Nothing compares to the excitement of preparing for an overseas vacation, whether to Schengen countries or other international destinations. Everything else takes a backseat as we get busy planning shopping agendas, tourist places to visit, exotic meals to indulge in, and markets to explore.
That is why, it is important for your travel documentation to be just as impeccable as your in-trip plans. While visa applications, insurance, as well as airline and hotel reservation itineraries must be as per global requirements, let’s not forget the No Objection Certificate or NOC Letter!
What is an NOC Letter?
An NOC Letter is an official document, one page long, authorizing you to take leave from work or studies in order to spend time away from your home country. It tells Visa Officials that your visit is temporary and that you will return at the end of your stipulated stay.
While an NOC is mandatory only for a few Schengen countries, it is still advisable to get one arranged even if your particular destination does not ask for it. Doing so will improve your chances of getting the Schengen Visa, and also speed up the overall Visa Application Process.
Types of NOC Letters and How to Obtain Them
The type of NOC letter applicable to you depends upon whether you are an employee or a student. The content of the letter also differs accordingly.
NOC Letter for Employees
If you are an employee, you must request your Primary Employer or Senior Manager for the NOC Letter. Multinational corporations usually have an online process for managing NOC applications. In this case, a digitally stamped / signed NOC is delivered to you right into your inbox, which you can then print out. For smaller companies, you will have to meet your employer personally and get the NOC application process initiated. Here, the letters are usually hand-written.
NOC Letter for Students
If you are a student, you can approach your School Principal, Head of Department, or College / University Dean to obtain the NOC. If the trip is planned during academic workdays, then provide adequate assurance that you will cover missed classes and get up-to-date on your assignments within the given timelines.
Salient Features of an NOC Letter
The format of an NOC Letter is like a formal letter. It contains the: (1) date on which the letter is written, (2) address of the Visa Application Centre, (3) salutation and subject line, (4) body, (5) signature of the superior, (6) name, designation, and phone number of the superior along with company address.
The body of the letter should not be lengthy or complicated. It should only contain the superior’s affirmation that he/she does not have any objection towards you obtaining a Schengen Visa and that they trust your return to fulfill your obligations.
Also, since an NOC needs to address your travel dates, it is advisable that you have a flight itinerary and hotel reservation to prove your travel timelines. This will make your superior more acceptable to issuing the NOC.