When preparing for a visa application or an international trip, many travelers rely on a dummy flight ticket as temporary proof of onward travel. It’s a convenient option, especially for those who do not want to commit to buying an actual airline ticket before their visa is approved. However, a common question arises: How long is a dummy flight ticket valid? Understanding its validity period is important to avoid issues during visa processing or immigration checks.
What Is a Dummy Flight Ticket?
A dummy flight ticket is a real, verifiable flight reservation that looks identical to a genuine ticket but is not fully paid for. It includes:
Passenger name
Flight details
Date and time
A verifiable PNR (booking reference)
It is primarily used for visa applications, onward travel proof, and meeting immigration requirements. Since it’s a temporary reservation, it naturally has a limited validity period.
Typical Validity of a Dummy Flight Ticket
Most dummy flight tickets remain valid for 24 to 72 hours. This is because airlines automatically cancel unpaid reservations after a short duration. The exact time varies depending on:
Airline policies – Each airline has its own reservation hold period.
Type of booking system used – Some reservation systems hold seats longer than others.
The provider issuing the reservation – Some providers offer extended-validity options.
While 24 to 72 hours is standard, some agencies offer tickets that stay valid for up to 7–14 days, depending on airline availability and the method used to create the reservation.
Why Does the Validity Vary?
The expiration time is based on how the reservation was made. Airlines do not keep unpaid reservations active indefinitely. They eventually release the seats back into the system. Travel agencies may sometimes secure longer hold durations, but these still depend on airline rules.
If you’re using a dummy flight ticket for a visa appointment, it’s important to ensure that:
It is valid on the day of your visa submission
It remains active long enough for verification
You receive a PNR that can be checked online
How to Choose the Right Validity Period
The best validity depends on your purpose:
Visa applications: Choose a ticket valid for at least 48–72 hours or longer if possible.
Immigration checks: A 24–48 hour ticket is usually enough since verification happens instantly.
Documentation for travel planning: A shorter validity is sufficient if only needed temporarily.
Some providers allow you to request the desired validity period, making it easier to align with your visa appointment date.
What Happens When a Ticket Expires?
Once the reservation expires, the PNR becomes invalid and the booking disappears from the airline system. This does not affect your visa process as long as the document was valid during verification.
Final Thoughts
A dummy flight ticket is a helpful tool for meeting travel and visa requirements without purchasing an expensive flight upfront. Most remain valid for 24 to 72 hours, although extended options are available through some providers. Always choose a reliable service and confirm the validity period before submission to ensure your document remains active when needed.