Interview Day Survival Guide
Everything you need to know for any visa interview — what to bring, what to wear, how to answer, and how to handle the questions that trip people up.
The day before — checklist
- Print your appointment confirmation
- Organise documents in the correct order — use tabs or labels
- Put originals in one folder, photocopies in another
- Lay out your interview outfit
- Plan your route to the embassy and check traffic
- Set two alarms — being late is not recoverable
- Review your application form answers one more time
- Get a full night's sleep — fatigue shows
- Valid passport (and any previous passports)
- Appointment confirmation printout
- Completed application form (printed and signed if required)
- Original bank statements (3–6 months, bank-stamped)
- Employment letter on company letterhead
- Payslips (3 months)
- Passport-sized photos (correct spec)
- Supporting documents: itinerary, hotel booking, invitation letter
- Supporting documents specific to your visa type
- Original copies first — photocopies as backup in a separate folder
There is no formal dress code, but how you present yourself creates a first impression. Smart casual is the standard across all East African embassies.
- Arrive 30 minutes early — security queues can be long and you need time
- Leave large bags, laptops, and umbrellas outside — most embassies don't allow them
- Switch phone to silent before entering — don't use it inside
- Remove all metal items before going through security screening
- Follow all instructions from security staff immediately and calmly
- Don't bring food or drinks — they won't be allowed inside
1. Be specific, not vague
"I am visiting for 10 days to attend the Tech Conference in London from July 10–19" is far stronger than "I want to travel and see the UK." Officers hear vague answers hundreds of times a day.
2. Match your answers to your documents
If your bank statement shows a specific local-currency balance and you say you have "enough money," that's a mismatch. Know your exact figures. Your story must match your paperwork exactly.
3. Keep answers short and direct
One question, one answer. Don't volunteer extra information unprompted. Officers are trained to ask follow-up questions for what they need — over-explaining raises suspicion.
4. Speak confidently but calmly
Nervousness is expected and understood. But hesitation, contradictions, and inconsistencies are red flags. Practise your answers out loud until they feel natural.
5. Never lie or exaggerate
Officers have access to databases and can verify many claims. One lie can result in a permanent ban. If you don't know an answer, say so rather than making something up.
6. Prove you will return home
This is the core concern behind almost every question. Every answer should reinforce that you have strong reasons to return: job, family, property, business. Bring that evidence.
"Have you been refused a visa before?"
Always answer honestly — embassies share data. Say yes if yes, name the country and year, and briefly explain what has changed since then. Don't volunteer extra detail unless asked.
"Do you have family in [destination country]?"
Answer honestly. Having family there is not automatically negative — what matters is whether you can prove you'll still return. Emphasise your own ties to home.
"Why didn't you apply for a longer stay?"
Explain your specific travel dates and reason. "My conference ends on the 15th and my return flight is the 16th" is a complete answer.
"How much money do you have?"
Give the exact figure in your bank statement. Don't round up or estimate. Say the exact local-currency amount shown on your statement.
"Who is paying for your trip?"
If it's you: say so and reference your bank statement. If someone else: bring their financial sponsorship letter and relationship proof.
After the interview
- 1If approved on the spot: congratulations — collect your passport as instructed
- 2If told to wait for a decision: this is normal. Don't call the embassy daily — wait the stated processing time
- 3If asked for additional documents (221g, further information): respond promptly and completely
- 4If refused: ask if you can have the refusal reason in writing. You can reapply — read the Reapply Guide
- 5Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is stamped in your passport
Practice makes the difference
Reading is not the same as practising out loud. Use the Interview Simulator to rehearse real questions with live feedback before your actual interview.
Start mock interview