additional supporting documents if needed, and ensure that your new application addresses the reasons for the previous refusal.
You can reapply as soon as you have a complete and strong application that meets the visa requirements.
Visa Appeal Advice
Here are some tips for a successful visa appeal:
Understand the Refusal Reason: Carefully analyze the reasons for your visa refusal mentioned in the rejection letter.
Gather Strong Supporting Documents: Collect all necessary documents that clearly support the purpose of your trip, financial stability, and ties to your home country.
Craft a Convincing Appeal Letter: Write a concise and persuasive appeal letter, addressing each refusal reason with evidence and sincerity.
Be Honest and Transparent: Maintain honesty throughout the appeal process, providing accurate information and addressing any previous violations if applicable.
Follow Official Guidelines: Adhere to the embassy's appeal submission instructions, ensuring all documents are properly organized and submitted within deadlines.
Show Strong Ties to Your Home Country: Emphasize your connections to your home country, such as family, job, or property, to demonstrate your intention to return.
Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting an immigration expert or attorney for guidance on the appeal process.
Stay Patient and Persistent: Understand that the appeal process may take time. Be patient while waiting for a response and remain persistent in your pursuit.
Consider Alternative Plans: Be prepared with alternative travel plans or destinations in case your appeal is not successful.
Learn from Your Mistakes: Reflect on any mistakes made during your initial application and take steps to avoid them in the future.
Remember, a well-prepared and sincere appeal can significantly improve your chances of overturning a visa refusal.
Conclusion
Facing Schengen visa refusal can be disheartening, but with the right approach and a well-crafted appeal letter, you can turn the tide in your favor. Remember that each case is unique, and addressing the specific reasons for your refusal is key to a successful appeal.
Stay persistent, maintain professionalism, and keep your European dreams alive. Good luck with your Schengen visa appeal!
Government Sources
We gather our information directly from government authorities, guaranteeing its reliability. Complex concepts are simplified using AI for clarity, and our dedicated team meticulously verifies every detail to ensure accuracy. Be confident that the information you find here is trustworthy, as we solely rely on reputable sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not long at all, after I did all my research and understood what mistake I made, I wrote the appeal letter in 1 day.
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