فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Many Moroccans planning to apply for a Schengen visa wonder whether it is possible to submit an application without providing a bank statement. In this regard, the regulations in force across Schengen countries confirm that proof of financial means is a fundamental requirement for visa acceptance, and a bank statement is considered one of the primary ways to provide such proof.
According to guidelines issued by the European Commission, the purpose of requesting a bank statement is to ensure that the visa applicant has the financial ability to cover travel and accommodation expenses without relying on public assistance from the host country. Nevertheless, there are some exceptional cases where a bank statement can be substituted with alternative financial documents, such as a “certificate of sponsorship” (Attestation de prise en charge) from a legal resident in a European country, or other financial guarantees like proof of property ownership, investment certificates, or a stable monthly salary slip for employees.
For entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals, other supporting documents can be submitted, such as a commercial registration certificate, annual tax declaration, and recent professional invoices, along with proof of sufficient resources during the stay. However, embassies and consulates retain the final authority to accept or reject these alternatives and may sometimes request additional clarifications.
Visa experts point out that providing a recent bank statement covering the last three months remains the safest option to strengthen a visa application and reduce the risk of rejection. Immigration offices also advise against submitting empty or newly created accounts, as these can raise doubts about the seriousness of the application.
Given the tightening of visa issuance policies, especially after the 2024 updates, anyone planning to travel with a Schengen visa is strongly advised to prepare their application with great care, ensuring the submission of a transparent bank statement that accurately reflects their financial situation—or officially recognized alternatives if providing a bank statement is genuinely not possible.
Source: Fes News Media
