If you’ve started a tourist visa application, chances are you’ve stumbled upon something called a NOC letter—short for No Objection Certificate.

Think of it like a permission slip from your boss, your college, or even your parents (if you’re still studying) that says: “We know they’re traveling, and we’re cool with it.”

It’s simple on paper, but this is one of those things that often confuses travelers. Do you really need it? Who gives it? What’s the right format? Don’t worry—we’ll clear it all up for you right here in 2025.


Who gives the NOC letter?

Usually, the NOC comes from whoever you’re “committed” to at the moment:

  • Employers → if you’re working.
  • Universities/colleges → if you’re a student.
  • Parents/guardians → if you’re underage.

Basically, the letter should come from the authority that needs to confirm, “Yes, they’ll return after the trip.”


Learn more → Who gives the NOC Letter?

 

How do you write a simple NOC letter?

Don’t overthink it—a NOC doesn’t need to be fancy. It should:

  • Be on official letterhead.
  • Mention your name, designation, and passport details.
  • Clearly state: “We have no objection to [name] traveling abroad.”
  • Carry an authorized signature and stamp.

One page is more than enough.


Learn more → Sample NOC letter format for tourist visa

 

What documents are needed for a NOC?

When you ask your HR, college, or parent for a NOC, they may need:

  • A copy of your passport
  • Proof of your travel plans or itinerary
  • Employee/student ID copy
  • Sometimes even travel insurance or embassy appointment confirmation

Tip: Have these ready—it speeds up the process.

 

How to get a NOC from employer in UAE?

In the UAE, it’s pretty straightforward:

  1. Email or write to your HR/manager.
  2. Share your passport and visa details.
  3. Wait 2–5 working days for the letter

Make sure the letter comes on company letterhead and is stamped—embassies usually won’t accept plain paper.


Is NOC mandatory for Canada or UK visa?

Not always. For Canada or the UK, you can sometimes get through without one. But having a NOC is like extra credit—it shows the visa officer that you’ve got strong ties back home.

For Schengen countries or Gulf destinations, though, embassies may ask for it more often.

 

Quick Reference: Tourist Visa NOC Letter

What you need to know

Quick facts

Who issues it

Employer, college, guardian

Processing time

2–7 working days

Valid for

Around 30–60 days before your trip

Format

Letterhead, signed, stamped

Often needed for

Schengen, UAE, Gulf countries


Final Word

Between visa interviews, biometrics, travel insurance, and embassy appointments, the last thing you want is to chase down paperwork like a NOC.

That’s where we step in. At House of Tours, our visa experts handle all the small but important details—so you can focus on the trip, not the stress.