Which embassy should I apply to?
Apply to the country that is your main destination, meaning the country where you will spend the most nights. If you will spend equal time in several countries, apply to the country you will enter first. Most Schengen embassies in Manila take applications through an external visa centre, such as VFS Global or BLS, while some accept them directly.
When to apply
Under EU rules you can usually apply up to six months before your trip, and you should apply at least 15 days before. In practice, appointment slots in Manila fill up quickly before summer and the Christmas holidays, so aim for six to ten weeks ahead where you can.
Schengen visa document checklist
- Philippine passport issued within the last 10 years, valid at least three months after you leave the Schengen Area, with two blank pages
- Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
- Recent passport-size photo meeting ICAO specifications
- Travel medical insurance covering the whole Schengen Area with at least €30,000 coverage
- Flight reservation (round trip) and proof of accommodation for every night
- Day-by-day itinerary, especially for multi-country trips
- Certificate of employment with approved leave, or business documents if self-employed
- Bank certificate and recent bank statements; ITR
- PSA birth certificate and marriage certificate, where relevant
- Invitation letter and the host's documents, if staying with family or friends
Embassies add their own country-specific requirements, so always check the checklist of the embassy you are applying to.
Visa fee and processing time
The standard Schengen visa fee for adults is set at EU level (€90 at the time of writing, with lower fees for children). Visa centres charge a separate service fee. The standard decision time is 15 calendar days and can be extended in some cases, so do not buy non-refundable tickets until your visa is issued.
Tips for first-time Schengen applicants
- Make your itinerary, hotel bookings, flights and leave dates match exactly
- Do not use bookings you plan to cancel immediately as a trick. Embassies may verify them
- Explain any unusual deposits in your bank statement
- Keep your story simple: one clear purpose, a realistic budget and a clear return to work or studies
This guide is general information compiled by VisaReady PH, an independent private consultancy. It is not legal advice and is not issued by any embassy or government agency. Requirements, fees and procedures change without notice, so always confirm the current official checklist before you apply.