You have submitted your visa application, and now embassy has called you for interview. If you are wondering what to wear, do not worry. Here you will find everything you need to know about dress code for visa interview in India. This blog explains everything you need to know about visa interview dress code for males and females. You can follow these tips for Schengen or any other country visa interview in India.
Visa interview dress code
The dress code for any visa interview is “dress for your comfort”. It means you should dress in way that feels comfortable to you. You do not need very formal outfit, and you should not overdress. Just make sure your clothes are neat, clean, and fit you well. You should look professional, but still feel relaxed. Do not stress too much about what you are wearing. If you do not look messy or careless, you will be fine.
How you dress creates first impression. It shows how confident you feel and how you carry yourself. Because of this, your appearance can affect interview result. Your visa decision depends not only on your documents but also on how you perform in interview.
Dress code for visa interview for Male
Indian males should go with the following dress code:
- Choose light color, collared shirt that is clean and well ironed. Make sure color is not faded.
- Pair it with dark suit in black or navy blue for safe, professional look.
- Clean, polished formal shoes make good impression.
- Keep hair neat and tidy. Comb it properly and use small amount of gel only if required.
- Trim beard neatly or go clean shave for sharp look.
- Adding tie can make you look more professional.
- Light, fresh fragrance is fine but keep it subtle.
- Head covering is fine if it is for religious reason.
- Wear glasses only if doctor has prescribed them.
Don’ts for Indian Males
- Bright or flashy shirts that stand out too much.
- Casual tops like T-shirts, polos, or vests.
- Flip-flops, sneakers, or loafers.
- Shorts or jeans.
- Heavy jewellery or noticeable piercings.
Dress code for visa interview for female
Indian females should go with the following dress code:
- You can wear salwar suit or saree. Both look professional and appropriate.
- In winter, you can choose kurti with leggings and add coat or blazer. Make sure clothes are clean, well ironed, and not faded.
- Keep makeup soft and natural. Little eyeliner or kohl is enough.
- Choose simple jewellery like watch or small earrings. Keep it minimal.
- Use light fragrance. Do not overdo it.
- Pick comfortable shoes so you can walk with ease.
- Tie your hair in simple style like bun, braid, or ponytail.
- If your nails look chipped, you can apply neat nail polish.
Don’ts for Indian females
- Do not wear tight, revealing, or very casual clothes.
- Avoid jeans, shorts, capris, or miniskirts.
- Stay away from neon or very bright colors.
- Do not wear heavy jewellery.
- Avoid complicated hairstyles.
- Skip heavy makeup and strong perfume.
How to ace visa interview
1. Be Punctual: The VFS Global website advises us to arrive 15 minutes before the Visa interview. It helps us to calm down before we actually go for the Visa interview.
2. Smile: Keep polite, professional smile. It shows confidence.
3. Good posture: Sit straight. Keep back upright and legs at right angle. Good posture shows confidence.
4. Speak clearly: Listen carefully to each question. Answer politely, honestly and in short sentences. Be clear about your travel purpose and travel plan.
5. Maintain eye contact: Look at officer while answering. If more than one person is present, look at each person when responding.
6. Be prepared: You should carry all documents, photos. separate files with paper clips. Good organization saves time and shows you are serious.

Schengen Visa Rejection Reasons
FAQs
How long does the visa interview go on for?
Duration for visa interview defers country wise. Still the visa interview usually goes on for 15 – 20 minutes.
What colour shirt should I wear for my Visa interview?
You may wear neutral and light coloured shirts like white and blue.
Are visa interviews very difficult?
No, visa interviews are not as difficult as they seem. You just need to be clear about your travel purpose and travel plan. Bring all required documents and your visa application form.
Are mobile phones allowed for visa interview?
It depends on the country embassies/consulates or visa center. Like US embassy does not allow mobile phones.
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