schengen visa cover letter philippines

Schengen Visa Application Cover Letter – Sample Letter for Schengen Tourist Visa

The cover letter you must submit for your Schengen Visa application is an important document that states the reason you are traveling to a certain Schengen country. In your Schengen Visa Application Cover Letter, you must address the Embassy or Consulate of the destination country you plan to visit, as your main goal is to persuade the Consular staff that you are a suitable candidate for receiving the Schengen visa.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Schengen Tourist Visa?

Your Schengen tourist visa application cover letter should include the information listed below:

• Your full name.
• Your date of birth.
• Your nationality.
• Your passport details (passport number, issue date, and expiry date).
• Your current address.
• Your email address.
• Your phone number.
• The date when you are writing the letter.
• The name of the embassy or consulate where you are applying for the Schengen visa.
• The embassy or consulate’s address.
• The intention of traveling with a Schengen Tourist Visa (e.g., tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends or family, attending an event, etc.).
• The entry and exit dates of your trip.
• A detailed itinerary of your trip, including the Schengen countries you plan to visit during your trip, information about your planned accommodations, flights, and any tours or activities you have booked.
• Your financial capacity to cover your trip expenses.

Tourist Visa Application Cover Letter Sample

In this article

Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application

Maximized Schengen visa success with effective cover letter, free sample and expert tips.

If you are in the process of applying for a Schengen Visa , you may have noticed that are asked to submit a Cover Letter.

The Cover Letter for Schengen Visa applications is an important requirement, and knowing how to properly write one could affect the outcome of the visa application.

What is a Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application?

The Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa is a necessary part of your visa application because it is a way to introduce yourself, the reason why you want to travel to that specific country, as well as to communicate with the visa officers who are handling your application.

Please note that the Cover Letter should be addressed to the Embassy or Consulate of the country you will visit, even if you are applying through a visa application center, such as VFS Global.

In the Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa, you have to convince the Consular staff that you are suitable to receive a visa for the country you intend to visit.

What Information to Include in a Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application?

When you write a Cover Letter for your Schengen Visa application, you have to include details of your entire trip including:

• The reason why you want to visit a Schengen country .
• The dates when you intend to enter and depart.
• A planned itinerary of your activities in the Schengen Area.
• Where you will stay once you enter the Schengen area.
• All the countries you intend to visit.
• The status of your employment.
• If you were unable to submit any of the required documents, give an explanation of why that is.

Sample Cover Letters for Schengen Visa

Below, you will find a sample Cover Letter for a Schengen Tourist or Visit Visa, a Schengen Business Visa ,  as well as for a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa which will give you an idea of what to include on your own Visa Cover Letter.

Sample Cover Letter for Tourist Schengen Visa

Netherlands Embassy in New Delhi

6/50 F, Shantipath

Chanakyapuri

New Delhi – 110021

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing this letter to apply for a Schengen visa to visit the Netherlands from the dates May 20 to June 10, 2019. I am traveling alone and the main reason why I want to visit the Netherlands is tourism.

I would like to visit the popular tourist attractions in the Netherlands, such as the Van Gogh Museum, the house of Anne Frank, as well as the Keukenhof gardens to see the Netherlands’ most popular flower – the tulip.

During my stay, I also want to visit Germany from May 29 to June 5 to visit my sister who lives in Dusseldorf, where I will stay at her house. Then, I will return to the Netherlands, where I will explore the Hague before I leave the country.

I am employed at the [name of company/organization] where I have the position of [job position]. I have worked here for X years, and I have an annual salary of XX. My employer has given me a No Objection Certificate for my trip, which you will find enclosed.

I intend to finance my own trip, and I have also enclosed proof I have the necessary financial means to cover my stay.

Below you can see a planned itinerary of my activities :

Supporting visa application documents I have enclosed with this letter:

• The completed Schengen Visa Application Form
• My passport
• My flight and train ticket reservations
• Schengen Visa Travel Health Insurance
• Hotel reservation receipts (Amsterdam and Hague)
• Letter of Invitation from my sister in Dusseldorf
• No Objection Certificate from my employer
• My Bank Statements from the last six months

I hope you find that the details I have provided in this letter are adequate for a favorable reply to my application. Thank you for your time, and do not hesitate to contact me should you need further information.

Best regards,

Alan Shilmani

[Full address in India]

Sample Cover Letter for Business Schengen Visa

If you are applying for a Schengen Business Visa, it is your employer who has to write the Cover Letter on your behalf. It must be written on the company’s letterhead.

March 20, 2019

New Delhi, India

I am writing this letter to request a Schengen Business Visa on behalf of [applicant’s full name] with the passport number XXXX.

Through this letter, I would like to confirm that [applicant’s full name] is employed at our company [company’s name] where he works as [job title or position]. [The applicant] has been working in our company for [X number of years], and needs to travel to the Netherlands to visit our partner company [partner company’s name] during the dates April 20 to April 30, 2019.

During his visit at [partner company’s name] in the Netherlands, [the applicant] will be engaged in the following duties:

• Attending meetings
• Negotiating a deal between the companies regarding [XYZ]
• Giving a presentation
• (Any other tasks that you will have to do during your trip)

[The applicant] will stay at the [hotel name/other accommodation], and the expenses will be covered by our company (if applicable).

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any additional questions.

Thank you for your time,

[Name of employer/supervisor along with siganture]

[Position or job title of employer/supervisor]

[Email address of employer/supervisor]

[Phone number of employer/supervisor]

Sample Cover Letter for Medical Treatment Visa

If you are traveling to a Schengen country to receive medical treatment, your doctor has to write the Cover Letter on your behalf. The Cover Letter for a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa has to include the following information:

• Your detailed diagnosis
• Your medical history
• The nature and duration of the proposed treatment you will receive in the Schengen country

I am writing this letter to request a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa on behalf of my patient [applicant’s full name] with the passport number XXXX.

[Applicant’s name] is diagnosed with [XYZ] and needs to receive [XYZ] treatment at the [medical facility name] in the Netherlands.

[Detailed diagnosis]

[Medical history]

[The nature and duration of the proposed treatment you will receive in the Schengen country]

I hope you consider the information I have enclosed in this letter to be satisfactory for my patient’s Schengen Visa application.

Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your time.

[Name of the doctor along with siganture]

Where should I submit the Cover Letter for Schengen Visa?

Depending on what country you are applying from, you can submit the Schengen Visa application at:

• An Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you are visiting.
• The Embassy/Consulate of another Schengen country, in case the country you want to visit has no diplomatic representation in your place of residence.
• A visa application agency, to which the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you are visiting has outsourced visa applications to.

Keep in mind that if you’re going to visit multiple countries, submit the application at the Embassy/Consulate of the country you will visit first.

What other documents should I submit along with the Cover Letter for Schengen Visa?

When you submit your application for a Schengen Visa, along with the Cover Letter, you have to submit several other supporting documents , such as:

• Your passport, which must be valid for at least another six months
• Passport-size pictures, in line with Schengen visa photo requirements
• Your flight itinerary or reservations
• Proof of accommodation in a Schengen country
• No Objection Certificate from your employer/school
• Letter of Invitation from a relative or company in the Schengen country you are visiting, depending on the purpose of travel
• Proof of paid Schengen Visa Fees
• Your Bank Statements from the last six months

Read more: How to write a cover letter for Germany Student Visa Application?

Written Samples

15 schengen visa cover letter samples.

Are you dreaming of exploring the picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultures of Europe?

A Schengen visa is your gateway to unlocking the wonders of 26 European countries.

However, crafting a compelling cover letter is crucial to increasing your chances of visa approval.

Schengen Visa Cover Letter Samples

In this article, we present fifteen expertly crafted Schengen visa cover letter samples that will help you create a winning application.

Sample One: Tourism in France

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Tourism in France

Dear Visa Officer,

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to embark on a ten-day tourism trip to France from September 1 to September 10, 2024. As a history enthusiast and art lover, I am eager to immerse myself in the rich cultural heritage of France, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles.

During my stay, I will be residing at the Hotel Montmartre in Paris (booking confirmation attached). I have sufficient funds to cover all expenses during my trip, as evidenced by my bank statements and travel insurance policy enclosed with this application.

I am currently employed as a marketing manager at XYZ Corporation, and I have been granted leave for the duration of my trip (employer’s letter attached). I assure you that I will return to my home country before the expiration of my visa, as I have strong ties here, including my family and a stable career.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to explore the beauty and history of France.

[Your Name]

Sample Two: Business Trip to Germany

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Business Trip to Germany

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to attend a five-day business conference in Berlin, Germany, from November 15 to November 19, 2024. The conference, titled “Future of Digital Marketing,” is being organized by the European Marketing Association (invitation letter attached).

As a digital marketing specialist at ABC Company, attending this conference is crucial for my professional development and will provide valuable insights into the latest industry trends and best practices. My company is sponsoring my trip and has provided a letter confirming my employment and the purpose of my visit (enclosed).

During my stay, I will be accommodated at the Berlin Marriott Hotel (booking confirmation attached). I have sufficient financial means to cover all expenses during my trip, as demonstrated by my bank statements and travel insurance policy.

I assure you that I will adhere to the visa conditions and return to my home country before the visa expires. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and a stable job.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am excited about the opportunity to represent my company and enhance my professional skills at this international conference.

Sample Three: Studying in Spain

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Studying in Spain

I am applying for a Schengen visa to pursue a six-month student exchange program at the University of Barcelona in Spain, commencing on September 1, 2024. I am currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in International Business at XYZ University in [Your Country].

The student exchange program is an incredible opportunity for me to expand my knowledge, improve my Spanish language skills, and gain international exposure. I have been accepted into the program and have received an acceptance letter from the University of Barcelona (attached).

During my stay, I will be residing in the university’s student dormitory (accommodation confirmation attached). I have sufficient funds to cover my living expenses and tuition fees, as evidenced by my bank statements and the sponsorship letter from my parents (enclosed).

I am fully committed to my studies and will return to my home country upon completion of the exchange program. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my ongoing education at XYZ University.

Thank you for considering my application. I am grateful for this opportunity to enhance my academic experience and immerse myself in the Spanish culture.

Sample Four: Attending a Wedding in Italy

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Attending a Wedding in Italy

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to attend my best friend’s wedding in Rome, Italy, from August 5 to August 12, 2024. As the maid of honor, my presence at the wedding is of utmost importance to support my friend on her special day.

The wedding ceremony and reception will be held at the luxurious Villa Borghese (invitation card attached). I will be staying at the Hotel Colosseum during my visit (booking confirmation enclosed).

I am currently employed as a software engineer at XYZ Tech Solutions and have been granted leave for the duration of my trip (employer’s letter attached). I have sufficient financial means to cover all expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements and travel insurance policy.

I assure you that I will return to my home country before the expiration of my visa, as I have strong ties here, including my family and a stable career.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to celebrate this joyous occasion with my best friend and her loved ones in the beautiful city of Rome.

Sample Five: Medical Treatment in Switzerland

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Medical Treatment in Switzerland

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to undergo a three-week medical treatment at the renowned ABC Medical Center in Zurich, Switzerland, from October 1 to October 21, 2024. I have been diagnosed with [medical condition], and my local doctors have recommended this specialized treatment available at ABC Medical Center.

I have received a letter from the medical center confirming my appointment and the duration of my treatment (enclosed). During my stay, I will be accommodated at the on-site patient housing facility provided by the medical center (confirmation attached).

My medical expenses will be covered by my health insurance policy (policy document attached), and I have sufficient funds to cover any additional costs and living expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am determined to complete my treatment and return to my home country to continue my recovery. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my job as a [your profession] at [company name].

Thank you for considering my application. I am hopeful that this medical treatment will greatly improve my health and quality of life.

Sample Six: Visiting Family in the Netherlands

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Visiting Family in the Netherlands

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to visit my sister and her family in Amsterdam, Netherlands, from December 20, 2024, to January 3, 2025. My sister, [sister’s name], is a Dutch citizen and has been living in the Netherlands for the past five years with her husband and two children.

During my two-week stay, I will be residing at my sister’s home (invitation letter and address proof attached). As a schoolteacher, I have been granted leave for the duration of my trip (leave approval letter from my employer enclosed).

I have sufficient funds to cover my expenses during the visit, as evidenced by my bank statements and travel insurance policy. I assure you that I will return to my home country before the expiration of my visa, as I have strong ties here, including my job and my elderly parents who I care for.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to spend quality time with my sister and her family, especially during the festive season.

Sample Seven: Participating in a Sports Tournament in Portugal

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Participating in a Sports Tournament in Portugal

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to participate in an international tennis tournament in Lisbon, Portugal, from September 8 to September 15, 2024. I have been selected to represent my country in the tournament based on my national rankings and performance in recent competitions.

The tournament is being organized by the Portuguese Tennis Federation, and I have received an official invitation letter confirming my participation (attached). During my stay, I will be accommodated at the tournament-designated hotel, the Lisbon Tennis Resort (booking confirmation enclosed).

My travel expenses, including airfare and accommodation, will be sponsored by my national tennis association (sponsorship letter attached). I have sufficient personal funds to cover any additional expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am committed to representing my country in the tournament and will return home immediately after its conclusion. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family, my ongoing education at [university name], and my responsibilities as a member of the national tennis team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am honored to have the opportunity to compete at this prestigious international tournament and showcase my skills on a global stage.

Sample Eight: Attending a Music Festival in Belgium

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Attending a Music Festival in Belgium

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to attend the renowned ABC Music Festival in Brussels, Belgium, from July 10 to July 15, 2024. As a passionate music lover and aspiring musician, attending this festival has been a long-standing dream of mine.

I have purchased tickets for the festival (booking confirmation attached) and will be staying at the Brussels Youth Hostel during my visit (reservation confirmation enclosed). I have sufficient funds to cover my expenses during the trip, as evidenced by my bank statements and travel insurance policy.

I am currently employed as a graphic designer at XYZ Creative Agency and have been granted leave for the duration of my trip (employer’s letter attached). I assure you that I will return to my home country before the expiration of my visa, as I have strong ties here, including my family and a stable career.

Thank you for considering my application. I am thrilled about the opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant music scene and cultural experiences that the ABC Music Festival has to offer.

Sample Nine: Conducting Research in Austria

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Conducting Research in Austria

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to conduct a four-week research project at the University of Vienna in Austria, from November 1 to November 28, 2024. I am currently a doctoral candidate in the field of molecular biology at XYZ University in [Your Country].

My research project focuses on the analysis of specific protein structures, and I have been invited by Professor [name], a renowned expert in this field, to collaborate on this project at the University of Vienna (invitation letter attached). This opportunity will greatly contribute to the advancement of my doctoral thesis and foster international scientific collaboration.

During my stay, I will be accommodated at the university’s guest researcher apartments (accommodation confirmation attached). My research expenses and living costs will be covered by a grant from my university (grant award letter enclosed), and I have sufficient personal funds to cover any additional expenses, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am fully committed to completing my research project and will return to my home country upon its conclusion. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my ongoing doctoral studies at XYZ University.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research and contribute to the scientific community through this international collaboration.

Sample Ten: Attending a Conference in Sweden

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Attending a Conference in Sweden

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to attend the International Conference on Sustainable Development in Stockholm, Sweden, from August 20 to August 23, 2024. As an environmental scientist and sustainability advocate, I have been invited to present my research paper at this prestigious conference.

The conference is being organized by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (invitation letter and conference program attached). During my stay, I will be accommodated at the Stockholm Green Hotel, which is the designated conference hotel (booking confirmation enclosed).

My travel expenses, including airfare and accommodation, will be covered by my employer, the National Institute for Environmental Research (sponsorship letter attached). I have sufficient personal funds to cover any additional expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am committed to presenting my research and engaging in valuable discussions with fellow scientists and sustainability experts. I will return to my home country immediately after the conference concludes. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my position as a senior researcher at the National Institute for Environmental Research.

Thank you for considering my application. I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the global discourse on sustainable development and represent my country at this esteemed international conference.

Sample Eleven: Visiting Friends in Denmark

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Visiting Friends in Denmark

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to visit my close friends, [friend’s names], in Copenhagen, Denmark, from September 1 to September 15, 2024. I have known [friend’s name] since our university days, and they have been living and working in Denmark for the past three years.

During my two-week stay, I will be residing at my friend’s apartment in Copenhagen (invitation letter and address proof attached). As a freelance writer, I have the flexibility to work remotely during my trip and have sufficient funds to cover my expenses, as evidenced by my bank statements and travel insurance policy.

I assure you that I will adhere to the visa conditions and return to my home country before the visa expires. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my ongoing projects with several local clients.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to reunite with my dear friends and explore the beautiful city of Copenhagen.

Sample Twelve: Participating in a Volunteer Program in Finland

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Participating in a Volunteer Program in Finland

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to participate in a three-month volunteer program at the ABC Wildlife Sanctuary in Helsinki, Finland, from June 1 to August 31, 2024. As an animal lover and conservation enthusiast, I am eager to contribute my time and skills to support the sanctuary’s mission of protecting endangered species.

I have been accepted into the volunteer program and have received a letter of confirmation from the ABC Wildlife Sanctuary (attached). During my stay, I will be accommodated in the on-site volunteer dormitory provided by the sanctuary (confirmation enclosed).

I have sufficient funds to cover my living expenses during the program, as evidenced by my bank statements and the fundraising campaign I conducted to support my volunteer journey (campaign details attached). I have also obtained a travel insurance policy for the duration of my stay.

I am fully committed to completing the volunteer program and will return to my home country upon its conclusion. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my job as a veterinary assistant at XYZ Animal Hospital, where I have been granted leave for the duration of the program (leave approval letter attached).

Thank you for considering my application. I am thrilled about the opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts and gain valuable experience in animal care and rehabilitation.

Sample Thirteen: Attending a Training Course in the Czech Republic

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Attending a Training Course in the Czech Republic

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to attend a two-week training course on advanced software development techniques in Prague, Czech Republic, from October 10 to October 23, 2024. The course is being organized by the renowned ABC Tech Institute and will provide me with valuable skills to enhance my career as a software engineer.

I have been selected by my employer, XYZ Software Solutions, to attend this training course (employer’s letter and course registration confirmation attached). During my stay, I will be accommodated at the Prague Tech Hotel, which is the designated hotel for course participants (booking confirmation enclosed).

My training expenses, including course fees, airfare, and accommodation, will be fully sponsored by my employer (sponsorship letter attached). I have sufficient personal funds to cover any additional expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am committed to completing the training course and applying the acquired knowledge to my work at XYZ Software Solutions. I will return to my home country immediately after the course concludes. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my position as a senior software engineer at XYZ Software Solutions.

Thank you for considering my application. I am grateful for this opportunity to enhance my technical skills and contribute to the growth and success of my company.

Sample Fourteen: Visiting a Trade Fair in Hungary

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Visiting a Trade Fair in Hungary

I am writing to apply for a Schengen visa to visit the International Trade Fair for Consumer Electronics in Budapest, Hungary, from September 5 to September 8, 2024. As a buyer for ABC Electronics, a leading electronics retailer in [Your Country], attending this trade fair is crucial for establishing new business partnerships and staying updated on the latest industry trends.

I have been appointed by my company to represent them at the trade fair and have received an invitation letter from the event organizers (attached). During my stay, I will be accommodated at the Budapest Business Hotel, which is located near the trade fair venue (booking confirmation enclosed).

My travel expenses, including airfare and accommodation, will be covered by ABC Electronics (sponsorship letter attached). I have sufficient personal funds to cover any additional expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am committed to fulfilling my professional duties at the trade fair and will return to my home country immediately after the event concludes. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my position as a senior buyer at ABC Electronics, where I have been employed for the past five years.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to represent my company at this important industry event and contribute to the growth of our business.

Sample Fifteen: Performing at a Cultural Event in Greece

Subject: Schengen Visa Application – Performing at a Cultural Event in Greece

I am submitting this application for a Schengen visa to perform at the Annual Greek Cultural Festival in Athens, Greece, from July 15 to July 18, 2024. As a renowned traditional dancer from [Your Country], I have been invited by the festival organizers to showcase our country’s rich cultural heritage through dance.

The festival organizers have provided me with an official invitation letter and performance contract (attached). During my stay, I will be accommodated at the Athens Cultural Center, which is the designated accommodation for festival performers (confirmation enclosed).

My travel expenses, including airfare and accommodation, will be covered by the festival organizers (sponsorship letter attached). I have sufficient personal funds to cover any additional expenses during my stay, as evidenced by my bank statements.

I am honored to represent my country’s cultural traditions at this prestigious international festival and will return to my home country immediately after my performance concludes. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family and my role as a dance instructor at the National Dance Academy.

Thank you for considering my application. I am grateful for this opportunity to showcase my talent, promote cultural exchange, and contribute to the success of the Annual Greek Cultural Festival.

A well-crafted Schengen visa cover letter is essential to demonstrate your purpose of travel, itinerary, financial means, and ties to your home country.

By using these fifteen samples as a guide and tailoring them to your specific situation, you can create a compelling cover letter that enhances your chances of visa approval.

Remember to provide accurate information, attach relevant supporting documents, and maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout your application.

With a strong cover letter and a complete application package, you are one step closer to embarking on your European adventure. Wishing you the best of luck with your Schengen visa application!

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TIPS ON WRITING A POWERFUL COVER LETTER FOR YOUR VISA APPLICATION

Table of contents, introduction.

A well-crafted cover letter can play a crucial role in the visa application process. It serves as a personalized introduction to the applicant, allowing them to present their case more effectively to the visa officer. The cover letter provides an opportunity to highlight the key reasons for travel, demonstrate ties to the home country, and clarify any aspects of the application that might raise questions. By effectively articulating the purpose of the visit and reassuring the visa officer of the applicant’s intentions to abide by visa regulations, a well-written cover letter can significantly influence the outcome of the application.

This guide is particularly useful for a wide range of visa applicants, including those applying for tourist, student, and work visas. Each type of visa application has its unique requirements and challenges, and a tailored cover letter can address these specifics, enhancing the applicant’s chances of approval. Whether the applicant is planning a short vacation, seeking to study abroad, or pursuing career opportunities, this guide provides essential tips and templates to help them craft an impactful cover letter that resonates with their individual application context.

Understanding the Purpose of a Visa Cover Letter

Clarify Objectives

The main goals of a visa cover letter are multifaceted and critical to the success of the application:

Introducing the Applicant: The cover letter formally introduces the applicant to the visa officer. It’s an opportunity to present oneself beyond the facts and figures of the application forms. This introduction should convey a sense of the applicant’s character and reliability.

Outlining the Purpose of Visit: A key element of the cover letter is to articulate the reason for travel clearly. This could range from tourism, education, work, or visiting family and friends. It’s important to be clear and concise, providing enough detail to demonstrate that the plan is well thought out and credible.

Establishing Intent to Return to Home Country: One of the visa officer’s primary concerns is ensuring that the applicant plans to return to their home country after their visit. The cover letter should address this by highlighting strong ties to the home country, such as family, employment, or ongoing studies, which indicate the applicant’s intent to return.

Personalization

Personalization is key in a visa cover letter. Each visa type (tourist, student, work, etc.) has its own set of expectations and requirements:

Tourist Visa: Focus on the itinerary, places of interest, and the reason for choosing the specific destination. I think highlighting return tickets and hotel bookings can be beneficial.

Student Visa: Emphasize the educational goals, the reason for choosing the particular institution, and future career plans in the home country.

Work Visa: Outline professional objectives, the importance of this particular position, and how it fits into long-term career plans.

Moreover, personal circumstances should be taken into account. If there are unique situations like medical treatment, family reunions, or participation in specific events, these should be clearly stated. The more tailored the cover letter is to the individual’s situation and the specific type of visa being applied for, the more effective it will be in supporting the visa application.

Start With The Basics

When crafting a visa cover letter, beginning with the right format sets a professional tone for your application. Here’s how to do it:

Your Address : Start with your full address at the top left corner of the letter. This includes your street address, city, state, and zip code. This information should be aligned to the left margin.

Date : Below your address, leave a space and then include the current date. This should be the date on which you are writing or sending the letter.

Embassy/Consulate Address : After the date, leave another space and then write the address of the embassy or consulate to which you are applying. This should include the name of the embassy/consulate, its street address, city, and country. Align this address to the left margin, similar to your personal address.

Addressing the Visa Officer : The salutation should be formal. Typically, it’s advisable to use “Dear Visa Officer” or “Dear Consular Officer”. This is a respectful and general way of addressing the individuals responsible for processing your visa application. Avoid using generic salutations like “To whom it may concern”, as they can appear impersonal.

By following these basic guidelines, you ensure that your cover letter adheres to the standard norms of formal correspondence, reflecting your seriousness and respect for the visa application process.

Introduce Yourself

• Your Name and Nationality : Begin with your full name as it appears in your passport. Following your name, mention your nationality. This basic information establishes your identity for the visa officer.
• Main Reason for Visit : Clearly state the primary purpose of your visit. Whether it’s for tourism, education, work, or to attend a specific event, make this clear from the outset. This sets the context for the rest of your letter.

Background Details

• Employment or Educational Status : If it’s relevant to your visit, could you mention your current employment or educational status? For instance, if you are a student planning to study abroad, mention your current educational institution and what you plan to study. If you’re employed, state your job title and employer. This information can help the visa officer understand your ties to your home country and your reasons for returning.
• Relevance to Your Visit : Explain briefly how your employment or educational status is relevant to your visit. For instance, if you’re attending a professional conference, your job role and responsibilities might be pertinent. For a student visa, your current field of study and future aspirations could be relevant.

State the Purpose of Your Visit

This section is critical as it directly addresses the core of your visa application — the reason for your travel. It’s important to be specific and clear, providing enough detail to support your application.

Clear Intentions

• Purpose of Trip : Begin by explicitly stating the purpose of your trip. This should be a clear and straightforward declaration. For instance, “I am applying for a tourist visa for a two-week holiday in [Country],” or “I am seeking a student visa to pursue my master’s degree at [University Name].”
• Specific Reason : If there are specific reasons tied to the nature of your visit, such as attending a business conference, participating in a cultural event, or visiting family for a special occasion, mention these. The more specific you are, the clearer your intentions will appear to the visa officer.

Itinerary Details

• Travel Itinerary : If you have a travel itinerary, briefly outline it. Include key destinations, dates, and any booked accommodations. For business or student visas, mention the institutions or organizations you visit or affiliate with. We can help you plan your trip by availing our  itinerary service.
• Meetings or Contacts : If your trip involves meeting specific people or attending specific events, mention these. For example, “I plan to attend the International Business Conference held at [Venue] from [Start Date] to [End Date],” or “I will be visiting my brother, [Name], who resides at [Address].”

By providing a clear and detailed account of your travel plans, you demonstrate to the visa officer that you have a well-thought-out purpose for your visit and that your intentions align with the type of visa you are applying for. This clarity can significantly strengthen your application.  

Explain Your Ties to Your Home Country

A critical aspect of your visa application is demonstrating strong ties to your home country assuring the visa officer of your intention to return after your visit. Here’s how to effectively convey this:

Strong Ties

• Family Connections : If you have close family (like parents, spouse, or children) in your home country, mention them. Explain your role and responsibilities within your family unit, which indicate your need to return.
• Employment : Detail your current employment situation. Include your job title, the name of your employer, and how long you have been with the organization. If you have a letter from your employer granting leave for your travel, mention that as well.
• Property Ownership : If you own property, such as a house or land, in your home country, mention this. Property ownership is a strong indicator of your ties and intention to return.

Evidence of Return

• Ongoing Commitments : Highlight any ongoing commitments that necessitate your return. This can include a job that you need to return to, a business you run, or educational courses you are enrolled in.
• Future Plans : If you have specific plans upon your return, such as career progression, further education, or family events like weddings or anniversaries, mention these. Such plans can reinforce your intention to return.
• Supporting Documentation : If you can provide evidence of your ties, such as a job contract, business ownership documents, or family details, mention that these documents are available. You don’t need to include them with the cover letter but be prepared to present them if requested.

By effectively demonstrating your strong ties to your home country, you significantly enhance the credibility of your claim that your visit is temporary and that you intend to return after your stay. This is a key factor in the visa decision-making process. You can read more about  Proof of Strong Ties for Your Schengen Visa Application in the Philippines .

Financial Responsibility

When applying for a visa, demonstrating your financial responsibility is crucial. This section of your cover letter should clearly outline how you plan to financially support your trip.

Financial Stability

Self-sponsorship : If you are self-sponsoring your trip, asserting your financial stability is important. Briefly explain your financial situation, such as your regular income, savings, or investments, which indicate your ability to cover all travel expenses, including accommodation, food, and emergencies.

Sponsorship : If someone else is sponsoring your trip, state the relationship with the sponsor (e.g., family member, friend, employer) and their commitment to supporting you financially during your visit.

Supporting Documents

I’d like you to please mention that you have attached relevant financial documents to your application. This could include bank statements showing your savings, income statements, or a sponsorship letter if applicable.

Details of Documentation : If you are providing a sponsorship letter, ensure it includes the sponsor’s name, their relationship to you, their contact information, and a statement of their commitment to support you financially during your trip. If using bank statements, mention that they reflect your current financial status and ability to fund your travel.

Including clear and detailed information about your financial responsibility in your cover letter helps assure the visa officer that you are capable of supporting yourself during your trip and will not become a financial liability in the country you plan to visit.

Cover Accommodation and Health Insurance

In this section, you should provide details about your accommodation plans and health insurance coverage for your trip, as these are important aspects of your travel preparations.

Accommodation Details

Staying with Friends or Relatives : If you are planning to stay with friends or relatives, provide their names, addresses, and contact information. It can be helpful to mention your relationship with them and the duration of your stay.

Hotel Accommodation : If you will be staying in a hotel or rented accommodation, mention the name of the hotel or the address of the rental, along with the duration of your stay. If you have pre-booked your accommodation, stating this can add credibility to your travel plans.

Health Insurance

Travel Health Insurance Coverage : Clearly state if you have secured travel health insurance for the duration of your stay in the destination country. Include details about the coverage, such as medical expenses, emergency services, and repatriation, if applicable.

Insurance Documentation : Mention that you have attached or can provide documentation of your travel health insurance policy. This reassures the visa officer of your preparedness for any health-related contingencies during your trip.

Addressing your accommodation and health insurance arrangements in your cover letter adds depth to your application, showcasing your thorough planning and responsibility as a traveler. This information can play a significant role in the overall assessment of your visa application.

Conclude a Polite Request

The conclusion of your visa cover letter is an opportunity to reinforce your request and demonstrate your willingness to cooperate with any additional requirements. Here’s how to effectively wrap up your letter:

Request for Consideration

Polite Appeal : Conclude your letter with a courteous appeal for a favorable consideration of your application. This could be phrased as, “I respectfully request that my application for a [type of visa] be considered favorably.”

Expression of Gratitude : It’s also good practice to express gratitude for the time and effort taken by the visa officer to review your application. A simple statement like, “I appreciate your consideration of my application,” can be effective.

Availability for Further Information

Openness for Communication : Indicate your willingness to provide any additional information that may be required. This shows that you are cooperative and serious about your application.

Readiness for Interview : If applicable, state that you are available for an interview or any further discussions regarding your visa application. This could be stated as, “I am readily available for an interview or to provide any further information needed for my application.”

By concluding your cover letter with a polite request and showing openness for further communication, you leave a positive impression on the visa officer, demonstrating your earnestness and respect for the visa application process.

Attach Supporting Documents

Concluding your visa cover letter with a comprehensive list of supporting documents is crucial. This not only demonstrates your organizational skills but also makes it easier for the visa officer to review your application. Here’s how to do it:

List of Documents

Bank Statements : Include bank statements that demonstrate your financial stability and ability to support yourself during your visit.

Employment Letters : If you are employed, attach a letter from your employer. This letter should confirm your employment, your role, the duration of your leave (if applicable), and your expected return to work.

Itinerary : Provide a copy of your travel itinerary, which includes flight details, accommodation bookings, and a schedule of your activities or places you plan to visit.

Accommodation Confirmation : If you are staying with friends or relatives, include a letter from them confirming this arrangement. For hotel stays, attach booking confirmations.

Travel Health Insurance : Include documentation of your travel health insurance policy, showing the coverage details.

Sponsorship Letter (if applicable) : If someone else is sponsoring your trip, attach a sponsorship letter from them along with their financial documents.

Additional Documents : Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to include additional documents. For example, students should attach admission letters from educational institutions, and business visitors should include invitation letters from the hosting company.

End your cover letter with a statement like: “Enclosed, please find the following supporting documents for your review,” followed by a bulleted or numbered list of the documents. This clear and organized presentation of your supporting documents can significantly enhance the credibility of your application.

Proofread and Finalize

• Attention to Detail : Proofreading is crucial. Go over your letter multiple times to catch any grammatical errors or typos. These mistakes can make your application seem less professional and may negatively impact the perception of your attention to detail.
• Use Tools : Leverage tools like grammar checkers, but don’t rely solely on them. Sometimes, these tools can miss nuances in language or context-specific phrasing.

Professional Tone

• Respect and Formality : The tone of your cover letter should be respectful and formal. This reflects your seriousness and respect for the visa application process.
• Consistency : Ensure that the tone is consistent throughout the letter. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, as it may not be appropriate for a formal application.

Additional Tips

• Second Opinion : It can be helpful to have someone else read your cover letter. A fresh pair of eyes might catch errors you overlooked.
• Read Aloud : Reading your letter aloud can help you catch awkward phrasing or tone inconsistencies.
• Formatting : Make sure the overall formatting of the letter is professional. Use a standard font, proper alignment, and clear paragraph separation.
• Length : Keep the letter concise and to the point. A long-winded letter can lose its impact.
• Final Check : Before submitting, do a final check to ensure that all the information is accurate and that you have attached all the required documents.

The final step in your visa application cover letter process is to ensure it is polished, professional, and error-free. This conveys your seriousness about the application and demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in a professional setting. Remember, your cover letter is often the first impression the visa officer will have of you, so make it count.

Final Thoughts

Crafting a strong cover letter for your visa application is more than a mere formality; it’s a strategic component that can significantly influence the outcome of your application. By carefully presenting your case, explaining your travel purpose, demonstrating strong ties to your home country, and outlining your financial plans, you paint a comprehensive picture that goes beyond the basic documentation.

Remember, the goal of your cover letter is to provide context, add a personal touch, and preemptively address any questions or concerns that the visa officer might have. Your ability to communicate clearly and professionally through your cover letter reflects not only on your application but also on your overall preparedness for your journey.

In summary, the key to a powerful cover letter lies in its clarity, conciseness, relevance, and attention to detail. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you’re setting yourself up for success. Your cover letter is not just a letter; it’s a narrative of your travel intentions, a testament to your reliability, and a crucial step towards achieving your travel goals.

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

Here are the common reasons a Schengen Visa application gets denied:

• No clear travel purpose —a detailed cover letter is a must!
• Lack of strong ties —reevaluate your application and prove why you must return to your home country!
• Insufficient travel insurance coverage —make sure you get the right policy!
• No proof of financial means —convince them that you can afford your trip! Provide bank or credit card statements, VUL, investment portfolio, etc.
• Passport does not have 2 free pages —where will they attach the visa if your passport pages are already full? You should get a new passport before applying for a visa if there are no more available pages on your old one!
• No proof of accommodation —you need to prove them that you have a place to stay in the Schengen Area.

Recap and Tips

So, just a recap and a reminder , please don’t forget these TIPS: 

If you ever need help, you can avail my   visa application bundle , and I will be glad to help you through the process!

Let Us Be Your Partner in Your Schengen Visa Journey

Applying for a Schengen Visa can be overwhelming, with all the paperwork involved and confusing information from different sources. We understand that—we’ve been there and have done that!

But through the years, we gained experience and knowledge on the ins and outs of the Schengen Visa application. We’ve helped countless satisfied clients ; we would like to invite you to be one of them!

With our Schengen Visa services personalized to your unique needs and circumstances, we will make your visa application less stressful and laborious, and more promising. Contact us to schedule a consultation or for other inquiries.

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• Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa: Types, Format & Samples

Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa: Types, Format Samples & More

10 min read

Updated On Jan 22, 2024

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What is a Schengen Visa Cover Letter?

What needs to be included in cover letter schengen visa, cover letter format for schengen visa, samples of cover letter for schengen visa, state wise schengen visa cover letter requirements, documents to support schengen cover letter, where to submit your cover letter for schengen visa application, common mistakes in schengen visa cover letters.

Unlock the gateway to 27 vibrant European destinations with a Schengen visa! Whether you're an immigrant or a traveler this visa opens doors to incredible opportunities.

Navigate the application process effortlessly by mastering the art of crafting a compelling cover letter Schengen visa. Explore the essentials in our blog for a seamless visa experience!

The Cover Letter, also known as the introduction letter for a Schengen Visa is a crucial component of your application, serving as a communication tool with the visa officers.

Addressed to the Embassy or Consulate of the specific country you plan to visit, it outlines your reasons for travel and aims to persuade the consular staff of your suitability for the visa.

Even if applying through a visa application center like VFS Global, ensure your Cover Letter is directed to the relevant Embassy or Consulate.

In your Schengen Visa application cover letter, be sure to incorporate the following details regarding your trip:

• Clearly articulate the purpose motivating your visit to a Schengen country.
• Specify the exact dates for your intended entry and departure.
• Outline a well-structured itinerary detailing your planned activities throughout the Schengen area.
• Indicate your accommodation arrangements upon entering the Schengen region.
• List all the countries included in your travel plans.
• Provide information about your current employment status.
• If any mandatory documents are missing from your submission, explain their absence concisely

Drafting a cover letter is integral to the Schengen visa application process. This letter should succinctly outline your travel plans, the purpose of your visit, and your financial support strategy. Below is a brief Schengen visa cover letter template or format for your guidance

• Start with a formal salutation.
• Provide your name, address, contact details, and nationality.
• Clearly state your intention to apply for a Schengen visa.
• Introduce yourself briefly, mentioning your nationality and current residence.
• Specify the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, family visit, etc.).
• Mention the planned dates of your stay in the Schengen area.
• Outline your travel plans, including the countries you plan to visit and the duration of your stay in each.
• Explain your financial plan for supporting yourself during the visit.
• Confirm personal funding and attach supporting financial documents.
• List the attached documents supporting your application, such as flight itinerary, hotel reservations, travel insurance, etc.
• Express gratitude and formally request the approval of your Schengen visa application.
• Offer cooperation and assure compliance with regulations.
• End the letter with a formal closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Kind regards."

Let us first examine the supplied generic Schengen visa cover letter sample to acquaint yourself with the correct writing tone, format, structure, and other essential elements.

Business Schengen Visa Cover Letter Sample

When applying for a Schengen Business Visa, the responsibility of composing the Cover Letter lies with your employer. The letter must be crafted on the official letterhead of the company.

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Tourist

The Cover Letter for a Schengen Tourist Visa typically includes details about your travel plans, purpose of visit, and financial ability. It serves as a concise introduction to support your visa application.

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Medical Treatment Visa

For a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa, your doctor must prepare the Cover Letter, including

• Detailed Diagnosis: Specify the medical condition requiring treatment in a Schengen country.
• Medical History: Provide a concise medical history for context.
• Treatment Details: Clearly state the nature and expected duration of the proposed treatment.

This letter is vital for the visa application, offering insights into the medical necessity and treatment plan.

Now that you are familiarised with the Sample cover letters for Schengen Visa, before crafting your cover letter, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the Schengen country you plan to visit. Here are the cover letter guidelines for key Schengen member states:

• Cover Letter for Visa Application Italy
• Highlight your ties to your home country, such as family, employment, and studies.
• Clearly state the purpose of your visit, outlining planned activities and dates.
• Provide proof of funds to cover your travel expenses.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Austria
• Specify the purpose of your visit, detailing the places and activities you'll engage in.
• If applying for a multiple-entry visa, provide a valid reason.
• Assure your return to your home country after the visa period.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application France
• Present a clear itinerary with destinations, travel dates, and the purpose of your visit.
• Indicate whether you have travel insurance for unforeseen medical expenses.
• Align your visit with academic, professional, or personal goals.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Germany
• In the introduction, concisely explain the purpose of your travel (tourism, family visits, or business).
• Provide evidence of funds to cover expenses like food, accommodation, and transportation.
• List all intended destinations you plan to visit.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Finland
• Detail arrangements for accommodation, food, and travel.
• Describe your planned activities, trips, events, meetings during your stay.
• Specify if you are seeking a multiple-entry visa and provide reasons.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Spain
• Affirm that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Provide a comprehensive overview of your travel plans.
• Include details about your accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations.

When applying for a Schengen Visa, ensure you submit the following documents alongside your Cover Letter:

• Completed Schengen Visa Application Letter/Form
• Valid passport with at least six months of validity
• Passport-size photos adhering to Schengen visa photo guidelines
• Flight itinerary or reservations
• Schengen Visa Travel Health Insurance
• Proof of accommodation within a Schengen country
• No Objection Certificate from your employer/school
• Letter of Invitation from a relative or company in the destination country, as per the purpose of travel
• Proof of paid Schengen Visa fees
• Bank Statements covering the last six months

To submit your Schengen Visa cover letter, consider the following options based on your situation and location:

• The Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you intend to visit.
• The Embassy/Consulate of another Schengen country, if the destination lacks diplomatic representation in your area.
• A designated visa application agency, outsourced by the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit.
• You can even say you can submit and we can help you prepare at a regulated immigration consultant like getgis

Remember, if you're visiting multiple countries, apply at the Embassy/Consulate of the first country on your itinerary.

When crafting a Schengen Visa cover letter, it is crucial to be mindful and avoid pitfalls or errors. These include:

• Illogical Explanations

Provide logical reasons for your trip and intentions to return home. Be specific and avoid vague statements.

• Repetition of Document Information

Your cover letter should reveal unique details not found in other documents. Tell a story that complements, not duplicates, your reservations.

• Spelling and Grammar Errors

While minor mistakes are acceptable, excessive errors may convey a lack of respect for the application process. Pay attention to spelling, punctuation, and layout.

• Disorganized Document List

Present a well-organized list of documents in order of priority. Start with mandatory items, followed by those relevant to your trip and personal situation.

• Misalignment with Supporting Documents

Ensure that the details and reasons mentioned in your cover letter align with the information in other submitted documents. Any contradiction may lead to rejection.

Explore European Beauty and Opportunities: Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa

We hope the blog on the Schengen visa cover letter has addressed your uncertainties and inquiries, boosting your confidence in the application process. If you have additional questions or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to reach out to GetGIS immigration experts.

Schedule a Free Consultation Now

Quick Reads:

• How Can I Avoid Schengen Visa Rejection? (Expert Tips)
• A Comprehensive Guide to Germany Visa Requirements in 2023-24
• Cost of Studying in Germany: All You Need to Know
• Complete Guide on Sweden Visa Types & Requirements
• Understanding The Austria Tourist Visa Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a cover letter required for a Schengen visa?

Why are Schengen visas rejected?

Is a cover letter necessary in Europe?

How to create an effective cover letter?

How to avoid Schengen visa refusal?

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu

Sr. Content Marketing Specialist

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu has been working as Content Marketing Specialist with GetGIS since 2022 and has been extensively working to help candidates’ career transitions. Her experience spans across multiple industries in the fields of Sales and Marketing. Her core competencies include communication and research, which enable her to create and deliver in-depth guides as a Subject Matter Expert

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Your Ultimate Guide To Make A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

• Apply Visa Online
• Jul 29, 2024

The repeated stories of the challenges of obtaining a Schengen visa may be true. But, with the right strategy, you can surely ace your visa application and receive the Schengen tourist visa.

When you plan to apply for a Schengen visa , a well-crafted cover letter is quite essential.

It is something that serves as a convincing document for you to explain your need to visit a specific country.

All this adds to the process of you being a suitable candidate to get a Schengen visa.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write an effective cover letter for a tourist Schengen visa!

Relevance of Schengen Cover Letter

Writing a Schengen cover letter for the first time may be a bit challenging. However, it is not as difficult as it seems. Let's learn more about the same. 

What does it contain?

Here are a few things that you should include in your cover letter for your visa application. 

1. Personal Information

In this section, you have to fill in all your current information. This includes your date of birth, passport number, address, phone number, nationality and more.

All these details form the basis and first impression of your Schengen visa cover letter.

The only thing to remember is to put these details carefully and not present any false information in any way.

Furthermore, you should mention your date of writing the letter.

2. Recipient’s Information

In this section, you have to provide the embassy or consulate’s address of the country you are visiting.

A wrong address could lead to a delay or rejection of your Schengen visa application.

3. Intention of Travel

Clearly stating the purpose of your trip is an important element of your cover letter. If you do not display one clear reason, then it may lead to rejection of your visa.

The reason for visiting could be meeting a family member, tourism or sightseeing, but it should be correctly stated.

4. Detailed Itinerary

In the detailed itinerary section, you have to outline your travel plans, including the Schengen countries you are planning to visit.

From your flight tickets to hotel accommodations, you have to mention everything.

Furthermore, if you have booked any tout tickets, concert tickets or tourist attractions tickets, you can display them in this section.

5. Financial Capacity

Your financial ability plays an important role during a trip abroad. This is because you need to render assurance of having enough finances.

Thus, in this section, you have briefly described how you would manage the expense of your trip. 

This is all about the cover letter format for visa applications. Including the above points would surely help in framing an effective cover letter.

Tips to Improve Schengen Cover Letter 

After you have included all the above information in your Schengen cover letter, you can always improve it to make it the best one. This can be done by remembering certain tips as stated below:

1. Clarity and Conciseness

You should keep your letter clear and to the point at each step. This means not including any extra or unnecessary information in the letter.

You should mention your reason for visiting the country and the dates you are planning to visit.

2. Personalization

A Schengen cover letter should always be customised according to the country you plan to visit.

This can be done by mentioning what makes you go to the country and also describing the events you like there.

The letter should be addressed to the embassy of the country you are visiting. Moreover, you can write something about your strong ties with your home country.

3. Travel Insurance

Having travel insurance would help in the validation of your ability to cover any medical emergency. This would help display the overall strength of your application. Thus, you can attach a copy of your travel insurance policy.

4. Be polite 

Being polite and humble goes a long way. You should make it a point to always show gratitude to the authorities for considering your application form.

The tone may look like a normal or less important factor, but it matters a lot. You have to ensure to reflect a very respectful tone throughout the letter. To showcase positivity, respect is a must.

6. Employment 

You can also include a letter from your employer to confirm that you have taken leave for a particular time period and will join back work. confirm

These are some of the tips to follow when framing your Schengen visa cover letter.

Always remember that with the right set of guidelines, you can deliver an authentic and good picture of who you are as a person. All these factors would help you visit Europe seamlessly! 

Are you ready for the fun and adventure? Then, pack your bags and for any visa-related issue, you can reach out to Visa2Fly.

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FREE Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa

I always include a cover letter when applying for a Schengen visa. This document allows me to summarise my travel plans, history, and other important details that might not be mentioned on the application form.

You can get a copy of my cover letter if you sign up for my no-spam newsletter ( you can unsubscribe anytime! )

GUIDE: How to apply for a Schengen Visa from the Philippines

A complete guide to applying for a schengen visa from the philippines.

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How to Apply for a Schengen Visa in the Philippines: A Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

Filipinos who want to travel to Europe for tourism, business, or other purposes may need to obtain a Schengen visa. The Schengen visa allows travelers to enter and stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within 180 days. The Schengen area includes 27 European countries, including popular tourist destinations such as France, Italy, Spain, and Germany.

To apply for a Schengen visa from the Philippines, travelers must first determine the type of visa they need based on the purpose of their trip. They must find out where to apply, book an appointment, and prepare the necessary documents. The required documents may include a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and travel insurance. Travelers must also pay the visa fee and retrieve their visa once it is approved.

It is important to note that not all travelers from the Philippines need a Schengen visa to enter Europe. Some categories of people residing in the Philippines are exempt from the visa requirement, such as those with a diplomatic passport or those traveling for medical reasons. However, most travelers must obtain a Schengen visa before their trip.

Understanding Schengen Visas

What is a Schengen Visa

A Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows its holder to travel freely within the Schengen area. The Schengen area is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing people to move freely between them. The visa is named after the Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985 in Schengen, Luxembourg.

Types of Schengen Visas

There are two main types of Schengen Visas: single-entry and multiple-entry visas. A single-entry visa allows its holder to enter the Schengen area once. In contrast, a multiple-entry visa allows its holder to enter the Schengen area multiple times as long as the visa is valid.

In addition to these two types of visas, other types can be issued for specific purposes, such as business, study, or medical treatment. These visas have particular requirements that must be met to be issued.

Schengen Visa Validity

The validity of a Schengen Visa depends on the type of visa that is issued. A single entry visa is usually valid for 90 days, while a multiple-entry visa can be valid for up to 5 years.

It is important to note that the validity of the visa does not determine the length of time that the holder can stay in the Schengen area. The length of stay is determined by the visa’s validity period and the purpose of the visit.

Before applying for a Schengen Visa, it is important to determine the purpose of the visit and the length of stay that is required. This will help to ensure that the correct type of visa is applied for, and that the visa is valid for the required period of time.

Eligibility and Requirements

Who can apply.

Filipino passport holders and third-world nationals who are required to obtain a visa to Europe, living in the Philippines under a permanent or temporary residence permit are eligible to apply for a Schengen visa from the Philippines.

Basic Requirements for a Schengen Visa

To apply for a Schengen visa, applicants must submit the following basic required documents:

• Valid passport (with 2 available pages for Schengen visa).
• Passport photos (2).
• Schengen visa application from the Philippines (printed out, signed).
• Schengen visa fee (€80 EUR).
• Proof of travel medical insurance.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Proof of finances.

Applicants must ensure that their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay in the Schengen area. They must also provide proof of their travel itinerary, including transportation and accommodation details.

Proof of Accommodation and Financial Means

Applicants must provide proof of accommodation for their entire stay in the Schengen area. This can be in the form of hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host in the Schengen area. They must also provide proof of financial means to cover their expenses during their stay. This can be in the form of bank statements, employment contracts, or income tax returns.

It is important to note that the Schengen visa application process can take up to 15 days. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel dates.

Preparing Your Application

Before applying for a Schengen visa from the Philippines, it is important to gather all the required documents and complete the application form. In addition, writing a cover letter can help explain the purpose of the trip and provide additional information to the visa officer.

Gathering Required Documents

The required documents for a Schengen visa application from the Philippines include a valid passport with at least two available pages for the visa, passport photos, a completed Schengen visa application form, proof of travel medical insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of finances. It is important to note that the visa officer may request additional documents depending on the purpose of the trip and the applicant’s circumstances.

In addition to the basic required documents, applicants may also need to provide a birth certificate, proof of employment, and other supporting documents. It is important to carefully review the visa requirements and ensure that all necessary documents are included in the application.

Completing the Application Form

The Schengen visa application form can be downloaded from the embassy or consulate website. The form must be completed in English or the official language of the country where the applicant is applying. It is important to answer all questions accurately and truthfully. Any false or misleading information can result in the visa being denied.

Writing a Cover Letter

A cover letter is not a requirement for a Schengen visa application, but it can help provide additional information to the visa officer. The cover letter should explain the purpose of the trip, the itinerary, and any other relevant information. It can also provide details about the applicant’s ties to the Philippines, such as family, employment, or property ownership.

Booking Your Appointment

Once you have determined the type of Schengen visa you need and which embassy or consulate to apply to, the next step is to book an appointment. This can be done by contacting the visa application center or embassy directly or using a third-party service provider like VFS Global .

Scheduling a Schengen Visa Appointment

To schedule a visa appointment, you will need to provide certain information such as your name, passport number, and purpose of travel. You may also need to provide additional documentation such as a letter of invitation or proof of accommodation.

It is important to schedule your appointment well in advance as there may be a high demand for visa appointments, especially during peak travel seasons. It is also recommended to schedule your appointment during the morning as this is when wait times are generally shorter.

What to Expect at the Visa Application Center

During your visa appointment, you will be required to submit your visa application and supporting documents. You may also be required to provide biometric data such as fingerprints or a photograph.

It is important to arrive at the visa application center on time and with all the required documents. Failure to do so may result in delays or even denial of your visa application.

Overall, scheduling a visa appointment and preparing for the Schengen visa interview can be a daunting process, but with proper preparation and organization, it can be a smooth and successful experience.

Schengen area countries

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

After Submission

Once the Schengen visa application from the Philippines has been submitted, the applicant can track the status of their application. It is recommended that applicants wait at least 15 days before checking the status of their application.

Processing Time and Tracking

The processing time for a Schengen visa application can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where the application was submitted. Generally, it takes around 15 days for the embassy or consulate to process the application. However, in some cases, it may take longer. Applicants can track the status of their application by visiting the embassy or consulate website and entering their application number.

Handling Possible Visa Rejection

In the event that a Schengen visa application is rejected, the applicant will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the rejection. The reasons for rejection can range from incomplete documentation to lack of funds. In such cases, the applicant has the option to appeal the decision. The appeal process can take up to 30 days, and the embassy or consulate will provide instructions on how to proceed with the appeal.

It is important to note that reapplying for a Schengen visa after rejection is possible, but applicants must ensure that they address the reasons for the rejection in their new application. Applicants should also ensure that they have all the necessary documentation and that they meet the requirements for the Schengen visa application process.

Traveling to Schengen Countries

If you are planning to travel to the Schengen Area, you need to have a valid Schengen visa. The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished border control at their mutual borders. This means that once you enter the Schengen Area, you can travel freely between the member countries without having to show your passport at each border.

Understanding Border Control and Entry

However, this does not mean that there are no border controls at all. You will still have to go through border control when you enter the Schengen Area for the first time. Border control officers will check your passport and visa, and they may ask you questions about your travel plans and the purpose of your visit.

It is important to note that having a Schengen visa does not guarantee entry into the Schengen Area. Border control officers have the right to refuse entry to anyone who does not meet the entry requirements. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you have all the necessary documents and that you can prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay.

Residence and Work Permits in Schengen Area

If you are planning to stay in the Schengen Area for an extended period of time, you may need a residence permit or a work permit. A residence permit allows you to live in a Schengen country for a certain period of time, while a work permit allows you to work in a Schengen country.

To obtain a residence permit or a work permit, you will need to apply to the authorities in the country where you plan to stay. The requirements and procedures for obtaining these permits vary depending on the country, so it is important to check the specific requirements for the country where you plan to stay.

Important Information for Filipino Applicants

Embassy and consulate locations.

Filipino applicants for a Schengen Visa should know the embassy and consulate locations where they can apply for the visa. The Schengen Area comprises 26 European countries, and each country has its own embassy or consulate in the Philippines. Applicants should check which embassy or consulate they should apply to based on their planned destination and length of stay.

Specific Visa Requirements for Filipinos

Filipino applicants must meet specific visa requirements to be eligible for a Schengen Visa. These requirements include a valid Philippine passport, which must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay in the Schengen Area. Filipino applicants must also provide proof of travel medical insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means to support their stay in the Schengen Area.

In addition, Filipino applicants must submit a Schengen visa application form, which can be obtained from the embassy or consulate where they will apply. The application form must be completed and signed, and applicants must provide two passport-sized photos. The visa fee must also be paid at the time of application.

Filipino applicants should note that the visa processing time may take up to 15 days, and they should apply well in advance of their planned travel dates. They should also be prepared to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate if required.

Filipino applicants should carefully review the visa requirements for the embassy or consulate where they will apply and ensure they have all necessary documents and information before submitting their application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for obtaining a schengen visa as a filipino citizen.

Filipino citizens who wish to apply for a Schengen visa must provide a completed application form, a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photo, a travel itinerary, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means. The financial means should cover the cost of living and return transportation for the trip.

What is the processing time for a Schengen visa application in the Philippines?

The processing time for a Schengen visa application in the Philippines is roughly 15 calendar days, but it may sometimes take up to 60 days. Therefore, applicants are advised to apply for the visa well before their travel dates.

Where is the Schengen visa application center located in Makati?

The Schengen visa application center in Makati is located at VFS Global Services Philippines Private Inc., Mezzanine Floor Unit M01, Ecoplaza Building, 2305 Chino Roces Avenue Extension, Makati City.

Can the Schengen visa application process be completed online for applicants from the Philippines?

No, the Schengen visa application process cannot be completed online for applicants from the Philippines. Applicants must present at the visa application center to submit their application and biometric data.

What are the fees associated with a Schengen visa application for Filipino applicants?

The visa fee for a Schengen visa application for Filipino applicants is €80 (approximately PHP 4,700) for adults and €40 (approximately PHP 2,400) for children between 6 and 12 years old. Additional fees may be for other services, such as courier services or photocopies.

Which Schengen country offers the most straightforward visa application process for Filipinos?

It is difficult to say which Schengen country offers Filipinos the most straightforward visa application process since each country has its own requirements and procedures. However, applicants are advised to apply at the embassy or consulate of the country they plan to spend the most time in during their trip.

What Documents Are Required for Schengen Visa for Minors?

The documents required for a Schengen visa for minors typically include:

• Original birth certificate (source:  PDF )
• Copy of both parents’ ID-cards and passports, if applicable (source:  PDF )
• Written consent from both parents or legal guardians (source:  PDF )
• Completed and signed Schengen visa application form (source:  European Union )
• Two recently taken passport photographs for Schengen visa application.

These are the basic documents required, but additional documents may be needed depending on the specific circumstances and the country issuing the visa.

Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , and Pinterest , and Team out Of Town  on YouTube  for more tips about the Schengen visa application process for Filipinos.

• A Guide to Portugal Schengen Visa Application for Filipinos
• How To Get A German Schengen Visa for Philippine Passport Holders
• How To Get A Schengen Visa For Your Overseas Friend or Relative
• Pointers for Getting A German Schengen Visa

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Cover Letter for Schengen Visa: The Easy Way – Get Samples

by admin | Feb 6, 2024 | cover letter

If you are a citizen of a country that needs a Schengen visa to visit Europe, then you are already aware of the requirement to submit a cover letter for a Schengen visa along with a travel itinerary (for tourist and business visa applicants). But how do you write one? What is the format of the perfect cover letter? . This post will show you how to get a cover letter for your visa processing

How do I get a cover letter for Schengen visa?

If you want to get a cover letter for Schengen visa that is properly structured and used by over 50,000 customers, then you can make one using the FlightGen app. All you need to do is answer questions related to your visa requirements, & your cover letter will be created for you in perfect format. You are free to edit your cover letter as many times as you wish in the future

Follow the steps to get cover letter for visa by your own with FlightGen App

• Download the FlightGen App, from the link given below
• Signup with your basic details
• Once you signin, select the cover letter option from the visa documents list.
• Click on “create new cover letter for visa” option
• Fill your personal information
• Select the “Nationality”
• Provide the “Consulate Information”
• Select the “Type of Visa”
• Provide the “employment information”
• Provide the “Trip information”
• Fill the “travel dates”
• Give the “travel itinerary” details manually or else you can take help from us
• Mention all your “visa documents
• Then submit.
• Final step is pay and download the pdf..

IMPORTANT: You can get any single document at very affordable price, which starts from $3 and another offer is, get all types of visa documents unlimited for unlimited users from 1 account, for which price or subscription starts from $10/month.  FlightGen  offers multiple visa documents, including cover letters, travel itineraries, flight itineraries / dummy ticket, invitation letters, leave letters, and hotel itinerary / dummy hotel booking. Avail this offer as soon as possible!

The FlightGen App creates a hybrid cover letter that includes both the personal cover letter as well as the travel itinerary which otherwise, would have been another separate document. In fact, this is the exact format that we use for all our visa customers.

What is a Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application?

One of the important document is cover letter for Schengen visa, which contains lists of all the important details of a visa application, like the reason for your visit, the travelling dates of your trip, and the documents and paperwork that were sent in to support the application for a Schengen visa.

Cover letters are the first thing a visa officer will read, so it should be at the top of any other documents you submit with your Schengen visa application. It is also one of the most significant since the visa officer may cancel your visa application if he discovers inconsistencies in your visa letter.

What does a cover letter for Schengen visa include?

According to Createcoverletter.com , a cover letter for a visa is a document addressing the consulate of the visa application with a brief on the applicant’s purpose of travel, work status, and the general day-wise travel plan he intends to pursue in making a case for the approval of his visa. A cover letter is also called as personal cover letter, or covering letter, or a letter to the embassy for a visa request. They all mean the same thing, this is also the only place where you can talk to the visa officer and make them clear why your visa needs to be approved so use this as an opportunity to provide more clarity to your application.

The cover letter format for Schengen visa will include the following sections in the same order:

• Address of the consulate (If you are applying with Germany, then the german Consulate)
• What type of visa you are applying for (tourist, business, visitor, student or other types.)
• Purpose of your travel with a two-line description Example: I am going on a backpacking trip across Germany, Spain, and Portugal for 20 days. I will also be partaking in Oktoberfest, which has been a dream from a long time.)
• The dates you intend to enter and leave.
• A prepared travel itinerary for your activities in the Schengen Area.
• Proof of your employment status (Are you working or self-employed?)
• Once you enter the Schengen area, where are you going stay.
• Mention all the planned Schengen countries that you are intend to visit
• Documents were submitted for visa approval.

Your contact details if the consulate wants to get in touch with you if they have any doubts about your application. Email and phone numbers should be enough. Your signature is an attestation.

Is a covering letter required for Schengen visa applications?

Yes. A cover letter is a mandatory document when applying for Schengen visa. As per the VFS website you need to bring a cover letter during your Schengen visa appointment.

Why do I need cover letter for Schengen visa application?

When your Schengen visa application arrives at the desk of the visa officer, the first thing they will read is your cover letter. This is because it shows that you are serious about your trip and want to return to your home country. The visa officials can see where your application for a visa is missing or doesn’t make sense.

Or you might missed to submit all the necessary documents for which your visa to be approved. If this is the case, the visa officer may call you and ask for more information, which you could have included in your cover letter.

Although many treat the cover letter and travel itinerary as two separate entities, the best way would be to create a common document for both requirements. The next section deals with travel itinerary.

Where do I submit the cover letter for Schengen visa?

Submitting your cover letter for Schengen visa is completely depend on which country you are applying from. Check out here that where to submit your cover letter:

• Consulate or embassy of the particular Schengen country which you have planned to visit
• If the country you want to visit doesn’t have a foreign mission in your home country, you can go to the Embassy or Consulate of another Schengen country.
• Visa Application Center (VAC) : The Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country which you are going to visit has given the it’s responsibility of applying for visas to this agency.

What are the documents needed in a cover letter for Schengen visa application?

This depends on the type of visa you are applying for as the documents you submit for tourist visa is different from a business visa. But there are a set of documents that is common for most of the visa types such as:

• A passport with at-least 6 months of validity from the date of visa approval.
• A completed visa form, or two visa forms in some cases.
• Any flight bookings or  flight itinerary for visa.
• Proof of accommodation , such a hotel or resort bookings.
• Proof of sustenance, such as bank statements, credit cards, or a sponsorship letter.
• Photo as per visa specification
• Proof of ties to your home country, such as your home, tax payments, or electricity bills.
• Proof of work, such as an employment letter or certificate of incorporation for your company.
• A travel itinerary with a day-wise breakup of your activity once your visa is approved.

What does the travel itinerary for a visa mean?

A travel itinerary for visa is a day-wise breakup of travel plan that you intend to pursue once your visa is approved. This is used by the visa consulate to determine two things.

• What is the purpose of your travel? (Example: backpacking, honeymoon, visiting a friend or relative, for attending a trade fair or event.)
• What should be the validity period of your visa, if approved? (If you are travelling for 20 days, then your visa will have a validity of 22 days from the trip start date.)
• Should you get a single-entry or multiple-entry visa? (Example : If you plan to travel to London during your Europe trip, then you need to have a multiple entry visa; otherwise, you will not be allowed to re-enter Schengen area.)

So keep these things in mind. Please add a buffer of 2 days on your trip start and end dates.

How to write cover letter for Schengen visa application ?

Writing an cover letter for Schengen visa applications is crucial, You need to follow the below steps to write proper cover letter for your visa applications:

• First you need find out the correct consulate or embassy, which is going to proceed your visa application.
• Then you need to introduce yourself and need to mention your travel purpose, travel dates, trip duration, and which places you have planned to visit.
• You need to mention the accommodation and transportation details
• Also you need to add your financial situation, like who is going to taking care of your trip expenses.
• It’s important to underline the relationship to your native country and your intent to return after your visit.
• Finish by thanking the embassy or consulate for reviewing your application and providing your contact information.

Tips to write your cover letter for visa application

Procedures on Writing the Perfect cover letter for a Visa Application

• Letter should not be lengthy and should be straight forward to the point.
• Do not include any irrelevant information, but remain precise and to the point.
• When writing the letter, ensure that the letter writing style is polite and formal.
• It is important not to use informal language, slang words, and strong emotions.
• Address the consulate or embassy by their proper name and location.
• Tailor the cover letter to the specific type of visa you are applying for.
• Introduce yourself clearly.
• It is recommended to start the letter with stating the purpose of your visit and the type of visa that you are going to apply for.
• Provide a Detailed Itinerary
• Explain the Purpose of Your Visit
• Highlight Financial Stability
• Mention Accommodation Details
• Demonstrate Ties to Home Country
• Provide truthful and accurate information.
• Do not exaggerate or provide misleading details.
• Use a formal letter format with appropriate headings and salutations.
• Ensure the letter is well-organized and easy to read.
• Ensure there are no grammatical or spelling mistakes.
• All information should be accurate and free from any error of presentation.
• Provide your full contact details, including phone number and email address.
• Ensure the consulate/embassy can easily reach you if needed.
• Attach Supporting Documents
• Thank the consulate/embassy for considering your application.
• Offer to provide any additional information if required.
• Sign your name at the end of the letter if submitting a hard copy.
• Type your name if submitting electronically.

What is the right format for a cover letter for Schengen visa ?

The cover letter should be in English only and of A4 size in pdf format. A copy of this document must be placed on top of your visa application. The next section will provide you with a sample cover letter for each and every consulate type.

Cover Letter For Visa Application Format

Here is the best Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application format:

• Phone number
• Email address
• Please provide the date of application submission in the full format (for example, July 10, 2024).
• Name of the Consulate/Embassy
• Address of the Consulate/Embassy
• Country of the Consulate/Embassy
• Clearly state the purpose of the letter (e. g. , “Subject: Tourist Visa For Schengen (Application for Schengen Tourist Visa).
• Begin with either ‘Dear Sir/Madam,’ or the name of the consular officer if you are familiar with it.
• Introduce yourself and briefly explain why you are here.
• Indicate the type of visa you want to apply for (for instance tourist, business, student).
• Explain the reason for your travel.
• Provide details about your travel itinerary, including destinations and dates.
• Mention any relevant details about your trip, such as conferences, family visits, or tourist activities.
• Clearly state the intended duration of your stay.
• State the date that you expect to arrive and that you will be leaving.
• Provide information about how you plan to finance your trip.
• Mention any supporting documents, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters, attached to your application.
• Explain the accommodation you will be using during your visit.
• This involves providing the hotel or accommodation address and any other booking details.
• State information about your current job or college/university enrollment.
• It is recommended to give details about the employer/educational institution where the candidate works/studies, including phone number or e-mail address.
• Inform the consulate/embassy that you will be going back to your home country after the visit.
• Inform them of any contact details of relatives, job, or property that you have in your home country.
• Express your appreciation for considering your application.
• Use a polite closing phrase (e.g., “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,”).
• Sign your name (if submitting a hard copy).
• Type your name (if submitting electronically).
• List all the documents you are submitting along with the cover letter (e.g., passport copy, bank statements, itinerary).

Sample covering letter for Schengen visa Application

What we love about the FlightGen App is it provides you with the ability to add a travel itinerary in your cover letter itself. This is the cleanest way and takes care of both visa requirements in a single document.

Here is a sample template for a travel itinerary for Schengen visa applicants. In this example, the applicant is travelling for 20 days between September 10 and September 20, 2022

• Sep 10, 2022: Depart from New York & land in Zurich.Check in to my hotel
• Sep 11, 2022 : Day trip to Swiss Villages in Interlaken & Grindelwald with a local friend
• Sep 12, 2022: Walk around Zurich touristic highlights. In the evening, go on Felsenegg CableCar and Ferry Ride
• Sep 13, 2022 : Take a train to Bern and checkin to my hotel (Hotel EinstienHaus)
• Sep 14, 2022: Take a day tour with a professional tour guide, and in the evening, enjoy cheese and fondue tasting.
• Sep 15, 2022 : Visit Einstein house and, in the evening, depart to Geneva
• Sep 16, 2022: Take the Geneva Hop-On Hop Offtour.
• Sep 17, 2022: Visit St. Pierre Cathedral and, in the evening, take a stroll around the city landmarks.
• Sep 18, 2022: Take a rental car from Geneva to Lake Como. Check-in to my hotel (Olendra Inn)
• Sep 19, 2022 : Enjoy the day around Lake Como
• Sep 20, 2022: Depart to Milan and visit Duomo.Check in to my hotel (Casa Dumo de Milano).

Cover letter for Austria Schengen visa

If you are applying for a S chengen visa with the Austrian consulate , then you can use the format of your cover letter using the FlightGen App. The changes that need to be made would be:

• Address of the Austrian Consulate in your Jurisdiction
• The type of Schengen Austria visa that you are applying for
• What is your purpose of traveling to Austria?
• Proof of financial means (are you working or self-employed?).
• Documents submitted for an Austrian visa.

To know more about cover letter for Austria visa

Cover letter for Germany Schengen visa

Here is a sample cover letter you can use for Germany Schengen visa, to know in detail about cover letter for Germany Visa .

Cover letter created using FlightGen App

Consulate of Germany House, 9th Floor, Hoechst, 193, Backbay Reclamation, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021 Sept 20 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Germany Consulate

Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Germany for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 I will also be travelling to Spain & Portugal. Travel Purpose: I am visiting Germany for my vacations. I intend to backpack from Munich to Salzburg and Hallstatt. I will also be going to Barcelona and Lisbon As Sri Lankan citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same.This would explain my trip and provide concrete reasons for the approval of my visa. Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Munich from Mumbai & check into my hotel Oct 7, 2022 : Visit BMW Weldt and take a stroll around the city. Oct 8, 2022 : Take a day tour to visit Bayern Munich stadium and take a tour to see all their trophies won. Travel to Vienna Oct 9, 2022 : visit Skywalk and visit some pubs in the night Oct 10, 2022 : back to Austria and visit Schonbrunn palace Oct 11, 2022 : Take a train from vienna to Lisbon Oct 12, 2022 : travel from Lisbon to Barcelona. Oct 13, 2022 : fly back toMumbai from Barcelona I am currently working at Swiggy as Delivery Agent. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip. Following the requirements as mentioned on the German consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application:

Proof of the visa fee paid Original and copy of my passport with minimum 6-month validity Flight itinerary from an agent. The itinerary will be ticketed once the visa is approved. Bank statement from my sponsor for this trip. Travel Insurance for the duration of my stay as per visa specifications mentioned on the consulate site Duly filled visa application form My employment contract Travel Itinerary during my trip as mentioned above.

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( James Matter ) Ph : +85134579449 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Spain Schengen visa

If you are applying for Spain Schengen visa , then keep in mind that you will not be applying with VFS but with BLSS Spain .Below is the sample cover letter if you were to apply for a Schengen visa to Spain. To know more about cover letter for Spain visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Spain No. 6, Nimmo Rd, Santhoshi Nagar, Santhome, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004 Sept 23 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Spain Consulate

Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Spain for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 I will also be travelling to Portugal & Austria. Travel Purpose: I am visiting Spain for my honeymoon along with my wife . As Sri Lankan citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same.This would explain my trip and provide concrete reasons for the approval of my visa.

Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Munich from Mumbai & check into my hotel Oct 7, 2022 : Visit BMW Weldt and take a stroll around the city. Oct 8, 2022 : Take a day tour to visit Bayern Munich stadium and take a tour to see all their trophies won. Travel to Vienna Oct 9, 2022 : visit Skywalk and visit some pubs in the night Oct 10, 2022 : back to Austria and visit Schonbrunn palace Oct 11, 2022 : Take a train from vienna to Lisbon Oct 12, 2022 : travel from Lisbon to Barcelona. Oct 13, 2022 : fly back to Mumbai from Barcelona

I am currently working at Royal Syrian Bank as Branch Manager in Chennai. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip.

Following the requirements as mentioned on the Spanish consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

Proof of visa fee paid. Original and copy of my passport with minimum 6 months validity Flight itinerary from an agent. The itinerary will be ticketed once visa is approved. Bank statement from my sponsorer for this trip. Travel Insurance for the duration of my stay as per visa specifications mentioned on the consulate site Duly filled visa application form My employment contract Travel Itinerary during my trip as mentioned above.

Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( Laura Merchant ) Ph : +85134579449 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Portugal Schengen visa

If you are applying for a Schengen visa with the Portugal consulate, then the below sample can be used as a template to create your cover letter. To know more about cover letter for Portugal visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Portugal 3 Portland Pl, London W1B 1HR, United Kingdom Sept 27 2022

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Spain Consulate

Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Portugal for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 I will also be travelling to Belgium and Croatia. Hence I request you to issue me a multiple entry visa Travel Purpose: I am visiting Portugal to visit my aunt. She stays in Casandra and I will be visiting Gent and Split in my trip as well. As Australian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same.This would explain my trip and provide concrete reasons for the approval of my visa.

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Lisbon from London & checkin with my aunt.
• Oct 7, 2022 : Visit Belhem Tower & Time out Market.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a day tour to Carmo convent along with LxFactory.
• Oct 9, 2022 : Take a flight to Brussels & checkin to my hotel in Gent
• Oct 10, 2022 : Walk around and Explore Genk and try famous Leffe beer.
• Oct 11, 2022 : Take flight to Split
• Oct 12, 2022 : Take a cruise from Split to Liverpool
• Oct 13, 2022 : Return back to London from Liverpool

I am currently working at Chelsea Football Club as Matchday Steward. My aunt is the sponsorer of this trip. Following the requirements as mentioned on the Portugese consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Visitor Visa application

• Proof of visa fee paid.
• Original and copy of my passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Flight itinerary from an agent. The itinerary will be ticketed once visa is approved.
• Bank statement from my sponsorer for this trip.
• Travel Insurance for the duration of my stay as per visa specifications mentioned on the
• consulate site
• Duly filled visa application form
• My employment contract
• Travel Itinerary during my trip as mentioned above.

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( jenny rashford ) Ph : +85134579449 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Belgium Schengen visa

Below is a sample cover letter to be used if you want to apply for Belgium Schengen visa . The same was prepared using FlightGen app. To know more about cover letter for Belgium visa

Consulate of Belgium Trasacco Valley, Phase II Taricone East Legon P.O. Box CT 3890, Cantonments Accra ,Ghana

Sept 8 2022

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Belgium Consulate

Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Belgium for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 I will also be travelling to London & Austria. Travel Purpose: I am visiting Belgium for 10 day vacation for 3 days in Genk and two days in Salzburg and spend the rest of the days in London.

As a Ghana citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same.I intend to pursue the below itinerary on my trip.

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Brussels from Accra airport
• Oct 7, 2022 : Visit Genk and take a walking tour around the town
• Oct 10, 2022 : Fly to Salzburg and go to Fortress Hohensalzburg
• Oct 11, 2022 : Take a tour around Mozart’s Birthplace and Hangar 7.
• Oct 12, 2022 : Fly to London and stay with my friends for 2 days.
• Oct 13, 2022 : fly back to Accra from London

I own a bakery in Accra for the past 20 years. All my travel expenses on this trip is taken by me itself.

Following the requirements as mentioned on the Belgian consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

• Flight itinerary f rom an agent. The itinerary will be ticketed once visa is approved.

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or

additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022

( Gombele Saliba ) Ph : +85134579239 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for France Schengen visa

If you are applying for a France Schengen visa , then the below cover letter format can be used. The same was prepared using FlightGen app. To know more about cover letter for France

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of France 4 Montgomery St #3400, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA August 8 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with France Consulate for Honeymoon

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit France for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 Travel Purpose: I am visiting France for 7 days for my honeymoon along with my wife. As a Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Paris and Check into our hotel in Gaare Du nord.
• Oct 7, 2022 : Visit the Eiffel Tower and take a river cruise on Sienne.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a hop on hop off City tour on Big Bus.
• Oct 10, 2022 : A full day experience in Louvre Museum.
• Oct 11, 2022 : Stroll around Montmarte.
• Oct 12, 2022 : Watch a football match in PSG Stadium.
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to San Francisco from America.

I work as a lead Engineer in Facebook for the past 3 years. All my travel expenses on this trip is taken by me itself.

Following the requirements as mentioned on the French consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

• The same documents has been submitted for my wife

I trust you will find that everything is in order. Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( Saravana Bhavana) Ph : +85134579239 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Switzerland Schengen visa

Switzerland is a dream destination for many. If you have applied for a Switzerland Schengen visa,although Switzerland is not part of the Schengen area you are allowed to visit Switzerland on a Schengen visa. You can use the below format for the cover letter that we created on FlightGen. To know more about cover letter for Switzerland

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Switzerland Pier 17, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States Jan 18 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Switzerland Consulate for Honeymoon

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Switzerland for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Austria & Germany. Travel Purpose: A solo backpacking trip around Switzerland since I love train tours and eating chocolates As a Pakistan citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Zurich and Check into my hotel in the same.
• Oct 7, 2022 : A day tour around Zurich eating Chocolates and Foundue.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a cruise on the Zurich lake and go up the mountain train.
• Oct 9, 2022 : Day trip to Grinelwald.
• Oct 10, 2022 : Visit Austria and go to the scenic village in Hallstatt.
• Oct 11, 2022 : Take a day trip in train to Munich and attend Oktoberfest
• Oct 12, 2022 : Munich city tour along with my friends.
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to San Francisco.

I work as the CEO of blinkvisa.com for the past 3 years. All my travel expenses on this trip is taken by me itself.

• Proof of visa fee paid

I trust you will find that everything is in order. Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( Mohammad Ghrewaty) Ph : +85134579239 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Czech Republic Schengen visa

Though not on top of everybody’s travel list, if you want to see a charming and a relaxed side of Europe then Czech republic is a great choice. Hence the cover letter format would be. You can use the below format for the cover letter that we created on FlightGen. To know more about cover letter for Czech Republic visa

Consulate of Czech Republic PF8F9+78F – Al Marina – Marina Village Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

Jan 18 2022

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Czech Republic Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Czech for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Austria & Germany. Travel Purpose: A solo backpacking trip around Czech & the bavarian region.

As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Prague and Check into my hostel.
• Oct 7, 2022 : A day tour around Prague enjoying Prague beer.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take tour around Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
• Oct 9, 2022 : Visit Vyšehrad and visit local pubs.
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to Abu Dhabi

I work as the Marketting Manager of Etislat telecom for the past 3 years. All my travel expenses on this trip is taken by me itself.

Following the requirements as mentioned on the Czech consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

• F light itinerary from an agent. The itinerary will be ticketed once visa is approved.

I trust you will find that everything is in order.

( Mohammad asani) Ph : +8513457000 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Denmark Schengen visa

If you have a penchant to experience Scandinavian regions, then Denmark is a wise choice. While there, you could also visit the Faroe Islands. The cover letter example for the Denmark Schengen visa format would be:. To know more about cover letter for Denmark

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Denmark PF8F9+78F – Al Marina – Marina Village Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates Jan 18 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Denmark Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Denmark for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Norway & Iceland.. Travel Purpose: A trip with my friends to experience Scandinavian culture & enjoy Icelands unique architecture. As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Copenhagen and Check into my hostel.
• Oct 7, 2022 : A day tour around Copenhagen and visit the Carlsberg park.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a flight to Iceland and checkin to my hotel.
• Oct 9, 2022 : Rent a car and take on the ring route
• Oct 10, 2022 : Day tour to see the northern lights.
• Oct 11, 2022 : Take a Flight to Oslo and check into my hotel.
• Oct 12, 2022 : Visit the Fortress & The Vigeland Park
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to Abu Dhabhi

I work as the Marketting Manager of Burj Khalifa for the past 5 years. All my travel expenses on this trip is taken by me itself. Following the requirements as mentioned on the Denmark consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

I trust you will find that everything is in order. Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( George Sunnyold) Ph : +85134237000 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Italy Schengen visa

Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and if it is part of your plan, then you can use the sample cover letter below. To know more about how to create cover letter for Italy visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Italy  Kanchenjunga Building, 72, G.Deshmukh Marg, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026 Aug 28 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Italy Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Italy for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Switzerland & France. Travel Purpose: I am going on a solo trip exploring the northern Italy region , lake como, Switzerland and a part of Paris. As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Milan and check into my hotel.
• Oct 7, 2022 : Visit Duomo in Milan and enjoy pizza.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a train to Lake como and checkin to my hotel
• Oct 9, 2022 : Explore the castles and scenery around Lake como.
• Oct 10, 2022 : Explore Matterhorn and JungFro mountains.
• Oct 11, 2022 : Take a train to Paris from Zurich
• Oct 12, 2022 : Walking tour around Paris
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to mumbai from Paris

I work as the Talent Acquisition head of Sony India or the past 8 years. Bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip is me itself.

Following the requirements as mentioned on the Italy consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

Cover letter for Greece Schengen visa

If you like to immerse yourself in Greek history and enjoy its magnificent islands, then you will need a Greece Schengen visa. In that case, you can make use of the sample cover letter below. To know more about how to c reate cover letter for Greece visa

Consulate of Greece 4th Floor Urmi Axis Building, West, behind Famous Studio, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400011

Aug 28 2022

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Greece Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Greece for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Hungary & Czech. Travel Purpose: To explore the islands and Mediterranean cuisine of Greece and explore parts of Hungary and Czech along with my wife and two kids.

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Athens from Mumbai and Checkin to our AirBNB.
• Oct 7, 2022 : Visit Acropolis of Athens & the temple of Zeus.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a day tour around Greece and settle among the streets for a sumptous meal.
• Oct 9, 2022 : Dat tour in a cab to Plaka with my family.
• Oct 10, 2022 :  Take train to Budapest and enjoy the Buda market and bustling streets.
• Oct 11, 2022 :  Visit the Scandinavian cottages.
• Oct 12, 2022 : Take a train to Prague and enjoy a day tour in the city.
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to mumbai from Prague

I work as the HR Head of Flipkart or the past 8 years. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip for myself and my family.

Following the requirements as mentioned on the Greece consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

( George Sunnyold) Ph : +85134237000 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Netherlands Schengen visa

If you want to visit Amsterdam and enjoy the old charm of Zaanse Schans and maybe purchase a wooden shoe, then you will have to apply for a Netherlands Schengen visa . In that case, you can make use of the sample cover letter below. To know more about how to create cover letter for Netherlands visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Netherlands 4th Floor Urmi Axis Building, West, behind Famous Studio, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400011 Aug 28 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Greece Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Greece for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Hungary & Czech. Travel Purpose: To explore the islands and Mediterranean cuisine of Greece and explore parts of Hungary and Czech along with my wife and two kids. As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

I work as the HR Head of Flipkart or the past 8 years. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip for myself and my fam

Cover letter for Norway Schengen visa

There is no place like Norway with its advancements, and a cruise on the Fjords is a dream for many. Also, the northern lights are a sight to behold. if you fancy Norway as your next destination, then you will have to apply for a Norway Schengen visa . In that case, you can make use of our sample Cover letter for Norway below To know about how to create cover letter for Norway visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Norway 50-C, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri New Delhi – 110021 Aug 28 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Norway Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Norway for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Finland in this trip. Travel Purpose: To spend my vacation of 10 days cruising on the Fjords and experience Northern lights firsthand and sit on Trolltunga and contemplate life. As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Oslo and Check into AirBNB.
• Oct 7, 2022 : Take a tour Tromsø: Whale and Arctic Wildlife Cruise Safari by Catamaran
• Oct 8, 2022 : From Tromsø: Northern Lights Guided Bus Chase
• Oct 9, 2022 :  Take a cruise From Bergen: Osterfjord, Mostraumen and Waterfall Cruise
• Oct 10, 2022 :  Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure
• Oct 12, 2022 : Take a train to Helsinki and enjoy a day tour in the city.
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to mumbai from Helsinki

I work as the Tech Lead Head of Amazon LLC or the past 4 years. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip for myself

Following the requirements as mentioned on the Norway consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

Sincerely, Date: Aug 6, 2022 ( George Sunnyold) Ph : +85134237000 Email:  [email protected]

Cover letter for Poland Schengen visa

If you want to avoid the noisy Germany and Austria & indulge yourself in some cheap beer and World war history then Poland is the right place for you . If that is what you fancy, then you will need a Poland Schengen visa and the below cover letter will help you get it. To know more about how to create cover letter for Poland visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Poland  42/2 8th Main Road, 5th Cross, RMV Extension, Bangalore – 560100 Aug 28 2022

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Poland Consulate

Dear Consulate, I would like to visit Poland for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 . I will also be visiting Germany & Austria in this trip. Travel Purpose: To understand more about World war history since I am fascinated to know more about its struggles. As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same. Below is the itinerary that we have planned for this trip

• Oct 6, 2022 : Fly to Krakow from Bangalore via Munich.
• Oct 7, 2022 : Take a tour Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour
• Oct 8, 2022 : Tour Zakopane Tour with Thermal Pool
• Oct 9, 2022 :  Gdańsk: City Sights and History Guided Walking Tour
• Oct 10, 2022 : visit Munich and Checkin to hotel
• Oct 11, 2022 :  Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Trip
• Oct 12, 2022 : Rothenburg and Nördlinger Ries
• Oct 13, 2022 : Fly back to Bangalore from Munich

I own a travel agency in Bangalore specialising in Germany or the past 4 years. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip for myself

Follow the requirements as mentioned on the Polish consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

I trust you will find that everything is in order. Sincerely, Date: Aug 6, 2022 ( Gnagadaga Sunnyold) Ph : +85134200 Email:  [email protected]

What are the other Travel Visa Documents other than Cover Letter?

The important other visa documents other than cover letter are:

Invitation Letter for Visa

NOC letter for Visa

Dummy Ticket / Dummy Flight Ticket

Flight Itinerary

Travel Itinerary

Travel Insurance

Proof of Accommodation / Dummy Hotel Booking

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How To Apply for Schengen Visa: An Ultimate Guide for Philippine Passport Holders

Out of 175,703 Schengen visa applications in 2018 from the Philippines, 14,449 (8.2%) were rejected . France may have received the highest number of applications in the world at more than 4 million, but it also ranks as one with the highest rejections at a rate of 15.7%.

Based on the data above, the probability of your application being approved is 91.4%. It’s now your understanding of the application process that will make or break your chances of getting a visa.

In this article, I’ll show you a Do-It-Yourself guide to getting a Schengen visa focusing on tourism as a purpose of the trip; discuss the different documents needed to support your application; walk you through the different stages of the application process, and provide you tips and warnings based on my personal experience. Your most frequently asked questions are also answered.

Table of Contents

What is a schengen visa and what are the countries covered under the visa, 1. a completely filled out and duly signed application form, 2. travel document, 3. passport photo, 4. biometrics identifiers (photo and fingerprint collection), a. proof of your financial means, b. proof of travel, c. proof of will to return, d. proof of occupation, e. if traveling with spouse and/or children, f. for non-filipino applicants who have valid residence status in the philippines, g. for minors, h. documents to be submitted depending on the purpose of travel, 6. medical insurance, 7. visa fee, 1. decide which consulate you are going to lodge your application, steps in applying for a french schengen visa, steps in applying for a german schengen visa, steps in applying for a dutch schengen visa, steps in applying for an italian schengen visa, 1. do not book a confirmed flight when applying for a visa, 2. for accommodation, book a place that you can cancel once a visa is issued, 3. in building your day-to-day itinerary, please ensure details are consistent with your airline reservation ticket and hotel reservations, 4. if you are traveling to multiple cities, you do not need to submit proof of transfer within the schengen areas (bus tickets or airline booking from one city to another)., 5. changing plans after getting the visa is okay, 6. in case your visa gets denied, visa fee and service fee to third-party service providers are not refundable., 7. when buying insurance, make sure that the coverage is not less than eur 30,000., 8. when filling out the online form, have your passport, itinerary, accommodation and other documents with you ready, 9. be sure to read your appointment letter and take note of the time and date of your appointment as well as the address of the chosen centre (e.g. vfs global), 10. if you miss bringing a passport photo or photocopies of your documents, vfs has additional services to cater to this, 1. when can i submit my application, 2. when will the consulate decide on my application, 3. what is the validity of my visa how long can i stay in the schengen area on the basis of my visa, 4. how can i get 6 months to 5-year multiple-entry schengen visa, 5. do i need to submit a cover letter in my visa application, 6. how much money do i need to have in my bank account to prove i have sufficient means, 7. i have a scheduled trip next month. does the embassy keep my passport during the visa application processing, 8. i have a one-year multiple-entry visa. can i stay in the schengen area for more than 90 days in one given period, 9. can i go to the united kingdom or ireland using my schengen visa, 10. are there non-eu countries i can travel using my schengen visa, 11. can i apply for an extension of my schengen visa while in europe, 12. what are the grounds for the refusal of a schengen visa, 13. what should i do if my schengen visa application is denied does a visa application refusal lead to an automatic denial of subsequent application.

Schengen visa is a short stay visa allowing its holder to travel in the Schengen area.

The Schengen area covers 26 countries without border controls between them. These countries are:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Short stay means transit through or an intended stay in the above countries for a duration of no more than 90 days in any 180-day period.

For purposes of this article, I will provide information on how to get a Schengen visa from the top 3 countries that received the highest number of applications, namely, France, Germany, and Italy . I will also discuss the process in the Netherlands where I applied twice and was granted a 1-year multiple entry visa on my recent application.

Applying for another tourist visa? Read our application guides for an Australian visa , US visa , Korean visa , and Japan visa . 

What Are the Schengen Visa Requirements?

Listed below are the elements of a visa application in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 (Visa Code) . These documents and requirements are common to all regardless of which Schengen country you lodge your application.

In France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, you can fill out the form online, print the completely filled-out form and physically submit it to the third-party service provider of the Consulate of the country you intend to visit.

Passport which

• must be valid for at least 3 months from the date on which you leave the Schengen area
• must have at least 2 blank pages

It must meet the specifications of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), that is,

• 45mm by 35 mm
• must not have been taken more than 6 months

Check-out the detailed photo specifications here .

Biometric identifiers shall consist of your photograph and your 10 fingerprints taken flat and collected digitally.

Your biometrics data shall be collected at the time you submit your application at the Consulate of the country you intend to visit. In the case of France, Germany and the Netherlands, it will be collected by VFS Global and in the case of Italy, it will be collected by the VIA Centre – both are third party service providers.

5. Supporting documents

Under Annex III of the Commission Implementing Decision of 3.9.2014 , below are the harmonized list of supporting documents that you need to present when submitting your application.

Note that this is a harmonized list agreed by the local Schengen cooperation in the Philippines (it means these are the same requirements throughout Schengen countries with consular offices in the Philippines).

• Bank certification, bank books
• Personal bank statements, credit card statements or balance covering the last six months
• For minors: Proof of economic means of parents or legal guardian (cf. the above)
• Copy of the roundtrip airline reservation with Passenger Registration Number (or reservation number) and travel itinerary
• Copy of employment contract or social security contributions (if relevant)
• Copy of real estate property – title-deed (if relevant)
• Proof of family ties in the Philippines (e.g. marriage certificate )
• If employed: Certificate of employment , Certificate of leave absence
• If self-employed: Department of Trade Industry (DTI) / Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) registration of the business , Income Tax Return, Business Financial Statement
• If a student: Proof of enrolment, Certificate of leave absence if traveling during the school year
• Marriage contract certified by the National Statistics Office (NSO), Birth certificates of children certified by the National Statistics Office (NSO)
• Copy of Alien Certificate Registration (ACR) 3, Re-entry permit
• Affidavit of support & consent of parents (especially of the non-traveling parent) or legal guardian
• Copy of passport of parents or legal guardian, Birth certificate of the minor certified by the National Statistics Office (NSO), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clearance
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel confirmation or hotel voucher
• Detailed day-to-day itinerary of the planned trip

Family or friends visit

• Proof of sponsorship
• Letter of guarantee, invitation letter or hotel reservation
• Proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
• A photocopy of the biodata page of the passport and/or travel history of the sponsor in case of non-formalized relationship (boyfriend/girlfriend)

Note that a checklist enumerating the above requirements will be provided to you by France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands. What you’ll need to do is to arrange the documents and submit them in the order prescribed in their checklist.

The insurance should be valid throughout the Schengen area, and for the duration of your stay. The minimum coverage shall be EUR 30,000.

The visa fee shall be paid during the submission of your application in the amount as follows

• Twelve years old and above – EUR 60
• Children from 6 years old to below 12 years old – EUR 35
• Children below 6 years old – free

In addition to the visa fee, an additional service fee shall be charged to you by external service providers facilitating your application. In the case of France, Germany, and the Netherlands, VFS Global charges a service fee of Php 901 while for Italy, the service fee is Php 1,350 per applicant (visa application lodgment & biometric service, inclusive of return courier & all applicable taxes)

UPDATED VISA POLICY In May 2018, the European Commission adopted a proposal on the revision of the Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 (Visa Code). Changes to the Visa Code will be discussed throughout the article. Increased fees for visa applications : Effective 2 February 2020, from €60 per application, visa fee will now be €80, and from €35, it will now be €40 . Children aged 0 to 6 remain exempt from the visa fees.

How To Apply for a Schengen Visa in the Philippines: A Step-by-Step Guide

Given there are 26 countries in the Schengen area, the first thing to do is to decide which country you should lodge your application. Here are the rules:

a. If your travel destination is only one Schengen country (e.g., only France), your application must be lodged in the Consulate of that country.

b. If you intend to travel to more than one Schengen country , you must lodge your application in the country of your main destination.

The main destination means a country where you will stay the longest.

Example: You will travel to the Netherlands for 5 days to attend a friend’s wedding. You also decide to explore the region and wants to travel to Belgium for 3 days, in France for 4 days and Germany for another 3 days. You should lodge your application in the Consulate of the Netherlands because you are staying in the country the longest.

c. If your main destination can not be determined , you should apply in the country where you will first arrive (or cross).

Example: You booked a round trip ticket from Manila to Amsterdam and plans to travel in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France for 5 equal days each. You may lodge your application in the Consulate of the Netherlands as it is the country where you’ll arrive first.

2. Start the application process at the applicable Consulate

Basically, there are two stages of visa application regardless of where you lodge your application.

The first stage is when you successfully lodge your application at the third party service provider of the Consulate of the country you are going to. Two things you need to ensure:

• You book an appointment
• You submit all required documents stated in the checklist (see “What are the Schengen visa requirements” above)

If you meet all the requirements, you applications is considered admitted. Once admitted, your documents will be forwarded to the Consulate for examination.

You enter the second stage when you pass the scrutiny of the consulate . To ensure success in this stage, make sure:

• Your travel documents are authentic (not false or counterfeit)
• Your purpose of stay is justified (e.g. tourism and not illegal immigration)
• You have sufficient means to fund your travel
• Don’t give the examiner doubts as to the authenticity, veracity, and reliability of your supporting documents as well as to your intention to leave the Schengen area before the expiry of the visa applied for.

Now that you have a general idea of the application process, let’s now proceed to the country-specific Schengen visa guides.

a. Access the website France – Visas , the official visa website for France.

b. Click on the ‘Start your visa application”, you will be directed to create an account.

c. Once an account is created, fill-out the online form. It is composed of 5 sections, namely:

• Your travel plans
• Your personal information
• Your previous visas
• Your contacts

d. Once complete, print the online application form and affix your signature.

(Note that your visa application form will be automatically filled in with the information provided)

e. Schedule an appointment at theVFS Global Manila website. Here’s how to schedule an appointment at the VFS Global page:

• If it is your first time using VFS, you will be asked to create an account by clicking the “New User” button. Otherwise, you will be asked to log-in
• Click on the “Schedule Appointment”, choose which centre you will submit your application (either Makati or Cebu), click “continue”
• Click “Add applicant” and fill out the details requested in the form and click “continue”
• On the next page, you will be asked to choose a date and time where you can submit your application. Once a date and time is chosen, click “confirm”
• Your Appointment Letter will then be emailed to you. You need to print the letter and bring it with you on appointment day so you will be allowed access to the VFS office

f. On the day of your appointment, bring your appointment letter, signed application form together with the receipt of the application and all supporting documents to the VFS Office.

The checklist of requirements/supporting documents will be given to you during the filling-out of the online application form as the list depends on your response.

Here’s what to expect at the VFS Global Office :

• You will be required to present your appointment letter to allow access to the Centre
• You need to take a token/ticket and be seated in the waiting area You will then be called to the submission counter where your application will be scrutinized by a VFS Global agent. The agent will verify if your documents correspond to the checklist of documents provided by the French consular authority
• If there are missing documents, you have the option to withdraw your application (you can then complete your application and return to VFS on another day. If you opt to continue to submit an incomplete application, you are requested to sign a document that indicates the incompleteness of your application, specifying those lacking)
• Your biometrics information will be taken
• Finally, you will be issued a receipt for the fees and service charges paid as an acknowledgment of your application

g. Track the status of your application here . Just key in your “Reference Number” and last name.

h. Collect your passport at the visa centre or wait for courier delivery. If you choose for your passport to be delivered via courier, a service fee of Php 330 will be collected.

Additional Information/Instruction:

a. You must attend your appointment in person and bring all the required documents, a copy of each document including the passport and its ID pages

b. If your accommodation in France is provided by a host, here are the rules:

• Your host will need to provide Attestation d’ accueil (accommodation certificate) which can be obtained at your host’s local town
• Check out servicepublic.gouv.fr to learn more about this document

a. Access the website VIDEX , the visa application portal of Germany. The site allows you to complete your visa application online.

b. Once you are on the page, fill-out the online form composed of 5 sections, namely:

• Personal details
• Contact data
• Travel data
• Assumption costs

Note : If you are not sure of what information to input, just click on the “launch assistant” icon on the right side of the page and it will guide you with the required input.

c. Once complete, print the online application form and affix your signature.

(Note that your visa application form will be automatically filled in with the information provided).

d. Schedule an appointment at the VFS Global website . You can schedule an appointment here .

e. Submit your signed application form together with all your supporting documents at the VFS Centre. Here is a checklist of requirements for the German Embassy.

Important Reminder: The procedure for booking an appointment at the VFS office; what to do and what to bring on your appointment date; what to expect while inside the office; how to track your application; and how to collect your visa are the same as when you are applying for France so just check the process discussed above.

b. An additional document called “Declaration according to § 54 Aufenthalts” , fully completed and signed by your own hand needs to be submitted as well. This document is included in the checklist

c. If someone is sponsoring your trip to Germany, your host will need to send you the “Declaration of Formal Obligation” which you need to submit at the Consular Section of the German Embassy. Further information on the Declaration of Formal Obligation is found here .

a. Access the website Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Services . This is the portal where you can apply for several consular services including applying for a Schengen visa and completing the online application form.

b. Click on the “Schengen Visa” and choose “Short Stay Visa (less than 90 days).

c. On the next page, click on “Start Visa Application”.

d. Fill-out the online form composed of 7 sections, namely:

• Application
• Destination

Note : the questions are straightforward and can be readily be answered. If you do not understand the question, just click the question mark (?) next to the field to know what information is being asked.

e. Once complete, print the online application form and affix your signature.

f. Schedule an appointment at the VFS Global website . You can schedule an appointment here .

g. Submit your signed application form together with all your supporting documents at the VFS Centre. Here is a checklist of requirements for the Dutch Embassy.

Important Reminder:  The procedure for booking an appointment at the VFS office; what to do and what to bring on your appointment date; what to expect while inside the office; how to track your application; and how to collect your visa are the same as when you are applying for France so just check the process discussed above.

Note that if the purpose of your trip is to visit friends or family, there is a form that needs to be filled out by your host and must be signed in the presence of an authorized municipal officer. Here is the link to the form .

In the case of a non-formalized relationship (boyfriend/girlfriend), the latter’s photocopy of the biodata page of the passport and/or travel history needs to be submitted as well. Both of these requirements are indicated in the checklist.

a. Access the website VIA Centre . This is the visa application guide for Italy.

b. Click on “Start the application”.

c. On the Visa Application form, click “Short term”.

d. On the next page, fill out the online application form for short term visa. It is composed of 10 sections, namely:

• Passport Information
• Applicant Information
• Residence Information
• Entry Information
• Schengen Information
• Fingerprint Information
• Arrival and Departure
• Member’s information
• Family Data

f. Submit your completed visa application form and all required supporting documents at the VIA Centre at the address below:

• If applying in Makati – 3rd Flr Allegro Center, Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 2284 Metro Manila, Philippines
• If applying in Cebu – 1004, Keppel Bldg, Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cor Samar Loop, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines

VIA Centre accepts visa applications from Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM and Friday 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM.

Note that you can go directly to the VIA Centre to submit your application even without an appointment (walk-in). Setting up an appointment is optional.

Here is a checklist of requirements for the Italian Embassy that you need to bring.

g. At the VIA Centre, your biometrics will be collected.

h. Pay the visa fee and collect the receipts.

i. Wait for the result and claim your passport and visa.

a. Per instruction in the VIA website, you need to bring the following:

• Original copies and photocopies of all required documents
• Your original old and most recently issued passport
• Photocopies of the first page and last page of both the old passport and most recently issued passport
• Photocopies of previous visas and immigration stamps from countries previously visited

b. Your application must be arranged in the following order upon the time of submission:

• Application form with picture
• Introduction letter
• If invited by friends/relatives: a. Invitation letter, b. Copy of proof of identity, c. Proof of relationship
• Or if staying in a hotel: a. Hotel Booking, b. Copy of Passport, visas and immigration stamps
• Proof of occupation
• Proof of economic means
• Travel health insurance
• NSO documentation
• Flight booking

Tips and Warnings

There’s no guarantee that your visa will be granted. Also, plans and travel dates do change.

Instead, get the required reservation ticket. You can buy reservation tickets at travel agencies. I bought mine from a travel agency and it cost me Php 1,000 for a round trip ticket.

You may book a confirmed flight provided that you can cancel the bookings for free later on.

Again, you are not sure if your visa will be granted and by experience, plans change often. For booking accommodations that can be canceled, I usually choose Booking.com. They offer free cancellations.

If you are traveling to multiple cities, you need to provide all hotel bookings for all the places you are visiting. You also need to ensure all the days of your itinerary are covered with accommodation. I noted that this is what the agent at the VFS Centre is checking. Again, just book accommodation that you can cancel for free.

The harmonized list of supporting documents only requires proof of outward and return tickets. It does not require proof of transfers . I did not provide such document when I applied for a Dutch Schengen visa and I had no problem.

In your actual trip, you don’t have to follow the itinerary you submitted. No one is going to check if you decided to ride a gondola in Venice instead of taking a cruise along the canals of Amsterdam.

In my application, I only applied for a three-week itinerary and only indicated 4 Schengen countries to visit with the Netherlands as the country of arrival. In my actual trip, I ended up traveling to 12 Schengen countries for 89 days with Greece as the first country of arrival. I did not encounter any problems doing this.

Insufficient insurance is a ground for rejection of your application. I bought insurance from Pacific Cross and Chubb and had no issues.

It’s easier to fill out the form if you have these documents readily available.

I made the mistake of not paying attention to the address of VFS Global and went to a different address instead. This caused me to miss my appointment. If you miss your appointment, you can just book again. Booking an appointment in VFS is free.

However, the fees are expensive (photocopy service – Php 5; photograph service – Php 150) so be sure to have everything photocopied before going.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by Atty. Kareen Lucero

in Juander How , Travel and Leisure

Atty. Kareen Lucero

Kareen Lucero is a lawyer previously doing litigation before working for different agencies in the government and for a multinational corporation. She has traveled to 52+ countries including a 3-month solo backpacking in South East Asia and more than 1 year of solo traveling across four continents in the world. As part of giving back, she is passionate about sharing her knowledge of law and travel. She is currently doing consulting work for a government agency. For inquiries, you may reach her via Facebook Messenger (https://m.me/kareen.lucero.77) or email ( [email protected] ).

Browse all articles written by Atty. Kareen Lucero

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Cover Letter Visa Application

• Post author By Belle
• Post date November 19, 2022

COVER LETTER VISA APPLICATION

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Home > Blog > Guides > Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Schengen Visa Cover Letter

on 22 Nov, 2021

Guide To The Cover Letter For Your Schengen Visa Application

What is a schengen visa application cover letter.

A Schengen Visa Cover Letter (or Covering Letter) is a document written by you and addressed to the Schengen Embassy/Consulate along with the other documents you are required to submit. 

The letter should provide additional information concerning the purpose of your trip and your intentions to return to your country of residence. 

The letter acts as a personal introduction as it shows to the Embassy/Consulate officers a brief summary of your travel background (e.g., travel dates, employment background, etc.). 

In other words, your cover letter is a summary of your Visa application . 

Your Covering Letter For Schengen Visa Is The First Direct Contact Between You And The Embassy

The cover letter represents a way of communication between you and the embassy officer, in which you are explaining your reasons for your trip and why you should be accepted. 

Please note that some Embassies/Consulates have chosen to outsource the Visa application process meaning that you have to submit your application through an outsourcing company such as VFS Global. 

In this case, your cover letter is your only chance to communicate with the Embassy/Consulate officers and explain your details and the reason why you believe they should grant you a Visa as well as your intentions to only travel and not to overstay your Visa, as they will not be able to see you face-to-face.

This letter is not a mandatory requirement meaning that the applications that do not include it will not necessarily be rejected or delayed. 

However, we strongly recommend and urge you to submit it as it does more than make a good impression on the Embassy/Consulate officers and speed up your Visa application process – Your cover letter can significantly increase your chances of success because it summarises every item you have provided. 

You should submit a Visa application cover letter even if you have been invited by a partner company to the Schengen Region and you are applying for a Business Visa .

The Importance Of The Schengen Visa Cover Letter

The cover letter is an important document as it gives you the chance to introduce yourself and make your travel purpose clear. 

The letter is important for your application because:

● It gives you the opportunity to provide information that your other documents cannot provide.

Most of the documents that you must submit are official documents that cannot clearly highlight your travel background. 

In other words, your covering letter is the only document that can actually tell a story. 

Telling a story can be a powerful communication tool because the Embassy/Consulate officers can understand who you actually are and why you should get a Visa. 

● It helps the Visa officers save time and therefore speed up your application process.

Embassies/Consulates receive hundreds of applications weekly. 

Sometimes, those responsible for processing them do not have time and patience to figure out the purpose of the journey and the intentions to return to the country of residence by analysing all of the documents of each single Visa applicant. 

This does not mean that they do not check your documents carefully but they typically do it to determine if they show consistency. Therefore, this letter can simply make your application process easier for them.  

How To Get A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Getting most of your Visa application documents depends on bureaucracy/laws in your country of residence/other people that must write and sign your documents. 

The cover letter is the only document that you must write and sign by yourself (together with the Visa Application Form and your day-to-day travel itinerary ).

Once you have gathered all of your documents, you can write the letter on your computer. 

We recommend you write it after you gather the rest of your documents because the letter should include a list of the documents that you are submitting for your application. 

Important: If you are not familiar with this type of letter, you can download one of our templates (please select the one that is the most relevant for your situation) and fill it out following our suggestions. Please contact us for further details.   

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Even though the cover letter should not be very long and must contain only key information about you as an applicant, there are several mistakes that you should avoid making. 

Also, do not forget that the cover letter does not have to be too long and the information on it must match the information on your other documents .  

Not all the below errors can lead to the rejection of your application but your chances of approval may decrease. 

Therefore, we strongly recommend you double-check your covering letter before submitting it so that you can be sure it does not contain one of the following mistakes:

• Not using logical arguments to explain the purpose of your trip and your intentions to return to your country of residence

Logical reasoning is a powerful tool not only for your covering letter but also during the interview with the Embassy/Consulate officers. 

Make sure you know how to explain the reason as to why you travel to the Schengen Region and your intentions to return to your country of residence. 

For example, “ I want to visit France because I like it ” or “ I want to visit France because it is a nice country ” are not logical reasons as to why you want to visit France (or another Schengen country). 

You should be more specific. For example: “ I want to visit France because I’ve been fascinated by French culture ever since I was a child ”. 

The same rule applies to the explanation of your intentions to return to your country of residence. Writing “ I will return to my country of residence because I cannot stay in the Schengen Region ” is not a logical reason as to why you will not overstay your Visa. 

You can write instead: “ I will return to my country on August 15 because my employer did not allow me to take more than 3 weeks off ” or “ I will return on September 20 because I must attend a vocational training course upon the request of my employer .”

• Providing the same information that is already outlined by your other documents

One of the purposes of your covering letter is to outline details about your trip that are not indicated by your other documents. 

For example, in case of a tourist Visa application you should not write: “ I will be travelling to France between October 20, 2020, and November 17, 2020, and I will stay at Hotel Lafayette in 23 Rue des Messageries, Paris .” 

Of course, this information is important because it shows relevant details about your trip but the Embassy/Consulate officers can easily understand your trip details by checking your flight and hotel reservations. 

As we mentioned above, you should try to tell a story in your covering letter (even though you have to maintain a professional tone). 

For example, you can write: “ I will be travelling to France between October 20, 2020, and November 17, 2020. I have chosen to spend almost one month in France as I strongly believe that I need time to visit the most important tourist attractions and get to know the French culture. I will stay at Hotel Lafayette in 23 Rue des Messageries because the hotel is located within walking distance of the most important places of interest in Paris.”   

• Submitting a cover letter that contains spelling mistakes

Not all applicants have an excellent command of English, and the Embassy/Consulate officers won’t judge you if you make some grammar mistakes (especially because it is highly likely that English is not their native language).  

But a covering letter that contains too many spelling mistakes and does not follow some specific layout rules (the way that words are set up on the page) will make the Embassy/Consulate officers believe that you do not have a sense of consideration for the event and are not respecting the application process (which is your Schengen Visa application). 

Therefore, you need to pay attention to the spelling, punctuation, capitalisation, and layout of the letter. 

Please read carefully the two cover letter sample paragraphs below (please note that none of them is a complete sample cover letter and you need a more detailed template/sample in order to write a cover letter for Schengen Visa application):

Sample 1: 

“Dear sir madam I would like to apply at your consulate general for a schengen visa for visit friend in Netherlands.

My name is raji anand. I will be travelling from new delhi to amsterdam between octobr 15 and November 17  My employer has already approved my vacation and leave from work for the duration of 1 months. I hold an Indian passport no xxxxxx and I have attached passport size pictures to these cover letters. please do not hesitate to contact me for more information !Thanking you in advance, Raji anand. ”

“Dear Visa Officer,

I would like to apply for a Schengen Visa upon my intention to visit the Netherlands between October 15, 2020 and November 17, 2020.

My name is Raji Anand and I am an Indian citizen. I will be travelling from New Delhi to Amsterdam to visit my close friend, John Smith, who has also provided a sponsorship letter to support my Visa application as he will be covering all of the expenses for the duration of this trip.

I have attached to this letter the following documents [List of documents] .

Please do not hesitate to contact me for any questions and clarifications.

Raji Anand”

Bad spelling and writing mistakes (like the ones in the first sample) will make you seem less credible and the Embassy/Consulate officers may believe that you do not have a sense of consideration for your application process. 

At the same time, attention to details such as spelling, punctuation, and capitalisation (as shown by the second sample that we provided as an example) will make the Visa officers think that you are an organised and responsible person who put effort into preparing the Visa application.  

• Not presenting the list of documents you are submitting in order of priority

Show the Embassy/Consulate officers that you are an organised person. 

You should mention the list of documents that you are submitting for your application in order of priority (and not randomly). 

Start with the documents that are mandatory for all applicants no matter their personal situation (application form, passport, insurance, etc.) and then add the documents that are mandatory according to the purpose of your trip (e.g., hotel reservations ,   flight reservations , and travel itinerary – if you are applying for a tourist visa) and the documents that are mandatory according to your personal situation (e.g., employment contract , No Objection Certificate (NOC) Letter from your Employer, payslips , your bank statements , etc. – in case you are employed and you pay the expenses for your trip by yourself). 

For further details concerning the Schengen Visa requirements and the order that you should keep when listing them in your covering letter, please check out this blog post.  

• Submitting a Cover Letter that does not align to information and facts provided in other documents

The details and reasons outlined within your cover lettering must align to the same information and evidence you have provided in every other document you are submitting. 

If you contradict or state a point in your letter that does not align to the documents you provide to the Embassy/Consulate, you could jeopardise the entire application, which may cause your Schengen Visa to be rejected.

For example, if in your cover letter, you outline that you are travelling to stay with your family who lives in Italy but you do not include an invitation letter or sponsor for accommodation letter from them, then it contradicts the information in your application. 

Another example is that you say you are traveling for tourism but then you have an invitation letter from a business in your documents. Or, when your passport number and other personal details in your letter do not match the details in your other documents.

Confused Where To Start?

If you are confused, worried or stuck, the best next step to take is to Get a Free Consultation .

The session takes 5 to 10 minutes, starts immediately and you will get our advice delivered to your inbox by a Visa Expert within 1-2 hours. This is not a video or phone call, it is just like a live chat, where we can understand your situation better and an expert shares what you should do next.

There is no commitment to use our services at all, we just provide you advice based on our assessment of your situation and give you the next steps you need to follow to get your Schengen visa.

Click the Free Consultation button below to get the information you have been searching for

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SCHENGEN TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR FILIPINOS – ITALY VISA

• November 14, 2022 November 23, 2022

[COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF EVERYTHING I SUBMITTED FOR MY SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION]

• Schengen Visa List of Requirements

Now that you already know the Schengen visa application process for Filipino citizens , let’s now deep dive into the application requirements. Below is everything that I submitted to the embassy, in the same order:

DISCLAIMER: I am not a professional travel agent and in no way affiliated with Schengen visa processing agencies. What I’ll share are guidelines and tips that worked for me. Applying for a visa is on a case-to-case basis, so nothing will ever guarantee your approval. My best piece of advice? Honesty is the best policy, always.

1. Cover letter

2. passport, 3. accomplished schengen visa application form with photo, 4. paid accommodations, 5. photocopies of passport (old and current), 6. proof of employment, 7. proof of economic means, 8. travel health insurance, 9. psa documents/ proof of identity, 10. flight booking, 11. detailed itinerary, 12. proof of vaccination, 13. supporting documents [if applicable]:, for self-employed individuals, for freelancers, for students, for honeymooners, additional documents for visit visas, documents to establish strong ties.

The cover letter is a deal breaker in your application.

This is not a part of the required documents by the embassy but it’s very important that you prepare one. Your letter must include all the important details about your trip. It also serves as a summary of your entire application.

Schengen visa application doesn’t come with interviews, so you have to rely only on your submitted documents to show why you’re eligible for a visa. A cover letter is your chance to tell more about the purpose of your travel or explain why you can’t submit a required document.

You’re traveling alone? Explain why in your cover letter.

You can’t submit an ITR? Justify your reason in the letter.

You just resigned and are currently unemployed? Give more context in your letter.

Try to wear the consul hat and anticipate any doubts or questions they might have. Then give straight-to-the-point explanations.

Think of what they would want to see. Having sufficient financial means is important to them, so it’s a good idea to include how much money in all you have in your bank. They would know at a glance that you have the money to travel. Then they’ll just refer to your bank statements to confirm it.

Your cover letter must have a nice flow to it. With everything I have to share, I wrote a separate blog post on how to write an effective cover letter . It has a template that you can follow and tips you can apply!

Your passport should not be expiring 6 months prior to your travel dates.

Don’t forget to bring your old and current passports because you’ll be asked to submit both.

When you schedule an appointment with the embassy, they will email you the official Schengen form that you should print and fill out.

Don’t just download random Schengen application forms from the internet. Some are already outdated and invalid. When I was at VIA Center (Italian visa center), some people had to go out and print the correct form because what they printed was an outdated copy form from the internet.

Print your Schengen application form and other embassy-provided forms/documents on A4 paper.

They are strict with the photo specs so keep in mind the following: the photo must be with a collar, the hair should not in any way cover the collar and the ears, and don’t show your teeth.

Airbnb lets you download proof of paid reservations with the names of your companions. It’s a convincing document because it’ll prove that you and your companion/s will actually travel together. The downside is your payment is fully refundable only within 48 hours of booking. Then it’s partially refundable 2 weeks before your travel dates.

With Agoda or Booking.com , payment terms are more flexible. You can book a hotel with no pre-payment and cancel the booking up to a few days before your arrival without a cancellation charge.

Here’s a screenshot of the Airbnb document with the names of the guests:

Make sure to have photocopies of relevant pages on your old and current passports.  Relevant pages include the following: the first page (bio page), the last page, and all pages with visas and stamps.

• Certificate of employment
• No objection letter
• BIR 2316: Certificate of Compensation Payment/Tax Withheld of the last 3 years
• Photocopy of company ID with signature, SSS no., and TIN no.

Here’s a No Objection letter template that you can use:

• Pay slips from the last 6 months
• Bank statements show your historical transaction records – the ins and outs of your money. With this, the embassy would have an idea of how much money is involved in your “normal bank flow”. Having regular transactions is a good thing because it means that you’re actively using your account. It’s much more convenient if you have online banking accounts. You can just easily log in and download your bank statements from the bank website. For the month/s that are not yet updated, you can request the bank to print it for you. This can cost Php50 per page.
• Bank certificates show how long you’ve had your account and how much your ADB (average daily balance) is. It’s to assess how liquid you are. Having a good ADB is more important than having a high ending balance because ADB can’t be manipulated. It reflects how much money you normally have in your account. So it’s never a good idea to borrow money just for the sake of “show money”. Unlike the bank statements that you can easily download, you are required to go to the bank and request a bank certificate. They’ll give you an official document with a seal. This usually costs Php250.

Here’s how you can download your bank statements from BPI:

• On the left side of the page, click the ‘Other Services’ Tab
• Click ‘My Statements’ under MY ACCOUNT
• Select your BPI account
• Select a statement date range

• Credit card statements from the last 6 months

Your credit card records reflect your financial life. It’s ideal to have regular transactions and pay your balances timely. It’s a good indicator that you’re reliable, responsible, and financially capable. Good records can signify that your financial situation is right on track. A bad record can mean you’re risky.

Having a credit card also means that you have additional means to pay, other than cash.

If applicable, you may also include the following:

• For sponsored applicants – If you have someone to sponsor your trip, the financial burden will shift to your sponsor. They need to show bank statements for the last 6 months, a bank certificate, properties, and a notarized Affidavit of Support (AOS). Sponsors can be your parents, relatives, foreign boyfriend, the family of your foreign boyfriend, etc.
• For freelancers – Paypal or income history, proof of online work, employment contract, Upwork hours (screenshots)
• For business owners – Copy of Business Registration from SEC or DTI, Article of Incorporation and General Information Sheet, Mayor’s permit, ITR, BIR permits and licenses, BIR Certificate of registration, Company’s Financial Statements

I bought the “Travelsafe Insurance Plan” from Pacific Cross with at least 30,000 euros in coverage and a Covid 19 add-on, as required by the embassy.

Take note that the Italian embassy requires additional 15 days of coverage on top of your travel dates. For example, if my travel dates were June 1 to June 15, my insurance should be June 1 to June 30.

I printed the 2-paged OCC or Travel Insurance Official Confirmation of Coverage . It has my information and a summary of the benefits.

Here’s the proposed list of Schengen insurance companies in the Philippines:

• Malayan Incurance Company, Inc.
• Assist-Card
• Standard Insurance Co
• Starr International Insurance Philippines
• Pioneer Insurance and Surety Company
• Oriental Assurance Corporation
• Pacific Cross Insurance, Inc.
• MAPFRE Insular Insurance Corporation
• Original and photocopy of PSA-issued birth certificate and photocopy of valid ID (driver’s license)
• Photocopy of my other IDs – club membership, condominium ownership ID, etc.

I pre-purchased my flight with Singapore Airlines.

As I said, nothing will ever guarantee your approval because it’s on a case-to-case basis.

In my case, I already bought a ticket. I do not advise this though because it can be risky – you can do this only if the flight has flexible refundable terms, otherwise, I suggest you go for dummy flight bookings/reservations. Taking a screenshot of your desired flight also worked for some.

Having a detailed itinerary shows that your travel days are organized and well-planned. If you’re applying for a tourist visa, you should already have cities you’d like to visit in mind by now.

Here’s an itinerary template that you can use:

My 5 tips for creating an itinerary:

• Your approved visa validity period will depend on your travel itinerary. Make sure to create one that you’ll actually follow. Don’t make a dummy itinerary just for the sake of it.
• Set a realistic itinerary. For example, if you are in Milan on Day 1, it’s unbelievable that you’ll be in Paris on Day 2 and Amsterdam on Day 3. It’s possible but highly unlikely. It looks like a made-up itinerary. Being unprepared for your tourist activities can be a red flag. Do your research and make sure that your trip is doable within a reasonable timeframe.
• Research the attractions of the city you plan to visit. List them under the ‘Activities’ column. Just the key landmarks or general areas will do. You don’t need to write down where you’ll have coffee or dinner.
• Include your accommodation’s complete address. You may get it from your Airbnb or Agoda reservation document. It can boost your credibility because it shows transparency on your side.
• Include your regional or country transfers. Research which train or bus operators can get you from point A to point B. If you’ll be on a sleeper train, you may write it under ‘Accommodation’. This will make your itinerary look more realistic and doable.
• Photocopy of my Marikina LGU-issued vaccine card
• Photocopy of my yellow card from the Bureau of Quarantine
• Printed VaxCert PH QR code

The list of documents required by the embassy is not the end-all-be-all. If you think that you have relevant supporting documents that solidify your purpose of travel and strong ties, then I say go for it.

• Complete set of DTI/SEC registration, including the Article of Incorporation and General Information Sheet
• BIR Certificate of Registration
• BIR Permits and License
• Company’s Financial Statements
• Paypal invoice/transactions
• Screenshot of Upwork profile
• Client contract
• Certificate of earnings
• Screenshots of projects/work output
• School certificate
• Proof of enrollment
• No objection letter from the school
• Original wedding invitation
• Original affidavit of support provided by the groom or by parents (notarized)
• Photocopy of marriage license
• Photocopy of wedding reception reservation
• Photocopy of other receipts like church, reception, etc.
• Invitation letter
• Proof of relationship: pictures together, family tree, screenshots of conversations, etc.
• Affidavit of Support (AOS)
• For those in a relationship with an EU national: Passports and stamps, National ID or residence card, work contract, proof of property or apartment rental contract, etc.
• Existing life insurance certification/ screenshot of payments
• Screenshot of SSS contribution table, Philhealth, and PAGIBIG payments
• Car/motorcycle registration
• Land or condo title
• Real property tax payment receipt
• Senior citizen cards of parents
• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate of children
• Investments
• Utility bills under your name (Meralco, Globe, Manila Water etc.)

In summary, your submitted documents should scream the following:

• STRONG TIES . You must have a stable life in the Philippines and you fully intend to go back without overstaying your visa. I couldn’t stress this enough. Establishing this is probably the most important thing you should focus on.
• FINANCIALLY CAPABLE . Having enough money to fund your travel to Europe and still have a comfortable amount when you get back.
• DEFINITE PURPOSE OF TRAVEL . Your travel plans must be realistic with supporting documents.

Honesty is the best policy.

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• Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• MisAdventures
• Sustainability

How to Get Schengen Visa in the Philippines (Freelancers + Solo Travelers)

• 8 minute read

Do you want to know how to get Schengen visa in the Philippines? Is it your first time to apply for a Schengen visa? Unlike other nationalities with stronger passports, it is a long process that needs mindful preparation. In this post, you will read 10+ easy tips to increase your chances of getting approved.

Table of Contents

Draft an itinerary, beef up your travel history, check the requirements + consulate policies, set a timeline for important dates, ace that “show money” dilemma – save, save, save, prepare a detailed cover letter, read the instructions and steps carefully, be consistent with the numbers, dates, and activities, provide as many relevant documents as you can, be honest and confident.

During the second half of August 2019, I was in Europe, visiting Berlin, Prague, and Vienna. I was supposed to go to Budapest and Amsterdam too, but loneliness got the best of me and I went home earlier than planned.  Prone to sadness when solo traveling? Read my post about it!

To be honest, applying for a Schengen visa as a solo female traveler and a Filipino freelancer was nerve wracking. It would’ve been costly if I got denied… because I already booked my tickets! Not advisable but I couldn’t resist the promo fares! Plus, my situation was already a huge red flag.

• Solo female  – “She might extend her stay and look for a job,” “she might marry a local for a visa,” or worse, “she might go TNT”
• Freelancer  – “She doesn’t have a ‘real job’ and might look for work,” “She doesn’t have a strong attachment to her country,” or in other words, “she has no reason to return”

But I did my research on how to get Schengen visa in the Philippines. I learned from the experiences of others like me. I made sure I’ve got every base and potential doubt covered, and my application was tight as it could be. So, here are the things I did that helped me get that Schengen visa from the German Embassy. 

Europe includes about 50 countries, and the Schengen visa covers  26 countries . Check if the country you want to visit is included.

If you’re traveling to more than one country, figure out how many days you want to stay in each. The country where you want to stay the longest is where you will apply for the Schengen visa. My point of entry was Berlin. I also stayed there the longest. So, I applied at the German Embassy.

Here’s a  complete budget guide to making your own travel itinerary .

Traveling in Europe is long term vision, and for most of us, it really is years in the making. For my Europe 2019 trip, I started planning and saving 2.5 years ago. While I waited for the right time, I made sure to collect stamps in my passport.

Then, when you apply for the Schengen visa, make your travel history apparent by arranging the details in a table. Always make it convenient for the consular officer going through your application. Here’s how I arranged mine.

Why do you need to have previous travel experience before going for a Schengen visa? To show that traveling is part of your lifestyle, decreasing any suspicion that you’re going to Europe to stay and work illegally. It also shows that you have the financial capacity as well as multiple evidences that you never overstay and “always come back home,” if that makes.

There are many visa-free countries for Filipinos. Since saving for Europe is the ultimate goal, ASEAN countries plus some Asian countries will be your best bet. Once you start building up your travel funds and getting extra savings, you can include Japan and Korea in the mix. 

Here’s a complete  list of the 64 countries Filipinos can enter without visa .

In general, there is no one answer to the question, “How to get Schengen visa in the Philippines” because requirements could be different in each country. So, always check the specific consulate website of where you intend to apply. For Germany, here’s the  list of requirements  for short stay (maximum of 90 days) visa for tourists above the age of 18.

• Identity:  Passport, passport-size photo
• Purpose of travel:  Itinerary, roundtrip tickets, confirmation of accommodations
• Financial coverage:  Bank statement, bank certificate, payroll (if applicable), any proof of income
• Rootedness:  Certificate of employment, letter of approved leave of absence, letters from clients, business registration, income tax return
• Health insurance  (minimum coverage of €30,000, pick from a list of providers the consulate provided)
• Visa fee  (to be paid upon application)
• Application form   (to be filled up online)

Find out whether you can submit the application to the consulate or you have to go through an agency. The German Embassy processes Schengen visa application, but slots are limited! I missed booking a schedule, so I went through their service provider, VFS.

I suggest, if you have everything ready and can go through the consulate, do so! You will save around P1,000 of agency service fee.

Dates are important because your documents need to be updated when you submit your Schengen visa application. Let’s say your trip is in August, you can already book for an interview slot three months before the date of your trip. 

That means, all statements and certificates should be ready by then. Now, when you plot your timeline, will you hit your target “show money”? Will your savings cover everything with an extra left behind after your trip? Of course, you wouldn’t want to be broke after traveling in Europe. If it’s doable, then set the plan in motion!

One of the most frequently asked questions when figuring out how to get Schengen visa in the Philippines is, “How much is ‘show money’?” Honestly, there’s no specific amount to target, just a range which highly depends on your itinerary. Here’s a list of expenses to consider when preparing your application.

• Plane tickets
• Accommodations
• Other transportation costs (trains, buses, cabs)
• Entry fees to attractions
• Daily travel costs (which depends per country:  see here )

Total everything so you will get a ballpark figure of how much you will have to save in addition to what’s already in your savings account. As for my two-week Europe trip across four countries, my initial batch of expenses (those I was sure of before application) were the following.

Roughly, the list above should have covered a part of the “daily travel costs” in Germany which is €45/day (around P2,521). Overall, my budget for the trip was around P100,000 to P120,000. Then, I made sure I had both buffer money and permanent savings to show the consul that I was financially capable in case something happened.

Obviously not one of the requirements, but a cover letter helps the consul officer understand the reason of your travel in your own words. It’s like a job application. The cover letter allows you to present yourself, explain why you want to travel, and give background about the documents you prepared, or lack of, for the application.

What to include in the cover letter for Schengen visa application? List all the possible red flags you think you have and address them one by one. Here are some best practices and see the actual letter I submitted to the German Embassy below!

• Introduce yourself, what you do, your source of income
• Share why you want to go to Europe and the specific countries you’re visiting
• Explain the documents you’re submitting
• Don’t leave anything up for misinterpretation
• Be formal and respectful

Also, a cover letter is great especially if you’re going through VFS since there’s no interview! 

To save you time and prevent your application from being denied, ensure that you filled up the form completely and according to the instructions provided. If you can’t fit all of the information, put a note that leads the consul to an attached document.

In my case, since I’m home-based, I put “PLEASE REFER TO COVER LETTER FOR EXPLANATION” under employer and employer’s address. In addition, since I was staying in more than one accommodation, I only included the information of my hostel in Berlin and directed the consul officer to the others with, “MINIMAL HOSTEL + PLEASE REFER TO DOCUMENTS.” 

Make sure that the number of days you’re applying for reflects not only your itinerary but also the dates on your plane tickets, accommodations, and entry tickets of attractions you pre-booked. In my case, the hotel reservations that I made were of course consistent with the days I was spending in each country. 

Don’t ask for 30 days when you’re only staying for 14 days. If that’s the case, just ask for 14 days. Don’t ask for multiple entry if you don’t need to. Generally, inconsistency is a red flag—a sign dishonesty.

I remember while I was submitting my requirements at VFS, the guy beside me was asking the local staff if it’s possible to request for a multiple-entry visa for 90 days since he intended to go back multiple times.

However, the documents he presented was good for one entry only. What he should’ve done, in my opinion, was asked for a single entry with the appropriate number of days, then put in his request and explanation in the cover letter (if he had one).

A tricky part while I was researching how to get Schengen visa in the Philippines was my work setup. It was a bit unconventional. I was working home-based for less than a year. So, to make my application stronger, I provided as many documents as possible.

• Bank statement
• Bank certificate 
• “Certificate of employment” (which included the nature of my work, my salary, my approved leave of absence)
• Business registration as a self-employed individual (even if it was registered just a month before I applied!)
• Income tax return (previous year, when I was still working in a physical office)
• Payoneer transactions
• Credit card statements
• Travel history

In your case, find out what documents you can show to prove your financial readiness. If you need certifications for projects completed and payments sent from your clients, ask! I’m sure your clients would be happy to help. My only tip here is you should draft the letter for them, so they only have to sign and scan! 

Whether in the documents you’re submitting or on the day of your interview (if you have one), just relax, stick to your itinerary, and be confident. But this is me assuming that you’re going to Europe just for travel and nothing else fishy! 

Honestly, before I submitted my application, I was ready to back down. First, because I was supposed to travel with my friends (but they weren’t able to make it). Second, just plain old negative and overthinking. And third, I didn’t want to get a refused/denied/rejected stamp on my passport. But I pushed through and I’m glad I did.

Knowing how to get Schengen visa in the Philippines lies primarily in doing your own research, planning ahead, and following rules diligently. If Europe is one of your dream destinations, then you really have to start preparing and saving now (if you haven’t already).

Are you traveling to Europe any time soon? I hope this post helped you a bit! Good luck! 

Paulene Lim

Paulene is a typical “jack of all trades, master of none." In her spare time, she reads non-fiction, plays with her cats, and explores the world one historical site at a time. More than anything else, she values experiences over material things.

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ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA Requirements & Application Process (VIA Center)

When we first toured Europe, we visited 16 different countries with a Germany-issued Schengen visa. But to our surprise, there was one destination that totally captivated us — ITALY. This boot-shaped Mediterranean state spoiled us with its delectable cuisine, jaw-dropping architecture, awe-inspiring sights, and enlightening history. We stayed in Italy for two weeks, but we knew from Day 1 that it would not be enough and that a return trip was bound to happen sooner or later.

Sooner, it turned out. Just a couple of years later, we found ourselves collecting all the documents needed to complete another Schengen Visa application. But this time, we were praying to the visa gods of Italy.

This wasn’t the first time we applied for a Schengen visa, but of all our visa applications, this made us the most nervous. Italy is notorious within my travel circles as one of the strictest when it comes to evaluating applications. I can only assume that the main reason is the sheer number of Filipino workers in Italy, around 170,000 documented OFWs plus tens of thousands undocumented. If online sources are to be believed, Italy has one of the highest rejection rates, along with France and Spain. But our plan involved staying in Italy the longest so we had to try.

We’re thankful that we did. As we began preparing, we realized that — yes, it is strict — but the process is also a lot easier and more straightforward. We applied via the PIASI VIA Center (Visa Information and Application Center). No prior appointment needed and no soul-crushing interviews. It was pretty fast too. I was granted a visa after only 4 days!

Anyway, here’s how to apply for an Italian Schengen Visa.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

WHO CAN APPLY FOR AN ITALY-ISSUED SCHENGEN VISA?

Apply for an Italian Schengen Visa only if one of these apply to you.

• You’re going to Italy or Vatican City ONLY and will not visit any other country.
• You will visit two or more Schengen countries but you will stay the longest in Italy.
• You will stay in multiple Schengen countries for exactly the same number of nights, but Italy is your point of entry (first in your itinerary) in the Schengen area.

I noticed that Schengen embassies count the number of nights when determining where the applicant would be staying the longest.

LIST OF ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA REQUIREMENTS

1. valid passport.

• Current passport and previous passports
• Must have at least 6 months validity (as required by Philippine Immigration)
• Must have at least 3 months validity remaining from the target end of the trip or target visa expiry (as required by Italian Embassy)

2. Accomplished Application Form

You can do it online or by hand.

• If online, you can fill it out here .
• If by hand, you can download from here .

Make sure that you don’t leave blanks. If the field does not apply to you, write NA or N/A.

For minors, the form must be signed by BOTH parents.

3. Recent Photo

• Both passport-size and 2×2″ photos are accepted. I submitted 2×2; Vins submitted passport-size. They accepted both.
• Colored ICAO standard photo with white background
• Ears should be visible. Lips must be closed.
• You must be wearing collared shirt or blouse.

4. Introduction Letter

This is highly encouraged. Because there is no interview with the consul or visa officer, you won’t have a chance to explain your purpose of travel in detail or clarify things you think they might find confusing. Having a cover letter can help your case.

Here’s a sample:

5. Proof of Available Accommodations

• Hotel booking under the name of the applicant. You may book from hotel booking websites and choose properties that allow FREE CANCELLATION so you can cancel easily in case the application is denied.

IF INVITED BY SOMEONE IN ITALY

• Letter of invitation. I think the letter has a standard format, but we don’t have a copy.
• Proof of citizenship or permit of stay of the inviting party
• PSA/NSO documents to prove relationship, if the inviting person is a relative. These may be birth certificates, a marriage certificates, or combination of them.

6. Photocopy of Passport Pages

• Photocopy of the bio page (page 2) and last page (In case of Emergency page) of the valid passport
• Photocopy of previous visas and immigration stamps on current and previous passports

7. Proof of Employment

IF EMPLOYED:

• Certificate of Employment
• Approved Leave of Absence
• Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
• Approved Travel Authority (For government workers only. Ignore if not applicable.)
• Professional License Card (PRC Card, only if applicable. Ignore otherwise.)

IF SELF-EMPLOYED:

• Business license/permits
• BIR Registration
• SEC Registration (corporation) / DTI Registration (sole proprietor)
• Financial Statement with Company Income Tax Return
• GIS (General Information Sheet of company, if corporation)
• Articles of Incorporation (if corporation)

The copies of GIS, BIR Plate, and Articles of Incorporation are not in the official checklist, but we were told that they are also required. Thankfully, we had a soft copy of the docs they wanted so we just printed them out at a nearby computer shop and submitted the lacking docs that same afternoon.

IF STUDENT:

• Certificate of Enrolment
• Approved Leave of Absence (if traveling within school months)

8. Proof of Financial Means

• Bank certificate supported by corresponding statement of account or passbook, showing 6 months of account history
• International credit card statements
• Land titles or copy of proof of real estate property
• For minors, proof of financial means of parents or legal guardian

9. Travel insurance

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 (with additional 15-day allowance beyond your travel dates).
• Must be valid and accepted throughout the Schengen area.
• Must be purchased from an accredited company.

PGA SOMPO TravelJOY Plus SUPREME plan is specifically designed for Schengen visa applications. It’s perhaps the easiest insurance to get online. The Poor Traveler readers can also enjoy a special rate when you book on the PGA Sompo website and use the promo code: WORTHIT .

10. Identity Documents

• PSA/NSO-issued birth certificate
• If married, PSA/NSO-issued marriage certificate
• If minor or student, notarized Affidavit of Support signed by BOTH parents
• If minor and not traveling with parents, DSWD Clearance

11. Complete Itinerary

Your itinerary must reflect the dates you indicated when you accomplished the application form. Below is a sample. This is the format I followed. You can also download an editable version here .

12. Flight Reservations

Including outward and return flights. We also submitted all the flights we plan to take within the Schengen area. Make sure your document has a Passenger Registration Number (or reservation number).

To avoid wasting money, DO NOT PURCHASE TICKETS until your visa is approved. You just need to reserve .

Find a travel agency that can reserve flights for you. In our case, we got all our flight reservations from Gazelle Travel and Tours. You can reserve flights here: HOW TO GET FLIGHT RESERVATIONS

13. Visa Fee

Here’s the cost of Short Term Visa (Tourism/Visit) when I applied:

12yo or older = 60€ (P3519) 6-11yo = 35€ (P2053) 5yo or younger = FREE

However, there is a report that visa fees across all Schengen embassies have increased to EUR 80 per applicant.

In addition, you also need to pay the P1450 handling fee charged by VIA PIASI. According to their website and the matrices on site, the handling fee is only P1350, but we were charged P1450. I’m not sure if we were charged an additional P100 for something else.

Anyway, that’s a total of P4969 .

You can get FLIGHT RESERVATIONS, HOTEL RESERVATIONS, and TRAVEL INSURANCE online! We got in touch with Gazelle Travel and Tours, a DTI-registered DOT-accredited travel agency so they could easily offer these services to our readers. For the rates and more info, read: FLIGHTS AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS

Read: FLIGHTS AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS

How to apply for an italian schengen visa, 1. complete the required documents..

Gather all the requirements as listed above. You might also want to download this checklist , so you have an easy reference.

For easier processing, arrange your documents according to the order above. We also arranged the photocopies of our stamps and past visas according to how they appear on our passports.

Although there is no specified paper size, we decided to print all our docs on A4-size paper because it is the European standard.

2. Submit the requirements to the VIA Center.

Here are the addresses and business hours of the PIASI VIA Center in Makati and Cebu.

VIA Center Makati 3F Allegro Center, Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 2284 Metro Manila, Philippines Phone: +632-845-9200 / +632-845-9215 Email: [email protected]

VIA Center Cebu 1004 Keppel Bldg, Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cor Samar Loop, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines Phone: +63-32-412-7447 Email: [email protected]

You can schedule an appointment or you can simply walk in.

If you wish to book an appointment, you may secure a slot by phone. Here are the details:

Appointment Hotline: (02) 845 9200 Call hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am-6pm Closed: Sundays and public holidays

But an appointment is OPTIONAL. You can simply show up at VIA Center. That’s what we did. We simply walked in! They accept visa applications in the following times:

VISA APPLICATION HOURS Monday to Thursday, 8am to 2:30pm Friday, 8am to 1:30pm Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays

If you’re applying in Makati, go to the second floor. Although the main office is on the third floor of Allegro Center, their receiving area for walk-in applicants is on the second floor. Here’s our experience.

• Approach the first counter right after the door. The staff will briefly check your application form and photo.
• Register on their logbook.
• Get a queue number and information form. This short form will ask you about your application and how you want your passport to be returned: by pickup or by delivery.
• Take a comfortable seat and wait for your turn. Use this idle time to fill out the information sheet.
• Once your number is called, approach the counter and submit your documents. They will check each document meticulously so it will take some time. If you choose to have your passport delivered, you will have to take care of it here too. You will be asked to go back to your seat and wait for the Biometrics collection.
• Once called, approach the Biometrics counter where a staff will take your fingerprints.
• Climb to the third floor and find the cashier.
• Make payment! Cash only. Don’t forget your acknowledgement receipt AND official receipt.

That’s it! You’re done! VIA Center will then forward your application to the Italian Embassy, which will be the one evaluating it.

In my experience, the whole processing took 3 hours. It should have been 2 hours, but they said we were lacking a couple business documents so we had to go out, print out those docs, and wait for our turn again.

3. Claim your passport and visa.

When the results are in, you will receive a call from VIA Center telling you that the passport is already with them and that it’s ready for pick up or delivery.

We were told that we can only pick up our passports at these times.

PASSPORT RELEASING SCHEDULE: Monday to Friday, 3pm-5pm ONLY.

We got a call from VIA only 4 days after we submitted our application. This was the fastest Schengen visa application I have experienced! But according to the VIA staff, the average wait is 15 days.

ITALIAN VISA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. how long does the entire italian visa application process take.

According to the VIA staff we talked to, the average is 15 days.

Some take longer. In some cases, applicants have to wait over a month. Some get theirs much shorter — 10 days, 7 days, 5 days.

In our case, the whole thing took only 4 days! Here’s my timeline:

• July 23 (Monday) – Submitted our application at VIA Center Makati
• July 26 (Friday) – VIA informed us that our passports were ready for pickup
• July 29 (Monday) – We picked up our passport

I was super nervous at first because it was too quick, but according to a friend who used to work as a visa officer at a Schengen embassy, it does happen occasionally. It’s probably because this was my fourth Schengen visa and I had been to Italy before.

2. How early should I apply for an Italian Schengen visa?

The earliest you can lodge your application is 3 months (90 days) before your intended travel date . If you apply earlier than that, they will refuse your application and tell you to return at a later date.

Update: There is a report that you may now apply as early as 6 months before the trip, but I haven’t confirmed this yet.

3. How long is the validity of the Schengen Visa?

Depends on the itinerary you submit. The Embassy will decide based on your itinerary so take it seriously. Don’t make dummy itineraries. Make sure it’s really your plan.

4. Should I apply for a single-, double-, or multiple-entry visa?

Again, it depends on your itinerary and flight reservations. If your itinerary/flight reservations suggest you’re going out of the Schengen zone and then returning after, then apply for a double-entry visa. If you plan to go in and out of the zone many times, then go for the multiple entry visa.

Don’t apply for a multiple-entry visa if you intend to stay in Italy the entire time. There is no need for your visa to be multiple and will probably just raise more questions.

5. How much money should I have in the bank to get approved?

The embassy doesn’t disclose the exact amount they need to see on your financial documents. It also depends on the length of your stay and what you plan to do.

I add the cost of all the flights and hotel reservations I submit and then add 60 euro per day of stay in Europe. Some embassies require USD50 per day, some USD 55 per day. But to be safe, I use EUR60 per day.

Once I have the sum of it all, that’s what I consider the minimum amount that I should have in my bank account. MINIMUM. I make sure I have much more funds that that because the embassy will have a very hard time believing that you are willing to spend all your money on this trip.

Because of this, my personal rule is P10,000 per day of stay + cost of flights + cost of accommodations.

6. What are the reasons why my Schengen visa application would be denied?

This applies not just to the Italian Embassy but also other Schengen embassies:

• You can’t prove that you intend to return to the Philippines . You probably don’t have a stable job at this point, newly employed, or newly resigned, and it’s giving the impression that you plan on staying longer than your declared duration.
• You can’t prove that you can financially afford this trip. You or your sponsor may not be in a good financial standing.
• Your documents are inconsistent. Your application form may be stating one thing, but your supporting documents may be suggesting another.
• Your purpose in Italy or Europe is unclear or dubious . This is why it is best to be specific when you’re detailing the reasons for your visit.

We have more detailed explanations in this post: COMMON REASONS WHY VISA APPLICATIONS ARE DENIED!

7. Do I really need flight tickets before applying?

No, you don’t need to plane tickets. If anything, you are DISCOURAGED from purchasing plane tickets so you won’t waste money in the event that your application is rejected.

Actual tickets are NOT a requirement. What you can submit is a so-called FLIGHT RESERVATION , which is different from actual tickets. “Reservations” are just proof that you have blocked these plane seats. Some airlines can hold the booking for you.

Travel agencies can also issue flight reservations. If you don’t have time to go to a travel agency, you can have it reserved online.

Our go-to travel agency for flight reservations (and travel insurance) for visa application is Gazelle Travel and Tours , a DTI-registered and DOT-accredited agency. We created a form here so you can contact them completely ONLINE:

MORE INFO: Flight and Hotel Reservations

8. do i need to submit the original copies of the documents.

VIA Center urges applicants to bring both the original and a photocopy of all documents. However, not all of the original copies will be kept by them.

Some requirements call for original copies like passports, bank certificates, birth certificate, and certificates of employment.

For others like land titles and business registration docs, they will only get the photocopy. But they will check the original copies for verification that the photocopies are indeed true copies of the original.

9. I’m applying with a group/family. Do I need to provide a copy of every document for each member?

YES. Schengen visa applications are assessed individually . According to the VIA Embassy website, each applicant must have their own set of requirements.

For example, if there are 4 members of the group/family and all of you will be using the same bank account as proof of funds, you can use that one bank account but provide 4 original copies of the bank certificate, one for each member.

10. Is personal appearance required?

Most of the time, YES.

Part of the process is Biometrics collection, in which they need your fingerprints, so the applicant must be there. However, according to the VIA staff that processed my bio, some applicants who have existing biometric records in the Schengen system may not need to show up. But because it’s hard to tell whether the copies are reliable, they still strongly recommend to personally appear to submit biometrics.

I had my biometrics collected when I applied at the Greek Embassy just over a year ago, but I was still asked for fingerprints.

11. I am visiting European countries outside the Schengen Zone and then re-entering the zone after. What should I answer to the “Indicate number of days” field on the application form: the total number of days in Europe or just the number of days within the zone?

I had this same problem. Our plan was to spend 46 days in Europe but only 22 of those would be spent within the Schengen area: 18 days initially then we’ll go out and re-enter the zone again and spend 4 more days inside.

Initially, I entered the total number of days in Europe, 46 days. But the VIA Center staff told us to write the number of days within the Schengen area, 22 days. But because I had already written 46 days, she instructed us to just add (22 DAYS IN SCHENGEN) , enclosed in a parenthesis, by hand. So my final answer was 46 DAYS (22 DAYS IN SCHENGEN) .

I’m not sure if that’s right. I just followed their instructions. We were still granted a suitable visa, so I guess it was okay.

12. On the Schengen Information section (Page 5) of the VIA online application form, what if I have more than one visas?

On Page 5 of the VIA application form, one field asks: “Schengen issued during the past 3 years?” It’s followed fields where you’re supposed to enter the validity dates of the past visas.

The problem is, it seems to be impossible to enter more than one visas.

What I did is, I just entered the validity dates of the latest Schengen visa that I had.

13. On the Fingerprint Information section (Page 6) of the VIA online application form, what am I supposed to answer?

There are only two fields on that page. Here’s what I answered:

• Fingerprints collected previously for the purpose of applying for a Schengen visa for the past 3 years? – If you have applied for a Schengen visa before and the embassy (any Schengen embassy) collected your fingerprints within the past 3 years, answer YES. I answered YES because I remember the Greek Embassy took my biometrics 2 years ago.
• Finger Print Validity. – I don’t know what to answer here exactly, but I just entered the date my fingerprints were last collected by a Schengen Embassy.

14. What to answer to the PERMIT INFORMATION section (Page 7) of the VIA online application form?

I was perplexed by this too because there was no description. I didn’t know what to answer.

Thankfully, I found a Schengen Visa Application Form guide on the website of the French Embassy! The French to the rescue!

According to it, it’s specifically asking for: Entry permits for the final country of destination , where applicable.

“Fill this space only if you do not have the nationality of your country of residence and present your visa or your permit with a photocopy.”

Because I am a Filipino residing in the Philippines, it means it doesn’t apply to me. So I ticked NO .

15. On the Members Information section (Page 9) of the application form, there are tick boxes that read “by a applicant”, “by a sponsor”, and “means of support”. What are these?

The header of that section is missing. You’re supposed to fill in the blank. What it’s actually asking is this: “Cost of travelling and living during the applicant’s stay is covered ______.”

If you will be shouldering your travel expenses, tick “BY APPLICANT.” Then choose the means of support that you will be using. DO NOT tick the “BY A SPONSOR” box. That’s only for sponsored applicants!

16. What does an Italian Schengen Visa look like?

17. i earn this much per month, have this much funds in my bank account, have visited these countries and have these supporting documents. will my application be approved.

I have no idea. No one and nothing can guarantee visa approval beforehand. The only person who can answer this question is the visa officer evaluating your application.

You can be adequately prepared for it, but sometimes, we just don’t know what the eff is going to happen.

Sometimes, no matter how qualified or how adequately prepared you are, you can still end up denied a visa. I have heard about cases wherein I just couldn’t figure out what went wrong. I have a friend who has a great travel history, financial records, rootedness proof. Everything was great, in my opinion. And yet her application was denied. And it’s not exclusive to Schengen visa. I know another who was applying for a Japanese visa for the third time. He meets all the items of someone who would surely be guaranteed approval, but was refused a visa, too.

18. What other countries can I visit using an Italian Schengen visa?

The Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows the holder to enter any of the 26 states that are part of the Schengen agreement. Think of it as an almost all-access pass to many countries in Europe, eliminating the immigration borders within the Schengen zone and the hassle of having to apply for a visa for each individual country. These are the countries who are part of the Schengen Zone:

Some non-Schengen countries like Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey also accept double- or multiple-entry Schengen visas (with certain conditions about the visa types and length of stay, among others).

For more Schengen Visa Frequently Asked Questions, check out this post: Schengen Visa for Filipinos

This article is based on my own Schengen Visa application (Tourist) via PIASI VIA Center, the official service provider of the Embassy of Italy. If you have inquiries about anything outside my personal experience, I’m afraid I won’t be of help. However, feel free to post questions in the comments section below because some of our readers might know better.

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Fell in love with Italy on my first visit. I also have that feeling na kailangan kong bumalik ng Italy. Anyways, congrats on another Schengen Visa and Enjoy! Please italian dish for me❤️

Thanks, Ailea! We’re super excited to return! :D

Very informative and helpful. Thank you!

For the hotel reservations, you said it should be under the applicant’s name, and each applicant must have his/her own set of required documents for submission. But what if we are travelling as a family and booked a family room; can they also use the hotel reservation that is under my name? Thanks, Yoshke!

Hi Laila, I think okay lang. I-explain mo na lang sa letter. Ganun din yung sa amin ni Vins eh. Lahat ng hotels namin ay under my name, pero inexplain ko sa letter. We used just one letter na dalawa kaming signatories but tig-1 copy each kami na sinubmit. :)

Tip: If you are booking via booking.com there is a part “Guest Name” where you can specify the names of the guest, just put comma (, ) in each name, this way your hotel booking will show the names of all guest in a single hotel booking. That’s what i did when i applied visa for my mom.

Oooooooh! Thanks for sharing this!

Didn’t know this! Will try this next time!

hi. thank you for sharing. its very informative. my question is what additional documents are needed if one of the spouses is not employed, but is financially capable of travelling? thanks.

I’m a bit confused. Is it you who will be traveling but your trip will be sponsored by your spouse? Or is it your spouse who will be traveling? If it’s the latter, will you be sponsoring your spouse’s trip?

i got a schengen . visa already through Norway last 2014 i wasnt . able to . use my visa since i got . tied in my . schedule in USA is . that . gonna affect my . new application in Italian Embassy since i will be staying here longer

Hi Luisa, I’m not familiar with the complications of an unused Schengen visa if meron man. :S

Thanks for sharing your wealthy information,this is an useful article for all people

Hi! In your checklist, i saw you listed “Notarized affidavit of support” for means of support for students. Does it really need to be notarized? Thank you so much for this article btw very informative

Hi Andrea, i haven’t tried applying for or as a student, but that’s what the official checklist states, so i guess it has to be notarized.

Ok thank you again!

Hello po! Thank you very much for this very informative blog. I just have a question po on the intro letter. Me and my fiance are travelling this December and will be getting married this December yet too. This trip will be for our honeymoon. Since we have to apply for a visa now, technically we have to put single as status and leave the Philippines as married. Would there be any complication if we put honeymoon as reason in our letter? Thank you in advance.

I submitted my application just yesterday via the VIA center but I forgot that I have a flight on Oct 22 to Singapore.

They are saying that it will take around 15 working days for visa processing. Do you know of many instances where the visa was released around 4-5 days after submission?

Hi Jan Si, is it your first trip to the Schengen area? Did you receive your passport back with your visa yet?

In my case, it only took 4 days.

There are a few members of our Support Group who got theirs in under 5 days too.

Thank you for this blog. This gives me ideas about applying for the VISA.

I just want to ask, Sir if Financial Statement from my bank is still needed even though someone will shoulder all of my expenses in Italy? Does the Sponsor Letter not enough?

Thank you .

Yep, they will look for financial statements ESPECIALLY if you’re sponsored.

We explained the reason for that here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/07/visa-immigration-boyfriend-girlfriend/

Hi! Do you know any embassy in Cebu which I can apply Schengen Visa? And is it possible to apply for a schengen visa for 30 days even though it will be my first time? I am planning to visit Europe in May 2020 with a planned entry in Paris. Thank you for your information

Hi Melody, naku, wala akong contact na travel agency sa Cebu. :(

Hi sir, ask ko lang po pano po gawin ulit since denied po application sa Italian embassy kahapon.. i need your thoughts lang po to advise me, what po mag apply ako ulit, since yung dating strong ties ko is my business pero hindi kasi yun naka register sa BIR kasi hindi kasi yun sakin na land or place nakiki business lang ako dun, kaya proof ko lang sa business na yun ay Brgy. Business permit lang at DTI, sa next application ko po ilalagay ko parin po ba yun na business ko? Since wala naman ako ibang work kundi yun lang po. Or baka kasi ma dedisapprove na naman ako since hindi kasi yun naka register sa BIR hinanapan kasi ni officer ng BIR sa business na yun . Need your advice lang po. Salamat sa mga sagot..

Hi July, naku, mahirap nga yan kasi pag yung proof of income or employment ang concern, mahigpit talaga sila.

You can try applying at another embassy na mas maluwag, pero baka maging problem pa rin talaga yung business mo since kulang ng documents.

Hi, so d ko masyado na gets to.

Pero if ng apply kame ng France VISA, then gusto namen pmnta ng ibang Schengen state. Should we need to inform the French Embassy? or upon getting the VISA automatic n un n pede kame pmnta kun san san? Thanks po.

If may Schengen visa ka na, pwede ka na pumunta anywhere within the Schengen zone basta within the validity period and allowed length of stay.

Hi Yoshke, hope you are well. just want to ask if we also need to book train tickets in italy when applying for schengen visa?or we can just indicate in our itinerary that we will buy train tickets when our visa is approved?and can we buy them in the train stations on the same date we travel?

Hi Anna, in our case, we didn’t submit train tickets. We only submitted the flights to and from Europe and flights WITHIN Europe, since may mga legs na lilipad talaga. Pero di kami nagsubmit ng train tickets. Not sure if ganun sa lahat or we just got lucky.

Did you submit confirmed flight details within schengen? Or just reservations lng? Wer po pwede mag avail? We are also planning to take the night train from Rome to Munich. Do we have to purchase the train tickets as well?

I submitted flight reservations to and within Schengen, not confirmed tickets. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/06/flight-hotel-reservations-visa-application/

I didn’t submit train tickets, though. Only flights.

Hi Yoshke, ok thanks sa reply :) another concern ko is yong husband ko is from myanmar and im here sa singapore ,nsa pilipinas xa (balikbayan visa holder)and dun xa mag aapply ng schengen visa,meron xang small business,talyer sa harap mismo ng bahay namin at nag bubuy and sell din xa,pede na kya un as source of income nia?wala xa BIR or ITR or whatever e,brgy permit lng ang meron siya,(in his name)but meron din xa sarili bank account which have enough funds.pede q nmn din siguro isama sa requirements nia ung funds ko?what do you think?we also owned properties.

I don’t know for sure, pero I think okay lang na isama yung funds mo kasi you’re married naman. If ako nasa position mo, I would probably write a letter explaining everything and that you’re traveling together.

Hindi ko alam how much it would help because the Italian Embassy is known for being very strict. But yun ang gagawin ko. That’s just me.

thanks so much Yoshke..cross fingers we’ll get the visa!merry christmas!

Happy Holidays! And good luck with your application.

Hello! I just want to say thank you because this article helped us in our visa application. My boyfriend & I applied last November 13, and our visa got approved last week of November. Italian embassy is very strict pero ‘pag complete naman requirements, there’s nothing to worry. Thank you!! Keep on helping. :)

hello, tnong ko lng po base sa experience nyo, nkatnggap b kau ng call gling sa italian embassy n ready na ung visa nyo? 2 weeks n kc akong nag aantay wla prin akong nrereceive na notif. thank you

Yes po. We received a call from VIA po na pwede na iclaim.

Congrats, Maria!

Saan kayo sa Italy punta?

Hi, hope you can help me. Would like to apply for a Schengen visa (still deciding which country where we were staying the longest.) My concern is, I am working as a freelance and just registered sa BIR last Oct so no ITR yet. I will be travelling with my ‘fiance’ and our minor daughter who were both US citizen (US passport) and does not need a visa to travel in Italy, Poland or Schengen zone. Of course my ‘fiance’ will be paying for everything. My question is how should I go about my visa application? Since my ‘fiance’ is paying for everything, can I just submit all his financial documents instead of mine?

I’d really appreciate your answer as we planning to travel next year around July. We have traveled together but only in Singapore and Thailand.

Yes, you can submit his financial docs but you will also need to submit yours. Hihingin pa rin nila yung sayo kahit sponsored.

But to be honest with you, I feel like the odds are against you. Schengen Embassies in general are much stricter sa sponsored applicants tapos working as freelance without ITR. If you want to still try, you can naman, but here’s my advice:

– Choose a less strict embassy. Given your situation, I think mahihirapan ka if mag-apply ka sa Italian or Spanish Embassy. – Submit an Affidavit of Support, notarized, and signed by your fiance – Submit proof of relationship. Since you have a child, I think you can submit the child’s birth certificate showing that you two are the parents – Submit more proof of travel history. Aside from the stamps, you can submit your photos together when you traveled to Thailand and Singapore. – Submit a cover letter

If I were in your shoes though, i-build ko pa muna yung travel history ko. I would visit other visa countries first na less strict before ako mag-Schengen. (Yun actually yung ginawa ko.) Thailand and Singapore kasi ay parehong visa-free. Makakatulong kasi if meron kang visas from other countries kahit Japan, Korea, or Australia lang.

It’s going to be an uphill battle. But I hope this helps.

Ito ay sa tingin ko lang po. Best to consult pa rin a travel agency kasi mas alam nila.

Good luck!!! Balitaan mo kami please if mag-apply kayo para makatulong din sa ibang readers. Hope na ma-approve! :)

just want to ask is it better to apply sa VIA center compared if i apply directly sa embassy ng italy? sayang din kasi yung fee na ibabayad sa VIA ehh. Although baka mas helpful ba mag check ng requirements beforesubmitting it sa VIA center?

Thanks in advance!!

Hi James, we haven’t tried applying directly so I can’t compare. But based on what I heard from friends who have, I think it’s less stressful to apply sa VIA. Sa VIA kasi, they will guide you talaga and tell you pag may kulang or need pa for better chances of approval.

Hi, was wondering if you’d know this. If you submitted your application thru VIA, will you be notified of the status by VIA as well? Or the embassy will be the one to inform you? Will it be via a text message, a phone call or email? Thanks in advance! :-)

Hi Satchiko,

In our case, VIA informed us. :)

Hi, do you know if there’s any chance na pwedeng i pull out yung passport ko from the application in case the processing takes too long? I have another scheduled trip next month to South Korea. I’ll submit on Jan 13 and my trip to KR is on Feb 7. Or do you think it’s possible to request for expedited processing? Thank you!

Hi – i followed all your instructions. my flight is on 28 April arriving France on 29 April where I will meet my 2 Canadian Citizen sisters. We will be staying most in Italy in our 12-day stay including our 7-day Italy-Adriatic Western Mediterranean cruise.

I have complete documents already including confirmed cruise booking, hotel accommodation and plane ticket to France.

Do you think i can file my application/complete documents on Monday 27 January 2020 – since I will already be in Makati on this date.

I am a senior citize living and working in Muntinlupa City

thanks – Mrs. Cris

Di ko po alam sa ngayon. There was news that they would be extending the application period to 6 months before the trip, but I don’t know if that has been implemented yet. :S

How did you submit trains/plane reservations within schngen area? Do we really have a confirmed reservation? Or just right the time/date that we are planning to take? Thanks in advance!

Plane reservations, I submitted. (Not confirmed tickets. Just flight reservations.)

But for the trains, I just indicated the ones I wanted to take in the itinerary. I didn’t submit tickets.

I read your article as my guide prior to submitting my requirements to VIA. Once you received a call from them, will they tell you right away if your visa has been approved or denied?

Thank you! :)

Hi CJ, nope. They will only tell you that your passport is ready for pickup. They won’t say if approved or denied. You’ll only find out upon pickup.

Hi! Just for Info. New visa fee is Euro 80 for adult

Thanks for sharing!

Hi Yosh, planing to apply once better situation na. I read in the requirements na they need flight/trains bookings upon application.. ” If travelling across Schengen countries, please submit bookings of all trains, flights and car rentals from one country to another.”

Since we can apply visa 180 days before the expected date of arrival pa Do you know a way to book (not purchase) train reservations?

I will surely use this as a guide hopefully (when miss rona stops being a diva) for my next year’s solo summer trip in Europe. I’ll apply via VIA center in Cebu. I want to stay in Italy the longest. This will be my first time traveling to Europe and a non-visa free country. I’ve been to visa-free countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and Cambodia. I just registered as a freelancer last May 2020. Do you think the odds will be in my favour?

Very informative blog!

Hi,we are a family of 6, planning to get a shengen visa. Is it ok to make the same cover letter for each member? I have a business that will support the family’s trip. However, my husband is currently not working anymore. Although we travelled as a family, to the US several times and other asian countries already. Wil it be a problem for him being unemployed?

I think that’s OK. When we apply as a group, we only use 1 cover letter with all our names and signatures. Then each of us submit a copy of that letter.

Regarding your other question, since it’s a family trip and you’re married and you’re traveling with him, I think they would be less strict since the purpose of the trip is very clear (assuming your docs are all good and your own finances can support all of you). But that’s just my take on it.

Thank you so much for the quick reply. I realy liked your blog, very informative.

Hi po! Required po ba sundin yung itinerary na isa-submit? Planning to spend 12 days in Rome, Milan, Assisi, and Sicily po kasi. Praning lang ako baka suspicious sa kanila yung andami kong pupuntahan so I thought of not putting it na lang sa itinerary na ibibigay for VISA.

Hi James! OK lang naman po yung maraming pupuntahan, as long as realistic naman. :)

Pwede namang mag-deviate from the itinerary, lalo na if within Italy lang din naman. Once you’re inside kasi, there is no way din naman to track it.

Even mag-flight po within the country ok lang na hindi i-include?

Sa case namin, we submitted lahat ng flights namin even within Schengen Zone. Wala naman kaming flights within Italy lang since ang dineclare namin dun ay mag-train or bus lang kami. (Pero di kami nagsubmit ng train/bus booking.)

Hi po ulit! Regarding naman sa travel dates, need po ba sundin yung in-indicate during VISA application?

As long as within the allowed period indicated sa actual visa.

Thanks for the awesome article! Is the Certificate of Leave of Absence optional? I will be providing Certificate of Employment and ITR documents.

Sa case namin, if my memory serves me right, hiningi sya talaga. Di ko lang alam if ganun din sa iba.

ma dali lang po ba ang pagkuha ng re entry visa?i almost 15years in italy last year nag bakasyon ako ang malapit nko bumalik uwe pero naaksidente nmn ako…

have you gone into an interview upon submission of requirements?

For Italian Schengen Visa, no. There was just someone from VIA who checked our requirements.

Question lang yung sa Proof of Financial means lahat ba yun kailangan? tas need ba under our name yung sa land titles?and we dont have credit card kasi,

Yung bank cert and bank statements ay required. ‘Yung ibang items under it ay kung meron ka lang.

Hi. Do you have experience in appealing an Italian schengen visa denial? Is it advisable to appeal a denial? Or would it be better to apply to a different schengen country?

Do I need an approved leave of absence during summer break? Usuallu we are free naman to have vacation at this period of time (Public Teacher) Is my profession enough considered as a rootedness proof?

Hello po! I have been previously granted a Schengen visa by the French embassy nung 2015 pero I lost the passport na. Should I mention that po sa cover letter?

If I were in your position po, I would mention it. Do you have a photo or soft copy of that visa?

Hello po! I have a copy but altered siya (read: redacted yung info as I sent a pic of it to a friend). So, yung ginawa ko na lang is in-attach ko yung orig copy nung insurance ko for that previous trip. We submitted our app last May 25 and we have yet to hear from them.

Hello! Just wanted to ask if you were required to present an approved Leave form when you applied for a Germany-issued Schengen visa? I am planning to apply for a Schengen visa and will stay in Germany the longest. Thanks.

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