Smooth travels: 5 key tips for a seamless visa application experience
Whether you're heading abroad for work, leisure, or study, your visa is the first ticket to your journey.
To ensure your travel plans stay stress-free,
From planning early to using convenient at-home services, here's how to make your visa experience smooth from start to finish.
Plan ahead
The early bird gets the worm. Plan ahead and apply well in advance to avoid any inconveniences.
Most countries accept business visa applications up to 90 days before the date of travel.
Check the visa turnaround times
Each country has a different timeline for its visa processing, and these timelines are clearly mentioned on their websites, providing you the information required to apply for your visa well in advance.
During peak travel seasons like the year-end holidays, visa processing can take longer than anticipated.
Apply early to avoid any delays.
Book an appointment
Most visa application centres accept applications by prior appointment only. This ensures lower wait times and physical distancing at the application centres at the time of submission. Reach at least 15 minutes prior to the appointed time to avoid missing your slot.
For instance, appointments can be booked on www.vfsglobal.com free of charge. There are a few countries that require a customer to pay service fees online at the time of booking an appointment.
Beware of third-party entities who charge a separate fee for appointments.
Make a list, check it twice
A checklist of the documentation required for visa applications for each country served by centre is usually available. Ensure you carry all the requisite documentation to submit along with the duly filled application form to avoid any snags in your application.
Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date. Check your passport's validity while planning your travels.
Opt for convenience
From visa, biometric services at your doorstep and form filling assistance to return of passports via courier and end-to-end guidance through the visa application submission process, explore all possibilities offered by the centre.
Please note: Some of the services may not be offered in some countries, or for specific client governments. Opting for these services does not influence the outcome of your visa application; this is at the sole discretion of the embassy/consulate.
Read:
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
4 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Six Must-See Landmarks to Visit in the Netherlands
Planning a trip to the Netherlands? This charming European destination is packed with unforgettable landmarks—from world-class museums to storybook castles and iconic modern structures. Whether you're a history lover, art enthusiast, or architecture buff, here are six must-visit landmarks across the Netherlands that deserve a spot on your itinerary. 1. Royal Palace Amsterdam Located on Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam, the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) is one of the city's most majestic landmarks. Originally built in the 17th century as a city hall, it later became a royal residence. Today, it's open to the public and showcases opulent interiors and classical Dutch art. 2. Anne Frank House This deeply moving landmark tells the story of Anne Frank and her family, who hid from the Nazis during World War II. Located on the Prinsengracht canal, the museum includes the original secret annex where Anne wrote her now-famous diary. The Anne Frank House is a powerful tribute to resilience and a reminder of the importance of freedom and human rights. 3. The Cube Houses of Rotterdam Rotterdam's innovative architecture is on full display at the iconic Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen). Designed by Piet Blom in the late 1970s, these bright yellow, cube-shaped homes are tilted at a 45-degree angle. Visitors can tour the "Show Cube" to experience what it's like living inside one of these geometrical marvels—a must-see for fans of modern design. 4. Dom Tower in Utrecht Standing tall at 112.32 meters, the Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands and a symbol of Utrecht. Built in the 14th century, it offers panoramic views of the city from the top. Climbing the 465 steps is a challenge, but the reward is breathtaking vistas and a deep appreciation for Gothic architecture. 5. De Haar Castle Step into a fairy tale at De Haar Castle, the largest and most luxurious castle in the Netherlands. Located near Utrecht, this neo-Gothic masterpiece features romantic towers, lush gardens, and lavish interiors. Originally dating back to the 14th century, the castle was rebuilt in the late 1800s with the help of famed Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers. It offers a magical glimpse into Dutch aristocratic life. 6. Vincent van Gogh Museum No trip to the Netherlands is complete without visiting the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Home to the largest collection of the artist's work—including Sunflowers, The Bedroom, and Wheatfield with Crows —the museum traces Van Gogh's life, artistic evolution, and emotional struggles. It's a cultural treasure trove for art lovers from around the world. These six landmarks represent the diverse beauty of the Netherlands—from its royal legacy and wartime history to groundbreaking design and artistic genius. Whether you're exploring Amsterdam's historic heart or venturing into lesser-known cities like Utrecht and Rotterdam, each site offers a unique story that will enrich your journey.
Khaleej Times
12 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Watch: Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma explore Dubai's top spots like never before
Dubai might already feel like a second home to Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, but their latest campaign in the city proved there's always more to uncover. In their first-ever destination-led collaboration, the power couple takes us on an intimate journey through Dubai — not as celebrities, but as travellers finding new joys in a city they thought they already knew. Titled 'Dubai, Ready For A Surprise', the campaign flips the script on what we expect from a Dubai visit. Think thrill-seeking moments, quiet getaways, and hidden gems, all woven together through playful surprises the couple planned for one another. The debut campaign captures Virat and Anushka exploring everything from the city's iconic landmarks to offbeat experiences that reflect their shared love for meaningful travel. WATCH: View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) Virat Kohli said: 'This campaign really brought out a different side of Dubai for us. Whether it was relaxing at Tapasakeat One&Only One Za'abeel – home to the UAE's longest sky infinity pool – or letting loose at the iconic O Beach, it reminded us how Dubai always delivers something unexpected. It's a place that evolves with you. That's what keeps us coming back." Anushka Sharma added: 'Dubai has always been special, but working on this campaign made it feel personal in a new way. From quiet, meaningful moments to spontaneous discoveries, it wasn't about ticking boxes — it was about making memories. There's a warmth and ease to the city that instantly puts you at peace, while still offering new experiences every time." Whether it's the adrenaline or the quiet calm, 'Ready For A Surprise' invites viewers to see the city the way Virat and Anushka do — full of wonder, and warmth. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Visit Dubai), added: 'This collaboration with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma is a natural fit — their genuine affection for Dubai and the way they engage with audiences make them ideal champions for the city." He adds, "India remains one of our most important source markets, and partnerships like these help us foster meaningful cultural connections, inviting Indian travellers to explore and rediscover Dubai in new and exciting ways.' However, this is just the beginning. There's many more unexpected moments and quirky surprises, set to come our way over the coming weeks. So, all the Virushka fans, keep an eye out!
Zawya
14 hours ago
- Zawya
RAKEZ concludes strategic UK roadshow
Ras Al Khaimah: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) has successfully concluded a weeklong roadshow in the UK, strengthening its ties with the British business community and spotlighting Ras Al Khaimah's growing appeal as a strategic base for international expansion. Led by RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad, the delegation engaged in a series of high-level business-to-business meetings with companies in manufacturing, high-tech, luxury goods, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors. The engagements highlighted the growing interest in Ras Al Khaimah's investor-friendly environment, which combines cost-effectiveness with access to world-class infrastructure and regional markets. The roadshow included RAKEZ's participation in key business platforms, including the British Chamber of Commerce's event, 'Doing Business in the UAE', held at the University of Manchester. The RAKEZ team also joined the prestigious 'UK/UAE Stakeholder Reception' in London, where government leaders and business executives discussed the evolution of the UK-UAE trade and investment relationship. 'RAKEZ is built on the belief that global business success comes from creating the right environment—one that enables agility, scalability, and meaningful connections,' said Jallad. 'During this trip, we were able to demonstrate how Ras Al Khaimah offers more than just an alternative—it offers a competitive advantage backed by the comprehensive support from RAKEZ.' RAKEZ is already home to over 3,200 British investors, with the number of active UK investors growing by over 37% in the past two years. The upward trend reflects increasing awareness of Ras Al Khaimah as a competitive and credible alternative for international expansion. British businesses thriving at RAKEZ include global names such as Ahmad Tea, which produces millions of tea bags daily for export to +80 countries; A2C, a circular economy-driven laptop remanufacturer producing 50,000 units a month; and Spatial Composite, a supplier of advanced aviation training equipment serving markets across Asia and the US. Others include Polar Manufacturing, a carbon composite innovator; Green Rock, a sustainable packaging pioneer; and Waste to Wonder, a social enterprise repurposing surplus corporate furniture for global donation. This success is underpinned by the robust UAE–UK economic relationship. From Q4 2023 to Q3 2024, the UAE ranked as the UK's 19th largest trading partner, 15th largest export market, and 20th largest import source. In 2023 alone, the UK's FDI stock in the UAE reached USD 26 billion, while UAE investments in the UK stood at USD 4.5 billion. About Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ): RAKEZ is a powerhouse business and industrial hub established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It currently hosts over 30,000 companies coming from over 100+ countries and operating in more than 50 industries. RAKEZ offers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and manufacturers a wide-range of solutions, including free zone and non-free zone licences, customisable facilities, and first-class services provided in a one-stop shop. Furthermore, RAKEZ has specialised zones that are tailored to specific needs of investors: Al Nakheel and Al Hamra Business Zones for commercial and service companies; Al Ghail, Al Hamra and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturers and industrialists; and an Academic Zone for educational providers. A leading economic zone, RAKEZ aims to continue attracting diversified investment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of Ras Al Khaimah.
