How to apply Schengen visa from the Philippines is one of the most common questions asked by Filipinos looking to travel to Europe for short visits. Contrary to popular sentiments, the application process is not as difficult as many make it out to be. Although the process follows a strict procedure, those with the required documents can successfully apply for the visa, and if they meet all the conditions, they will be issued the visa. In this article, we review the entire process to get you prepared for your application.
Do Philippine Passport Holders Need A Schengen Visa?
The Philippines is not on the visa free list of Schengen countries, so every Filipino who wishes to visit must obtain a visa before they travel to Europe. However, not only citizens may apply for this visa; there are permanent or temporary residents in the country who are citizens of other countries who may also apply for the visa. There are also dual citizens of the Philippines and a second country who may use it, provided they meet all the necessary conditions.
Those who already have a visa issued by an EU country that is part of the Schengen zone don’t need to apply for a Schengen visa all over again, and they can use the existing visa to make the trip.
Which Countries Can I Visit With A Schengen Visa?
For starters, you can visit all 27 member states of the Schengen region; these states are signatories to the Schengen Agreement and try to operate a standard border policy. This policy allows visitors and citizens to freely enter and exit the countries in the region. Furthermore, visa holders can also visit non-Schengen countries in Europe, like Croatia, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania. The Schengen visa is a multinational visa recognized by almost all nations in Europe.
How To Apply for Schengen Visa From the Philippines?
Now that you know the countries you can visit with a Schengen visa, how do you apply for it? You must submit your application to the country’s embassy you wish to see. Many EU countries have their embassies in Manila with consulates in Luzon and other cities. The embassy you should focus on is that of the first country you wish to enter based on the first entry rule.
To visit the embassy, you will most likely have to book an appointment with them and get a date for an interview. The visa officer will review your documents during the interview and also ask questions regarding your trip. If all is in order, they will pass your documents to the right quarters for onward processing, which may take 4-6 weeks.
Schengen Visa Rules
Here are some of the Schengen visa rules to bear in mind.
First Entry Rule: The first entry rule states that visitors to Schengen Europe must first visit the country they earmarked as their country of primary destination before traveling to any other country in the zone. Going somewhere else first may lead to problems with the immigration authorities of that country.
90/180 Rule: This rule concerns the number of days visitors can stay in the Schengen region. Based on travel regulations, visitors are not allowed to remain in the area for more than 90 days within a six months period. As a visitor, it is wise to continuously calculate the days you have spent after arriving. This rule cover trips to one or more countries.
Family Members of Residents: Family members of residents still need to apply for visas before visiting them. Residency is not transferred from one person to another by virtue of family relations but is issued individually.
What Is the Visa Application Fee, And How Do I Pay It?
The visa fee for this visa is mandatory; otherwise, the application will not be processed. The standard visa fee is €80 but children ages 6-11 pay just €40, while children under 6 pay nothing. This fee is not refundable, and once paid, the receipt must be attached to the application as evidence. How you pay the fee will depend on the embassy you are dealing with.
Schengen Visa Documents For Filipinos
Completed application form
Valid Filipino passport
Proof of financial means
Proof of accommodation
Medical travel insurance
Cover letter invitation letter where applicable
Round trip flight itinerary
Civil Status Certificate, where applicable
Additional documents may be required, but these are the major ones.
Schengen Visa Validity
Schengen visas are only for short visits and are valid for 180 days. If you wish to visit longer than 90 days, we recommend applying for a long term visa, like a work or study visa, not a visa.
Now that you know how to apply Schengen visa from the Philippines put together your documents and submit your application at the appropriate embassy.