By Edward Bowale
I made a post yesterday about someone who earns ₦200,000 per month as a salary, but based on the bank statement she submitted to the embassy, her closing balance was ₦9 million suggesting she saved that amount in just one year. This is one of the reasons why many visa applications get rejected.
When submitting a visa application, proof of funds is one of the most important documents the visa officer will review. They need to be sure you have enough m0ney to sustain yourself and fund your travel. Unfortunately, many applications are rejected because of discrepancies in bank statements. These aren’t always fake accounts, but many contain questionable transactions, like the case I mentioned.
If your salary doesn’t align with the amount reflected in your proof of funds, it’s important to include a separate explanation letter. Clearly explain where the additional funds came from. Provide details, attach receipts where necessary, and ensure all documents are verifiable. The embassy wants to be sure the m0ney is genuinely yours and not borrowed or temporarily transferred for the purpose of the application.
Sudden̈ deposit of huge sum of m0ney without explanation will not only cause visa rejection̈ but in most cases earn you a ban.
Borrowing money, depositing it into your account, submitting your statement, and then withdrawing it afterward before a decision is made on your application is a major red flag.
Often times, the VO usually ask for a re-print of bank statement at the point of making decision on your application.
Visa officers want to see that the money is genuinely accessible and usable by you during your stay abroad.
Many people who receive 5- or even 10-year bans are penalized due to unverified or suspicious transactions in their bank statements. If you own a business, include your company details. Ensure the business is registered and that all supporting documents are attached.
One common mistake is that applicants don’t explain the source of large funds in their account. They just submit the statement and expect the visa to be granted. But when a visa officer sees unexplained inflows, it raises red flags and in many cases, the application is not only rejected but also penalized with a long-term ban.
We see these issues play out in visa applications every day. Please take this seriously. Proof of funds is crucial, and how you present it can make or break your visa approval.
*Bowale is a Public Affairs Commentator
