What is a no objection letter and how do you get one?

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A no objection letter is a document from your employer, school, or university that states that you have contractual or educational obligations in your homeland which you plan to return to - and that they do not ‘object’ to your trip. It is also known as a No Objection Certificate for Visa or NOC. It is a way of establishing that you are planning to return to your home country after your visa expires.

This letter could be required for your Schengen visa application.

Where do I get a no objection letter?

You need to speak to your employer, school, or university, who should be able to provide you with one, verifying that they are happy that you will return to your studies or work after your trip.

How do I ask my employer or school for a no objection letter?

This should be a fairly simple process, especially if you are visiting the Schengen Area on business. When requesting time off or when a business trip is agreed upon, you should explain that you may need this document and ask them to write one. For schools or universities, you should ask the same, with an explanation that they expect you to return from your studies.

Why do I need to submit a no objection letter?

A no objection letter will help reassure authorities in the country where you are applying for your Schengen Visa that you will not overstay your visa and attempt to remain in a European Union or Schengen Area state illegally, as you will be returning home to work or study.

Is a no objection letter mandatory?

A no objection letter can be mandatory for some countries but is often optional - such as in Germany. However, it is always a good idea to obtain and submit one as it can improve your prospects of getting a Schengen Visa as well as speeding up the process and helping you through the interview questions.

What are the different types of no objection letters?

There are two basic types of no objection letters depending on your employment or educational status - no objection letters for employees and no objection letters for students.

The no objection letter for employees is written by an employer on behalf of your company - who will write to state that you, as their employee, have obligations at work that you will return to. The letter will also confirm that you are in a financial position to afford your trip to the Schengen Area.

Students can obtain a letter written by a responsible person from a university, school or college. This could be an adviser, head of department, or the dean of the school. The letter will state that the student who is applying for a Schengen Visa is enrolled in the university and will have to return to complete their degree. It could also verify any scholarship or funds that may ensure you are financially able to travel to Europe.

How do you obtain your no objection letter from an employer or university?

There are various ways to get a no objection letter - with the easiest being to just ask your boss or supervisor. If leave for your trip has already been approved, you can simply make a request and they should agree to provide one. If you are a student and your travel happens during university breaks or you have already received special permission to miss classes, then similarly, you can ask someone in a position of responsibility at your university or school.

To obtain your no objection letter, you may have to agree to planned leave with your employer, or time off classes, before you can obtain your visa. However, you may be able to speak to your supervisor or university officials to provisionally agree to leave on the understanding you will obtain a visa.

How do I write a no objection letter?

The no objection letter format is quite simple - the letter does not have to be lengthy or complicated, but must simply state that the company or university does not have any objections to their employee or student getting a Schengen Visa to travel, and that they trust you to return to complete your study or work obligations. It will need to contain

  • the date on which it was written,
  • the address of the visa application center or embassy you are applying to,
  • your name, address,
  • the contact information for the person writing the letter on behalf of the company or educational institution.
  • In addition, the letter has to contain a paragraph stating that officials at the company or university have no objections to you traveling for the duration of your planned trip.

Related topics :

Do I need insurance if I have a no objection letter?

Yes - to obtain a Schengen Visa you need insurance covering you for medical and repatriation costs up to €30.000.

Can a no objection letter be rescinded?

Yes. If your employer believes you may not return - they may state that the letter no longer applies when contacted.

What if I can’t get a no objection letter?

You should not worry too much. It is not a mandatory part of your application - but is suggested for those for whom it may be relevant and obtainable.

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