Financial documents are the most closely examined part of a visa file. The bank statement is at the centre of this part: it shows that you can finance the trip and that your income is regular.
Which period should the statement cover?
The general expectation is the last 3 months. A shorter period is not enough to show that the account is used regularly. The statement is also expected to be issued close to the application date; a statement issued months ago does not reflect your current situation.
How should the document be obtained?
- It should be stamped and signed by the bank, or an official bank printout that can be verified by QR code should be used.
- Screenshots or unformatted mobile app printouts are generally not accepted.
- Your name, surname and account details must be clearly visible.
- A separate account summary/balance letter showing the balance supports the statement.
Common mistakes that weaken the file
A lump sum deposited just before the application
A sudden deposit whose source cannot be explained raises questions instead of strengthening the financial picture. Regular and explainable activity is stronger than a high but sudden balance.
Salary and statement not matching
The amounts seen on the payslip and the amounts credited to the account must be consistent. If there is a difference, it must be explainable.
An empty or inactive account
An account that only shows a balance and has no activity may not be considered sufficient evidence on its own.
If someone else covers the costs
In this case the sponsor’s bank statement is also added to the file and sponsorship is documented separately. For details, see our article on how to show a sponsor.
You can find out which financial documents will be requested in your own situation from the document assistant, and we can review your file together at the file review stage.