November 18, 2024

Top Destinations for Pakistani Travellers: How to Get a Schengen Visit Visa

Travelling to Europe is a dream for many Pakistanis, whether for its rich history, stunning landscapes, or vibrant cities. The Schengen Area, comprising 27 European countries, offers Pakistani travellers a seamless way to explore multiple nations under one visa. If you’re eager to visit destinations like France, Germany, Italy, or Spain, understanding the process of obtaining a Schengen Visit Visa is essential. Here’s a complete guide to help you embark on your European adventure.

What is a Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Visa is a short-term visa that allows travellers to enter and freely move across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is typically used for tourism, business, or family visits.

The Schengen countries include popular destinations like:

  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Greece
  • Switzerland
  • Netherlands
  • Belgium

Since all of these countries share open borders, a Schengen visa gives Pakistani travellers the flexibility to explore multiple European countries without the hassle of obtaining separate visas for each.

Types of Schengen Visas

Before applying, it’s important to understand the types of Schengen visas available:

  1. Single-entry Visa: Allows one-time entry into the Schengen Area. Once you leave the region, the visa becomes void.
  2. Multiple-entry Visa: Offers flexibility to enter and exit the Schengen Area as many times as you like within the visa’s validity period.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Schengen Visit Visa for Pakistani Travellers

1. Determine the Country of first arrival

If you plan to visit multiple countries, you need to apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most time. If your time is equally divided among countries, you should apply at the embassy of the country you will enter first.

2. Gather Required Documents

The application process for a Schengen Visa is document-intensive. Be sure to have the following ready:

  • Visa Application Form: Available on the embassy’s website of the Schengen country you are applying to. Fill it out completely and accurately.
  • Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure from the Schengen Area. It must also have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
  • Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet Schengen visa requirements.
  • Travel Itinerary: This includes flight reservations (not the ticket itself), accommodation bookings, and a rough plan of your trip.
  • Travel Insurance: Proof of travel insurance covering medical emergencies up to €30,000, valid across the entire Schengen Area.
  • Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements from the past three to six months, demonstrating that you can support yourself during your stay.
  • Proof of Employment/Business: A letter from your employer or evidence of self-employment, including business registration documents and tax returns, if applicable.
  • Cover Letter: A letter explaining the purpose of your trip, itinerary, and any other relevant details.

3. Submit Your Application

Once you have all your documents in order, you can submit your application. Depending on the country’s embassy or consulate, you may need to book an appointment in advance.

Some countries outsource visa processing to third-party companies like Gerry’s in Pakistan. You may need to pay a small service fee for submitting through such channels.

4. Pay the Visa Fee

The Schengen Visa fee is approximately €80 (PKR 25,000) for adults. Children between the ages of 6-12 pay €40 (PKR 12,500), while children under 6 are exempt from visa fees. This payment is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

5. Biometrics and Interview

You will need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) when submitting your application. Additionally, some embassies may call you for an interview to further assess the purpose of your visit and ensure your ties to Pakistan are strong enough that you will return after your trip.

6. Wait for Processing

Visa processing times can vary, but it typically takes between 10-15 working days. During busy travel seasons, it may take longer, so it’s advisable to apply at least 4-6 weeks before your intended departure date.

7. Receive Your Visa

Once approved, you will be informed by the embassy or the third-party service provider. Collect your passport, and check your visa for any errors, such as incorrect personal information or dates of travel.

Top Schengen Destinations for Pakistani Travellers

Now that you understand the visa process, here’s a glimpse of some top Schengen destinations:

1. Paris, France

The “City of Lights” is a favourite among tourists. From the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum to the charming streets of Montmartre, Paris offers romance, art, and history.

2. Rome, Italy

Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is home to ancient wonders like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It’s also a gateway to the Vatican, with its awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

3. Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s vibrant art scene, cutting-edge architecture, and significant historical landmarks, including the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate, make it a must-visit for those interested in culture and history.

4. Barcelona, Spain

With its unique blend of Gothic and modernist architecture, Barcelona boasts attractions like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the lively Las Ramblas.

A Schengen visa opens the door to an unforgettable European experience. While the application process can seem overwhelming, being organised and prepared with the right documents will smooth the path to approval. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a Parisian café, marvelling at Roman ruins, or skiing in the Swiss Alps, Europe has something for every traveller from Pakistan.

 

November 12, 2024

Student Visa for Australia: How Pakistani Students Can Study Abroad

Australia is famous for its standard education systems, the multicultural nations and high standard of living. Students, who would like to study in Australia coming from Pakistan need to apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500) to allow full time study in the endorsed educational institution. The guide will help Pakistani students who are willing to study in Australia as it has explained the whole process of studying in Australia.

  1. What is the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

Student visa (subclass 500) enable stay in Australia during course period with opportunities for part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) during term time and full-time during term break. This visa can be up to five years’ duration depending on the course being studied.

Key Benefits of Student Visa:

  • Study at recognized institutions: Pakistani students can enroll themselves in any CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students)-registered institution.
  • Work during study: Students can work as part-timers while studying to help meet their expenses.
  • Post-study work opportunities: After completion of studies, Pakistani students can apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). This visa allows them to stay and work in Australia temporarily.
  1. Requirements for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)

To apply for the Australian Student Visa, Pakistani students must fulfil criteria based on academic, language, financial, and health.

  1. a) Offer of Admission

You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution request by the deadline. The letter is given as the CoE by the institution in confirming your admission to an eligible course.

  1. b) English Language Proficiency

The internet based TOEFL, or the IELTS or PTE Academic tests are compulsory to show that they have adequate English language proficiency. The required score depends on the course level and institution, but typically:

  • Undergraduate programs: IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 or equivalent.
  • Postgraduate programs: IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 or equivalent.
  1. c) Financial Capacity

You should prove that you have sufficient funds to cover: n

  • Tuition fees
  • Living expenses
  • Travelling cost

Alternatively, one can also show proof of financial support from a parent, sponsor, or scholarship.

  1. d) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is necessary during your stay as a student in Australia. This insurance helps cover medical and hospital expenses in Australia.

  1. e) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement

First, you are required to meet GTE, showing that your purpose of visit is education and after completion of studies you intend to go back to Pakistan.

  1. f) Health and Character Checks
  • Medical Examination: A health check is required must pass the health check to ensure that applicants comply with Australian government’s minimum health standards.
  • Character Check: You also need to pass character requirements for which you need to attach a Police Clearance Certificate.
  1. How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa from Pakistan

Below is a step-by-step guide on how students from Pakistan can apply for Subclass 500 Visa:

Step 1: Select a Course and Institution

  • Select a course from a CRICOS-registered institution in Australia.
  • Make sure that the course meets your educational and career goals.

Step 2: Submitting Application to the Institution

  • During the application, you have to submit every mandatory document including academic transcript, results of an English competency test, ID documents etc.
  • After being accepted you will be issued with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) which is compulsory for visa processing.

Step 3: Creation of an Immi Account

  • Go to the official website of the Department of Home Affairs and begin an Immi Account. This is where you will go to apply for your visa online.

Step 4: Gathering Required Documents

Before submission of your visa application, ensure that you have the following documents:

  • CoE from the Australian institution.
  • Valid Passport (your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay).
  • Proof of financial capacity.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS results).
  • Proof of OSHC coverage.
  • GTE statement.
  • Health and character certificates.

Step 5: Submit the Visa Application

  • You are required to complete online visa application by following step wise process through Immi Account. Ensure that all the information you provided is accurate and submit all the required documents as per check list.
  • You will have to pay the visa application fee.

Step 6: Provision Biometrics and Medical Exams

Applicants are required to provide biometric (finger prints) and photo at a cost after filing the application and the medical examination at an approved panel doctor.

Step 7: Waiting for Visa Decision

On visa processing time, it is usually a one and a half to two months for student visa applications. You can also check your status of your application through Immi Account.

  1. Cost of Studying in Australia

Tuition fees for education in Australia differ from course to course, institution to institution and region to region. Here’s an approximate breakdown of expenses:

  1. a) Tuition Fees
  • Undergraduate Courses: AUD 20,000–45,000 per year
  • Postgraduate Courses: AUD 22,000–50,000 per year
  1. b) Living Expenses

According to Department of Home Affairs, a student needs around AUD 24,505 per year in lieu of living costs. This covers food, accommodation, transportation, and other expenses.

  1. c) Health Insurance

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) cost varies but usually lies between AUD 500 to AUD 600 per year for a single student.

  1. Post-Study Work Opportunities

The Pakistani students will be allowed to work in Australia for 2-4 years depending on the level of their studies after they complete their courses from Australia through Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). Through this visa, the country allows students to get appropriate work experience after they complete their studies.

  • Graduate Work Stream: For graduates with skills related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
  • Post-Study Work Stream: For students who undertook a degree from an Australian institution, the student will be permitted to remain in Australia for up to a period of 4 years depending with his or her qualification
  1. Why Study in Australia?
  • Universities in Australia have a high reputation for academic achievement and research activity all over the world. Some of the top universities in Australia include:
  • The University of Melbourne
  • The Australian National University (ANU)
  • The University of Sydney
  • The University of New South Wales (UNSW)
  • The University of Queensland (UQ)

The highlighted universities are previously ranked in the QS World University Rankings, and offer, up-to-date facilities, effective teaching method, and networking around the world.

November 5, 2024

AIRCS – The Top Immigration Consultant in Faisalabad, Pakistan

In recent years, Pakistan has seen a surge in the number of students and professionals seeking better opportunities abroad, and Faisalabad is no exception. With dreams of quality education, promising careers, and a better quality of life, people are increasingly turning to immigration consultants to help them navigate complex processes. Among these consultants, AIRCS stands out as one of the best in Faisalabad.

Why Choose AIRCS?

AIRCS grounded as an education consultant has gained credibility in offering outstanding counseling and services to students, professional employees, and families who wish to relocate to countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and the USA. They provide core services on any given case starting from consultation up to the final stage of visa processing for their clients.

Here are the factors that set AIRCS apart from other immigration consultants in Faisalabad:

  1. Expert Guidance and Personalized Counseling

Above all, AIRCS stands out as one of the best because it has a team of immigration consultants who have a niche in different categories. They know the dicky of every visa type, from students, skilled migrants, family sponsorship, and business immigration visas. AIRCS provides individual counseling sessions for the company to appreciate the needs of the clients in their services.

  1. Comprehensive Services

At AIRCS, we provide a range of services that cover every step of the immigration process, including:

  • Career Counseling: AIRCS being a top education consultant helps clients identify the best countries and programs aligned with their career goals.
  • University Applications and Admissions: AIRCS assists immigrants looking for skilled immigration, visit visa applications, and students with university applications, scholarship opportunities, and admission processes.
  • Visa Assistance: AIRCS deals in Study, Skilled worker immigration, and Visit Visa for many countries. At AIRCS we make sure that visa applications of our clients are as per the requirements through comprehensive document verification to timely and dually completed application submissions.
  • IELTS and Language Training: For students and skilled workers alike, one of the key requirements is language proficiency. AIRCS offers complete guidance and resources for IELTS and language training to ensure clients are well-prepared.
  • Job Placement and Settlement Services: For those looking to work abroad, AIRCS provides job placement assistance and support for settlement in their new country. AIRCS provides immigration consultancy for skilled workers looking to immigrate to Canada & Australia.

 

 

Below is the list of specific services AIRCS provides to its clients with respect to different countries:

Services Countries
Skilled Immigration Canada, Australia
Study Visa Canada, Australia, UK
Visit Visa Canada, Australia, USA, New Zealand, Europe, Turkey, Malaysia
  1. Transparency and Integrity

Transparency forms the basis of all services provided by AIRCS. Consulting with clients and explaining potential costs, time and results, keeps their expectations in check. Loyalty to the principle of direct truth in communication means that they do not fool their clients with additional charges and promises that they cannot deliver.

  1. High Success Rate

Owing to the great exposure AIRCS has leading career records on handling all kinds of cases and had remarkably high success rates on visa approval. They are so professional in handling our documents; friendly compliance with the policies of every country besides updating the clients often which makes them have the highest success rate.

  1. Client-Centric Approach

AIRCS takes pride in treating every client with respect and understanding. The team at AIRCS recognizes that immigration can be a life-changing decision, so they provide dedicated support, clear communication, and reassurance to clients throughout the process.

  1. Global Reach and Industry Partnerships

AIRCS guarantees the presentation of true and accurate information since the organization has established strategic cooperation with many universities, employers, immigration consultants, and others all over the world. In turn, they update their knowledge of visa policies that exist in other countries so that clients receive relevant information.

Testimonials and Success Stories

AIRCS has transformed countless dreams into reality, which is reflected in the positive feedback and testimonials from clients who have successfully immigrated through their services. Many clients describe AIRCS as reliable, professional, and dedicated to achieving successful outcomes for them.

How to Get Started with AIRCS?

If you’re based in Faisalabad and planning to move abroad for education, work, or family reunification, AIRCS could be your ideal partner. You can start by scheduling a consultation with their expert advisors, who will evaluate your profile, discuss your goals, and offer customized solutions.

For anyone in Faisalabad who needs valuable help regarding the crucial step to Build the Future Abroad, AIRCS, as the name indicates, is Giving Access to the Right Channel without any hesitation. Through the relentless hard work and commitment of dedicated staff towards their work, AIRCS deserves the title as the leading immigration consultant in Faisalabad.

March 14, 2024

As an international student pursuing post-secondary education in Canada, there are multiple ways Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows you to prove you have enough money to come to Canada.

As part of the Canadian study permit process, applicants must prove they have enough money to support themselves, as well as any family members who come to Canada with them.

 

Note: As of January 1 this year, the cost-of-living requirement has increased for students in all provinces and territories other than Quebec (see more below).

Providing IRCC with proof of financial support/sufficiency

According to IRCC, the department’s cost-of-living requirement is expressed in “base amounts” that include “all requirements related to transportation and other expenses, including the cost of books, equipment, and supplies.” These amounts prove that Canadian study permit applicants have sufficient funds to cover the following costs:

  • The first year of tuition fees, as indicated on the Letter of Acceptance(LOA) issued by their Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • Travel expenses to get to and from Canada
  • The minimum cost of living in Canada for one year

IRCC lists the following eight ways for study permit applicants to prove they can meet the cost-of-living financial requirement:

  • Proof of a Canadian bank account in the applicant’s name, if they have transferred money to Canada
  • A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
  • Proof of a student or education loan from a bank
  • The applicant’s bank statements for the past four months
  • A bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
  • Proof that the applicant has already paid tuition and housing fees
  • A letter from the person or school giving the applicant money for their living expenses and education
  • Proof of funding paid from within Canada, if the applicant has a scholarship or is enrolled in a Canadian-funded educational program

Note: IRCC clarifies that, in cases where an applicant’s home country uses foreign exchange controls, the applicant must prove that they will be allowed to export funds for all expenses.

IRCC’s new cost-of-living financial requirement

Since the start of this year*, IRCC has increased the cost-of-living financial requirement – the amount of money study permit applicants outside of Quebec must prove they possess – to $20,635 for 2024.

It should be noted that this new amount is in addition to tuition fees for the first year and travel costs and that IRCC has already indicated that its cost-of-living requirement will be adjusted annually based on Statistics Canada’s newest low-income cut-off (LICO) release.

*This new cost-of-living financial requirement does not apply to any study permit applications submitted to IRCC on or before December 31, 2023.

Note: All funds presented below are expressed in Canadian dollars.

All provinces/territories except Quebec

On and before December 31, 2023: The following are the minimum funds (not including tuition) required per year by study permit applicants to prove they can support themselves as a student as well as any family members who accompanied them to Canada.

The applicant/student: $10,000

The applicant’s first accompanying family member: $4,000

Every additional accompanying family member: $3,000

As of January 1, 2024: The following are the minimum funds (not including tuition) required per year by a study permit applicant to prove they can support themselves and any accompanying family members in Canada.

It is worth noting again that the information below will likely change in 2025 and every year beyond that because IRCC has indicated that this requirement will be adjusted based on Statistics Canada’s annual low-income cut-off (LICO) release.

Study permit applicants (by themselves): $20,635

Number of family members (including the applicant):

  • Two people:$25,690
  • Three people:$31,583
  • Four people:$38,346
  • Five people:$43,492
  • Six people:$49,051
  • Seven people:$54,611
  • Each additional family member (if more than seven people):$5,559
    Quebec

    Quebec-bound international students must prove they meet a different set of financial requirements than students in the rest of Canada. The requirements for these students are set out by Quebec’s ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).

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