Flight reservation vs flight ticket
What each one is, what it costs, and which to use while your visa is being processed.
The short answer
A flight reservation is a booking held with the airline under a booking reference (PNR) but not yet paid for. A flight ticket is a paid booking that has been issued and is valid for travel. For a visa application you often only need to show your plans, so a reservation avoids tying up hundreds of pounds before you know the outcome.
| Reservation | Paid ticket | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | A small fee | The full airline fare |
| Booking reference (PNR) | Yes, verifiable on the airline site | Yes |
| Valid for travel | No | Yes |
| If the visa is refused | You lose only the small fee | Change or cancel fees may apply; some fares are non-refundable |
| Hold time | Set by the airline, then released | Until the flight |
When a reservation is the right choice
- The embassy asks for proof of onward or return travel but allows a reservation.
- You will only buy the ticket once the visa is approved.
- You need to show dates for a sponsor, employer or visa agent.
When you need a real ticket
- The embassy explicitly requires a paid or issued ticket.
- You are about to travel.
Always read the instructions of the embassy or visa centre. We do not guarantee visa approval or acceptance of any document.
Questions
Is a flight reservation legal to use for a visa?
A genuine reservation is a real booking record created with an airline. Whether an embassy or visa centre accepts it is their decision, so check their instructions. Never submit a document that is not what it claims to be.
What happens when the reservation expires?
The airline releases the seats. Nothing is charged. If you want to travel you must buy the ticket from the airline before it expires.
Can I turn the reservation into a ticket?
Yes, if the airline still has seats at that fare. Contact the airline with your booking reference to pay and issue the ticket.