Do Schengen embassies accept flight itineraries without payment confirmation?

Yes, most Schengen embassies and consulates accept flight itineraries without payment confirmation for visa applications. In fact, it is strongly recommended not to purchase actual tickets before your visa is approved, as embassies do not guarantee approval and do not reimburse travel costs.

Here’s how it works and what you should keep in mind:

1. Accepted Documents  

• A flight reservation or itinerary showing travel dates, the applicant’s name, and the route (round trip). 

• This can be obtained as a flight itinerary without payment from a professional travel agency, or verified online platforms such as Schengen Visa Itinerary, which specialises in visa-compliant reservations. Many offer temporary booking or hold-reservation services. 

• These itineraries are specifically tailored for visa applications and are widely accepted by most Schengen embassies and consulates. In addition to flight reservations, these services also provide hotel bookings and affordable travel insurance, helping applicants meet all necessary visa requirements efficiently.

2. Why Embassies Accept Unpaid Itineraries

Schengen embassies understand that purchasing a real ticket before visa approval can be costly and risky. Therefore, a confirmed flight reservation from a legitimate source is accepted as valid proof of travel plans. 

They primarily need to verify: 

• You have a realistic itinerary. 
• Your entry and exit dates align with your visa duration. 
• Your travel is consistent with your accommodation and insurance documents.

3. Important Tips 

• Ensure that the itinerary appears authentic and verifiable (with the airline’s logo, a valid PNR, and accurate dates). 

• Double-check your specific embassy’s website, as requirements may vary slightly by country. 

• To ensure reliability, use reputable providers (e.g., Schengen Visa Itinerary) that issue genuine, verifiable flight reservations for visa purposes. They are committed to providing trustworthy guidance and are ready to assist you throughout your visa application process.