How to avoid common travel-document application mistakes

Enter names, passport number, nationality, date of birth, issue date and expiry date exactly as shown on the passport you will use. Do not translate, shorten or rearrange names unless the official form instructs you to do so.

If you renew or replace your passport after approval, check whether the document remains valid or must be updated or replaced.

Tourism, business, study, employment and transit can have different requirements. Select the purpose that accurately reflects the planned activity. If an official description is unclear, seek guidance from the authority or a qualified adviser where appropriate.

Follow the official file type, size and image-quality instructions. Make sure every page is complete, readable and current. Do not edit documents in a way that changes their meaning or hides information.

Government services may send questions, payment notices or decisions to the email address in the application. Check spelling, monitor spam folders and keep access to the account used to apply.

Read the completed form from start to finish. Compare key fields directly with the passport and itinerary. A second careful review is usually faster than correcting a submitted application.

Never submit information you do not understand or know to be inaccurate. Government authorities decide outcomes, and no private service can guarantee approval.