Jobs In Europe With Free Visa and Sponsorship In 2024

 Have you been thinking about moving to Europe for work but you're worried about the visa hassle? This article is your one-step guide to visa-sponsored jobs in Europe for April 2024.

Here we  are  going to explore everything that  you need to know, from the core advantages and types of jobs available to visa requirements and the application process all on this post.

As we all know that the world of work is changing, and Europe is increasingly looking to foreign workers to fill job openings especially Africans. 

More Importantly Visa-sponsored jobs offer a unique opportunity for foreigners to live, work, and grow their careers in this good and exciting regions.

There’s a lot of visa-sponsored jobs in Europe, catering to various skill sets and experience levels. Okay here are some examples to get you started with the visa sponsored jobs in Europe.

Business Professionals: Global account managers, sales executives, data analysts, human resources specialists, and business analysts are just a few possibilities.

Tech and Digital: The tech sector is booming in Europe, with companies seeking data management specialists, content creators, and marketing professionals.

Hospitality Industry: Hotels, restaurants, and event planners often sponsor visas for wait staff, chefs, and hospitality management positions. Marriott International, a renowned hospitality brand, is a great place to start your search.

Now the next question should be the benefits and payments accorded to this mouth watering opportunities in Visa sponsored jobs in Europe.

Let me remind you that the average annual salary for hotel staff in Europe is a comfortable EUR 30,576, which can help you establish a good life abroad.

There are many benefits beyond just a paycheck when it comes to visa-sponsored jobs in Europe:

Broader Job Market: These jobs open doors to a wider range of employment opportunities, giving your career a major boost.

Professional Growth: Sponsoring companies often invest in their foreign workers, providing training and development opportunities.

Cultural Immersion: Working abroad allows you to experience new cultures and gain a fresh perspective on the world.

So what are they Visa requirements?

Visa prerequisites differ based on nationality and the European country of interest. EU nationals typically forego the need for work visas within member states. Conversely, non-EU citizens necessitate work visas to obtain employment in Europe. The EU Blue Card stands out as an ideal choice for skilled professionals, granting them freedom to work and travel across the EU.

22 Western Countries Offering Visa Opportunities to Africans

For many Africans seeking to venture abroad, the prospect of obtaining a visa can often be daunting. However, amidst the 

bureaucratic complexities, there exist welcoming havens in the Western world that extend their arms with relative ease. 

Here, we  are going unveil 22 Western countries that offer visa accessibility to Africans, paving the way for new horizons and shared experiences.

1.Canada 

Canada is known for its inclusive immigration policies, Canada offers various visa programs catering to skilled workers, students, and visitors from Africa. Canadian visa takes like 5 months to be approved. 

2. Germany 

Germany With a robust economy and a need for skilled labor, Germany welcomes Africans through its skilled worker and student visa programs. But the only barrier to German visa is the language Barrie which makers it very difficult for Africans to migrate to Germany. German visa takes just 60 days to be approved.

3. France

From cultural exchanges to academic pursuits, France provides avenues for Africans to obtain visas for education, work, and tourism.

4. United Kingdom

 Despite recent changes, the UK remains accessible to Africans through student visas, work permits, and tourist visas.

5. Australia

With its diverse landscape and thriving economy, Australia offers visa options for Africans seeking employment, education, or leisure.

6. Sweden

 Renowned for its quality of life and progressive values, Sweden invites Africans through various visa programs, including work permits and family reunification.

7. Netherlands

As a hub of innovation and commerce, the Netherlands welcomes Africans for work, study, and tourism purposes.

8. Norway

 With its stunning natural beauty and high standard of living, Norway offers visa opportunities for Africans seeking employment and education.

9. Spain

 From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the tranquil beaches of Ibiza, Spain beckons Africans with its tourist visas and student exchange programs.

10. Switzerland

As a global financial center and melting pot of cultures, Switzerland provides visa avenues for Africans in fields such as finance, technology, and academia.

11. Belgium

With its rich history and cosmopolitan cities, Belgium offers visa options for Africans pursuing education, work, or family reunification.

12. Denmark

Known for its progressive social policies and high quality of life, Denmark welcomes Africans through its work permit and student visa programs.

13. Austria

From the cultural charm of Vienna to the alpine beauty of Salzburg, Austria extends visa opportunities to Africans for tourism, education, and work.

14. Ireland

With its welcoming atmosphere and strong ties to the African diaspora, Ireland offers visa pathways for Africans seeking employment and education.

15. New Zealand

From the rolling hills of the North Island to the rugged landscapes of the South Island, New Zealand provides visa options for Africans looking to work or study.

16. Finland

Renowned for its education system and pristine wilderness, Finland invites Africans through its student exchange programs and work permits.

17. Portugal

With its golden beaches and historic landmarks, Portugal offers visa opportunities for Africans seeking leisure, study, or employment.

18. Luxembourg

As a global financial hub, Luxembourg provides visa avenues for Africans in the finance, technology, and legal sectors.

19. Greece

From the ancient ruins of Athens to the idyllic islands of the Aegean, Greece welcomes Africans with its tourist visas and student exchange programs.

20. Cyprus

With its Mediterranean charm and strategic location, Cyprus offers visa options for Africans seeking employment, education, or investment opportunities.

21. Italy

From the artistic splendor of Florence to the culinary delights of Rome, Italy extends visa opportunities to Africans for tourism, study, and work.

22. United States

While the visa process can be rigorous, the United States remains a sought-after destination for Africans pursuing education, employment, or family reunification.

If you follow proper guidelines as an African, you are likely to obtain a visa of any of the above mentioned countries. Good luck 

Can One Work in Canada Without a Work Permit 2024?

 

Canada presents enticing employment prospects, drawing in a multitude of international individuals.

Fortunately, in certain scenarios, you may bypass the necessity of obtaining a work permit to labor within Canada.

Here’s a summary of 22 circumstances wherein a work permit is deemed unnecessary:

Business Visitors

Focus: Business activities, not entering the Canadian job market.

Key Points:

No pay from Canada.

International business activities.

Employed by a foreign company with main income and work location outside Canada.

Proof of business visitor status may be required upon entry (support letter, invitation letter).

Foreign Representatives & Family

time studies at a designated institution.

Institutions: Public post-secondary schools, CEGEPs, authorized private colleges in Quebec, Canadian private institutions awarding degrees.

Work duration: Throughout valid study permit, if full-time studies continue.

Research/teaching assistants (off-campus): Considered on-campus workers if:

Recommended by their academic department.

Work directed by a department head or faculty member.

Work takes place in a research institute or affiliated program.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Allows full-time work while waiting for the permit, as long as the study permit is valid.

Performing Artists

Certain performers can work without a permit, while others may require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and work permit.

IRCC allows entry without a permit for some performers, including:

Bands in bars, pubs, restaurants, etc.

Foreign-based musical/theatrical individuals and crews (outside bars/restaurants).

Guest artists for a limited time within a Canadian performance group.

Performers at private events (weddings).

Additional categories (no permit required):

Film producers (business visitors).

Film/recording studio users (business visitors).

Guest speakers on Canadian TV/radio broadcasts.

Do you want to work in Canada? Open Work Permit Your key to working in Canada

 

There is an open work permit in Canada also called an international mobility program is a special program for people from other countries.

This opportunity is different from regular work permit because it lets you work for different bosses all over Canada. This permit is really helpful for temporary foreign workers.

You can work in Canada for up to 6 months and change buses if they follow the rules set by the government as explains.

One cool thing about the Open Work Permit is how easy it is to apply. You don’t need to:

Get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from possible bosses.

Show proof of a job offer through the Employer Portal or confirm the boss paid the fee.

Kinds of Open Work Permits Open Work Permits have different types, each with its own rules:

Free permits: You can change bosses, jobs, and where you work whenever you want.

Job-limited permits: You can switch bosses but not job types.

Location-limited permits: You can change bosses, but you must work in certain areas.

What type of Open Work Permit you get depends on what the Canadian Consulate decides based on your application details.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an Open Work Permit, you must fit into certain groups, like:

People with temporary resident permits.

Those who recently finished school in Canada and can get a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

Students who have trouble paying for school.

People applying to live in Canada permanently or their family.

Partners of students or skilled workers from other countries.

Refugees, protected people, and similar.

Young people in special programs

Also, temporary workers need to show more things like planning to leave Canada when their permit ends, being able to support themselves financially, having no criminal record, being healthy, and following the rules of their permit, which might include not working in certain adult jobs.

If you're interested you can make more research about the work this is an easy way for you to travel to Canada without hastle.

What To Pack for a Long Trip: The Ultimate Checklist

When planning for a long trip, it is important to ensure you have everything you may need. Whether you are a college student who has tons of duties before your trip starts, or you are planning a vacation but still have to complete some tasks your boss has set, the planning process may be stressful. If you are searching for help to pack your bag perfectly and get ready for the trip, this article will come in handy.

Do the things you need, whether you want to find a reputable helping service like Custom writings to entrust your college assignments to for the period you will be out or you have to solve some working issues. Take your time! We have completed the list of items you may need for your long-term vacation, so when you are ready to start your packing, just browse our ultimate checklist to make sure you are totally prepared for the trip.

Of course, you may not need all the points presented, but here, you will find the goods you have to pay attention to. Let’s go!

Clothing

Depending on the season, choose the things you may need and do not take those ones you are sure will be irrelevant.

Undergarments. Make sure you have enough for the whole trip. If you are unsure that there will be a possibility to launder, take the comfortable amount for the whole period.

Socks. Ensure you have a comfortable amount for the whole period of your travel. If you are going to visit a cold country, ensure that you have taken the appropriate goods.

Tops. Mull over what you may need. Shirts, blouses, sweaters? If you are going to travel for several weeks, take a piece for a 5-day period; if you are unsure, there will be a possibility to launder.

Bottoms. Think about what you may need from this category. Pants, shorts, skirts, dresses? Again, if you are traveling to a cold country, ensure you have enough appropriate items.

Sleepwear. Think about what you will wear during your sleep. If you prefer to sleep in a T-shirt, ensure you have an additional item.

Shoes. Depending on the activities, choose the things you may need. If you are going to wail a lot, ensure you have comfortable shoes. Also, if you plan evening entertainment, ensure you have suitable shoes.

Accessories. Will you need belts, scarves, hats, sunglasses? Pack all the needed things depending on the activities you plan.

Toiletries

Personal hygiene items. Do not forget your toothbrush and toothpaste.  

Hair care. Even though you may live in a hotel, and they may provide you with branded goods, mind that these items may not suit your personal demands. Thus, if you are planning a long trip, we recommend you take the regularly used items in order to avoid such issues.

Skincare. If you use any skin care products, do not forget to take them with you. In order not to forget anything important, just a few days before your trip, place all the items you use in one place, and this will help you see what goods are essential for you.

Makeup. There is hardly a girl who can forget about these products, but we better name them.

Medications. If there is some medicine you take regularly, don’t forget to take them with you. Also, consider different health issues you may face, such as fever, headache, vomiting, stomachache, cold, and flu.

First aid kit. Take bandages, antiseptic wipes, and basic medical supplies with you.

Electronics

Phone and charger. The charger is what many people forget very often.

Laptop or tablet. If you are going to work or study from there, make sure you have everything you may need. Well, these goods can also be used during the entertaining part of your trip.

Camera. Don’t forget your camera to shoot your trip.

Documents

We recommend storing all the documents in one place to always have an opportunity to find the needed item.

Identification and visa. Personal documents like ID cards and driver’s licenses should be with you. Also, if you are traveling abroad, do not forget your visa.

Travel tickets. If you have any documents printed, do not forget them. If you have any tickets bought online, we recommend having copies on your phone.

Insurance and emergency contacts. In case any emergency happens, ensure that your insurance is actual and you have it with you. Moreover, we recommend noting down some emergency contacts; as they say, ‘Buyer beware.’

Additionals

Travel guidebooks or maps. If you have a prepared travel guide with the highlighted destinations to visit, don’t forget it.

Travel pillow and blanket. If you are one of those who need their personal pillows and blankets to have a good sleep outside their homes, ensure you have taken them with you.

Reusable water bottle. If you are a student on a tight budget or simply a person who wants to save some money, take a reusable water bottle with you in order not to buy a new one every day when you are walking.

Snacks. Think about the time needed to get to the place. If this is going to take some time, make sure you have some snacks to eat.

Travel backpack. Think about your comfort during the town walks. A backpack may come in handy to store all the needed goods with you and free your hands.

Entertainment. If you like reading books before sleep, or you plan to dedicate a day of your vacation to watching films, ensure you have everything necessary.

Laundry bag. During your long-time travel, if you do not have a possibility to launder, take a laundry bag with you to keep the dirty clothes separate from the clean ones.

If you are stressed about your long-term trip and worry whether you have packed everything you may need. Rest assured that if you have browsed this list, you are perfectly packed.

Whether you are a college student who decided to have some rest during the holidays or you are planning your vacation, packing should be a pleasant starting point, not a stressful period. Hope our list will help you pack all the essentials and enjoy your trip.

Good luck!

8 Top Tips for Finding Cheap Flights in 2024

 As we all know that the desire to travel is limitless but funds are often not, seeking low-cost airfare feels like a rare treasure hunt. The excitement of adventure calls out, yet the idea of very expensive flights can make even the keenest traveler hesitate.

But do not worry, for in this time of travel we live now, searching for cheap flights has become an art form, and there are many ways to find success. From using the internet’s powers to find secret deals all the way up to being flexible with your plans; these are just some strategies that can help you fly high without emptying your pockets.

Now, get ready for an exciting journey through eight helpful suggestions on how to fly at a reasonable cost in 2024 and beyond.

1. Keep an Eye on Special Deals

The golden rule of getting low-cost flights is always being alert for special deals and promotions. Airlines often provide flash sales, reduced fares, and unique offers through their websites, newsletters, or social media channels. So, signing up for mailing lists of airlines can guarantee you are notified early about these opportunities. Furthermore, another helpful method is to subscribe to a cheap flight alert service like Matt’s Flights to receive all the fantastic opportunities straight into your inbox. They send discounted deals based on a location selected by you, exposing new destinations that might not have been on your radar before.

2. Ignore the Myths

Correcting popular misunderstandings about booking flights can help you save more money. It is not true that there is only one best way to find the cheapest fares, like always booking on a Tuesday or clearing your cookies first. Concentrate on flexibility and timing as the key elements for obtaining advantageous deals, which leads us to the next point.

3. Be Flexible With Travel Date, Times, and Destination

Flexibility is your greatest asset when hunting for affordable flights. By adjusting your travel dates, flying during off-peak times, and considering alternative airports, you open yourself up to a plethora of money-saving opportunities. Additionally, exploring lesser-known destinations or being open to layovers can lead to substantial savings.

4. Fly Budget Carriers

In the era of budget airlines, flying is not an expensive affair anymore. Embrace low-cost carriers that provide competitive fares while ensuring safety and service on par with full-service airlines. Although these airlines might lack some extra amenities, they frequently deliver unmatched value for money, particularly on short-distance or regional flights.

Just be cautious about extra fees as this is how they earn their money. Low-cost airlines usually apply charges for checked luggage, carry-on bags, printing your boarding pass, utilizing a credit card, and everything else that they can. Remember to total both the ticket price and additional charges, to verify if it is under what a full-service carrier offers.

5. Don’t Always Fly Directly

Booking indirect routes could lead to big savings. Though direct flights might seem convenient, they may not always be the cheapest option. By considering connecting flights or alternative routing choices, it is possible to find hidden gems in the form of lower fares and unexpected stopover destinations.

While this will certainly require more effort on your side because you have to think of many routes and look at various airlines, it can bring down the cost of your plane travel. So, if it makes you save a few hundred bucks, then this extra work is worthwhile.

6. Take Advantage of Flight Search Engines

Use flight search engines and comparison websites to make technology work for you. These places gather information from many airlines and travel companies, letting you easily compare costs to find the top offers. Extra features such as looking for flexible dates or getting notified about low fares can help increase your chances of finding cheap flights even more.

7. Use Points and Miles

If you travel often or use credit cards a lot, using points and miles can help lower how much money you spend on airfare. Many loyalty programs let people earn and use points for flights, upgrades on planes, as well as other benefits related to traveling. For instance, American Express points can be transferred to 18 airlines. By strategically accumulating and utilizing rewards, you can unlock substantial savings on your next adventure.

8. Book Early

Although last-minute deals can be found, making an early booking is usually one of the most dependable methods to get inexpensive flights. By arranging things in advance and observing prices during a time, you enhance your opportunities to snag discounted fares before they are sold out. Remember that booking too far in advance might not always ensure the best price; thus, it is crucial to find the sweet spot between early bird offers and last-minute deals.

In the ever-evolving landscape of air travel, finding cheap flights requires a combination of savvy strategies, flexibility, and perseverance. By staying informed, embracing new technologies, and thinking outside the box, you can embark on your next journey without breaking the bank. 

Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend getaway or a globetrotting adventure, these eight tips will serve as your compass in navigating the skies affordably in 2024 and beyond. Safe travels!

5 Sandy beaches to Visit in Kent this Summer

Are you planning any staycation this summer?

Kent is known as the garden of England but you can find many sandy beaches that are great for swimming, sunbathing, tranquil strolls and water-sports activities like surfing. Kent is home to more than 50 beaches in total.

Thanet, the most Southeastern tip of Kent boasts of an impressive 15 sandy beaches and bays, easily accessible from London by train or by road which makes it a great choice for a day trip or weekend away from the city.

If you are planning on catching the train from London, there’s a high-speed train service from London St Pancras International Station to Ramsgate, Broadstairs, and Margate which means that travelling from the capital is quick and easy. Journey times are approximately 75 minutes to Ramsgate, 85 minutes to Broadstairs and 90 minutes to Margate.

During my time living by the coastline, I explored the history, and the beaches and even spontaneously took the ferry from a nearby port to France with a bunch of friends for a weekend (check my Paris highlights on Instagram). I was blessed to live a walking distance of a beach.

A lot of people know of the popular Margate beach but sometimes that beach can get overcrowded. There are a lot more beautiful hidden gems that are close by.

1.Botany Bay Beach In Kent

This secluded beach offers stunning views of white chalk cliffs. Watch the most stunning sunset views overlooking the chalk stacks.

2. Joss Bay Beach In Kent

Joss bay is a surfers paradise and a short drive away from Botany Bay. It’s a great beach for surfing and stand up paddleboard. Joss Bay Surf School offers private, family and group Surf and stand up paddleboard lessons.

3. Kingsgate Bay Beach In Kent

It’s by a sandy cove and edged by white chalk cliffs and sea caves. Enjoy a classic fish and chips lunch with clifftop views and a children’s play area at the award-winning family pub-restaurant, Captin Digby.

4. Viking Bay Beach In Kent

This sandy horseshoe-shaped beach is the most popular with a promenade and a pier. Stop by Morelli’s ice cream parlour and treat yourself to the best ice cream in Broadstairs.

5. Ramsgate Main Sands Beach In Kent

A popular sandy beach with a promenade. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes here. Fun fact: It’s a short walk to the biggest Wetherspoons in the UK.

All of these beaches are suitable for swimming too. If you are looking for more destinations to explore in the UK, check out Jess’ Great British staycation guide featuring me and many travel bloggers.

Are you planning on visiting any beaches this summer? 

Thinking of exploring more of England? Read my guide to the best holiday accommodation in North Devon.

What Is The Best Age Considerations for Canadian Visa Applications

Taking the bold step on the journey to obtain a Canadian visa, is an exciting endeavor filled with opportunities for adventure, education, and professional growth. However, one crucial aspect that applicants often grapple with is understanding the role of age in the visa application process. Considering best age considerations for Canadian visa applications, will be equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this aspect of the process with confidence.

When applying for a Canadian visa, whether it be for study, work, or immigration purposes, age can play a significant role in the assessment process. Different visa categories may have specific age requirements or preferences outlined by Canadian immigration authorities. It is very important to familiarize yourself with these criteria to determine the best pathway for your individual circumstances.

For individuals pursuing educational opportunities in Canada, such as a study permit, age considerations may vary depending on the level of study. Generally, there is no maximum age limit for obtaining a study permit in Canada. However, older applicants may face additional scrutiny to demonstrate their commitment to academic pursuits and their ability to support themselves financially during their studies.

It's also a look alike, when applying for a work permit in Canada, age may not be a determining factor. Instead, eligibility is often assessed based on qualifications, job offers, and relevant work experience. However, certain immigration programs, such as the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, may have age restrictions for participants, typically ranging from 18 to 35 years old, depending on the country of citizenship.

For those seeking to immigrate to Canada permanently, age can significantly impact eligibility through various immigration streams. For instance, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under the Express Entry system assigns points based on factors such as age, with younger applicants typically receiving higher scores. Additionally, certain provincial nominee programs may prioritize candidates within specific age brackets.

So what is the best age consideration?

The truth remains that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the best age for Canadian visa applications, several factors can influence your approach:

1. Research and Planning: Take the time to research visa requirements and assess your eligibility based on age-related criteria for your desired visa category.

2. Timeliness: Where possible, aim to submit your visa application at an age that aligns with program requirements and maximizes your chances of success.

3. Flexibility: Recognize that age is just one aspect of your overall profile. Highlight your skills, qualifications, and experiences to demonstrate your value as an applicant.

4. Seek Professional Guidance: Consider consulting with immigration experts or legal professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your unique circumstances.

Before embark on your Canadian visa journey, try understanding the role of age in the application process as it is essential for maximizing your chances of success. By considering the best age considerations outlined in this guide and approaching the process with careful planning and preparation, you can navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration with confidence and clarity.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Applying For A Visa

 One of my friend recently received my Japanese Visa and it inspired me to put up this post about some of the common mistakes to avoid during visa applications. I am no stranger to visa applications and the requirements, sometimes, stringent, to visit certain countries.

As a Nigerian Passport holder who loves to travel both leisurely and for work, I have had my fair share of applications. No matter how often I go through the process, I still get very nervous to hear the decision of the visa officer. One thing I make sure to do though, is to pay very close attention to my applications before I submit them because this is very important.

So in this post, I am going to talk about some of the most common reasons for visa rejections and how you can avoid these mistakes to improve your chances of a successful application. Please note that it is ultimately up to the visa officer to grant or reject your visa, even though you followed this steps correctly.

This post does not guarantee a positive response. Its aim is to give you a few ideas about mistakes to avoid during visa applications and how you can strengthen your application for at least 80% chance of being successful.

With that being said, let’s get into the details!

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Applications: 

1 – Having an Incomplete or Incorrect Application Form

This may seem trivial but the fact is that your visa appraisal starts from here and a small mistake here can cost you big time. For some application process, you don’t even get an interview. The decision is made based on the information provided in these forms.

Therefore, when filling out them out, be sure to present information clearly, completely and correctly. If something does than apply to you, rather than leaving the spaces blank, always put “N/A”.

Missing or incorrect information can often lead to delays in processing times or even rejection.

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Applications: 

2 – Having Insufficient Supporting Documents

The visa officer’s job is to decipher whether you have truthfully stated your intent. For example, if you are applying for a tourist visa, their job is probe you via an interview or your documentation that you will return to your home country once your visit is over.

It is your job to provide documents that support your application. Be sure to comb through the requirements on the immigration website of the respective country you’re applying to and include additional documents that may not be stated to show proof of home ties.

Some of the documents to include are your employment and promotion letters, admission or letter from your school (if you’re a student), marriage certificates, proof of home or business ownership and so on.

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Applications: 

3 – Having Insufficient Proof of Funds

Having insufficient proof of funds is one of the most common reasons for visa rejections. Many people often believe that the balance in your account is the only amount considered during the processing of your visas but this is not always the case.

Many visa officers take a look at your bank transactions in the statements provided over time and makes certain decisions based on these transactions. Therefore, it is not enough to have a lump sum amount in your account when you apply.

Your transaction inflows and outflows must also be consistent with your declared income and should prove that you are financially able to cover the costs of your travels.

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Applications: 

4 – Having Unexplained Bulk Sums in your Account

This is one of the most common mistakes to avoid during visa applications – which is transferring a huge sum of money right before your application, with the aim of convincing the visa officer that you have enough to cover your trip.

This is a huge red flag and is often the basis for a rejection. If you unavoidably have such large sums coming into your account, for example, if you’re a homeowner who just received rent, make sure to include a cover letter and accompanying receipts to show the source of this amount.

5 – Submitting your Passport with Less than 6 months Validity or Less than Two Free Pages

Several embassies or consulates have this as a requirement but sometimes, it is overlooked by travellers and becomes the basis for a visa denial.

This is not the case for every consulate or embassy but to be on the safe side, always ensure that your passport has over 6 months validity and at least two free pages for the visa sticker and stamp.

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Applications: 

6 – Lying about your Travel History or Previous Visa Denials

This one goes without saying. Don’t lie about anything on your application, and most especially, don’t lie about previous visa denials. At best, if that lie is caught (and it will most likely be), the visa will be denied but lying about previous denials may also result in a ban.

It certainly isn’t worth it. If your circumstances have significantly changed between when you received a visa denial and when reapplying, it will be taken into consideration during the visa processing.

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Applications: 

7 – Applying Late or too Close to your Travel Dates

I remember seeing a sign at the South Korean embassy stating that visa application submitted within 14 days of the travel date will not be considered. The visa did come out in 6 days but it was not worth risking submitting the application late.

As a rule of thumb, you should submit your application at least 3 weeks to your travel date. Many embassies begin to receive applications for up to 3 months before your travel date. The earlier you can apply, the better, as this will save you stress and might also save you money in early flight bookings and hotel deals!

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful visa application process. Once again, these suggestions do not guarantee a positive outcome, that is always only up to the visa officer. 

I wish you good luck with your next application and hope you have a wonderful adventure in your tours and travel!

 

How to Apply for a Visa to Thailand

 I have checked the requirements for a Thailand visa as a Nigerian citizen and passport holder living in Lagos, Nigeria. The details I found pushed the country further down my travel list.

I don't mean to say that getting a Thai visa from Nigeria is impossible, it just required several hoops that I was not prepared to jump at the time.

Fast forward to a few years later, Mark and I moved to Nairobi and there, I checked again for the visa requirements to apply from Kenya. Although I can’t find the reference for this information now, I could have sworn that the embassy’s website stated (at the time) that Nigerians in Kenya needed to travel back to Nigeria to apply. Wow! What an experience?

After reading this, I decided I would save Thailand for such a time when the visa application process became more favourable.

Then that time came in February 2024 when I reviewed the embassy’s website again and it stated that they would receive and review applications from Nigerians on a case-by-case basis.

As I was armed with this information, I emailed the embassy and was glad to receive a quick response, stating that I could submit my documents in Kenya. And so, my journey to Thailand with Mark began!

If you’re like me, living outside Nigeria and looking to visit Thailand then continue reading to see how I successfully applied for my tourist (TR) visa in Kenya. I have also included additional information for applicants in Nigeria.

How To Apply for a Thailand Visa

The first thing you should do when applying for a Thailand visa is to check the official Royal Thai Embassy website in your country of residence. For Nigeria, this is the website address; for Kenya, this is it. You will find up-to-date information about the Thai visa requirements and application procedures there.

Next, compile your documents and submit them in person at the Royal Thai Embassy. If you apply in other countries, like Kenya, there might be an option to have a third party submit on your behalf.

The requirements for the visa will also vary per country, especially for Nigerians. Generally, these are the requirements for a tourist visa to Thailand for Nigerians applying for this visa from Nigeria.

Thailand Visa Requirements for Nigerian Citizens

Original current and previous passports

Application forms, including the document checklist form filled and signed by the applicant

A copy of the passport data page and a copy of every previous Thai visa and immigration stamp on the current and immediate previous passport

An original certificate of police clearance

A copy of a drug clearance certificate (aka NDLEA certificate)

A copy of your resident permit – for non-citizens

Proof of profession

Introduction letter from your employer

Proof of financial status

6-month bank statement

Proof of accommodation/residence in Thailand

Reservation of return air tickets

Documents relating to the purpose of visit/category of visa

You can see and download the full checklist of documents required here. Note that if you apply for this visa outside Nigeria, you might not need the two asterisked documents, i.e. Police Clearance and NDLEA certificate. Nevertheless, you should email the embassy to confirm before going there to submit.

In my case, the embassy asked for 2 sets of my visa application documents, excluding the Police Clearance and NDLEA certificate.

Thailand Visa Application Fee

I submitted my documents in person at the embassy and paid 5,000 Ksh (~$36) for a single-entry tourist (TR) visa. The embassy accepts MPESA and cash payments in Nairobi and only cash payments in Abuja.

Thailand Visa Application Processing Times

The processing time for the Thailand Visa will vary based on the location you apply from. In Kenya, it takes 2 working days to get your visa, while in Nigeria, it is 5 working days. This is one of the fastest (sticker) visa processing times I’ve seen and the application process in Kenya was seamless and efficient.

Royal Thai Embassy Addresses in Nigeria and Kenya and Opening Times

The Royal Thai Embassy in Nairobi is located at Rose Avenue, Off, Denis Pritt Rd, Nairobi. They are open every working day, except public holidays, from 9 am to 12:30 pm for application submissions and 9 am to 11 am for collections.

In Nigeria, the embassy is located in Abuja at 34 Rhine Street, Maitama and is open from 9 am to 11 am for submis

sion and 2 pm to 3 pm for collection.

Beginners Guide To Planning A Trip To South Korea

Are you planning a trip to Japan? This can be a hair-pulling experience, especially when trying to navigate the intricacies of transportation and itinerary planning. 

This sentiment resonates deeply with my experience planning a trip to South Korea. The endless questions about transportation passes, ticket bookings, and accommodations can feel overwhelming, but once you have a basic itinerary in place, things tend to fall into place seamlessly.

In crafting this South Korea travel guide, my aim is to alleviate the stress and confusion that often accompanies trip planning. Drawing from my own experiences, I'll provide insights into visa requirements, transportation options, and recommended itineraries for first-time travelers.

Before embarking on your South Korea adventure, there are three key considerations to address:

1. Visa Requirements: Determine whether you need to apply for a visa or the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). While many nationalities are eligible for visa-exempt entry or can easily obtain a K-ETA, others, like Nigerians, may need to apply for a visa in advance. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the application process and submit your documents well in advance of your travel dates.

2. Travel Duration: Assess the number of days you have available for your trip, as this will dictate your itinerary and influence decisions regarding transportation passes and sightseeing activities.

3. Rail Pass Consideration: Decide whether investing in a Korea Rail Pass would be cost-effective for your itinerary. While these passes offer convenience and savings for travelers planning extensive train journeys, they may not be necessary for shorter trips or those focused on specific regions.

In the subsequent sections of this guide, we'll delve into each of these considerations in detail, providing practical tips and recommendations to streamline your trip planning process. From visa application procedures to navigating transportation networks and crafting sample itineraries, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to embark on a memorable adventure in South Korea.

So, if you're dreaming of exploring historic sites in Seoul or savoring culinary delights in Jeonju, let's go on this journey together and make your South Korea travel experience enjoyable as possible.