Have you ever been in a situation where you applied for a visa and just while you are waiting for a response from your destination country’s immigration authorities, you get a reason to change your plan?
Now, you are no longer travelling and you have to cancel or withdraw your visa application?
Even though most visa application processes can be complex, there are instances when circumstances change, prompting you to reconsider your plans.
If this is you, and you wish to withdraw your visa application, this guide will walk you through the process right away.
Can we cancel the visa after applying?
Yes, you can cancel your visa after applying if you are still waiting for a decision on your application.
Once a decision has been made, you can’t cancel your application, however, you can choose not to honour the visa.
You won’t be punished for not entering your desired destination country after a visa has been granted to you.
How to withdraw a visa application
You can withdraw your visa application through different methods, you can do it online, through email or via phone call.
However, you should review the withdrawal policies of the country you are applying to before you proceed.
Step 1: Review visa application policies
Before initiating the withdrawal process, take some time to review the visa policies and guidelines provided by the immigration authorities of the country you’re applying to.
Each country has its policy, most of the time, if you withdraw or cancel your visa, you won’t get a refund of the visa fee you paid during your application.
If that’s the policy that applies to the country you’re applying to, then you have to accept it.
Step 2: Contact the consulate or embassy via email
This is one of the best ways to withdraw your visa application however, it is not the fastest method, the online process is.
To officially withdraw your visa application via email, you need to communicate directly with the consulate or embassy handling your application.
Get their contact information from the official website or any correspondence you’ve received.
In most cases, you can find an email address or phone number dedicated to visa-related inquiries.
Step 3: Draft a withdrawal letter
With their contact details in hand, you can compose a formal withdrawal letter addressed to the consulate or embassy.
Include your full name, passport number, and the details of your visa application, such as the application number and date of submission.
Clearly state your intention to withdraw the application and provide a brief reason for the withdrawal.
Keep the letter concise and professional.
Example of a withdrawal letter
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Consulate/Embassy Name]
[Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Withdrawal of Visa Application
Dear [Consulate/Embassy Name],
I am writing to formally request the withdrawal of my visa application, with the application number [Your Application Number], submitted on [Date].
Due to [provide a brief reason for withdrawal, such as a change in travel plans or unforeseen circumstances], I have reconsidered my travel arrangements.
I kindly request that you process the withdrawal at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Step 4: Submit the Withdrawal Letter
Send the withdrawal letter to the consulate or embassy through their email address.
Every consulate or embassy has an email address provided for visa-related inquiries.
If you need to submit a hard copy, consider using a reliable courier service to ensure timely and secure delivery.
You can also withdraw your visa application online, below is how you can achieve this.
Withdrawing a visa application online
To withdraw your visa application online, log in to the application portal. This is where you manage your visa application.
Note: Online method is only possible if you applied online, if you submitted your application offline, you can use the other options discussed here.
Step 1: Log into the online portal
If your visa application is processed through an online portal, log in using your credentials.
On the portal, navigate to the section where you can manage your application or find information on withdrawals.
Step 2: Locate the withdrawal option
Once logged in, look for the option to withdraw your application. This is typically found in the same section where you submitted your application.
If you encounter any difficulties, contact their help or FAQ section for guidance.
Step 3: Follow the withdrawal procedure
Click on the withdrawal option and follow the prompts to complete the withdrawal process.
For security reasons, you may be asked to provide additional information or confirm your identity.
Ensure that all necessary fields are filled out accurately.
Step 4: Confirmation email
After submitting the withdrawal request, you should receive a confirmation email acknowledging your withdrawal.
This email will include a reference number for your records. YOu can keep this confirmation for future reference.
Another option is via phone call, you can call the embassy handling your application to withdraw it.
Withdrawing a visa application over the phone
Before making the call, make sure you have with you, your visa application details such as your application number, passport details, and any reference numbers provided by the consulate or embassy.
Step 1: Locate contact information
Once you have your details, look for the official contact number for visa-related inquiries on the consulate or embassy’s official website.
Please, make sure that you are using the correct number, as some offices have specific lines for different visa types.
Step 2: Speak to a representative
Once you call the embassy, clearly state your intention to withdraw your visa application and provide the necessary details such as your application number.
Step 4: Verify your identity and confirm withdrawal
To ensure the security of the process, the representative will ask you to verify your identity.
Answer any questions they have and confirm your decision to withdraw the visa application.
Step 5: Request confirmation
Before ending the call, request confirmation of the withdrawal and any reference number associated with the process.
This information will be useful for future inquiries.
Step 5: Follow-up
After submitting the withdrawal request, you can decide to follow up with the consulate or embassy to confirm the status of your withdrawal.
You can choose to do this via email or phone, using the contact information provided on their official website.
If you wish to withdraw your visa application, you can do so through the visa application portal, email and phone communication.
Read also:
- How to survive in Canada as an international student
- How do you check your eligibility for an Australian visa?
- Document checklist for a study permit outside Canada
- I want to study abroad but I have no money
- How do I show proof of funds for a Canada study permit?
Most visa application portals allow you to manage your visa which includes applying, withdrawing and updating your information.
Once there is a need to withdraw your visa, kindly do so before a decision is made on your application, you cannot withdraw your application if a decision has already been made.