Documents · 4 min read · 26 October 2026
Hotel and flight reservations for a visa: genuine vs fake
Consulates can check bookings. Here's how genuine reservations work, why fake 'dummy tickets' are risky, and when to book.
Many visa applications ask for proof of where you'll stay and how you'll travel. You usually don't need to pay for a full trip before your visa is approved, but what you submit must be real.
Genuine hotel reservations
A genuine reservation is a real booking in your name, with a confirmation number the hotel recognises. Free-cancellation rooms are common, so you can cancel if your plans change.
Genuine flight reservations
Some airlines and licensed travel agencies can hold a seat for a short time without full payment. The hold has a real booking reference. Holds expire, so time them close to your appointment.
Why fake bookings are a bad idea
- Edited PDFs or 'dummy tickets' with made-up references can be spotted when checked.
- Submitting false documents can lead to a refusal and can affect future applications.
- A refusal usually means the visa fee is not refunded.
