If you’re applying for a tourist visa, there’s one thing you can’t skip: proof of funds. Almost every country wants to know that you can afford your trip and that you’re likely to return home, not overstay. But how much money is enough? That depends entirely on where you’re going and how long you plan to stay.
Let’s break it down.
Why Bank Balance Matters for a Visa
Visa officers aren’t just checking if you can book a hotel or flight. They want to be sure:
- You can cover your full trip without relying on public funds abroad.
- You have strong ties to your home country (like a job or steady income).
- You’re not planning to disappear into the country as an overstayer.
Visa officials look at:
- Bank statements (usually the last 3–6 months)
- Payslips and income tax returns
- Detailed travel itinerary (tickets, hotel bookings)
- Travel insurance
- A record of travel history, if you have one
The goal? Convince them you’re a genuine traveller who will comply with their country’s rules and return home as promised.
Tourist Visa Bank Balance Requirements by Country
Here’s a look at how much money you should ideally show in your bank account for tourist visas to major destinations:
1. United States – B1/B2 Visitor Visa
The United States doesn’t set a fixed financial requirement, but visa officers expect to see a healthy bank balance and clear proof you can afford your trip.
- Suggested Bank Balance: $6,000–$10,000
(₹5–8 lakh) for a 15–20 day trip - Key Documents:
- Last 6 months’ bank statements
- Salary slips
- Income tax returns
- Detailed travel plan
- Sponsor details if applicable
👉 No fixed minimum, but anything that proves you can fund your stay comfortably helps.
2. Australia – Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
Australia expects visitors to show enough funds for accommodation, meals, and travel. Daily expenses add up, so a decent balance is crucial.
- Suggested Bank Balance: AUD 5,000–10,000
(₹2.5–5 lakh) for a 2–4 week trip - Expected Daily Spend: AUD 100–150 (₹5,000–7,500)
- Key Documents:
- 3 to 6 months’ bank statements
- Income proof
- Travel itinerary
- Sponsor letters if applicable
3. France – Schengen Visa
France sets a daily minimum amount you must show. If you’re staying with friends or family, the requirement may be lower, but documentation is still key.
- Suggested Bank Balance: €100–120 per day
(₹9,000–11,000) = ₹1.5–2 lakh for 15 days - Lower Rate for Groups: €45 per day (₹4,000)
- Key Documents:
- 3 months’ bank statements
- Salary slips
- Credit card statements
- Hotel bookings or invitation letter
- Travel insurance with €30,000 coverage
4. Spain – Schengen Visa
Spain requires visitors to show proof of around €100 per day. For a two-week trip, you’ll need to demonstrate financial stability and solid travel plans.
- Minimum Required: €100 per day, minimum €900
(₹81,000+) but ₹1.5–2 lakh is safer - Key Documents:
- 3 to 6 months’ financial statements
- Return flight tickets
- Hotel reservations
- Travel insurance
- Employment proof
5. Germany – Schengen Visa
Germany follows a similar model to other Schengen countries, with a daily minimum and mandatory insurance. Officials closely review financial consistency.
- Suggested Bank Balance: Same as France and Spain
(₹1.5–2 lakh for 15 days) - Key Documents:
- Bank statements
- Confirmed bookings
- Round-trip tickets
- Travel insurance worth €30,000
👉 Germany’s embassy often scrutinises consistency in deposits, so avoid sudden large sums in your account.
6. Canada – Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
Canada doesn’t publish a fixed amount, but you’ll need to prove you can cover your stay, especially if you’re visiting friends or attending an event.
- Suggested Bank Balance: CAD 5,000–10,000
(₹3–6 lakh) for 2–4 weeks - Estimated Daily Cost: CAD 100–150 (₹6,000–9,000)
- Key Documents:
- Bank statements (3 to 6 months)
- Hotel bookings
- Travel plans
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
7. Japan – Tourist Visa
Japan is strict about paperwork. While no specific bank balance is required, your financial documents must align with your travel plans and itinerary.
- Suggested Bank Balance: Not fixed, but ₹1.5–2 lakh is generally safe for a 15-day trip
- Key Documents:
- Last 3 months’ bank statements
- Employment certificate
- Income proof
- Travel itinerary
- Hotel and flight bookings
Tip: Japan is known for strict document scrutiny. Keep everything consistent, and don’t forget travel insurance.
A Few Final Tips
- Don’t just dump money into your account before applying. Sudden large deposits raise red flags. Visa officers want to see a stable financial pattern.
- Travel insurance matters. Many embassies require minimum coverage (typically €30,000 for Schengen).
- Got a sponsor? Make sure their finances can support both your trip and their own lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much money you need in the bank for a visa. But if you can clearly show that you can afford your trip, have strong ties to your home country, and aren’t hiding anything, you’re already halfway there.
Always check the specific requirements for the country you’re visiting before applying—because getting it right the first time saves time, stress, and maybe even your travel plans.
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