Please clarify - - why send so much evidence???

[Constant]

Hi all, I am quite lost and confused with the amount of evidence EC applicants are providing. From what I understand, the guidance notes paragragh 61-79
http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/6353/1 ... p1guidance
states that evidence required is:
1. Completed VAF1
2. HSMP Approval letter
3. Passport size photos
4. Proof of funds
5. Birth certificates & marriage certificate (if you have a family)

That seems straight forward but I have read so many accounts of applicants sending ALL THE DOCUMENTS USED FOR HSMP APPROVAL (and in some cases leading to EC officials making points re-evaluations and refusing entry) and tax returns going back 3 years. Why? I am currently in the UK and will be doing some travelling and hope to make HSMP EC application. I am just lost as to why applicants are sending so much evidence when the guidance notes don't even ask for them.

Is it even necessary? Any examples of EC applications that were kept simple?

Please clarify....thanks in advance.

[gordon]

It appears to vary considerably by country; visa posts in some countries require extensive additional documentation for a pre-screening process before the entry clearance is granted by the visa post. In contrast, for instance, visa posts in the US require what's listed in the guidance notes (although many of us, I think, provided at least some of the evidence from the initial application, to demonstrate eligibility for the visa category under which we were requesting entry clearance). AG

[jagacharaja]

It appears to vary considerably by country; visa posts in some countries require extensive additional documentation for a pre-screening process before the entry clearance is granted by the visa post. In contrast, for instance, visa posts in the US require what's listed in the guidance notes (although many of us, I think, provided at least some of the evidence from the initial application, to demonstrate eligibility for the visa category under which we were requesting entry clearance). AG

agreed. i was also overwhelmed by the many posts on this and other forums that talked abt including piles n' piles of evidence. however i just stuck to what the consulate under my jurisdiction required, took their "advice" - http://www.britainusa.com/visas/article ... 8&L1=41000 - step 2, under "advice for applicants", and that's abt it.

for eg:

- i didn't send them my driver's licence 'caus they already had my passport
- didn't send them the paystubs 'caus i'd included my W-2
- i think i'd also included the NARIC letter and bachelor's degree certificate

i'm sure it varies from country to country but i guess the safest thing to do would be to check out the requirements for the consulate/bhc that falls under your jurisdiction - and remember that the onus is on you to prove to them that you are eligible to apply for ec under hsmp. good luck.

[Constant]

Thanks for the info and advice. Applying via EC is not a uniform process and depends on the local BHC policy. Makes perfect sense now. Cheers