olaopts:
Once again, I'm sorry for sharing the information late. This is my first time of applying for a Schengen visa.

I am a Nigerian studying IT program at an Asian University. All I did was: -

1.) Registered and paid for a conference (The conference is about IT and latest technologies in France)
2.) Requested that the organizer send me an invitation and a copy to the French embassy
3.) Collected letter from my school showing that they are aware of my travel plans
4.) Booked an insurance online for 35 EURO
5.) Booked for hotel reservation and airline (All online and free). Only a credit card is required to guarantee a hotel but nothing is charged
6.) Printed my bank statement via online bank portal (I generated 3 months record from my account online and printed it out)

I submitted all these documents to the French embassy and was told to come back after two weeks.

After the 10th day of submission, I received a call from the French consulate asking me to explain the purpose of my trip to France. I explained everything to him including my future plans (I told him the truth) and at the end of the conversation, he said he will send all the information to France for review. He also told me that he can not guarantee that the visa will be issued but I should come on the given date.

Four days later, I went to the embassy and was given my passport. I opened it and viola, I saw a Schengen visa on it. Was impressed because the whole process is so easy and I did almost everything online.

Thanks bro for the info. was the account statement you submitted in English or you translated from original lang to english?

princeFAD:


Thanks bro for the info. was the account statement you submitted in English or you translated from original lang to english?

@princeFAD, the bank statement is in English.

royal231:
Were you also given an appointment @ the french embassy upon return?

Also what if u were given and you didn't make it to the interview upon return

Upon submitting the documents, they took my fingerprints & payment and was told to come back after two weeks. No other interview was done except the phone call.

In addition, I was not told to come for another interview upon my return.

Obiwannn:


cc justi4jesu

I recently got admitted into UJF Grenoble France for a 1 year MSc program. Now the problem is, I dont know where to start the visa application process from, what documents that I'd need and the processes involved in getting a visa (account statement, etc). And from going through this thread, it seems its quite difficult to get a France Student visa, unlike Germany, where I also gained admission and where I am also quite farmiiar with their visa application process.

Please help..thanks

naGodWin/olaopts pls help

Obiwannn:


naGodWin/olaopts pls help

@Obiwannn, pls check the url below and let me know if it helps.


http://www.ambafrance-ng.org/APPLY-FOR-THE-STUDENT-VISA

olaopts:


@Obiwannn, pls check the url below and let me know if it helps.


http://www.ambafrance-ng.org/APPLY-FOR-THE-STUDENT-VISA

THANKS....
I HAVE SOME UNCLEAR nitty-grittys with the procedure mentiioned
listed below:
The certificate of accommodation is compulsory.
No Hotel reservation is accepted.
The accommodation certificate must mention :
a. your name
b. the address of the accommodation
c. the dates covering the duration of your course.

does this mean i have to look for and pay for accommodation that covers the entire duration of my stay (1year) right here from Nigeria?
if the accommodation i am to pay for is lets say a month or two, how do I look for it?

secondly,

All proofs of yours or the sponsor’s financial status : bank statement (Last 3 months) , salary , act of property etc… / Originals + 2 photocopies

can I use someone not related to me by blood as a sponsor and present his/her account statement? let's say my father's friend or pastor for example, because this was mentioned in the site: Attestation of sponsorship and a letter explaining the link with him (family link must be attested with births certificates) / Original + 2 photocopies... Moreso, I think I would be getting one of these partial scholarships: one of them is worth 8,000euros anually, the other is worth 4,000 euros and additionally the program provides paid internship amounting to 2750euros for students in the second semester of their studies. Meaning I could get lucky and be able to count on either 10,750euros or 8,750euros to help myself with in France. How does any of the above help my application considering the fact that finances is trying to be a stumbling block (GOD FORBID) for my application. ALso what is the minimum amount one is required to have to successfully study a one year program in France?

Thanks for your anticipated response.
PS: the program is tuition-free

pls i need help. i want to apply for a US tourist visa alongside with my husband and my two kids. we've been to dubai and Sa last year; i need someone to help throw loght on the sample of introduction letter i can write since i and my husband are self employed. all ssistance will be appreciated asap. regards

Obiwannn:


THANKS....
I HAVE SOME UNCLEAR nitty-grittys with the procedure mentiioned
listed below:
The certificate of accommodation is compulsory.
No Hotel reservation is accepted.
The accommodation certificate must mention :
a. your name
b. the address of the accommodation
c. the dates covering the duration of your course.

does this mean i have to look for and pay for accommodation that covers the entire duration of my stay (1year) right here from Nigeria?
if the accommodation i am to pay for is lets say a month or two, how do I look for it?

secondly,

All proofs of yours or the sponsor’s financial status : bank statement (Last 3 months) , salary , act of property etc… / Originals + 2 photocopies

can I use someone not related to me by blood as a sponsor and present his/her account statement? let's say my father's friend or pastor for example, because this was mentioned in the site: Attestation of sponsorship and a letter explaining the link with him (family link must be attested with births certificates) / Original + 2 photocopies... Moreso, I think I would be getting one of these partial scholarships: one of them is worth 8,000euros anually, the other is worth 4,000 euros and additionally the program provides paid internship amounting to 2750euros for students in the second semester of their studies. Meaning I could get lucky and be able to count on either 10,750euros or 8,750euros to help myself with in France. How does any of the above help my application considering the fact that finances is trying to be a stumbling block (GOD FORBID) for my application. ALso what is the minimum amount one is required to have to successfully study a one year program in France?

Thanks for your anticipated response.
PS: the program is tuition-free

In response to your question:-

1. Does this mean i have to look for and pay for accommodation that covers the entire duration of my stay (1year) right here from Nigeria?

Yes, that’s right. You have to look for an accommodation that covers the duration of your study. The property owner may collect a month deposit or so (depending on their terms). You can search online for room or ask your school for assistance.

2. Can I use someone not related to me by blood as a sponsor and present his/her account statement?

It is always advisable to use an immediate family (father, mother, brother or sister with the same surname as your sponsor), this reduces any doubt the consular may have in regards to your sponsor.

However, you can also use someone else as your sponsor as long as you have all the relevant documents and letter from the person.

3. What is the minimum amount one is required to have to successfully study a one year program in France?

The money in your sponsor’s bank account must cover food, accommodation, transport, books e.t.c.

I hope this helps?

Hi,

i'm thinking of applying for a French tourist Visa. I am a Medical Doctor and i have about two weeks off next month. I have a valid 2 year British visa and i intend on staying in London for a couple of days then go to Paris for three days during my work break. I have never been and i hear it is fun and beautiful. I love to travel but that green passport won't let someone be great. lol.
I am going to be sponsoring the trip myself. i am 27. Single. I have about 1M in my Savings account. Salary is about 150k but i still get some money from my parents sometimes plus i had money saved up while i was in school as a student. My Salary is being paid into my account and i take out a sum and save up in another account. I however don't have payslips - as seen as part of the requested documents on their site- because it takes forever for pay slips to be ready where i work. The only pay slip is have is for December 2014 and i think that is because i got paid my first salary then ( I started working in November 2014 ). I have been to England before in the past. I intend on booking a ticket from Lagos-London-Paris-Lagos. is that okay?

Also,would my not having the pay slips affect my chances really because i think that is where i am lacking. ( All the other documents required i have/can get). That plus i have been denied a Netherlands Airport Transit visa before ( weird right ) and a Shengen visa from Slovakia about 4 years ago. Just a bit paranoid here. Thank you.

Endoscope:
Hi,
i'm thinking of applying for a French tourist Visa. I am a Medical Doctor and i have about two weeks off next month. I have a valid 2 year British visa and i intend on staying in London for a couple of days then go to Paris for three days during my work break. I have never been and i hear it is fun and beautiful. I love to travel but that green passport won't let someone be great. lol.
I am going to be sponsoring the trip myself. i am 27. Single. I have about 1M in my Savings account. Salary is about 150k but i still get some money from my parents sometimes plus i had money saved up while i was in school as a student. My Salary is being paid into my account and i take out a sum and save up in another account. I however don't have payslips - as seen as part of the requested documents on their site- because it takes forever for pay slips to be ready where i work. The only pay slip is have is for December 2014 and i think that is because i got paid my first salary then ( I started working in November 2014 ). I have been to England before in the past. I intend on booking a ticket from Lagos-London-Paris-Lagos. is that okay?
Also,would my not having the pay slips affect my chances really because i think that is where i am lacking. ( All the other documents required i have/can get). That plus i have been denied a Netherlands Airport Transit visa before ( weird right ) and a Shengen visa from Slovakia about 4 years ago. Just a bit paranoid here. Thank you.

Any response please? Justwise??. TzeTzefly??

.

Endoscope:



Any response please? Justwise??. TzeTzefly??

Uhmm, just a lil advice, before booking your travel be sure to have gotten the french visa. I would not suppose you'd have a problem since your finances are in shape. While a UK visa doesn't allow free entry to France, you can come in without a visa by Bus from London to some city in Northern France e.g Lille

Endoscope:
Hi,

i'm thinking of applying for a French tourist Visa. I am a Medical Doctor and i have about two weeks off next month. I have a valid 2 year British visa and i intend on staying in London for a couple of days then go to Paris for three days during my work break. I have never been and i hear it is fun and beautiful. I love to travel but that green passport won't let someone be great. lol.
I am going to be sponsoring the trip myself. i am 27. Single. I have about 1M in my Savings account. Salary is about 150k but i still get some money from my parents sometimes plus i had money saved up while i was in school as a student. My Salary is being paid into my account and i take out a sum and save up in another account. I however don't have payslips - as seen as part of the requested documents on their site- because it takes forever for pay slips to be ready where i work. The only pay slip is have is for December 2014 and i think that is because i got paid my first salary then ( I started working in November 2014 ). I have been to England before in the past. I intend on booking a ticket from Lagos-London-Paris-Lagos. is that okay?

Also,would my not having the pay slips affect my chances really because i think that is where i am lacking. ( All the other documents required i have/can get). That plus i have been denied a Netherlands Airport Transit visa before ( weird right ) and a Shengen visa from Slovakia about 4 years ago. Just a bit paranoid here. Thank you.

From all I can deduce from your statements, you have a slim fighting chance.

Prior UK travel can help your case however, two previous Schengen denial doesn't look good.

What transpired in your previous Schengen applications?

tzetzefly:


From all I can deduce from your statements, you have a slim fighting chance.

Prior UK travel can help your case however, two previous Schengen denial doesn't look good.

What transpired in your previous Schengen applications?

The first was an Airport transit visa from the Netherlands embassy. I had to travel to Lagos real quick and had to use KLM and get an airport transit visa which was denied. The second was from the Slovakian embassy. it was one summer and a bunch of my friends wanted to travel and we decided to go through them cos we heard it was easy. Apparently, it wasn't. They did not give an reason as to why they denied us anyway.

Both denial stamps are on my passport. This happened in 2011.

Endoscope:



The first was an Airport transit visa from the Netherlands embassy. I had to travel to Lagos real quick and had to use KLM and get an airport transit visa which was denied. The second was from the Slovakian embassy. it was one summer and a bunch of my friends wanted to travel and we decided to go through them cos we heard it was easy. Apparently, it wasn't. They did not give an reason as to why they denied us anyway.

Both denial stamps are on my passport. This happened in 2011.

I want to believe that your purpose for entry to the Schengen area may not have been well articulated on those two previous occasions. Another reason could be that your means of sustenance was not convincing and not adequate to show enough proof of funds.

You will need to be very clear as it is now on why an entry visa should be issued to you and previous refusals overlooked.

tzetzefly:


I want to believe that your purpose for entry to the Schengen area may not have been well articulated on those two previous occasions. Another reason could be that your means of sustenance was not convincing and not adequate to show enough proof of funds.

You will need to be very clear as it is now on why an entry visa should be issued to you and previous refusals overlooked.

Oh! Are you suggesting i explain both circumstances in my new application? Both stamps are on an expired passport anyway. The valid British Visa is on the valid international passport.

Endoscope:


Oh! Are you suggesting i explain both circumstances in my new application? Both stamps are on an expired passport anyway. The valid British Visa is on the valid international passport.

You cannot explain this as your details are with them. You only need to prove that you're a genuine applicant now, willing to depart the Schengen region at the expiration of your stay.

tzetzefly:


You cannot explain this as your details are with them. You only need to prove that you're a genuine applicant now, willing to depart the Schengen region at the expiration of your stay.

Yeah. I guess. Definitely willing to depart. Work has been super stressful and i need a vacation. Going to London for a while and would like to visit somewhere else. Oh well.

But the no pay slips, can i explain that? Pay slips are not ready on time

@tzetzefly

what conference did u apply for?whats their website?thanks

olaopts:
Once again, I'm sorry for sharing the information late. This is my first time of applying for a Schengen visa.

I am a Nigerian studying IT program at an Asian University. All I did was: -

1.) Registered and paid for a conference (The conference is about IT and latest technologies in France)
2.) Requested that the organizer send me an invitation and a copy to the French embassy
3.) Collected letter from my school showing that they are aware of my travel plans
4.) Booked an insurance online for 35 EURO
5.) Booked for hotel reservation and airline (All online and free). Only a credit card is required to guarantee a hotel but nothing is charged
6.) Printed my bank statement via online bank portal (I generated 3 months record from my account online and printed it out)

I submitted all these documents to the French embassy and was told to come back after two weeks.

After the 10th day of submission, I received a call from the French consulate asking me to explain the purpose of my trip to France. I explained everything to him including my future plans (I told him the truth) and at the end of the conversation, he said he will send all the information to France for review. He also told me that he can not guarantee that the visa will be issued but I should come on the given date.

Four days later, I went to the embassy and was given my passport. I opened it and viola, I saw a Schengen visa on it. Was impressed because the whole process is so easy and I did almost everything online.

Endoscope:


Yeah. I guess. Definitely willing to depart. Work has been super stressful and i need a vacation. Going to London for a while and would like to visit somewhere else. Oh well.

But the no pay slips, can i explain that? Pay slips are not ready on time

@tzetzefly

Get your payslips, this is important. That's why they state that give ample time for your application. Which in turn would have made it possible to gather all required documents before filing.

tzetzefly

Nice to see you here again, thought you lost your nairaland password

justwise:
tzetzefly

Nice to see you here again, thought you lost your nairaland password

Not at all. I come in here from time to time. Nice reading from you again.

Hello fam...

Quick one pls, i got a France Visa in Dec that ran for 3months, expired march 24th 2015, sadly i couldnt use the visa.
Reason was, my 1month hoils from work was frm 22nd dec to 25th Jan, so i arrived london 23rd, so the plan was to go to paris by train from london and my date to arrive france was from boxing day 26th, and that was about the period they had terrorist attack, charlie sthg? so it was unsafe to to go or plan it again after the new year as paris wasnt fully settled still. So jan 25th came and i returned to lagos to resume work and couldnt get off work again to use the visa.

Would i be granted if i re-apply when i can go again?

Vuitton007:
Hello fam...

Quick one pls, i got a France Visa in Dec that ran for 3months, expired march 24th 2015, sadly i couldnt use the visa.
Reason was, my 1month hoils from work was frm 22nd dec to 25th Jan, so i arrived london 23rd, so the plan was to go to paris by train from london and my date to arrive france was from boxing day 26th, and that was about the period they had terrorist attack, charlie sthg? so it was unsafe to to go or plan it again after the new year as paris wasnt fully settled still. So jan 25th came and i returned to lagos to resume work and couldnt get off work again to use the visa.

Would i be granted if i re-apply when i can go again?

Let the ECO know the reason why you couldn't make your trip that it was due to the counter terrorism situation in Paris at the time (Charlie Hebdo shooting).

tzetzefly:


Get your payslips, this is important. That's why they state that give ample time for your application. Which in turn would have made it possible to gather all required documents before filing.

Oh wow. That is going to be hard cos its the government that does the pay slips and they are super slow in making them available ( i work for the Lagos state government ). I requested for them and they claimed its the pay slip for December 2014 that is available. They however paty our salaries directly into our accounts. That should count for something i guess. We also have this audit forms where we fill in bank details and departments we are working. Will that be helpful?

Except i explain all this, i either don't apply cos recent pay slips won't be available by the time i'm on a work leave. What do you think?

Endoscope:


Oh wow. That is going to be hard cos its the government that does the pay slips and they are super slow in making them available ( i work for the Lagos state government ). I requested for them and they claimed its the pay slip for December 2014 that is available. They however paty our salaries directly into our accounts. That should count for something i guess. We also have this audit forms where we fill in bank details and departments we are working. Will that be helpful?

Except i explain all this, i either don't apply cos recent pay slips won't be available by the time i'm on a work leave. What do you think?

If you can get a letter to this effect from the Lagos State Government, it will go a long way in helping your case. Your application must be foolproof.

tzetzefly:


If you can get a letter to this effect from the Lagos State Government, it will go a long way in helping your case. Your application must be foolproof.

Well, that's going to be hard. Maybe i should just forget this trip. Getting the Hospital ( Lagos state gov hospital ) to write a letter concerning payslips is going to be another hurdle or even impossible. Work break is end of next month. That's pretty much the only thing i don't have. Except maybe i apply through the italian embassy.

Endoscope:


Well, that's going to be hard. Maybe i should just forget this trip. Getting the Hospital ( Lagos state gov hospital ) to write a letter concerning payslips is going to be another hurdle or even impossible. Work break is end of next month. That's pretty much the only thing i don't have. Except maybe i apply through the italian embassy.

All Schengen territories have virtually the same visa criteria. Payslip is required. However, if you have a bank statement instead with a column showing your salary month by month, highlight this in a separate sheet along with your application.

Hello guys, pls kindly help with dis info. I actually want to go to Italy or spain but need advise on which one is more lenient and whats d probability of getting d visa with d following circumstances:
Monthly salary 200k
Daily income from another biz 2500
Married with a beautiful girl.
Purpose of travelling holiday of 10 days.
Leave letter.
Introduction letter.
Passport.
Hotel nd ticket reservation intact .
Insurance.
Marriage certificate.
Family photo.
Reason for not going with family. She is a teacher and school is on session.
Statement of account with balance of 850k.
Do i stand a chance ?

olaopts:



In response to your question:-

1. Does this mean i have to look for and pay for accommodation that covers the entire duration of my stay (1year) right here from Nigeria?

Yes, that’s right. You have to look for an accommodation that covers the duration of your study. The property owner may collect a month deposit or so (depending on their terms). You can search online for room or ask your school for assistance.

2. Can I use someone not related to me by blood as a sponsor and present his/her account statement?

It is always advisable to use an immediate family (father, mother, brother or sister with the same surname as your sponsor), this reduces any doubt the consular may have in regards to your sponsor.

However, you can also use someone else as your sponsor as long as you have all the relevant documents and letter from the person.

3. What is the minimum amount one is required to have to successfully study a one year program in France?

The money in your sponsor’s bank account must cover food, accommodation, transport, books e.t.c.

I hope this helps?

yeah..thanks.
lemme chill and hope I get the scholarship first. I'd ask u further questions after that

olaakinyinka:
pls kindly help me with the list of shengen countries coz i learnt that all shengen contries are visa free to resedents. probable i can enter thru the easiest country and find my way to ausyria nd the rest. thanks

Like seriously

My cousin is filling the France online visa application form and he is not seeing where he can print after getting to the end. What could be the problem?