Yes, dummy hotel bookings are accepted by many embassies, including Schengen embassies, as long as the booking is legitimate, verifiable, and realistic.
What most Schengen embassies expect
Most consulates and visa centers in the Schengen Area accept temporary or unpaid hotel reservations (often called dummy bookings) because:
- They serve as proof of accommodation, which is a mandatory part of the visa application.
- Embassies do not usually require proof of payment, only that you have arranged accommodation.
- The reservation needs to include your name, the hotel name and address, check-in and check-out dates, and a valid confirmation number that the embassy can verify with the hotel.
When dummy bookings are accepted
Schengen embassies generally accept dummy or temporary hotel reservations if they are:
- Authentic and verifiable (not fake or generated from a template).
- Issued by a recognised booking service or directly from a hotel with a valid booking ID.
- Matching your travel dates and itinerary in the visa application.
How do I receive a verifiable hotel booking confirmation?
Actually, getting a hotel confirmation is simple. You book the accommodation either directly through the hotel website, on a booking service, or through a travel agency such as Schengen Visa Itinerary. You will receive an email confirmation, usually in a few minutes.
The entire process of booking your hotel for the visa is easy and can be completed in only a few simple steps:
1. Go to Schengen Visa Itinerary.
2. Choose the product “Hotel Booking Plan Only.”
3. Submit your travel details and complete the payment online.
4. Receive your official proof of hotel reservation directly by email.
5. Print the email and present it to the diplomatic office during your scheduled visa interview.
These reservations are specifically tailored for visa applications and are widely accepted by most Schengen embassies and consulates. In addition to hotel reservations, these services also offer flight reservations and travel insurance, helping applicants fulfil all necessary visa requirements efficiently.
In summary
Yes, many Schengen embassies accept dummy hotel bookings, but only if they are real, verifiable, and match your travel plan. Confirm details with the specific embassy you are applying through to be sure.
If you need assistance with your Visa application, our Schengen Visa Itinerary Support Team will be happy to help.