Required application documents

For Schengen visa applications, particularly in Greece, ensure all submitted documents and certificates are valid at the time of submission and processing. For instance, a university certificate older than 30 days may be considered invalid, potentially requiring a new one or a valid explanation.

Visa application centers may attempt to upsell services like on-site photography. Staff might find reasons to reject personal photos, such as the presence of glasses or the photo exceeding the six-month validity period, even if they are recent. Be firm in asserting the validity of your provided photos, but be prepared for potential resistance and the possibility of needing to use the center's services.

For frequent travelers applying for visas, it's advisable to include supporting documents from previous trips, such as copies of old passports or boarding passes, especially if border stamps were not issued. While personal motivation letters are not always mandatory, demonstrating a genuine travel history and clear itinerary is essential. Consulates may verify travel plans even after visa issuance.

To increase the chances of a Greek visa approval, it is advisable to book and pay for flights and accommodations. Presenting a realistic itinerary is crucial. For example, a two-week stay in Athens might be questioned; a multi-location itinerary within Greece, with paid bookings, offers more flexibility and credibility.

Visa Application Centers (VACs) may return some documents submitted as part of a visa application. This is a standard procedure and does not necessarily indicate an issue with the application. Documents might be returned if they are not part of the mandatory checklist, are duplicates, or if copies suffice for the consulate's review. Common examples include redundant booking confirmations, outdated certificates, or non-essential supporting documents. It's crucial to ensure that all required and significant documents are accepted by the VAC.

For visa applications where the applicant holds both the CEO and Chief Accountant positions, a company order appointing them to these roles might be required. In Greece, a decision from the founders was accepted, while for France, an appointment order was needed. It is advisable to confirm the exact document requirements with the specific visa application center.

For Greek visa applications: 1. **Document Collection:** Bank statements and work certificates can often be obtained digitally (e.g., via email, mobile banking app) with a few clicks. Premium banking clients can delegate document preparation to a personal manager. 2. **Bookings Strategy:** It is common practice to use fully refundable flight and hotel bookings (or unpaid bookings with free cancellation) for the visa application. After visa approval, these bookings can be cancelled, and the applicant can proceed with their actual travel plans. The consulate generally does not track subsequent changes to initial itinerary after visa issuance. 3. **"Helper" Services:** Agencies can assist with document compilation, booking placeholders, and scheduling appointments. They usually provide support until the visa is issued and then cancel the temporary bookings. Fees cover the service, including potential costs for temporary flight bookings. 4. **Application Form:** The online application form needs to be both printed and "sent to VFS" (submitted online). This can be done close to the appointment date. Paying for form completion at the Visa Center is an option. 5. **Itinerary:** A detailed itinerary is not required; the travel dates and destinations are generally evident from flight and hotel bookings. Property ownership documents are supplementary for proving ties to the home country but not strictly mandatory.