Exploring Europe has never been simpler for those holding both a USA Green Card and a Philippine passport, thanks to the Schengen Tourist Visa. Your journey through this magical continent awaits with adventures galore; here we explore the application process as a USA Green Card holder with a Philippine passport, including eligibility requirements and vital tips to make the journey successful.
Eligibility Requirements
Before embarking on your European travels, it is vitally important that you ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for a Schengen Tourist Visa:
Valid Us Green Card Or Permanent Resident Card:
In order to travel freely in Europe, you must possess a valid USA Green Card or Permanent Resident Card which remains valid beyond your intended stay there.
A Valid Philippine Passport:
Your Philippine passport should remain valid at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area.
Financial Means:
You must demonstrate that you possess sufficient finances to cover all travel costs during your time in Europe, typically bank statements and pay stubs from banks, proof of sponsorship from an organisation (if applicable), etc.
Travel Itinerary:
When applying for travel grants or loans, provide a detailed travel itinerary including your destinations and accommodation reservations as well as proof of round-trip flights. Experience the ultimate journey with customized round-the-world flight itineraries.
Travel Insurance:
Travelers in the Schengen Area are legally required to have travel insurance that provides coverage for medical expenses, repatriation costs and at least EUR30,000 of coverage during their entire visit.
Purpose Of Visit:
The purpose of your visit must be stated clearly, whether for tourism, business, family reunions or any other legal reason. Make sure all documentation corresponds with this goal.
Do Not Intend To Overstay:
In order to successfully prove that you don’t intend on overstaying and have strong ties back home like employment, family ties or property ownership, you must demonstrate this with convincing evidence.
Related: Importance Of Getting Travel Insurance And Hotel Reservation While Applying For A Schengen Visa
Application Process
Once you have verified your eligibility, it’s time to navigate the application process. Here are its essential steps:
Ascertain Your Plan In Schengen Member States:
Consider where and when you plan to visit Schengen countries. In each member state you intend to spend most of your time, determine which embassy or consulate will issue the necessary Schengen Visa applications for you to enter their borders.
Complete An Application Form:
Download a Schengen Visa application form from the website of one of its member states’ embassies or consulates and fill it out accurately and truthfully.
Collect Required Documents:
Collect all necessary documents, such as your completed application form, valid passport, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of travel insurance coverage and financial statements as specified by your embassy or consulate.
Make An Appointment:
Before visiting an embassy or consulate to submit your application, arrange an appointment through their respective websites – often, online appointments can be booked directly through them.
Attend Your Visa Interview:
Be ready for your visa interview at an embassy or consulate and be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, finances and ties to your home country.
Pay The Non-Refundable Visa Fee:
Paying non-refundable visa fees varies by member state and age group, keeping a receipt as proof of payment as proof.
Wait For Processing:
Processing times for Schengen visas typically take 15 calendar days; please be patient during this process.
Once Your Visa Is Approved:
When your visa application has been approved, the embassy or consulate will notify you. Collect it from them immediately, checking that all information on it is accurate before taking further steps.
Related: How To Get Travel Insurance For A Six-Month-Old Kid For Schengen Visa
Tips To Help Achieve A Smooth Journey
Make the most of your Schengen Tourist Visa experience by considering these tips:
Plan Ahead:
Carefully plan your itinerary, making sure to include all of the places within the Schengen Area that interest you.
Travel Light:
For an easier journey, pack lightly by only taking essential items with you.
Learn Basic Phrases:
It is wise to familiarise yourself with some key phrases from each country that you plan to visit in their native tongue. This will enable you to communicate better when travelling abroad.
Respect Local Customs:
Be conscious and cognizant of local customs and traditions when travelling.
Stay Safe:
Always ensure your belongings are secured, and take caution in unfamiliar environments.