Schengen Visa Application: IT Returns in Rectification Status - What to Do?

When applying for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands (NL) under the 3-year umbrella visa (Titul ajuridico residence permit), it's essential to present your most recent yearly income tax returns (Indirect Tax Return or ITR) with your visa application. The aim is to demonstrate your financial stability and ties to your home country. However, in some cases, your latest ITR might still be in rectification status, which could complicate the application process. This article explores whether you can use a rectification acknowledgment or form 16 as an alternative.

Importance of IT Returns in the Schengen Visa Application

For a Schengen visa, particularly for long-term stays like the 3-year NL residence permit, tax returns are a critical component. These returns not only demonstrate your financial stability but also serve as evidence that you have a legal and stable residence in your home country. Most visa officers require the most recent tax return as it reflects your current financial status.

Can You Use a Rectification Acknowledgment?

The rectification of your tax return usually occurs due to corrections made to your previous year's declaration to correct errors or omissions. This process is standard and expected, and it also highlights your commitment to compliance with tax laws. While it's important to rectify any errors for the sake of your tax record, does this mean you need to include rectification in your visa application?

Understandably, you are concerned about whether you should include the acknowledgment or the original statement in your application. In my opinion, it's best to provide copies of your original submitted tax returns with an acknowledgment. The fact that your return is still in rectification status is a temporary situation and does not diminish your financial or legal ties to your home country.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:

Attach copies of your most recent submitrsquo;d tax returns along with the rectification acknowledgment. Ensure that the acknowledgment clearly mentions the corrections made and sign it if needed. Highlight the ongoing status of rectification in your explanation to the visa officer, assuring them that the corrections are being made swiftly and won't impact your financial stability.

Using Form 16 as an Alternative

Form 16, officially known as the “ITR-V (Special Return of Income under section 139(4A))”, is a declaration confirming that your tax return has been completed and verified. However, in the context of the Schengen visa, form 16 primarily serves as evidence of the submission of a tax return, not its status.

While form 16 can confirm the submission process of your tax return, it may not be as effective as the rectification acknowledgment in this specific case. The acknowledgment provides more detail about the status of your tax return and any changes made during the rectification process.

Nonetheless, if your tax return is not yet rectified and you require an immediate decision, you can use a form 16 as a substitute, but it might not provide the same assurance to the visa officer.

Steps to use form 16 as an alternative:

Attach a copy of your tax return along with the form 16. Explain the ongoing rectification process in your visa application. Ensure to highlight that you are actively working on completing the rectification process as soon as possible.

Important Considerations for Your Application

No matter which option you choose, it's crucial to keep a positive and constructive tone in your application. Explain the situation honestly and succinctly. If your return is rectified before your visa application is processed, you can include a note about it to show your proactive approach to resolving any issues.

Other supporting documents such as payslips, bank statements, and property documents can also strengthen your application by providing a comprehensive picture of your financial stability and ties to your home country.

Conclusion

In summary, attaching copies of your original submitted tax returns with a rectification acknowledgment is the best approach for your Schengen visa application. If your return is not rectified yet, using a form 16 as a temporary measure is also an option, but ensure to explain the ongoing process in your application. By providing clear and detailed information, you can strengthen your application and improve your chances of obtaining the Schengen visa.