Worried about visa refusal after booking flight and hotel before Schengen appointment

Schengen Visas
1

I already booked my flight and hotel before my Schengen appointment. Now I’m worried my visa won’t be approved. Did anyone do the same and get approved?

2

Realizing this is not about a lack of funds but rather the anxiety of commitment, let me clarify the situation based on what I see with tourists in Cairo.

3

Hi, I’m Meliza — I work as an outbound visa agent.

Yes, a lot of people do this and still get approved. Booking flights and hotels before your appointment doesn’t reduce your chances as long as the bookings make sense and match your application.

The only time it becomes a problem is if:

  • The itinerary looks unrealistic or inconsistent

  • The bookings don’t match your declared main destination

  • The trip doesn’t align with your profile (work, finances, travel history)

Embassies understand that applicants often book refundable flights/hotels to secure prices or meet application requirements. Just make sure everything is consistent and genuine.

I see approvals like this all the time — booking in advance alone is not a red flag.

4

You’re definitely not the only one worrying about this. A lot of people book their flights and hotels before their Schengen appointment and still get approved. From what many applicants have shared, booking early on its own usually isn’t the problem. The embassy tends to look more at the overall picture, like whether the trip makes sense, your finances, and your ties back home. If the itinerary is clear and the documents are consistent, booking in advance is something many applicants have done without it becoming an issue.

5

Has anyone from the tech sector specifically used fully paid bookings for a first-time application recently?

6

Realizing you are seeking balance in your application process, rest assured this is quite common.

7

@bilohidy

Booking confirmed flights and hotels can strengthen your case because it shows clear travel plans.However, it’s always advisable to book refundable or flexible reservations, as approval is never guaranteed and this protects you financially if the visa is delayed or refused.