Schengen Visa Application Guide for Filipinos: FAQs & Essential Tips
Planning a trip to Europe? If you're a Filipino traveler dreaming of exploring the historic streets of Paris, the scenic landscapes of Switzerland, or the vibrant culture of Spain, you’ll need a Schengen visa. However, applying for one can be overwhelming, with countless requirements and procedures to follow.
To help you navigate the process with ease, we've compiled the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Schengen visa applications for Filipinos. Whether you're wondering about requirements, fees, interview questions, or tips to increase your approval chances, this guide has everything you need to know.
1. Where should I apply for a Schengen visa in the Philippines?
You should apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most time. If you are visiting multiple Schengen countries for an equal duration, apply at the embassy of the country you will enter first.
Schengen Embassies & Consulates in the Philippines:
📍 Embassy of France – 16th Floor, Pacific Star Building, Makati City | 📞 +63 2 857 6900
📍 Embassy of Germany – 25th Floor, Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, Makati City | 📞 +63 2 702 3000
📍 Embassy of Italy – 6/F Zeta Building, 191 Salcedo St., Makati City | 📞 +63 2 892 4531
📍 Embassy of Spain – 5/F ACT Tower, Makati City | 📞 +63 2 881 7666
📍 Royal Netherlands Embassy – 26/F, One Global Place, BGC, Taguig | 📞 +63 2 786 6655
📍 Embassy of Greece – 23rd Floor, Tower 1, RCBC Plaza, Makati City | 📞 +63 2 817 4444
For other Schengen embassies, visit VFS Global or check the official embassy websites.
2. What are the general requirements for a Schengen visa?
Completed visa application form
Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond departure)
Passport-sized photos
Travel itinerary & flight reservation
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
Travel insurance (€30,000 coverage minimum)
Proof of financial means (bank statements, employment certificate, or sponsor’s documents)
Visa fee payment
3. How much is the Schengen visa fee for Filipinos?
€80 for adults
€40 for children (6-12 years old)
Free for children under 6
4. How long does it take to process a Schengen visa?
Processing typically takes 15 to 30 days. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your trip.
5. Can I apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
Yes, but approval depends on your travel history, financial stability, and previous visa compliance.
6. What happens if my Schengen visa application is denied?
You will receive a refusal letter stating the reason. You can appeal or reapply after fixing the issue.
👉 How to Appeal a Schengen Visa Denial
7. Is an interview required for a Schengen visa?
Some embassies require interviews, depending on your profile and documents.
8. Can I work in Europe with a Schengen visa?
No, a Schengen visa is for tourism, business, or family visits only. To work, you need a national work visa from the specific country.
9. Can I apply if I’m unemployed?
Yes, but you need a sponsor who will provide an affidavit of support, proof of relationship, and financial documents.
10. Can a friend, relative, or company in Europe sponsor my trip?
Yes. If someone in Europe is inviting or sponsoring you, they must provide:
Invitation letter stating your relationship, purpose of visit, and duration of stay
Copy of the sponsor’s passport or residence permit
Proof of their financial capacity (bank statements, salary slips, or tax returns)
Proof of accommodation (host’s utility bill or rental contract if you will stay at their home)
11. How much money should I have in my bank account?
While there is no official amount, you should have at least €50-€100 per day of stay, depending on your itinerary.
12. Is a bank certificate enough for proof of financial capacity?
No. You need both a bank certificate and 3-6 months of bank statements to show financial activity.
13. Do I need to translate my documents?
Some embassies require translations into English or their official language. Check the specific embassy’s guidelines.
14. Can I apply for a Schengen visa outside the Philippines?
Yes, if you have legal residence in that country (e.g., work permit, residence visa).
15. What should I wear for the visa interview?
Dress business casual or formal to make a good impression.
16. Can I reapply immediately after a visa denial?
You should address the reasons for rejection first. Some embassies have a waiting period before reapplying.
17. How long is a Schengen visa valid?
The validity depends on the visa type:
Single-entry visa – Allows one entry into Schengen.
Multiple-entry visa – Allows several trips within its validity.
18. Can I visit multiple Schengen countries with a single-entry visa?
Yes, as long as you stay within the Schengen Area. If you exit (e.g., visit the UK), you cannot return.
19. Can I apply for a Schengen visa without previous travel history?
Yes, but having previous travel experience strengthens your application. If you have never traveled abroad, you must prove strong ties to the Philippines to show that you will return after your trip.
Ways to Strengthen Ties to the Philippines:
✔ Stable Employment – Submit an employment certificate, payslips, and leave approval letter from your employer.
✔ Business Ownership – Provide your business registration, tax records, and financial statements.
✔ Property Ownership – Show land titles, condominium certificates, or vehicle registration under your name.
✔ Family Ties – Indicate strong family connections (spouse, children, or elderly parents) and submit marriage certificates or birth certificates.
✔ Long-Term Financial Stability – Provide bank statements showing consistent income, investments, or savings.
✔ Education Enrollment – If you're a student, submit a certificate of enrollment and a no-objection letter from your school.
20. Do I need to submit my original passport?
Yes, because the visa is stamped into your passport. It will be returned after processing.
21. What if I lose my passport after getting a Schengen visa?
You must apply for a new passport and visa. Report the lost passport to authorities immediately.
22. What happens if I overstay my Schengen visa?
Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, a ban from Schengen countries, and future visa denials.
Applying for a Schengen visa as a Filipino may seem overwhelming, but with proper preparation and complete documentation, your chances of approval are much higher. Whether you're traveling for tourism, visiting family, or attending a business event, following the embassy guidelines and ensuring strong ties to the Philippines will help make the process smoother.
If your visa gets denied, don’t lose hope—you can always reapply or appeal the decision. Make sure to address any issues mentioned in the refusal letter and improve your supporting documents.
For more visa tips, travel guides, and updates, stay tuned to our blog or join our facebook group and we will answer your questions there! Safe travels, and we hope you get your Schengen visa soon! ✈️😊
