There are various reasons why a Visa can be denied. Sometimes, visas can be denied to applicants who may have failed to provide certain requirements to the embassy or consulate. Portugal is one of the few countries in the European Union that allows the use of a Schengen visa if a person is only staying for a short time. 

Applicants often find themselves wondering if the problem was with their interview or any of the documents submitted. However, this is far from the truth. The Portugal embassy has the right to issue a Visa or not to an applicant even if he or she satisfies all the requirements like submission of documents required, possession of a passport, etc. 

Who can apply for a Visa?

A person who has the means to travel is eligible for a visa. Applying for a Visa without a valid purpose makes no sense. Most people apply for a Visa for the following purposes; business, work, school, tourism, family reunion, etc. Having a valid reason for traveling is important. 

Five Reasons why a Visa in Portugal might be denied

Invalid Travel Insurance

This may not look like a big deal yet without good travel insurance, traveling to a foreign country might be difficult for foreigners.  An applicant who fails to submit valid travel insurance, which covers the duration of stay, is likely to be denied. A visa might be denied if any of the following cases were to happen; failure to present a coverage plan that covers the travel, all expenses to be incurred in the country, and returning, unable to produce travel insurance, which can cover the entire trip, etc. 

Insufficient reason for the stay

Traveling to a foreign country without having a purpose or knowing someone who is based there sounds out of place; this makes no sense. To successfully travel to a European country such as Portugal, an applicant should possess a concrete reason for traveling. When visa applications are made for concrete reasons, they are less likely to be denied. 

Inability to present evidence of Accommodation

If an applicant is unable to prove to the consular officer and the embassy that he or she has an intended place of stay while in the country, there is a possibility that such an application would be denied. Visas may be denied if the following cases arise; Failure to provide proof of a hotel reservation, No proof of the invitation from the host in the case of sponsorship, etc. 

Fake Travel Documents

Presenting original and authentic documents to the embassy or consulate when applying for a Visa is recommended.  This prevents issues like visa delay and visa rejection. An applicant who wants to avoid being denied must submit accurate and well-presentable documents required by the embassy. A consular officer is allowed to declare a problem with a Visa application if he or she suspects forgery in the documents. These documents include passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc. Avoid tampering with official documents such as the listed ones above. 

Inability to survive 

 If the embassy finds out an applicant has no means of subsistence in the country, such applicant might lose the visa. Other than those intending to explore the country on a vacation, a sustainable source of income should be acquired for an applicant to apply for a Visa. However, every applicant needs a reliable source of livelihood to prevent them from becoming burdens on the country. Submitting proof that shows a valid means of sustenance. 

How to avoid your visa application from being denied

Be trustworthy and truthful during the process. Present accurate documents, never tamper with any document, be realistic about your financial situation, and ask for help from those who know more.