Getting a Visa to Europe

I think one of the greatest challenges of holding a Filipino Passport is getting a visa to be able to travel to most countries. Europe is no different. The influx of Filipino Illegal Immigrants(also known as TNT) not just in Europe but in most countries in the world led to tighter visa processes for Filipinos.

The good thing about the European Visa (Schengen Visa) is that you can visit the 25 member countries of the Schengen Agreement within the visa valdity period. You can apply a visa to the country where you will enter first, or the country where you will be spending most of your time. My first entry will be in Amsterdam that's why I have to apply a schengen visa through the Dutch Embassy in Manila.

I found out that I was chosen to be sent to Europe last October 16, 2011, i have to be in Europe before November 30, and visa processing time is 14 days. If you come to think of it, I will have enough time but then I remembered that I have to fly to Jakarta on November 2-7 so I have to set a visa interview appointment right after my trip to JKT.

I immediately called the Dutch Embassy Call Center and asked them if I can set the appointment on November 7. I got the November 7 9AM slot.

The following phone numbers of the call center are available to set an appointment:


For PFF or PLDT/digitel/smart subscribers 1-909-101-3456

For Globe/Innove/Touchmobile subcribers 1-900-101-3456

For Bayantel subscribers 1-903-101-3456





I was advised by the representative that I need to complete all the requirements before the said appointment.
For the benefit of my dear readers, the basic requirements in the Dutch Embassy Website

PLEASE NOTE: Schengen Visa requirements are generally the same in most European Embassies with some slight deviations
(eg. the French Embassy requires you to submit a cover letter adressed to the French Ambassador in Manila containing the purpose of your trip and your Itinierary in France, together with your application form, The Italian Embassy doesn't require you to personally appear at the embassy, the Belgian Embassy will decline your application even if you only have one missing document.)

The first requirement that I was able to complete is my travel insurance thanks to HSBC and Chartis Insurance, I was able to get a travel insurance on the same day without even stepping out of the office. to get your Chartis Travel Insurance online, click HERE

PLEASE NOTE that your travel insurance is a very important requirement and you MAY be declined for a visa if you don't have this during the interview. Click HERE to see the list of Travel Insurance providers accredited by the European Embassies.