What a nightmare it would be if you were all set with your passport, ticket and other travel documents including business travel insurance, and suddenly, your entry to the destination country is denied. Usually, there is a straightforward denial of visas during the procedure, but some countries also offer visa-on-arrival/ visa-free entry to Indians; therefore, it is essential to understand all the aspects.
So, to save yourself from disheartenment and be prepared for such situations, let us understand what to expect when entry into a country is denied.
How Common is Visa Refusal or Visa Rejection?
Usually, visa rejection happens when a person is travelling to a particular country and fails to fulfil some of the crucial guidelines or misses some essential documents.
Both visa refusal and visa rejection can throw you off guard and result in the cancellation of travel plans even though you already have your travel insurance coverage.
What is the Difference Between Visa Refusal and Visa Rejection?
Whether you are a frequent international traveller or travel rarely, it is essential to understand what circumstances can lead to visa refusal or rejection. Let us discuss the differences between the two for better understanding.
Firstly, it is important to know that visa rejection is not very serious, but visa refusal is.
The most common reason for visa rejection is some issues in your visa application. It can be anything from failing to fulfil any specified requirement or some errors while filling it. But the good thing is that you can appeal against rejection in most countries and can also apply for a new visa.
However, when it comes to visa refusal, the immigration authority can refuse entry into the country. The immigration department refuses entry to the country, the possibility of which is rare but not impossible.
Instances Where You Can be Denied Entry to a Country
Let’s understand a few situations when you can be forbidden to enter another country regardless of a valid visa and other travel documents like a travel insurance policy.
- Mistakes in documents and your airline misses them.
- When your passport lacks enough validity
- If you are detected travelling with some prohibited or illegal items
- If you fail to provide an onward ticket, which is demanded by some countries, the immigration officer can deny your entry, even with a proper visa and travel insurance.
- If you lack enough reserves or proof of funds and there are concerns regarding the intention of your stay.
Can an Applicant Enquire About the Cause of a Visa Rejection?
Now that we have familiarised ourselves with the common reasons that can lead to visa rejections Nevertheless, here are the more significant reasons for visa rejections.
- If you do not provide any genuine reason to travel or have applied for a visa under the wrong category for travel purposes
- If there is some criminal record or you are restricted under law.
- If you fail to provide adequate financial information or the sponsor fails to do so.
- If there is no correct set of supporting documents, like you missed out on buying a travel insurance plan when travelling to a country which requires it mandatorily.
- If you fail to provide significant information, or there were loopholes while answering the questions during a visa interview.
In case of a visa rejected, you can go to the respective embassy or consulate regarding the basis for cancellation and then take remedial action.
Conclusion
So when travelling abroad, always make sure you have all the necessary documents with additional information backing up documents. Further, ensure your online travel insurance policy in India is valid to safeguard yourself from unfortunate accidents leading to financial loss during your travel and fulfil mandatory requirements (if any).
Be particular when preparing for the interview and answer clearly without any hesitation and fear, and if you feel you do not understand what the immigrant officer is asking, then ask for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What happens when you are denied entry?
When you are denied entry to a country, it means that immigration authorities have restrictions to enter the country. In most cases, you will have to return to your home country.
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Who pays if you are denied entry?
Typically, the responsibility of the individual seeking entry needs to cover their expenses, which may include any costs associated with travel back to their home country or the location of departure.
In some cases, airlines may have policies regarding passengers who are denied entry, but it’s generally the traveller’s responsibility.
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Can a visa on arrival be denied?
While the process allows travellers to obtain a visa upon arrival at their destination, immigration authorities still reserve the right to refuse entry if the traveller does not meet the necessary criteria or if there are concerns about their eligibility.
