If a family member or friend is sponsoring your visit visa (e.g., UK Family Visitor, German Verpflichtungserklärung, Canadian Super Visa), the flight documentation rules can be confusing. Who should book the dummy ticket? Does it need the sponsor’s name? Here’s what you need to know.
Who Should Book the Dummy Ticket?
The applicant (visitor) should book the dummy ticket in their own name. The sponsor’s role is to provide an invitation letter, proof of funds, and sometimes a formal sponsorship declaration. The flight itinerary must match the applicant’s passport exactly.
However, the sponsor can pay for the dummy ticket on behalf of the applicant. Our booking form allows any credit card or payment method – the ticket will still be issued in the applicant’s name.
Does the Dummy Ticket Need the Sponsor’s Name?
No. The passenger name field must contain the traveller’s (applicant’s) name. Adding the sponsor’s name would make the ticket invalid. The sponsorship is proven through separate documents (invitation letter, bank statements, sponsorship undertaking).
Special Rules by Visa Type
- UK Family Visitor Visa: Requires a clear return date. A dummy round‑trip ticket is acceptable, but the sponsor’s invitation letter should mention flight arrangements.
- German Verpflichtungserklärung (formal obligation): The sponsor declares they will cover costs, including return travel. A dummy ticket in the applicant’s name is fine, but some consulates prefer a fully refundable ticket.
- Canadian Super Visa (parents/grandparents): Requires proof of medical insurance and invitation, but a dummy flight itinerary is accepted for the initial application.
- Australian Sponsored Family Visitor Visa: Dummy tickets are accepted, but the sponsor must show sufficient funds to cover the ticket if needed.
How to Present the Dummy Ticket in Your Application
- Include the flight itinerary as part of the applicant’s documents (not the sponsor’s).
- In the cover letter, state: “Flight reservation has been made pending visa approval. The actual ticket will be purchased after the visa is granted.”
- If the sponsor paid for the dummy ticket, include a note: “Flight reservation was arranged by the sponsor [name] and is verifiable with PNR [code].”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #2: Using an expired dummy ticket (validity only 72h). Submit your application within that window.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to mention sponsorship in the cover letter – the embassy may question who is paying.
Sample Cover Letter Wording
“Dear Visa Officer, I [applicant name] am applying for a sponsored visit visa to the UK. My sponsor, [sponsor name], has invited me to stay from [dates]. Enclosed is a verifiable flight reservation (PNR: XXXXXX) showing my planned departure and return dates. I will purchase the actual ticket once my visa is approved. Thank you for your consideration.”