If you're applying for a visa, you’ll almost always see this requirement in the checklist: proof of round-trip flight reservation. But that doesn't mean you need to book a real ticket right away.

Two options usually come up:

• Dummy flight ticket
• Refundable flight ticket

Each has pros and cons. Choosing the wrong one could cost you money or delay your visa.

Let’s make it simple.

What Are Dummy Flight Tickets?

A dummy flight ticket is a temporary flight reservation that’s not actually paid for in full. It includes all the details:

• Your name
• Destination
• Dates
• Flight numbers
• Booking reference

But it’s not meant for real travel. You can’t use it to board a flight.

These tickets are often created:

• By travel agencies
• Through certain airline websites (that allow ticket holds)
• On visa support websites

They’re usually valid for 2 to 3 days, just long enough to complete a visa application.

What Are Refundable Flight Tickets?

Refundable tickets are genuine flight bookings. You pay the full fare in advance, and you can cancel later to get your money back.

Key features:

• Real tickets issued in your name
• Valid for boarding
• Can be refunded with or without cancellation fees
• Some refunds take time days or even weeks

These tickets are most often used by:

• Travelers who are sure about dates
• Those applying for long-term visas
• People who need more flexibility

Why Do Embassies Ask for Flight Tickets?

Embassies don’t care which airline you choose. They just want to confirm:

• Your entry and exit dates
• That you plan to return
• That you have a clear travel plan

And no, they don’t expect you to buy a ₹90,000 ticket just for a visa. That’s why dummy tickets are widely accepted.

Table: Comparing Dummy and Refundable Tickets

When Are Dummy Tickets the Better Option?

In most cases, dummy tickets are the smarter choice for visa applications. Use them when:

• You are applying for tourist or business visas
• The consulate asks for a flight reservation, not a real ticket
• You’re still waiting for approval
• Your travel plans aren’t final

They’re cheap, fast, and usually valid for 48–72 hours just enough time to complete your appointment.

Also, dummy tickets are especially useful if you’re applying for a Schengen visa, UK tourist visa, or US visitor visa. These embassies often prefer reservations over fully-paid tickets.

When Should You Choose a Refundable Ticket?

Refundable tickets are useful when:

• You’re applying for a long-term visa (student or work)
• The embassy clearly says “confirmed ticket”
• You have urgent travel dates
• You want to finalize everything early

They also make sense if you find a fully refundable fare with no cancellation charges, but those are rare.

Some embassies (like Japan, South Korea, or UAE) may expect confirmed bookings. Always check your specific consulate’s guidelines.

What Happens If You Use a Dummy Ticket?

A well-formatted dummy ticket should include:

• Your full name
• Exact travel dates
• Departure and return locations
• Airline and flight numbers
• Booking reference or PNR

When submitted, visa officers simply review it to confirm your travel intent. If it looks real and aligns with your other documents, it’s accepted.

They don’t verify every ticket with the airline — unless there’s a reason to doubt your application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Submitting an Incomplete Ticket

A dummy ticket should have valid-looking airline info, a booking code, and matching names.

2. Booking a Non-Refundable Real Ticket

If your visa is denied, there’s no getting that money back.

3. Using Fake-Looking Documents

Never generate fake tickets using shady websites. Visa officers can tell. Use legit sources a real agency or airline with a booking hold system.

4. Ticket Dates Don’t Match Hotel or Itinerary

Keep all your documents consistent. If your ticket says Jan 5–15 and your hotel booking is Jan 6–10, that’s a red flag.

How to Get a Dummy Ticket Safely

Here are 3 legit ways:

• Travel agent or visa consultant: They usually charge ₹300–₹1000 for a confirmed dummy reservation.
• Use websites like Yatra, MakeMyTrip, or Expedia: Some offer 24-hour hold options.
• Some airlines like Lufthansa or Emirates: Offer “book now, pay later” features valid for 48–72 hours.

Final Thoughts: Which Ticket Should You Use?

Still deciding between dummy and refundable tickets?

Here’s a simple rule:

• If your visa isn’t approved yet, go with a dummy ticket.
• If your visa is approved or your travel is urgent, book a refundable ticket.

Dummy flight tickets are affordable, accepted, and practical for most short-term visa applications.

Just don’t forget:

• Book from a real source
• Match all dates across documents
• Submit within the validity period

That’s all a consulate is looking for.