Are you a Filipino dreaming of exploring the charming streets of Paris, the historic ruins of Rome, or the picturesque canals of Amsterdam? Your gateway to these European adventures is the Schengen visa. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a Schengen visa as a Philippine citizen.

What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa allows you to enter and travel freely within the Schengen Area, which consists of 26 European countries that have agreed to allow free movement of their citizens within this area as a single jurisdiction for international travel purposes.

Steps to Apply for a Schengen Visa

1. Determine the Appropriate Embassy

First, identify which Schengen country you'll be visiting first or where you'll spend the most time. You should apply for your visa at that country's embassy or consulate in the Philippines.

2. Gather Required Documents

You'll need to prepare the following:

• Required documents for Application: 
• New Passport valid for 6 months (Original and with a signature on the 3rd Page) 
• Old passports within the last 10 years (Original) 
• Photocopy of First Page (Bio page), Last Page, Immigration Stamps and Visas. (New and Old Passports) 
• 2pcs Passport-Sized Colored Photo (White Background, In Formal Attire, with both Ears fully visible, no teeth shown, 
• and No eyeglasses) 
• Bank Certificate (Original) (Personal account) ** Must Include: Account Name, Account Number, Account Type, 
• Current Balance, and Account Opening date **  
• Bank certificates must be addressed to the embassy corresponding to the visa application. 
• (Dependent on the embassy where you are applying for the visa) 
• Bank Statement (Original) (Personal account) (6months) 
• PSA Birth Certificate (Original) 
• PSA Marriage Contract (Original) (if married) 

For Employed: 

• Company ID (Photocopy) 
• Certificate of Employment (Must be ORIGINAL) (Handwritten Signature or e-Sign) ** Must Include: Monthly and 
• Annual Salary, Leave of Absence based on the Itinerary, Travel Authority (For Government Employees) 
• Latest Income Tax Return (BIR 2316) (Photocopy) 
• Valid PRC ID (Photocopy) (if applicable) 
• For Businessman/Entrepreneur/Self Employed: 
• Latest Mayor’s Permit (Photocopy) 
• Latest DTI Registration or SEC registration all pages (Photocopy) 
• BIR Certificate or Registration (BIR 2303) (Photocopy) 
• Latest Income Tax Return (BIR 1701/1702-RT) must be all pages with receipt and financial statements (Photocopy) 

For Doctors: 

• Certificate of Registration (BIR 2303) (Photocopy) 
• Latest Income Tax Return (BIR 1701A) must be all pages with receipt and financial statements (Photocopy) 
• Original Certification from the Hospital 
• Valid PRC ID (Photocopy) 

For Students: 

• School ID (Photocopy) 
• School Certificate (Must be Original) 
• School Diploma – for newly Graduate (Photocopy) 
• Additional Documents for Minors: 
• DSWD Travel Clearance – If the Minor is not accompanied by either Parent (Must be Original) 
• Affidavit of Support and Consent executed by both Parents (Original) (with Signature and Notarized) 

For Retiree: 

• Senior Citizen ID (Photocopy) 
• Retirement Certificate (For Early Retiree) 
• Supporting Documents (Optional): 
• Copy of Credit Card together with the copy of their statements. (Photocopy) 
• Certificate of Land Titles (Photocopy) 
• Proof of Ownership (Car, Houses etc.) (Photocopy) 
• Additional Documents if Sponsored by Family Member or Company: 
• Affidavit of Support or Guarantee Letter (Original) (with Signature and Notarized) 
• Documents of the Guarantor (If Employed/Businessman/Self Employed) - 
• If Employed: COE, Company ID, ITR (BIR 2316), Bank Certificate and Statements - 6months  - 

 

3. Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment with the respective embassy or consulate. Some countries use external visa processing centers like VFS Global.

4. Pay the Visa Fee

The Schengen visa fee is currently €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12. Children under 6 are free. Note that this fee is non-refundable, regardless of the visa decision.

5. Attend the Visa Interview

On the day of your appointment:

• Arrive on time
• Bring all your documents
• Be prepared to answer questions about your trip, your job, and your ties to the Philippines

6. Provide Biometric Data

If it's your first time applying for a Schengen visa, you'll need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photo).

7. Wait for Processing

Processing times vary by embassy but usually take about 15 calendar days. In some cases, it may take up to 30 days or even 60 days in exceptional circumstances.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
2. Ensure all your documents are complete and genuine.
3. Be honest in your application and interview.
4. Show strong ties to the Philippines (job, property, family) to demonstrate your intention to return.
5. If you're visiting multiple Schengen countries, have a clear and logical itinerary.

After Receiving Your Visa

Once you receive your visa, check all the details carefully. Make sure the information matches your passport and intended travel dates.

Remember, a visa doesn't guarantee entry. The final decision rests with the border officials at your point of entry into the Schengen Area.

Applying for a Schengen visa may seem daunting, but with proper preparation and by following these steps, you'll be well on your way to your European adventure. Bon voyage!