Low bank balance
Visa officers need to be satisfied you can afford the trip. If your balance is low, explain and add supporting evidence.
What to do
- Explain the balance – e.g. you have just paid tuition, you use a different account for travel, or you will be sponsored
- Show other funds – fixed deposits, another account, investments (if easily accessible)
- Sponsor – if someone else pays: Sponsorship Letter, their bank statements and employment letter; Form I-134 for the US if required
- Proof of income – even if the balance is low, regular salary or pension deposits show you can save and fund the trip
- Itinerary – a modest, realistic trip (shorter stay, budget accommodation) can be easier to justify than an expensive one
What to avoid
- Unexplained large withdrawals just before the application
- Claiming funds you cannot access or that are not clearly yours
- Inconsistent numbers across your letter and statements
Use our Proof of Funds Summary and Sponsorship Letter templates. Be honest and consistent.