Travel Itinerary Flight: How to Get It for Visa Purposes for Families

Planning a family trip abroad can be fun and stressful, especially when dealing with the visa process. A flight itinerary is necessary for a tourist visa. If you’re applying for a Schengen visa, one of the requirements is to submit a flight itinerary. However, buying a ticket before getting the visa approval can be risky, especially for families who want to avoid the financial burden. It's a good thing there’s a way to get a flight itinerary without buying a full ticket. This article will guide you on how to get a flight itinerary for your visa so your family’s trip abroad will be off to a good start.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Flight Itinerary for a Visa Application?
2. Flight Itinerary, Flight Reservation, Travel Itinerary – What’s the Difference?
3. Types of Flight Itineraries
4. Do I need to buy a flight ticket before applying for a visa?
5. How to get a flight itinerary without paying
   • Use a trusted travel agency
   • Book a refundable flight ticket
   • Hold a flight reservation from the airline
   • Use an online booking service
6. Where to book a flight reservation
7. Countries that require proof of onward travel
8. Should I buy a fully refundable ticket?
9. Tips to choose the right option
10. Common mistakes to avoid
11. FAQ

What is a Flight Itinerary for a Visa Application?

A flight itinerary, also known as a dummy ticket or flight reservation, is a document that shows your travel plans, including flight numbers, departure and arrival times, airport codes, and passenger information. It’s not a real ticket but a reservation that allows visa officers to verify your travel plans without you buying a ticket.

A confirmed travel itinerary has a confirmation code or details of a booked flight required for visa purposes. For Schengen visa applications, submitting an itinerary for your flight plans is a requirement to show your travel schedule. It ensures you will leave the Schengen area at the end of your stay. But buying a non-refundable ticket before visa approval is risky, especially if you’re traveling with your family.
 

Flight Itinerary, Flight Reservation, Travel Itinerary – What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to get confused with the terms especially when dealing with visa requirements. Here’s a simple explanation:

• Flight Itinerary: This document shows your planned flight details but does not include a Passenger Name Record (PNR) and is not a real booking.
• Flight Reservation: This has a confirmed PNR number and is an official reservation of your flight without payment. An airline ticket, on the other hand, is a document issued by an airline or travel agency that confirms a passenger’s booking and details including PNR, flight number, and travel dates.
• Travel Itinerary: This includes all your travel plans including flights, accommodations, and activities. It’s an overview of your entire trip.

In most cases, a flight itinerary is enough for visa applications, especially if you include a cover letter explaining your plans. A full flight ticket including PNR is generally not required until your visa is approved.
 

Types of Flight Itineraries

When planning your trip, it’s important to understand the different flight itineraries available as each is for specific travel needs and preferences. Here are the most common types:

• One-way flight itinerary: This is for travelers not returning to their original departure location. It includes all the details of a single journey, departure and arrival airports, flight numbers, and travel dates.
• Round-trip flight itinerary: For those who will return to their starting point, a round-trip itinerary includes details for both the outbound and return journeys. It includes all the flight details, departure and arrival airports, flight numbers, and travel dates for both legs.
• Multi-city flight itinerary: If your travel plans involve multiple destinations, a multi-city itinerary is the way to go. This document outlines your entire travel schedule, departure and arrival airports, flight numbers, and travel dates for each leg of your trip.
• Open-jaw flight itinerary: For travelers who will fly into one city and out of another, an open-jaw itinerary is the best option. It includes all the details for each leg of the journey and a comprehensive travel plan that covers multiple destinations.
  
   

Do I need to buy a flight ticket before applying for a visa?

No, you don’t need to buy a flight ticket before applying for a visa. Many visa applicants are advised not to purchase a ticket before getting visa approval. The reason is simple: if your visa is denied, you will lose the entire cost of the non-refundable ticket.

Some embassies recommend buying flight tickets only after visa approval and specify the requirements for flight tickets for visa applications, especially for transit and Schengen visas.

Instead, book an itinerary for flight purposes. This way you can provide the necessary travel information without the financial risk. During the COVID-19 pandemic, buying non-refundable tickets is even riskier with sudden changes in travel restrictions and cancellations. To avoid this, booking refundable tickets or using itinerary services is the safest option.
 

How to get a flight itinerary without paying

Use a Travel Agency

One of the most common ways to get a flight itinerary for a visa application is to use a travel agency. Many travel agencies offer a service that allows you to book a flight for visa purposes for a small fee or for free. They are experienced in handling visa documents and can provide you with a reservation that meets the embassy’s requirements.

Book a Refundable Ticket

Booking a refundable ticket is another option. Although refundable tickets are more expensive, you can cancel the reservation and get your money back if your visa is denied. This way you don’t lose your investment but you need to pay more upfront.

Always check the airline cancellation policy to ensure you will get a full refund. Refunds may take 20-30 days.

Hold a flight reservation with the airline

Some airlines allow you to hold a flight reservation for a limited time without paying for the ticket from 24 to 72 hours depending on the airline. This is good if your visa application process is fast.

A plane ticket is required as proof of onward travel for visa requirements. Understand the difference between actual plane tickets and dummy tickets when applying for a visa.

Lufthansa, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines offer this service for a fee. This is convenient but make sure the hold period aligns with your visa application schedule.

Use an online booking service

Several online platforms, including our platform getitinerary.com and sites like SchengenVisaInfo, offer flight itineraries for visa purposes for a small fee. The reservation is valid for a few days and can be extended, so it’s a good option for visa applications.
 

Where to book a flight reservation

Booking a flight itinerary can be done through various platforms each with its benefits. Here are the most popular options:

• Airline websites: Booking directly with the airline is often the easiest. You can search for flights, select travel dates and times, and pay for the ticket online. This option usually provides the most up-to-date flight details and availability.
• Online travel agencies: Platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, and Kayak allow you to compare prices and book flights from multiple airlines. These websites can help you find the best deals and offer additional services like hotel bookings and car rentals.
• Travel agents: For personalized travel advice and recommendations use a travel agent. They can book a flight reservation and give you insights based on their experience and expertise.
• Flight comparison websites: Sites like Skyscanner and Google Flights are great for comparing prices. These platforms can help you find the best deals and book flights that fit your schedule and budget.
   

Countries that require proof of onward travel

When applying for a visa, some countries require proof of onward travel to ensure you plan to leave the country at the end of your stay. Here are some examples:

• Schengen Area countries: The Schengen Area, which includes countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, requires proof of onward travel as part of the visa application process. This shows your intention to leave the Schengen area at the end of your visit.
• Australia: For some types of visas, Australia requires proof of onward travel. This is to ensure visitors have plans to leave the country after their stay.
• Canada: Similar to Australia, Canada requires proof of onward travel for specific visa types. This is to verify that you intend to leave the country after your visit.
• New Zealand: New Zealand requires proof of onward travel for some visas. This is to ensure visitors don’t overstay their welcome.
• United Kingdom: The UK requires proof of onward travel for various visa types to ensure visitors have plans to leave the country after their stay.
   

Should I buy a fully refundable ticket?

Buying a fully refundable ticket is the safest but most expensive option. While it’s an actual ticket, the cost of refundable tickets is usually higher than standard tickets. If you go this route be aware that refunds may take time and not all airlines offer full refunds without fees.

For families, buying refundable tickets can be tough due to the high upfront costs, especially if you’re buying multiple tickets. This option may work best if you’re applying at the last minute and need a ticket as proof of onward travel.
 

Tips to choose the right option

• Research the Legitimacy: Whether you use an online service or a travel agency, ensure to verify the provider. Look for customer reviews and testimonials and how long they’ve been in service.
• Your Timeline: Choose an option that matches your visa processing timeline. If the process takes longer than expected, you may need to extend the reservation.
• Refund Policies: If you book a refundable ticket, understand the refund policy including the time frame for the refund and any additional fees.
• Family needs: Traveling as a family can be complicated. Choose an option that minimizes financial risk and has flexibility for changes.
   

Common mistakes to avoid

When booking a flight reservation or creating a flight itinerary make sure to avoid these common mistakes:

• Incorrect travel dates: Double-check your travel dates to ensure you book the right flights. Mistakes in travel dates can result in missed flights and additional costs.
• Incorrect flight numbers: Verify your flight numbers to avoid booking the wrong flight. Accurate flight details are crucial for a smooth travel experience.
• Incorrect passenger information: Ensure passenger information including names and contact details is accurate. Errors can cause delays or issues during check-in.
• Not checking visa requirements: Always check the visa requirements of your destination country. Failing to do so can result in delays or rejection of your visa application.
• Not buying travel insurance: Consider buying travel insurance to protect yourself from unexpected trip cancellations or interruptions. Travel insurance will give you peace of mind and financial protection.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll have a smoother travel experience and higher chances of getting a visa approved.

 

FAQ

1. Can I use a fake PNR for my visa application?

   No, never use a fake PNR for your visa application. Visa officers can verify your booking details and submitting false information will result in your visa being denied. Best to use a real flight itinerary or reservation to comply with visa requirements.

2. What if my visa is denied and I have a refundable ticket?

   If your visa is denied and you have a refundable ticket, you can cancel the booking and request a refund. However, the refund process will take 20-30 days and some airlines may charge processing fees. Always read the airline’s refund policy before booking.

3. Can I use a multi-city flight itinerary for my visa application?

   Yes, you can use a multi-city flight itinerary if your travel plans include visiting more than one country. A multi-city itinerary can help you show your full travel schedule and support your visa application if it clearly shows your entry and exit from the Schengen area.

4. How long should my flight itinerary be valid for visa purposes?

   Your flight itinerary should be valid until your visa application is processed. Most embassies recommend that the itinerary covers your entire stay in the Schengen area. If your reservation expires before your visa is processed, you may need to extend it or provide an updated version.

5. What other documents should I submit along with my flight itinerary?

   Along with a flight itinerary, other supporting documents for your visa application are required. These may include proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or Airbnb reservations), travel insurance, proof of financial means, a visa application form, and a cover letter explaining your travel plans.

6. Are there any specific airlines that are preferred for visa applications?

   There are no specific airlines that are preferred for visa applications. However, it’s best to choose airlines that have verifiable booking services. Using well-known airlines with established customer service can help you avoid complications during the visa process.

7. Can I use a one-way flight itinerary for my visa application?

   Most Schengen visa applications require proof of onward travel, which means a one-way flight itinerary is generally not accepted. You should provide a round-trip itinerary to show your intention to leave the Schengen area at the end of your visit.