What is an affidavit of support, and how do I get one for a Schengen visa? Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

 

1. What is an Affidavit of Support?
2. Relevance to Schengen Visa for Indian Citizens
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an Affidavit of Support
4. Detailed Documentation Requirements
5. Notarization and Translation Process
6. Submission with Schengen Visa Application
7. Additional Tips and Considerations for Indian Citizens
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

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1. What is an Affidavit of Support?

 

Definition: A legally binding document where a Sponsor accepts financial responsibility for a Visitor (Applicant), ensuring they won’t become a public charge in the host Schengen country.

 

Key Elements:

• Financial Responsibility: Sponsor covers living expenses, return ticket, and unforeseen costs (including medical emergencies).
• Legal Implications: Misrepresentation or failure to uphold the agreement can lead to legal consequences.

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2. Relevance to Schengen Visa for Indian Citizens

 

Scenarios Requiring an Affidavit:

1. Visiting Family/Friends: When the host in a Schengen country agrees to cover the visitor’s expenses.
2. Insufficient Financial Proof: If the applicant’s financial documents are deemed inadequate.

 

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Embassy/Consulate Discretion: The requirement may vary based on the specific Schengen country’s embassy or consulate policies.

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3. Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an Affidavit of Support

 

Step 1: Determine the Need

• Contact the Embassy/Consulate: Verify if an Affidavit of Support is necessary for your specific Schengen visa application.

 

Step 2: Identify the Sponsor

• Eligibility: Typically, a Schengen country citizen or resident. In some cases, a third-country national with a Schengen residence permit.
• Sponsor’s Understanding: Ensure they comprehend the financial and legal implications.

 

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• Sponsor’s Documents
• Applicant’s Documents (to be provided by the Indian citizen)

[Detailed Documentation Requirements are outlined in Section 4 below]

 

Step 4: Draft or Obtain the Affidavit

• Option A (Recommended): Engage a lawyer in the Schengen country to ensure compliance with local laws.
• Option B: Use a template provided by the embassy/consulate, if available.

 

Step 5: Notarization

• Competent Authority: Have the affidavit notarized in the Schengen country by an authorized notary public.

 

Step 6: Translation (If Required)

• Certified Translation: If the affidavit isn’t in the official language of the application submission country.

 

Step 7: Submit with the Visa Application

• Original Document: Include the notarized, translated (if necessary) affidavit with the Schengen visa application.

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4. Detailed Documentation Requirements

 

Sponsor’s Documents:

1. Proof of Income:
   • Employment Contract
   • Recent Pay Slips (3-6 months)
   • Income Tax Return (latest)
2. Proof of Residence in a Schengen Country:
   • Utility Bills (with name and address)
   • Residence Permit (for non-EU sponsors)
   • Valid Passport or National ID

 

Applicant’s (Indian Citizen) Documents:

1. Passport Copy: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
2. Schengen Visa Application Details:
   • Application ID (if available)
   • Travel Itinerary or Flight Reservation
3. Proof of Relationship (if visiting family/friends):
   • Birth/Marriage Certificate
   • Photos together, Social Media Profiles, etc. (as supporting evidence)

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5. Notarization and Translation Process

 

Notarization:

1. Find a Notary: In the Schengen country, search for a notary public authorized to notarize such documents.
2. Verification: Ensure the notary verifies the sponsor’s identity and understands the document’s content.
3. Stamp and Signature: Obtain the notary’s official stamp and signature on the affidavit.

 

Translation (if required):

1. Certified Translator: Find a translation service certified by the authorities in the Schengen country.
2. Accuracy: Verify the translation’s accuracy with the original document.
3. Certification: Ensure the translator certifies the translation with their stamp and signature.

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6. Submission with Schengen Visa Application

 

• Original Documents: Submit the original notarized affidavit and, if applicable, the certified translation.
• Application Checklist: Ensure all other required documents for the Schengen visa are included.
• Personal Appearance: Be prepared for a possible interview at the embassy/consulate.

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7. Additional Tips and Considerations for Indian Citizens

 

• Embassy/Consulate Variations: Requirements can differ; always check with the specific embassy/consulate.
• Sponsor’s Financial Capacity: Ensure the sponsor can afford the responsibilities; the embassy may assess this.
• Legal Implications: Understand the legal bindings to avoid future complications.

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8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q: Can any relative be a sponsor?

A: Typically, yes, but they must meet the eligibility criteria (residence, financial capacity).

Q: How long does the notarization process take?

A: Usually immediate or same-day, depending on the notary’s schedule.

Q: Can I submit a photocopy of the affidavit?

A: No, the original notarized document is required.

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9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

 

Issue: Sponsor Eligibility Doubts

• Solution: Provide additional proof of residence or income to strengthen the sponsor’s eligibility.

Issue: Delay in Notarization

• Solution: Plan ahead, allowing sufficient time before the visa application deadline.

Issue: Translation Errors

• Solution: Double-check the translation with the original document before submission.