Why visa applications get rejected — and how to fix each cause
Last reviewed 12 July 2026Most eVisa refusals are avoidable. They rarely come from anything dramatic — far more often it’s a typo, a mismatched name, a photo that doesn’t meet spec, or a passport that’s too close to expiry. This guide walks through the most common rejection reasons and exactly how to prevent or correct each one, so your application clears the first time.
1. Data that doesn’t match your passport
The single biggest cause. Names, passport number, date of birth or expiry entered even slightly differently from your passport can trigger a refusal or an invalid authorisation.
- Enter your name exactly as printed in the machine-readable zone — including the order of given/surname and any hyphens.
- Double-check the passport number (confusing 0/O or 1/I is common).
- Match dates to the format the form requests.
Fix: Review every field against the passport before paying. If you spot an error after approval, you generally must re-apply — you cannot edit an issued eVisa.
2. Non-compliant photo
Shadows, glasses, wrong dimensions, or a background that isn’t plain white cause automated and manual rejections.
Fix: Follow our visa photo requirements guide — plain background, neutral expression, glasses off, correct size and file specs.
3. Insufficient passport validity or pages
If your passport doesn’t meet the destination’s six-month (or other) rule, or lacks blank pages, the application — or your boarding — can be refused.
Fix: Check the passport validity rules and renew early if you’re close. Remember a new passport breaks the link to any existing authorisation.
4. Wrong visa type or purpose
Applying for a tourist eVisa when you intend business, or vice versa, is grounds for refusal — and for problems at the border even if approved.
Fix: Match the category to your real purpose. For countries like India with multiple eVisa sub-types, choose carefully.
5. Applying on the wrong (unofficial) site
Some travellers pay a third-party site, receive nothing usable, or get an application riddled with the reseller’s errors. Others miss that they applied for the wrong thing entirely.
Fix: Always start from the official government portal named in our country guides. Never assume the top search result is official.
6. Incomplete supporting documents
Missing onward tickets, accommodation proof, insurance (where required), or invitation letters can stall or sink an application.
Fix: Gather every required document before you start. For visas needing travel insurance, buy a compliant policy first.
7. Immigration history or eligibility issues
Previous overstays, refusals, or ineligibility (for example, ESTA rules on prior travel to certain countries) can cause a decline that no amount of careful typing fixes.
Fix: Read the eligibility questions honestly. If you’re ineligible for a fast-track authorisation, apply for the appropriate full visa instead of hoping the authorisation slips through.
Quick pre-submit checklist
| Check | Why |
|---|---|
| Name & passport number match exactly | #1 rejection cause |
| Photo meets spec | Avoids photo refusal |
| Passport validity & blank pages OK | Prevents denied boarding |
| Correct visa type | Matches your purpose |
| Official portal | Avoids scams & errors |
| All documents attached | Prevents delays |
Common questions
Can I fix a mistake after approval?
Usually not — you can’t edit an issued eVisa. You typically re-apply, paying the fee again. That’s why checking before payment matters.
Will I get my fee back if refused?
Most government eVisa fees are non-refundable, even on refusal.
Is a name typo really enough to be refused?
Yes. A mismatch with your passport can invalidate the authorisation or cause boarding problems.
Can I re-apply after a rejection?
Usually yes, correcting the issue. For eligibility-based declines, you may instead need a full visa.
← All travel guides · Related: visa photo requirements, passport validity rules, how eVisas work, travel insurance for visas.