Schengen Visa for the Filipina wife

[ginapeterb]

The Procedure for obtaining a Schengen Visa for your Filipino Spouse.


I thought I would cover this, as I know Rob and Elsa are going for a Schengen visa, and also, Gina and I are currently getting one.

Why is it required and what is the procedure ?

Firstly, the Schengen States, signed an agreement on cross border cooperation so that EEC And certain Non EEC nationals may travel unhindered throughout all the member states without requiring any form of immigration control.

Sadly, the United Kingdom is not a signatory to the Schengen agreement (Schengen is a town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed).

That means that Whilst EEC Passport holders may go to any Schengen state without let or hindrance, it does not allow anyone holding a Filipino passport to do this, without a schengen visa.

Once having obtained one, the Filipina spouse can enter via the main schengen destination and then travel across any other country.

This does not apply to FIANCEE's of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina's holding fiancee visa's must wait until they have married and have a marriage certificate, then they may apply.

As we are at the French Consulate de General in London, I will give out the procedure for this Schengen member state.

Applicants must log on to the Consulate de General de Republique du France (details on Google), then telephone the appointment booking line, the joke about this, is that calls cost £1.00 per minute, and you are on the phone for at least 8 to 10 minutes booking an appointment as it is all automated.

It took us 3 weeks to secure a spot on a group appointment, the Consulate de General is at:

6a Cromwell Place,
London SW7

Nearest Tube is South Kensington on the Circle Line, the consulate de General is opposite the Natural History Museum on the Cromwell road.

Requirements.

1 The Appointment Letter the applicant was sent, giving last 4 digits of passport.
2 2 Passport size photographs.
3 Filipino passport, showing UK immigration status, and must be valid for more than 6 months.
4 NSO Marriage Certificate or UK Marriage Certificate.
5 EEC Passport of British Spouse.
6 Bank Statement showing adequate funds to support pasport holder in France.
7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.


Nationals from Philippines should expect to wait up to 6 weeks for the visa to be approved, and attendance at the French Consulate de General is mandatory in London, regardless of where the applicant lives in UK.

This involves a day out in London at least, and the queue starts at 1.30pm for the 2pm group admittance, those without documents or as requested will be turned away, anyone showing up without an appointment letter will also be turned away, as I just witnessed about 30 mins ago.

The Schengen Visa is free to spouses of EEC Nationals, but not for spouses of Non EEC Nationals, i.e. Filipinos on Work visas living in UK, they will have to pay a fee of £26.00.


Hope this helps anyone, I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.


Hope this helps.

Pete

[mupsuit]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb @ Apr 18 2006, 03:21 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
The Procedure for obtaining a Schengen Visa for your Filipino Spouse.
I thought I would cover this, as I know Rob and Elsa are going for a Schengen visa, and also, Gina and I are currently getting one.

Why is it required and what is the procedure ?

Firstly, the Schengen States, signed an agreement on cross border cooperation so that EEC And certain Non EEC nationals may travel unhindered throughout all the member states without requiring any form of immigration control.

Sadly, the United Kingdom is not a signatory to the Schengen agreement (Schengen is a town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed).

That means that Whilst EEC Passport holders may go to any Schengen state without let or hindrance, it does not allow anyone holding a Filipino passport to do this, without a schengen visa.

Once having obtained one, the Filipina spouse can enter via the main schengen destination and then travel across any other country.

This does not apply to FIANCEE's of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina's holding fiancee visa's must wait until they have married and have a marriage certificate, then they may apply.

As we are at the French Consulate de General in London, I will give out the procedure for this Schengen member state.

Applicants must log on to the Consulate de General de Republique du France (details on Google), then telephone the appointment booking line, the joke about this, is that calls cost £1.00 per minute, and you are on the phone for at least 8 to 10 minutes booking an appointment as it is all automated.

It took us 3 weeks to secure a spot on a group appointment, the Consulate de General is at:

6a Cromwell Place,
London SW7

Nearest Tube is South Kensington on the Circle Line, the consulate de General is opposite the Natural History Museum on the Cromwell road.

Requirements.

1 The Appointment Letter the applicant was sent, giving last 4 digits of passport.
2 2 Passport size photographs.
3 Filipino passport, showing UK immigration status, and must be valid for more than 6 months.
4 NSO Marriage Certificate or UK Marriage Certificate.
5 EEC Passport of British Spouse.
6 Bank Statement showing adequate funds to support pasport holder in France.
7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.
Nationals from Philippines should expect to wait up to 6 weeks for the visa to be approved, and attendance at the French Consulate de General is mandatory in London, regardless of where the applicant lives in UK.

This involves a day out in London at least, and the queue starts at 1.30pm for the 2pm group admittance, those without documents or as requested will be turned away, anyone showing up without an appointment letter will also be turned away, as I just witnessed about 30 mins ago.

The Schengen Visa is free to spouses of EEC Nationals, but not for spouses of Non EEC Nationals, i.e. Filipinos on Work visas living in UK, they will have to pay a fee of £26.00.
Hope this helps anyone, I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.
Hope this helps.

Pete
[/b][/quote]

Just like to add to Pete's post that you can download the Schengen visa application form at

http://france.embassy-uk.co.uk/french_emba...ted_kingdom.htm (http://france.embassy-uk.co.uk/french_embassy_london_united_kingdom.htm)

Also on this site you will find a list of UK counties, if you live in any of these counties, or Scotland, then you can apply by post - otherwise follows Pete's proceedure or use the site to apply for an appointment

Details of the documentary requirements are given on the site

When applying by post - use the Post Office courier service - buy two prepaid envelopes - address one to yourself and include with application for the return of your passports

[andypaul]

Thanks Pete real useful info there.

A week today my Wife applies also at the french embassy.

Just a quick question was the bank account details and travel insurance info requested by the embassy, or as we have all learned with our forays into the world of visas a best to have in case they ask for them material?

My wife as her wages paid into her account and we can easily get travel insurance but didn't realise they asked for them as on the website there was a check box which mentioned both our passports, two passport photos, our marriage cert, and the application form. But always best to have more paperwork than less in visa situations it appears.

Also did you need to confirm your application? As i just went on line to confirm but said that only interviews scehulded within 7 days could be confirmed.

[Eljohno]

Thanks for the info Pete as i was going to enquire about it soon..

[Admin]

A round of applause for all that info off Pete style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Hellooo.gif

[walesrob]

I've made this topic a sticky as I'm sure a lot of us will need to get a Schengen Visa for our wives at some point. The process for applying for a visa is fairly uniform across all EU countries. The Schenhen Visa covers the following: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece and Greek Islands, Italy, Luxembourg, Holland, Norway, Portugal, Spain (to include Canaries and Balerics islands) and Sweden.

With Spain, you need to call a Premium Rate number 0906 782 7674 (£1 a minute), and they will send an application form. The form needs to be filled in and returned, and an appointment will sent by post within 7 days. There's a 3 week waiting list at the moment for interviews. The interviews are held at London or Manchester.
You are required to bring:
Passport,
Passport sized picture,
Proof of address in UK (bank statement, tax bill, etc)
Proof of sufficent means of support (again bank statement showing regular income),
Proof of Employment (letter from Employer)
Health Insurance (get the EHIC card EHIC (http://www.dh.gov.uk/PolicyAndGuidance/HealthAdviceForTravellers/GettingTreatmentAroundTheWorld/EEAAndSwitzerland/EEAAndSwitzerlandArticle/fs/en?CONTENT_ID=4114793&chk=KCVYDZ) - that'll do,
Purpose of Visit with evidence and
Proof of Relationship - this is the marraige certificate and the original passport of spouse, NOT copy..

As Pete says, the visa is free, but remember to bring a pre-paid envelope, so they can return the passport and visa

[Pauldo]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(walesrob @ Apr 19 2006, 03:19 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
I've made this topic a sticky as I'm sure a lot of us will need to get a Schengen Visa for our wives at some point. The process for applying for a visa is fairly uniform across all EU countries. The Schenhen Visa covers the following: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece and Greek Islands, Italy, Luxembourg, Holland, Norway, Portugal, Spain (to include Canaries and Balerics islands) and Sweden.

With Spain, you need to call a Premium Rate number 0906 782 7674 (£1 a minute), and they will send an application form. The form needs to be filled in and returned, and an appointment will sent by post within 7 days. There's a 3 week waiting list at the moment for interviews. The interviews are held at London or Manchester.
You are required to bring:
Passport,
Passport sized picture,
Proof of address in UK (bank statement, tax bill, etc)
Proof of sufficent means of support (again bank statement showing regular income),
Proof of Employment (letter from Employer)
Health Insurance (get the EHIC card EHIC (http://www.dh.gov.uk/PolicyAndGuidance/HealthAdviceForTravellers/GettingTreatmentAroundTheWorld/EEAAndSwitzerland/EEAAndSwitzerlandArticle/fs/en?CONTENT_ID=4114793&chk=KCVYDZ) - that'll do,
Purpose of Visit with evidence and
Proof of Relationship - this is the marraige certificate and the original passport of spouse, NOT copy..

As Pete says, the visa is free, but remember to bring a pre-paid envelope, so they can return the passport and visa
[/b][/quote]
From what I've heard of the French Embassy and their attitude, I think it is easier for most guys to wait and get a Brit passport for the wife.

We downloaded the Schengen/French application form several years ago. It asked for stuff like: how much money do you have to spend, prove it! Where are you going, what is the hotel name, prove it! When are you going, where are your tickets, what time, where to etc etc.

I screwed it up and threw it in the bin.

[andypaul]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Pauldo @ Apr 19 2006, 05:46 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
From what I've heard of the French Embassy and their attitude, I think it is easier for most guys to wait and get a Brit passport for the wife.

We downloaded the Schengen/French application form several years ago. It asked for stuff like: how much money do you have to spend, prove it! Where are you going, what is the hotel name, prove it! When are you going, where are your tickets, what time, where to etc etc.

I screwed it up and threw it in the bin.
[/b][/quote]


Sounds like the french.

But from the reading and research we have done the french is supose to be one of the better ones (belive it or not!!).

Many other embassies are inclined to give spouses of ec nationals a visa the length of the trip they require. While the French embassy will give if requested a six month multi entry visa.

[mupsuit]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(andypaul @ Apr 19 2006, 06:42 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>

Many other embassies are inclined to give spouses of ec nationals a visa the length of the trip they require. While the French embassy will give if requested a six month multi entry visa.
[/b][/quote]


two points to note when you apply -

1) As I understand it - THIS IS YOUR RIGHT under EU law - the visa is not discretionary so a valid visa application for a Filipno wife has to processed - Your wife should have SPOUSE OF xxxx on the visa in her passport -

we got a visa for France - based on a PLANNED trip - I gave the following details in a covering letter

Channel crossing - Norfolk Line Dover to Dunkerque (French spelling)

By car to EuroDisney and Paris - staying at the Akena Hotel chain

bookings to be finalised via Internet once visa received

when we received the visa we also went on to Spain - but the main part of our holiday was in France


2) There must be at least six months validity remaining on your wife's passport at the time the visa is issued

[ginapeterb]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(andypaul @ Apr 18 2006, 07:21 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
Thanks Pete real useful info there.

A week today my Wife applies also at the french embassy.

Just a quick question was the bank account details and travel insurance info requested by the embassy, or as we have all learned with our forays into the world of visas a best to have in case they ask for them material?

My wife as her wages paid into her account and we can easily get travel insurance but didn't realise they asked for them as on the website there was a check box which mentioned both our passports, two passport photos, our marriage cert, and the application form. But always best to have more paperwork than less in visa situations it appears.

Also did you need to confirm your application? As i just went on line to confirm but said that only interviews scehulded within 7 days could be confirmed.
[/b][/quote]

Ok, just an update sorry I hadnt updated on this, have been busy, but Gina did not come out of the French Consulate General until 5pm that afternoon, which means I had to sit on my tod down the road, on a cold stone slab near the trees, for 3 hours, having multiple visits to the 7-11 style store across the road, there is not much to do for the husband as he is not allowed in the Embassy, its a complete dogs dinner of course for the guy to hang around outside.

But as for the Health Insurance, I bought a Tesco 1-8 day Euro trip in the morning before we went, costing £29.99, then I had to register as a club card member with Tesco to get it, having done all that and rushing around like a headless chicken in the morning, the long and the short of it is, that Gina told me, the Consul checking the documents didnt even ask for evidence of health insurance, I was mad about this, since I have to try and get a refund from Tesco now, ( you must state the month of use on these off the shelf policies), it clearly says outside the French Embassy, that evidence of health insurance is mandatory.

But Gina told me, they didnt even ask for it ? she said, they dont bother anymore !, sods law says, someone else goes and gets asked for it.

As for bank statements, they didnt ask for that either, even though, it asks for evidence of savings and income on the Form.

As Pauldo says the form is a complete dogs dinner of red tape, asking for details of the trip, we didnt put any details as, I told Gina to tell them, we are not booking it until the visa is approved.

That seemed to be ok, so it appears the health repatriation insurance is not a problem nor the bank statements.

I hope this helps.

Pete

[ginapeterb]

I also wanted to add that, Gina did not come out of the Embassy with her Schengen visa, the process inside, was like this,

The 60 or so applicants on the group booking sit and wait in line downstairs to be called, she sat for 1.5 hours, waiting, then was called, and her marriage cert and passport and my passport were scanned and photocopied, she was *******ed for not having photo copies of everything including the passports, and application form and marriage cert, so i suggest anyone who goes, needs to do this.

Although they *******ed her for this, the guy did photocopy them, grumpy french git !, after that, she was told the application will be checked with French Security and Interpol, once enquiries were completed, she would be sent a letter asking her to come back and collect her visa, she was issued with a hat check ticket, and told to leave it in her passport, until she comes back, it should be in 4 weeks.

Hope this helps, suggest also, on the 2nd visit, that the hubby doesnt bother going, its a waste of time, and no where for him to go.

What a bummer, just like Brit EMbassy Manila.

[andypaul]

Thanks Pete

I know what you mean about the location i have travelled past the queue several times recently in the course of my work. Very near the tube, but not great to hang round for the other half. Although near a hig street with most major banks, also various cafes and shops.
Your writing will reassure my wife greatly when she reads it i will photocopy everything monday.


I bought some travel insurance anyway and my wife will take bank statments and payslips in a small folder just in case. As i think one of the Mottos on this site should "Be prepared for anything".

Once again thanks Pete for the Info

[Pauldo]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb @ Apr 21 2006, 09:52 AM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
I also wanted to add that, Gina did not come out of the Embassy with her Schengen visa, the process inside, was like this,

The 60 or so applicants on the group booking sit and wait in line downstairs to be called, she sat for 1.5 hours, waiting, then was called, and her marriage cert and passport and my passport were scanned and photocopied, she was *******ed for not having photo copies of everything including the passports, and application form and marriage cert, so i suggest anyone who goes, needs to do this.

Although they *******ed her for this, the guy did photocopy them, grumpy french git !, after that, she was told the application will be checked with French Security and Interpol, once enquiries were completed, she would be sent a letter asking her to come back and collect her visa, she was issued with a hat check ticket, and told to leave it in her passport, until she comes back, it should be in 4 weeks.

Hope this helps, suggest also, on the 2nd visit, that the hubby doesnt bother going, its a waste of time, and no where for him to go.

What a bummer, just like Brit EMbassy Manila.
[/b][/quote]

Nope. I've done my share of grovelling, worrying and kow towing (sp?) to embassy prima donnas. If my wife or I need a visa for somewhere, we'll just go somewhere else in future. I don't see why we should be treated like small children, scolded and penalised for not understanding the petty and pitiful small print on visa applications and massively overcomplex and contradictory embassy websites.

My wife has Brit nationality now, so does our daughter, so we'll just go to places that accept the master race with no visa required
style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Hellooo.gif style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/laugh.gif style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif

[andypaul]

Just back from the Vist.

Me and the Wife was third in the queue after a marathon wait. She witness the goings on in the queue for the earlier vistors at i think 11.30. Arguments by people who didn't have a letter or even forgot their passport.

When queuing do make sure you bring clothes to cope with all weathers. Many had no umbrella or rain coat and had to stand in a queue for an hour or so geting rained on and then be dried out by the chilling winds. Some snacks might be worthwhile as well for your wife as she maybe in the embassy for three or so hours a lifetime for most Phill stomachs to be with out some form of snack.

If you suddenly realise your missing a photo or two (we manage to loose one of the two photos required on the way) there are several passport photo booths near the station.

I can also recomend the toy and hoop or whatever it is called near to the station as a not to bad pub to wait in while the other half is in the embassy. It also has toliets which the bar staff don't seem to bothered if you use as a non customer as i witnessed several times while waiting in there. This might be vital as its only two mintues or so from the embassy.
The beers a bit pricey but it appears to be a nice queit pub but with enough life and goings on to help pass the time by.

There are also numerous cafes and coffe bars some more expensive than others. But many fairly small so might encouarge you to move on and not hang around.

If you forget to copy your paperwork, there are plenty of copy shops in the high street.

Also worth making sure you have an envelope with your address on, so the embassy can send out your letter informing you when you an pick up your Visa.

It might seem stingy, but who cares if a few photocopies and an envelope keep the embassy staff happy then so be it. As im sure Gina and Pete will agree, it doesn't take to much upset them. But having witnessed some of the antics by people trying to apply, i guess my fuse would be pretty short too.

If you have Kids or are not one for Pubs, cafes the natural history, science and Victoria and albert musuem are across the road. As you are likely to have to wait for a few hours it is worth doing something to pass the time.

There is also a Lambogini showroom in the high street, if your in to that sort of thing as well. But you need to book an appoment to go in otherwise you just press your nose to the window to have a look and dream of your numbers coming up next saturday.

Thankfully the French Embassy allows mobiles in but my Wife said people were asked not to use them. But the wife made and took a few calls from me while inside. But at least the other half can let you know when she is out.

The good news is that the station is just two stops from mini manila (Earls court) with its Phill shops, resturants etc So the missus can get some provisions on the way home style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif

[andypaul]

ps

The French Embassy do offer you an envelope on which you write your address sorry mis heard the missus earlier, so they can send the invite. But i would suggest you take one with you pre written, so no mistakes due to nerves.

We also were not asked to show travel insurance but like pete said they still ask for it so i would be safe than sorry. You could in theory take out the insurance and then cancel the insurance within 14 days, but sounds a bit complicated and risky to me.

My Wife was also asked to put down her employers name down on the form but not asked any more details .
Also asked to put down a hotel or place she intended to stay in france when she said she didn't we planned day trips they said best to put an address down style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif She said i don't know any, so the guy suggested a hotel in paris and said don't tell anyone he suggested it. We just looked it up very nice hotel.

[ginapeterb]

Just to let everyone know, Gina got her Schengen visa on Tuesday which was great, I think another of the Forum members wife was there at the same time, ( Who is from Ipswich ?) I was hanging around the corner just for a short 2.5 hours waiting, the visa is for 6 months with a 90 day stay validity, hmmmmmm what a lot of crap for a 1 day shopping trip to Eurocitie and a 3 day weekend in Paris.

I don't think members will want to go through that for anyone, the process is a costly exercise, in lost hours at work, and hanging around.

Never again !!!

[walesrob]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb @ May 12 2006, 03:59 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
Just to let everyone know, Gina got her Schengen visa on Tuesday which was great, I think another of the Forum members wife was there at the same time, ( Who is from Ipswich ?) I was hanging around the corner just for a short 2.5 hours waiting, the visa is for 6 months with a 90 day stay validity, hmmmmmm what a lot of crap for a 1 day shopping trip to Eurocitie and a 3 day weekend in Paris.

I don't think members will want to go through that for anyone, the process is a costly exercise, in lost hours at work, and hanging around.

Never again !!!
[/b][/quote]

Hi Pete, Elsa had her interview at the Spanish Consulate on Tuesday, and I was amazed at how easy it was. The whole thing took 9 minutes!!!!!!!!

We arrived at the Consulate (located in Spring Gardens, central Manchester) for the 11am interview. The Consulate resembles a small post office, a room with 2 chairs and 3 counters. At 11 exactly, we were called to the Visa window, Elsa produced all the required documents (they didn't ask for proof of travel insurance), the visa guy checked everything, then went off for 30 seconds. He came back, and said to book the flights and fax the confirmation to the Consulate, and only then will they stamp Elsas passport with the visa and send it back to her here in Wales, and thats it!! style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/yikes.gif We wandered around Manchester for an hour, then caught the slow train back to sunny Wales.

[Pauldo]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb @ May 12 2006, 03:59 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
Just to let everyone know, Gina got her Schengen visa on Tuesday which was great, I think another of the Forum members wife was there at the same time, ( Who is from Ipswich ?) I was hanging around the corner just for a short 2.5 hours waiting, the visa is for 6 months with a 90 day stay validity, hmmmmmm what a lot of crap for a 1 day shopping trip to Eurocitie and a 3 day weekend in Paris.

I don't think members will want to go through that for anyone, the process is a costly exercise, in lost hours at work, and hanging around.

Never again !!!
[/b][/quote]

You could have taken a bus to Scotland mate. Similar language barriers, but no visa needed style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/laugh.gif

[mupsuit]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb @ May 12 2006, 03:59 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>

I don't think members will want to go through that for anyone, the process is a costly exercise, in lost hours at work, and hanging around.

Never again !!!
[/b][/quote]


All you had to do was move to Scotland and apply to the French Consol in Edinburgh by post! Easy ..

Dont forget to post your trip report on France plus photos of Gina in Paris!

[andypaul]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mupsuit @ May 12 2006, 04:59 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
All you had to do was move to Scotland and apply to the French Consol in Edinburgh by post! Easy ..

Dont forget to post your trip report on France plus photos of Gina in Paris!
[/b][/quote]

To right about moving outside london if you have to apply for a visa from the french embassy. Then it is just a case of sending off the bits in the post.

But thankfully it was me waiting outside, bored. Not the Wife with all those shops just a quick tube ride away style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/ohmy.gif

The Wife and i are prepared to go though all the grief as the wife and i wish to tour europe (paris,vist spain and italy particulary) and see various members of the family in italy including her Mum who is working over there now style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif

[ginapeterb]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(andypaul @ May 13 2006, 12:21 AM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
To right about moving outside london if you have to apply for a visa from the french embassy. Then it is just a case of sending off the bits in the post.

But thankfully it was me waiting outside, bored. Not the Wife with all those shops just a quick tube ride away style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/ohmy.gif

The Wife and i are prepared to go though all the grief as the wife and i wish to tour europe (paris,vist spain and italy particulary) and see various members of the family in italy including her Mum who is working over there now style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif
[/b][/quote]


Well I have to say, I am glad its all over, lets hope we dont have to go through all that again.

[andypaul]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb @ May 18 2006, 05:29 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
Well I have to say, I am glad its all over, lets hope we dont have to go through all that again.
[/b][/quote]


My Wife picked up her Visa stamp on Wednesday, most of the queue was Pinoy. Didn't take so long this time, but again it bloody rained while we waited in queue. Then just an hour and a half in the pub for me. But at least the Wife had some people to talk with this time, so the time inside pasted much quicker.

Although like Pete and I have discovered it takes two days (luckily half days for me as I work in central london) of your life. It seems for wifes of uk citzens the paperwork is not to complicated compared to a uk visa.

Good luck to those who decide to go to France, just remeber your Umbrella!!

[mrsfrivolity]

Not to dishearted anyone but my own application for a schengen visa was painless and I think, it's because we didn't apply from the French embassy style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Grin.gif
We drove to The Netherlands last year for our anniversary via Calais. Believe it or not, they didn't even bother checking our visas at the port of exit. I guess, the brits doesn't really care if you're leaving... style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif neither at the Calais port of entry! In fact, my passport didn't didn't get checked until I was coming back to the UK. I guess it's easier if you're crossing the channel by ferry.
I had a very friendly reception at the The Netherlands embassy. One day to file the application and one day a week later to collect. I can't remember what the requirements were but I do remember that when I compared my application to someone applying via the French embassy that it wasn't as complicated. My visa is expired now and we're thinking about going to France sometime in the summer to visit Bill's bro-in-law and what we'll do is just re-new at the Netherlands embassy.
So that's another avenue future applicants could consider.

[walesrob]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mrsfrivolity @ May 21 2006, 05:09 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
Not to dishearted anyone but my own application for a schengen visa was painless and I think, it's because we didn't apply from the French embassy style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Grin.gif

[/b][/quote]

Seems the people who use the French Embassy are having a hard time...

An update, Elsa had her Schengen Visa thru the post this morning, which is very quick, considering we only sent details of the flight on 22 May (the actual interview at the Spanish Consulate was 25th April). Viva la Espana por favor! style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mrsfrivolity @ May 21 2006, 05:09 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
what we'll do is just re-new at the Netherlands embassy.
So that's another avenue future applicants could consider.
[/b][/quote]

Cielo, how is the visa renewed? Is a new application done or do you ask for a renewal form? With the Spanish, we have to apply all over again next January, another trip to sunny Manchester (not that Elsa will mind - all those shopping centres style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/huh.gif )

[mrsfrivolity]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(walesrob @ May 25 2006, 10:29 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
Cielo, how is the visa renewed? Is a new application done or do you ask for a renewal form? With the Spanish, we have to apply all over again next January, another trip to sunny Manchester (not that Elsa will mind - all those shopping centres style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/huh.gif )
[/b][/quote]

I haven't really tried to be honest, but i'm assuming that i would apply for a new one and because it would show in my passport that i've been approved once before, it would be easier. good luck to me style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif I may have spoken too soon. love to elsa! xxx

[mupsuit]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(walesrob @ May 25 2006, 10:29 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>

Cielo, how is the visa renewed? Is a new application done or do you ask for a renewal form? With the Spanish, we have to apply all over again next January, another trip to sunny Manchester (not that Elsa will mind - all those shopping centres style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/huh.gif )
[/b][/quote]


Usually the visa given to wives of EU nationals is a multi entry and is valid for six months - thereafter apply again.

I expect that as you have one then the second will be more readily approved

[mrsfrivolity]

Update!

I mentioned before that we are planning to take our boys to EuroDisney in August and both my son and I having Filipino passports meant we need a schengen visa to go to France.

The French embassy require a Paternal Travel Permit signed by "both" parents of the travelling child. Although I'm in a very good relationship with my child's dad, asking him for the favor of signing this document was very difficult for several reason which I will not go into details anymore.

We then decided to apply at the Netherlands embassy. They didn't require that document at all.

This morning, I submitted the application + supporting documents and I'm happy to report that the application was painless and the visas will be posted to me within two weeks time. That was what they said to me the last time as well but I got it back in two days.

We said we were going to Amsterdam lol. We provided hotel booking, euro travel insurance and said we will be travelling by car. All of which were very easy to arrange online.

Cheating, I know but for all you lot experiencing difficulties with the French Embassy, you might want to consider this route...lol

[ginapeterb]

I think you have made a very good tip there Cielo, because the Dutch Embassy seems to be far easier to deal with, maybe thats something for anyone else who needs a schengen in the future, the Dutch Embassy is the winner every time over the French Embassy.

[camotes]

We went down the route of initially applying at the German Embassy for the Schengen Visa. Documents required and proceedure were very much akin to the French Embassy requirements and an interview was arranged about 1 month in advance ( we could have had an interview within 7 days at the time of applying but I wanted to get a cheap flight for us down to heathrow. Using the automated check-ins saves having to produce identification for the return trip!)
The German Embassy has a standard telephone number instead of premium rate number for spouses of EU nationals and can be found on the Embassy website.
The interview was painless and was merely a document check, the visa being issued by post 8 days later as we had had the foresight to provide them with a prepaid special delivery envelope for the return of documents and passport.
My wife has just received her 4th Schengen renewal all of which have subsequently been done by post. The good news is this latest visa is valid for 12 months and bears the overstamp "keine versicherung erforderlich"
The 12 month visa I would expect to be due to my wife now having "Indefinite leave to Remain" status.

[francesca]

UK Embassy Paris is the best!

I applied via online my visa to UK, granted!
Three days process.
Via Chronopost mail.
No personal interview.
I just send them ORIGINAL french husbands passport and mine.
Our livret de famille.
My 15 euro mailing fees.
My two latest photos.
VOila. Visa granted.
No sweat.
French Embassy?
Filipino passport holders,avoid them like a plague.
Hard PROCESS to get visa there.

[rhoda_pim]

hello everybody...anyone could help me?? i want to know what are the requirements in taking the basic exam in netherlands?? thanks in advance.. and God bless

rhoda

[ginapeterb]

what exam ?

[walesrob]

hello everybody...anyone could help me?? i want to know what are the requirements in taking the basic exam in netherlands?? thanks in advance.. and God bless

rhoda

I think maybe one of our European members could help out here? Yves? Uri?

[rhoda_pim]

for the BASIC INTIGRATION EXAMINATION ABROAD...for the MVV. thanks

[A_flyer]

I think maybe one of our European members could help out here? Yves? Uri?
Was out for some days flying on a big aircraft...
Welsh are not Europeans? I wonder why?

[A_flyer]

hello everybody...anyone could help me?? i want to know what are the requirements in taking the basic exam in netherlands?? thanks in advance.. and God bless
You can consult this NL site (Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs): http://www.minbuza.nl/en/welcome/comingtoNL,visas_x_consular_services/civic_integration_examination_abroad.html

and here is a site to prepare the exam: http://www.thiememeulenhoff.nl/documentenservice/pagina.asp?pagkey=53768

You have some threads on it in the Asawa Forum archives too:
http://www.filipinawives.com/asawa/viewtopic.php?t=24145
http://www.filipinawives.com/asawa/viewtopic.php?t=25287
http://www.filipinawives.com/asawa/viewtopic.php?t=25990
http://www.filipinawives.com/asawa/viewtopic.php?t=24267
http://www.filipinawives.com/asawa/viewtopic.php?t=16192

[walesrob]

Was out for some days flying on a big aircraft...
Welsh are not Europeans? I wonder why?

I'd rather be Welsh than French :Hellooo: :xxgrinning--00xx3:

So how did the test flight go?

[A_flyer]

I'd rather be Welsh than French :Hellooo: :xxgrinning--00xx3:
was not the question...

So how did the test flight go?
It was great, that's the quieter cabin I ever flew. You don't think you're flying.

[walesrob]

was not the question...



Ah! I understand now...I'm Welsh you see :Rasp:

Wales is not a seperate country like France, Germany. We are ruled by those cruel English people. They make us pay taxes and at the same time, occupy our houses, and steal the food from our supermarkets. At least we charge them £4.50 to enter Wales. Should be a lot more if you ask me :icon_lol::censored:

[Eljohno]

If it was not for Wales then where would we buy our sheep?

[scotsfiancee]

All you had to do was move to Scotland and apply to the French Consol in Edinburgh by post! Easy ..

Got this site SHORT STAY SCHENGEN VISA (http://www.consulfrance-londres.org/article.php3?id_article=347)

If you live in Scotland or on the Isle of Man, please note that you should lodge your visa application with :

French Consulate General ,
Visa Section,
11 Randolph Crescent,
Edinburgh, EH3 7TT

Tel # 0131 225 7954


trying to study bout this visa.. :)

[andypaul]

Well how time flys we are now waiting to apply for our second Schgen visa.
One thing i have learned from another website, is that you should try and make sure if you wish to get a second visa from a country or even from another. That the Visa was used correctly ie you use it mainly to vist france if a french visa etc.
If you didn't make sure you have a reason why, just in case it becomes an issue.

[Gavanddal]

Daryl Lynn and I were planning a holiday in France this year. Our initial check of the requirements stated that proof of accomodation, a return ticket and travel insurance was required. No prob with the insurance as I took out an annual multi-trip policy. We booked to go to a holiday park and so had proof of accomodation AND a return travel ticket.
Then re-visited the French embassy website (in July) and found out that there was a 35 day backlog!!!!! So we had to cancel the holiday as we wouldn't have got the damn visa in time and lost £100 deposit in the process.

We in the South East think nothing of taking day trips and short breaks in Europe and it seems crazy that a Filipina Spouse with UK residency has to go through virtually the same lengthy process as if she wanted to actually move to France or wherever!!!
I don't see why a Brit/Fil couple with UK residency and a return ticket can't just be granted free travel without a visa. Now they're gonna let all those Eastern European freeloaders come in and out of the UK without any restriction!! Make me soooo angry, it's so unfair.

Gavin

[A_flyer]

I'm just surprised you pay so much as a standard Tourist Schengen visa (till 3 months) is only 35€ in all French Embassy or Consulate everywhere in the world. The delay to issue it is 2 weeks (10 work days) from the moment they have all the documents required and the visa fee paid (it's the rule for getting a standard Tourist Schengen visa (till 3 months) in all Schengen state Embassies).

There is also a phrase indicating it can be free of charge:

Visa is free of charge for Spouses of French Citizens, Spouses and Children of European Citizens and for holders of Diplomatic, Official and Service passports on presentation of the requested documents.

So if married to an English person (who is a European citizen), the visa should be free.
It's in this page of the French Consulate in London (in "visa application fee"): http://www.consulfrance-londres.org/article.php3?id_article=326&PHPSESSID=5d12f42d7e613b0d0858de8827243593

[andypaul]

I'm just surprised you pay so much as a standard Tourist Schengen visa (till 3 months) is only 35€ in all French Embassy or Consulate everywhere in the world. The delay to issue it is 2 weeks (10 work days) from the moment they have all the documents required and the visa fee paid (it's the rule for getting a standard Tourist Schengen visa (till 3 months) in all Schengen state Embassies).

There is also a phrase indicating it can be free of charge:

Visa is free of charge for Spouses of French Citizens, Spouses and Children of European Citizens and for holders of Diplomatic, Official and Service passports on presentation of the requested documents.

So if married to an English person (who is a European citizen), the visa should be free.
It's in this page of the French Consulate in London (in "visa application fee"): http://www.consulfrance-londres.org/article.php3?id_article=326&PHPSESSID=5d12f42d7e613b0d0858de8827243593

I think your find there are slight problems with a brit/phill couple applying, firstly i think the french embassy although have no choice to offer the visa to british citzens spouses for free. But as we are not in the schgen aggrement they quite understandably, don't push out the boat for brits. As we don't offer the same service to them, which although annoying for us, i can see their point.

Also phill citzens are on the list of nationalities who have to have further checks made. Due to the amount of visa overstayers in the past i guess.

[heaven]

hi pete

thanks for all the info about the schengen visa, i and my hubby wants to visit france as soon as possible but like one of the many applicants it takes lots of time to wait for the visa... ill tell my husband about this information.....

[A_flyer]

I think your find there are slight problems with a brit/phill couple applying, firstly i think the french embassy although have no choice to offer the visa to british citzens spouses for free. But as we are not in the schgen aggrement they quite understandably, don't push out the boat for brits. As we don't offer the same service to them, which although annoying for us, i can see their point.
You offer the same service with the EEA Family Permit. A Filipina married to a E.U. Citizen that want to vist UK have to request it at the nearest British Embassy and they will be granted with a 1 year EEA Family Permit that allow her to go there with her Husband.
Also phill citzens are on the list of nationalities who have to have further checks made. Due to the amount of visa overstayers in the past i guess.
I never say Filipinos Citizen do not need a visa, they need it. But overstaying is less a probelm when married with a Brit as he has the right to stay in France as a European Citizen. And this will help his wife to get a residency card (this is mandatory for all non E.U. citizen).

[andypaul]

You offer the same service with the EEA Family Permit. A Filipina married to a E.U. Citizen that want to vist UK have to request it at the nearest British Embassy and they will be granted with a 1 year EEA Family Permit that allow her to go there with her Husband.

I never say Filipinos Citizen do not need a visa, they need it. But overstaying is less a probelm when married with a Brit as he has the right to stay in France as a European Citizen. And this will help his wife to get a residency card (this is mandatory for all non E.U. citizen).


Sorry i didn't reply to your post at the time. When i meant the UK didn't perform the same service, i meant the issuing of schgen visa in the fact once you apply once you get access to all the areas covered.

[Jimbo]

I have just downloaded an application form for a Schengen Visa and the form states that spouses of EU citizens do not need to answer questions about:
Employment,
Dates of travel,
Address of Hotel,
Financial means.
In theory the application should be straightforward but this does not seem to be the experience of several people posting on this board.
What have I missed has anyone obtained a Visa without this information which according to the form is surplus to requirements?


Jimbo

[andypaul]

I have just downloaded an application form for a Schengen Visa and the form states that spouses of EU citizens do not need to answer questions about:
Employment,
Dates of travel,
Address of Hotel,
Financial means.
In theory the application should be straightforward but this does not seem to be the experience of several people posting on this board.
What have I missed has anyone obtained a Visa without this information which according to the form is surplus to requirements?


Jimbo

Legally you shouldn't need to put down employment details, travel or finacial means. But as i posted my wife was asked its best to put down you intend to travel to hotel x on the dates of so and so. But request the full six month 90 day visa as most seem to get even if only traveling for a few days.
I think its a case of humouring them, everytime i go past the embassy ( which i do quite often thoughout the year) there is a long queue. So i guess the staff are pretty hassled.

It may be simply much easier for them to enter the details into the computer who knows.


The application is fairly straightforward, takes a bit of time if you have to make the trip to the embassy.

If the Wife does not work simply put homeworker/housewife, cant affect your application. But as i said before might be just the computer requires the field filling in.

We took bank statments and Travel insurance as we had them and didn't want to take any chances but they were not asked for.

[copyhardwick]

The Procedure for obtaining a Schengen Visa for your Filipino Spouse.


I thought I would cover this, as I know Rob and Elsa are going for a Schengen visa, and also, Gina and I are currently getting one.

Why is it required and what is the procedure ?

Firstly, the Schengen States, signed an agreement on cross border cooperation so that EEC And certain Non EEC nationals may travel unhindered throughout all the member states without requiring any form of immigration control.

Sadly, the United Kingdom is not a signatory to the Schengen agreement (Schengen is a town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed).

That means that Whilst EEC Passport holders may go to any Schengen state without let or hindrance, it does not allow anyone holding a Filipino passport to do this, without a schengen visa.

Once having obtained one, the Filipina spouse can enter via the main schengen destination and then travel across any other country.

This does not apply to FIANCEE's of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina's holding fiancee visa's must wait until they have married and have a marriage certificate, then they may apply.

As we are at the French Consulate de General in London, I will give out the procedure for this Schengen member state.

Applicants must log on to the Consulate de General de Republique du France (details on Google), then telephone the appointment booking line, the joke about this, is that calls cost £1.00 per minute, and you are on the phone for at least 8 to 10 minutes booking an appointment as it is all automated.

It took us 3 weeks to secure a spot on a group appointment, the Consulate de General is at:

6a Cromwell Place,
London SW7

Nearest Tube is South Kensington on the Circle Line, the consulate de General is opposite the Natural History Museum on the Cromwell road.

Requirements.

1 The Appointment Letter the applicant was sent, giving last 4 digits of passport.
2 2 Passport size photographs.
3 Filipino passport, showing UK immigration status, and must be valid for more than 6 months.
4 NSO Marriage Certificate or UK Marriage Certificate.
5 EEC Passport of British Spouse.
6 Bank Statement showing adequate funds to support pasport holder in France.
7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.


Nationals from Philippines should expect to wait up to 6 weeks for the visa to be approved, and attendance at the French Consulate de General is mandatory in London, regardless of where the applicant lives in UK.

This involves a day out in London at least, and the queue starts at 1.30pm for the 2pm group admittance, those without documents or as requested will be turned away, anyone showing up without an appointment letter will also be turned away, as I just witnessed about 30 mins ago.

The Schengen Visa is free to spouses of EEC Nationals, but not for spouses of Non EEC Nationals, i.e. Filipinos on Work visas living in UK, they will have to pay a fee of £26.00.


Hope this helps anyone, I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.


Hope this helps.

Pete

hi my wife and i are planning to ski in december, location france just outside geneva, same as i always do, tez is keen to learn to ski despite the cold !! i hope! anyway my question is we fly to geneva which is in switzerland a non eu country then drive across the border to france, i have done this many times and never been asked for my passport but sods law says we will be asked for tez's, so where do i apply for the schengen visa the french embassy or the swiss? any help much appreciated thanks

[vbkelly]

hi my wife and i are planning to ski in december, location france just outside geneva, same as i always do, tez is keen to learn to ski despite the cold !! i hope! anyway my question is we fly to geneva which is in switzerland a non eu country then drive across the border to france, i have done this many times and never been asked for my passport but sods law says we will be asked for tez's, so where do i apply for the schengen visa the french embassy or the swiss? any help much appreciated thanks
i thought we don't need a visa in switzerland is a free country if your going to france you need to apply a visa in france embassy

[singkit]

You may apply for a visa at the French Consulate General only if :

France is your main destination, i.e. you are travelling to France only or you will be spending more time in France than in any other Schengen country during your trip.

You are transiting through the Schengen States and France is the first country you are transiting through.

The decision and the validity of the visa will be based on your itinerary after study of your application.

If you can identify your situation in any of the above, please apply for your Schengen visa at the French Consulate General.> Link with the differents types of visas issued by the French Consulate General

NB: You should apply for your visa at the French Consulate of your country of residence. In exceptional cases only, the French Consulate in London may process your application.

If your main destination or first country of entry IS NOT France, please apply at the appropriate Consulate.

[mikeh]

You can now book your appointment online at the French Embassy. Its quite simple, just follow the links on the site.

The appointments are booked up quite quickly and then the message "Please note that on every thursday afternoon, a few appointments are made available for the following week. " is shown.

So you just need to keep checking back from Thurs noon every couple of hours until the site shows there are slots available

It'll save you a few quids instead of using the £1 a minute phone line to book.

.........just call me stingy, but I just hate those premium rate lines to embassies.

Mike

[tommyw]

We live in Scotland and want to go to Spain. Has anyone had the experience of applying to Spanish consulate in Scotland? I assume the procedure will be similar to applying to French consulate?
Any idea of the timescale involved?

[copyhardwick]

hi everyone been here before but very confused, just tryed to book on line with the french embassy but no slots at all for oct ! as we are travelling dec26 and tez only just got her flr visa this week time is running out, should i try the dutch embassy? and also still not to sure we even need a schengen as we arw actually flying to geneva switzerland, then driving over the border to evian , and the border control is very lapse there! of 20 odd trips never been asked for a passport ever, any help much appreciated thanks ...

[frednbyang]

Keep trying online with the French embassy, keep refreshing thats what we did and one became available just a couple of days before we left and of course no French officials actually looked at Byangs passport but I wouldn't recommend taking a chance.

[andypaul]

hi everyone been here before but very confused, just tryed to book on line with the french embassy but no slots at all for oct ! as we are travelling dec26 and tez only just got her flr visa this week time is running out, should i try the dutch embassy? and also still not to sure we even need a schengen as we arw actually flying to geneva switzerland, then driving over the border to evian , and the border control is very lapse there! of 20 odd trips never been asked for a passport ever, any help much appreciated thanks ...

Keep checking the website, again i would not travel abroad with out the correct visa. I can remeber in a coach trip with my parents years back our all white brit registered coach was not stoped crossing the swiss border but ones with non europeans (ie non whites) were randomly stopped.

Another embassy to try is the italian, shorter queues and you have to ring a pound a mintue phone line. Then again you need to vist italy to use the visa correctly.

I'm sure your be able to sort it:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[subseastu]

Good morning all

I'm new to this site and would just like to ask some advice. Some background first, My missus has been in the UK now for just over 3 yrs and is hankering to do a bit of travelling round europe, mainly paris and venice. She has her indefinate leave to remain visa to. After reading all the nightmare stories from you all about the french embassy I'm looking for a easier "backdoor" route. It seems to me that the dutch embassy is the way to go. My plan is this, tavel by air to amsterdam for a night or two, then on to paris for 3 nights then onto venice for the same. Back to the UK from there.

Can anyone see any problems with this fiendish plan? Also we live in leicestershire and I don't really fancy messing about going down to london. I see that the dutch have consulates all the place. I presume that visa applications can be processed from any of these? Also do we have to leave from our country of entry or can we leave from a different member country. One final question. I see that some people have had to take their own passports along to the embassies. Do the embassies keep these while they process the wifes visa? I work offshore and need mine every month to travel.

I look forward to anyones help with these problems, and must congratulate you on a great forum site

Tip top

[mhynne]

subseastu.. if i understood it right also i think andypaul pinpointed in one of his posts that they might notice that upon renewal of the schengen visa...

i was also wondering if there are any changes recently on the process bec of the Uk signing up on the EU.... anyone applied lately?

[walesrob]

i was also wondering if there are any changes recently on the process bec of the Uk signing up on the EU.... anyone applied lately?

The UK has been in the EC for a long time, and nothing has changed as far as the Schengen Visa is concerned.

[mhynne]

thanks walesrob!! =)

[A_flyer]

i was also wondering if there are any changes recently on the process bec of the Uk signing up on the EU.... anyone applied lately?
UK is a part of E.U. but didn't sign the Schengen treaty so there's no change, a Filipina holding Filipino citizenship (so a Filipino passport) must secure a Schengen visa to visit one of the Schengen state.

The only change is that there more Schengen countries (9 more in fact, read here: http://www.filipinouk.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=5970

[A_flyer]

Some background first, My missus has been in the UK now for just over 3 yrs and is hankering to do a bit of travelling round europe, mainly paris and venice. She has her indefinate leave to remain visa to. After reading all the nightmare stories from you all about the french embassy I'm looking for a easier "backdoor" route. It seems to me that the dutch embassy is the way to go. My plan is this, tavel by air to amsterdam for a night or two, then on to paris for 3 nights then onto venice for the same. Back to the UK from there.

There are 3 rules to know where you have to apply for a Schengen visa:
1) If you intend to visit only one Schengen country, you must apply at the Embassy or Consulate of that particular country. You apply at the Embassy or Consulate responsible for the state where you live.
2) If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country which is your main destination.
3) If you intend to visit several Schengen countries but do not have a main destination, you should apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country which is your first point of entry.

In your case Subseastu, it's rule 3 that apply and as you're entering thru Amsterdam as you said you have to apply at Dutch Embassy in London (don't forget it take 2 to 3 weeks from the moment you gave all the required papers and paid the visa fee to get the visa and be able to travel.

Don't forget also when you plan your trip to carefully stay within Schengen states (don't drive thru a non Schengen state to go to another! sometimes it's tricky in E.U.). List of all Schengen countries is here: http://www.filipinouk.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=5970

[baboyako]

I have a kind of related question - Do they actually stamp the (fil) passport when travelling around europe?

If they do is it just airports? I think we will be going to germany, probably by car, & I am fairly sure my passport was only checked leaving the UK, and there are no controls on the motorways around europe (france/germany/belgium/netherlands) etc.

[A_flyer]

I have a kind of related question - Do they actually stamp the (fil) passport when travelling around europe?
The passport will be stamped when you will pass immigration when entering Schengen area (Schengen port of Entry) and when you will exit Schengen area. Flights from one Schengen state to another are domestic flights, so there's no immigration control. There's no immigration control at frontiers of 2 Schengen states if travelling by car (but there may be unscheduled custom controls on the roads around the frontiers, this imply control of the travelling documents).

For Eurostar you have a commun immigration control at the last station before passing a frontier (I.E. French/English immigration in UK).

For ferries crossing the channel I don't know.

[sweet_cookie08]

We are planning to have our 2nd honeymoon in Prague or Paris when I get there. Just a question, is it better to apply and get the Schengen visa here in the Philippines after my UK visa has been approved or should I just apply it there in the UK?

[Eljohno]

I think the UK is the best place to apply but if i am wrong someone will let you know!!

[darren-b]

We are planning to have our 2nd honeymoon in Prague or Paris when I get there. Just a question, is it better to apply and get the Schengen visa here in the Philippines after my UK visa has been approved or should I just apply it there in the UK?

It is much easier to apply for a Schengen visa as the spouse of a British citizen, but to do this you would normally need your husband's passport which I suspect you haven't got. Couldn't tell you whether the embassies would accept a certified copy or not.

The other thing is you should apply for the Schengen visa at the embassy of the country you enter or stay in first. So you need to decide where you are going so you know whether to apply at the Czech or the French embassy.

[Piamed]

It is much easier to apply for a Schengen visa as the spouse of a British citizen, but to do this you would normally need your husband's passport which I suspect you haven't got. Couldn't tell you whether the embassies would accept a certified copy or not.

The other thing is you should apply for the Schengen visa at the embassy of the country you enter or stay in first. So you need to decide where you are going so you know whether to apply at the Czech or the French embassy.

:xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[pennybarry]

I've made this topic a sticky as I'm sure a lot of us will need to get a Schengen Visa for our wives at some point. The process for applying for a visa is fairly uniform across all EU countries. The Schenhen Visa covers the following: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece and Greek Islands, Italy, Luxembourg, Holland, Norway, Portugal, Spain (to include Canaries and Balerics islands) and Sweden.

With Spain, you need to call a Premium Rate number 0906 782 7674 (£1 a minute), and they will send an application form. The form needs to be filled in and returned, and an appointment will sent by post within 7 days. There's a 3 week waiting list at the moment for interviews. The interviews are held at London or Manchester.
You are required to bring:
Passport,
Passport sized picture,
Proof of address in UK (bank statement, tax bill, etc)
Proof of sufficent means of support (again bank statement showing regular income),
Proof of Employment (letter from Employer)
Health Insurance (get the EHIC card EHIC (http://www.dh.gov.uk/PolicyAndGuidance/HealthAdviceForTravellers/GettingTreatmentAroundTheWorld/EEAAndSwitzerland/EEAAndSwitzerlandArticle/fs/en?CONTENT_ID=4114793&chk=KCVYDZ) - that'll do,
Purpose of Visit with evidence and
Proof of Relationship - this is the marraige certificate and the original passport of spouse, NOT copy..

As Pete says, the visa is free, but remember to bring a pre-paid envelope, so they can return the passport and visa

I 've been granted Schengen Visa twice when I was in the Philippines and not yet married then. Seems quite more expensive to apply from here. I wish I could easily obtain again someday. Not yet afford yet:bigcry:

Goodluck to all Schengen Visa Applicants:BouncyHappy:

[mdelg55]

[aquote=ginapeterb;5318]The Procedure for obtaining a Schengen Visa for your Filipino Spouse.


I thought I would cover this, as I know Rob and Elsa are going for a Schengen visa, and also, Gina and I are currently getting one.

Why is it required and what is the procedure ?

Firstly, the Schengen States, signed an agreement on cross border cooperation so that EEC And certain Non EEC nationals may travel unhindered throughout all the member states without requiring any form of immigration control.

Sadly, the United Kingdom is not a signatory to the Schengen agreement (Schengen is a town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed).

That means that Whilst EEC Passport holders may go to any Schengen state without let or hindrance, it does not allow anyone holding a Filipino passport to do this, without a schengen visa.

Once having obtained one, the Filipina spouse can enter via the main schengen destination and then travel across any other country.

This does not apply to FIANCEE's of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina's holding fiancee visa's must wait until they have married and have a marriage certificate, then they may apply.

As we are at the French Consulate de General in London, I will give out the procedure for this Schengen member state.

Applicants must log on to the Consulate de General de Republique du France (details on Google), then telephone the appointment booking line, the joke about this, is that calls cost £1.00 per minute, and you are on the phone for at least 8 to 10 minutes booking an appointment as it is all automated.

It took us 3 weeks to secure a spot on a group appointment, the Consulate de General is at:

6a Cromwell Place,
London SW7

Nearest Tube is South Kensington on the Circle Line, the consulate de General is opposite the Natural History Museum on the Cromwell road.

Requirements.

1 The Appointment Letter the applicant was sent, giving last 4 digits of passport.
2 2 Passport size photographs.
3 Filipino passport, showing UK immigration status, and must be valid for more than 6 months.
4 NSO Marriage Certificate or UK Marriage Certificate.
5 EEC Passport of British Spouse.
6 Bank Statement showing adequate funds to support pasport holder in France.
7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.


Nationals from Philippines should expect to wait up to 6 weeks for the visa to be approved, and attendance at the French Consulate de General is mandatory in London, regardless of where the applicant lives in UK.

This involves a day out in London at least, and the queue starts at 1.30pm for the 2pm group admittance, those without documents or as requested will be turned away, anyone showing up without an appointment letter will also be turned away, as I just witnessed about 30 mins ago.

The Schengen Visa is free to spouses of EEC Nationals, but not for spouses of Non EEC Nationals, i.e. Filipinos on Work visas living in UK, they will have to pay a fee of £26.00.


Hope this helps anyone, I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.


Hope this helps.

Pete[/quote]

[mdelg55]

I'm very lucky than that I'am of Italian NAtinality as there was not problem of getting the shengen Visa ..I only had to pay for my wifes daughter.Both my wife and her daughter were issue a 3 years shengen visa so we do not have to go all the time to the italian visa section in Victoria opposite the national coach station. mY OTHERS KIDS ARE ALSO ITALIAN NATIONAL SO there is no problems.Now I have to work out how to get documentation translated into italian to get my wife italian nationality and her daughter...
Maurizio

I apologies to pete in regard of sending his message again on the forum.

ote=ginapeterb;5318]The Procedure for obtaining a Schengen Visa for your Filipino Spouse.


I thought I would cover this, as I know Rob and Elsa are going for a Schengen visa, and also, Gina and I are currently getting one.

Why is it required and what is the procedure ?

Firstly, the Schengen States, signed an agreement on cross border cooperation so that EEC And certain Non EEC nationals may travel unhindered throughout all the member states without requiring any form of immigration control.

Sadly, the United Kingdom is not a signatory to the Schengen agreement (Schengen is a town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed).

That means that Whilst EEC Passport holders may go to any Schengen state without let or hindrance, it does not allow anyone holding a Filipino passport to do this, without a schengen visa.

Once having obtained one, the Filipina spouse can enter via the main schengen destination and then travel across any other country.

This does not apply to FIANCEE's of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina's holding fiancee visa's must wait until they have married and have a marriage certificate, then they may apply.

As we are at the French Consulate de General in London, I will give out the procedure for this Schengen member state.

Applicants must log on to the Consulate de General de Republique du France (details on Google), then telephone the appointment booking line, the joke about this, is that calls cost £1.00 per minute, and you are on the phone for at least 8 to 10 minutes booking an appointment as it is all automated.

It took us 3 weeks to secure a spot on a group appointment, the Consulate de General is at:

6a Cromwell Place,
London SW7

Nearest Tube is South Kensington on the Circle Line, the consulate de General is opposite the Natural History Museum on the Cromwell road.

Requirements.

1 The Appointment Letter the applicant was sent, giving last 4 digits of passport.
2 2 Passport size photographs.
3 Filipino passport, showing UK immigration status, and must be valid for more than 6 months.
4 NSO Marriage Certificate or UK Marriage Certificate.
5 EEC Passport of British Spouse.
6 Bank Statement showing adequate funds to support pasport holder in France.
7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.


Nationals from Philippines should expect to wait up to 6 weeks for the visa to be approved, and attendance at the French Consulate de General is mandatory in London, regardless of where the applicant lives in UK.

This involves a day out in London at least, and the queue starts at 1.30pm for the 2pm group admittance, those without documents or as requested will be turned away, anyone showing up without an appointment letter will also be turned away, as I just witnessed about 30 mins ago.

The Schengen Visa is free to spouses of EEC Nationals, but not for spouses of Non EEC Nationals, i.e. Filipinos on Work visas living in UK, they will have to pay a fee of £26.00.


Hope this helps anyone, I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.


Hope this helps.

Pete[/quote]

[scott&ligaya]

Question for Pete,
your guidance note asks for UK marage cert or NSO cert, we married in Hong Kong and our cert was fine for UK spouse visa issued in HK, do you think it will be okay for the French Embassy staff as we never got a NSO cert and do not have a UK cert

thanks in advance

Scott

[PeterB]

7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.

.....

I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.

I wonder whether the Travel Insurance is required for postal applications? This would require the applicant to have 'annual cover'.

[PeterB]

7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.

.....

I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.

I wonder whether the Medical Insurance is required for postal applications? This would require the applicant to have 'annual cover'.

[andypaul]

I wonder whether the Medical Insurance is required for postal applications? This would require the applicant to have 'annual cover'.

unless things ahve changed you dont need insurance if a spouse of a eu technically. But then most people will have Insurance if they travel regularly .

Although if the non Eu person is not a uk resident normal everyday insurance may not be valid.

So do enquire

[lizaphil]

thanks for the info....:):):)

[lizaphil]

thanks alot guys its really help us you advice

[lizaphil]

The above info is great thank you all.
BUT...........

How long does this visa last for??

IF i get one now, do i have to get one next year?, 2 years 5 years?

[darren-b]

The above info is great thank you all.
BUT...........

How long does this visa last for??

IF i get one now, do i have to get one next year?, 2 years 5 years?

It is up to the embassy that issues the visa to decide how long it will be valid for. Spouses of British citizens usually seem to get 6 months, though some have been lucky and get a year. Not heard of anyone getting longer than that.

[johncar54]

My Pinay wife has a Residencia which permits her stay forever in Spain. I get extra pension being married. The UK Gov pay about £2,000 p.a. for my wife's medical cover in Spain, she has a Nat. Ins, Number in UK. She can travel and live in any Schengen state BUT, a trip to UK or even Gibraltar means making an appointment at the UK consulate in Madrid (700 mile round trip) paying 100 euros for a UK visa application or 150 euros for a days shopping in Gib, a lengthy interview from which I would be excluded and even then she might be refused.

In six months, my wife will have had residence status in Spain for 2 years, she will then be able to apply for Spanish Nationality and a passport. So after that she will be able to visit my ‘homeland’.

[A_flyer]

Why not to apply to an EEA Family Permit for her from UK Embassy? It's free and will allow her to freely enter/exit UK from a Schengen country.
It's here: http://www.visabureau.com/uk/family-permit-married.aspx

[mhynne]

Just wanted to confirm... im about to lodge my visa application in the french embassy in 2 weeks.. it says on their website that the marriage cert needs to be stamped by the Phil Embassy... ive read somewhere that you just need to pay extra if your marriage cert isnt stamped... (just found out this is the case in the italian embassy) ...is this still the case? can i still lodge my application with my marriage cert not being stamped by the Phil Embassy?

[somebody]

Just wanted to confirm... im about to lodge my visa application in the french embassy in 2 weeks.. it says on their website that the marriage cert needs to be stamped by the Phil Embassy... ive read somewhere that you just need to pay extra if your marriage cert isnt stamped... (just found out this is the case in the italian embassy) ...is this still the case? can i still lodge my application with my marriage cert not being stamped by the Phil Embassy?


I dont know the latest i think the local "whichever country" stamping the marriage cert was if the cert was not in English or French (for the french embassy)
The wife went in problem a few years back as you can see on here (it is hi andy paul in disguise) and we didn't go to the embassy to get anything stamped.

In the italian embassy they made some fuss in the end they didn't worry and let her off, although another applicant and their partner had a stand up row about it. I belive the fee was about 30 quid (of course it may have changed)

[mhynne]

hello andypaul i didnt know you had another nick.. :)
anyway thank you for your advice...i sure do not remember seeing anyone lodge a stamped marriage certificate to the french embassy...
thats why i was a bit surprised when i saw that on the french embassy website...

[singkit]

(it is hi andy paul in disguise)

Hello, AndyPaul, I didn't know it was you. I even called you Somebody in one of my post:icon_lol::icon_lol: Why are you in disguise?:Erm:

[aromulus]

Hello, AndyPaul, I didn't know it was you. I even called you Somebody in one of my post:icon_lol::icon_lol: Why are you in disguise?:Erm:

Because the soft southern jessie has forgotten his password, probably....:Erm:

:D

[somebody]

Because the soft southern jessie has forgotten his password, probably....:Erm:

:D

I just went to change it and some settings and Mr Boss Admins mail server didn't wanna send me a confirmation email after many attempts and several different emails. I decided to change.

Not to worried about rep and post counts which was why i changed my name when things got out of hand a year or so ago.

So any news on the schgen visa?

[mhynne]

I have my appointment on the 26th of jan at the french embassy... my husband went to london still to get our marriage cert stamped.. i will ask the consul when i speak to her so other people can also be informed.

[tommyw]

Hi all,

We are flying to Spain for a holiday on Feb 14th. The process for the visa was actually
not as bad as we anticipated.

The key is : Don't leave it until the last minute, and you'll have no stress!!
One guy was in the Spanish consulate in Edinburgh pleading for a visa for his Filipina wife, and they were "Leaving in 2 days time!" NO chance! They take 2 weeks at least.

First, we phoned the consulate for them to email the application form and guidance notes.
Filled in the form and amde sure we had the requirements for a 'spouse of an EU resident'.
These are: 1) Valid pinoy passport. (And copies of the photo page and the visa page.)

2) Application form itself.

3) Recent passport photo with white background.

4) Details of the trip.


We then travelled down to Edinburgh, (No appt needed), no queues, and we gave them a
prepaid special delivery envelope (For up to 500 grammes), the visa is then posted out to you.

Hope this may help someone in the future.

Tommy and Lyn...... and wee Dandan.

[mhynne]

Just wanted to update you guys that i already have my schengen visa and it was delivered this midweek.
i want to share my experience also for the benefit of other people here who will be filing their visa application in the future.
I arrived in the french embassy as early as 11am. there was already a line outside. but when they checked my paperwork before i enter the embassy premises. they asked me to go back at 2pm. so i suggest anyone who has an appointment to make sure you are there 30 mins before as to skip the long line i encountered when i went back. the nice lady checked my paperworks upon entry and asked me to fall in line for the cashier. note you will have to present your marriage cert etc here and there is no fee. then they asked me to fall in line in the interview room. this took me a very long time waiting. i was interviewed around 430pm already and there was still a long queue after me. the consul basically just asked for the photocopies of my paperwork. they didnt ask for my travel insurance documents and my marriage cert stamped by the embassy. they were only interested with my original marriage cert from NSO and my other paperworks. I suggest everyone should submit a self-addressed pre-paid special delivery envelope so you dont have to go back to claim the passport.
It was quite straightforward so i suggest to anyone not to be nervous. the application is just all about proving you are the spouse of an EU national.

here are the documents that i submitted:
Marriage contract from NSO
Marriage contract certified by the Phil Embassy
Travel insurance
ID Picture
Application form - read it carefully as you dont have to answer the one with the asterisk on them if you're an EU spouse.
Letter from my company
Passport
My husband's passport - which they gave me back but I suggest to bring it still
a self-addressed pre-paid special delivery envelope for the return of your passport

Photocopy of everything

[georyz]

Thanks for the info. so it is alright not to have a marriage certificate certified by the Phil Embassy? just want to know as my wife got an appointment on march 25 at the French Embassy for the visa. thank you.

[mhynne]

i dont think they need it.. i had it ready in my hand.. and since it looked like a photocopied document.. they werent really interested in it.. they guy gave it back to me and asked for the NSO document...they only looked at the nso one..

[georyz]

thank you very much for the info mhynne.

[menchkin]

The Procedure for obtaining a Schengen Visa for your Filipino Spouse.


I thought I would cover this, as I know Rob and Elsa are going for a Schengen visa, and also, Gina and I are currently getting one.

Why is it required and what is the procedure ?

Firstly, the Schengen States, signed an agreement on cross border cooperation so that EEC And certain Non EEC nationals may travel unhindered throughout all the member states without requiring any form of immigration control.

Sadly, the United Kingdom is not a signatory to the Schengen agreement (Schengen is a town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed).

That means that Whilst EEC Passport holders may go to any Schengen state without let or hindrance, it does not allow anyone holding a Filipino passport to do this, without a schengen visa.

Once having obtained one, the Filipina spouse can enter via the main schengen destination and then travel across any other country.

This does not apply to FIANCEE's of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina's holding fiancee visa's must wait until they have married and have a marriage certificate, then they may apply.

As we are at the French Consulate de General in London, I will give out the procedure for this Schengen member state.

Applicants must log on to the Consulate de General de Republique du France (details on Google), then telephone the appointment booking line, the joke about this, is that calls cost £1.00 per minute, and you are on the phone for at least 8 to 10 minutes booking an appointment as it is all automated.

It took us 3 weeks to secure a spot on a group appointment, the Consulate de General is at:

6a Cromwell Place,
London SW7

Nearest Tube is South Kensington on the Circle Line, the consulate de General is opposite the Natural History Museum on the Cromwell road.

Requirements.

1 The Appointment Letter the applicant was sent, giving last 4 digits of passport.
2 2 Passport size photographs.
3 Filipino passport, showing UK immigration status, and must be valid for more than 6 months.
4 NSO Marriage Certificate or UK Marriage Certificate.
5 EEC Passport of British Spouse.
6 Bank Statement showing adequate funds to support pasport holder in France.
7 Adqequate travel insurance with Medical and Medical repatriation provisions.


Nationals from Philippines should expect to wait up to 6 weeks for the visa to be approved, and attendance at the French Consulate de General is mandatory in London, regardless of where the applicant lives in UK.

This involves a day out in London at least, and the queue starts at 1.30pm for the 2pm group admittance, those without documents or as requested will be turned away, anyone showing up without an appointment letter will also be turned away, as I just witnessed about 30 mins ago.

The Schengen Visa is free to spouses of EEC Nationals, but not for spouses of Non EEC Nationals, i.e. Filipinos on Work visas living in UK, they will have to pay a fee of £26.00.


Hope this helps anyone, I asked the French Immigration officials about applicants living in other parts of the UK, they said, that applicants can apply by post, but should allow 12-16 weeks for processing and not to book any travel until the Schengen visa was approved and the passport returned.


Hope this helps.

Pete

Hello,

Me and my husband reside here in Scotland. We are planning to go to Paris early next year. My question is this (and I'm not sure if this has already been answered) - is there a French Consulate near our location besides the one in London. Somebody told me that there is one in Edinburgh. Is it still there and can we go there to submit our visa application instead of going to London? Appreciate your help on this..... :)

Mench

[menchkin]

Hi all,

We are flying to Spain for a holiday on Feb 14th. The process for the visa was actually
not as bad as we anticipated.

The key is : Don't leave it until the last minute, and you'll have no stress!!
One guy was in the Spanish consulate in Edinburgh pleading for a visa for his Filipina wife, and they were "Leaving in 2 days time!" NO chance! They take 2 weeks at least.

First, we phoned the consulate for them to email the application form and guidance notes.
Filled in the form and amde sure we had the requirements for a 'spouse of an EU resident'.
These are: 1) Valid pinoy passport. (And copies of the photo page and the visa page.)

2) Application form itself.

3) Recent passport photo with white background.

4) Details of the trip.


We then travelled down to Edinburgh, (No appt needed), no queues, and we gave them a
prepaid special delivery envelope (For up to 500 grammes), the visa is then posted out to you.

Hope this may help someone in the future.

Tommy and Lyn...... and wee Dandan.



Are you just going to Spain and no other place in Europe (like Paris) for your holiday? Where is the Spain Consulate in Edinburgh location? Thanks... :)

[georyz]

hi mench, you can go to there site http://www.ambafrance-uk.org/spip.php?page=sommaire&id_rubrique=2 and click edinburgh. its just easy to get schengen visa, just comply the requirements and its free for spouse.

[menchkin]

hi mench, you can go to there site http://www.ambafrance-uk.org/spip.php?page=sommaire&id_rubrique=2 and click edinburgh. its just easy to get schengen visa, just comply the requirements and its free for spouse.

Thanks for the reply. I will check the site you sent. :)

[georyz]

youre welcome mench. my wife applied in london the last week and she gets it today. hopefully we will be able to go to paris soon and then visit her sister in germany. good luck.

[joeceline]

hi! anybody could help me? i have fiance from France and we are planning to get marry in France.. what are the requirements needed for me to be able to get a visa? what are the requirements in marrying a french national? french embassy in manila don't issue such fiance visa. what do we have to do? apply on my own tourist visa or i will let him sponsor me for the purpose of marrying me?

thanks in advance!