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 &#064; Apr 18 2006, 03&#58;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&#39;s of EEC Passport holders, so Filipina&#39;s holding fiancee visa&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;ve made this topic a sticky as I&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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 &#064; Apr 19 2006, 03&#58;19 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
I&#39;ve made this topic a sticky as I&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#33; Where are you going, what is the hotel name, prove it&#33; 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 &#064; Apr 19 2006, 05&#58;46 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
From what I&#39;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&#33; Where are you going, what is the hotel name, prove it&#33; 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&#33;&#33;).

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 &#064; Apr 19 2006, 06&#58;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&#39;s passport at the time the visa is issued

[ginapeterb]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(andypaul &#064; Apr 18 2006, 07&#58;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&#39;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 &#33;, 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 &#33;, 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 &#064; Apr 21 2006, 09&#58;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 &#33;, 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&#39;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&#39;ll just go somewhere else in future. I don&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;t we planned day trips they said best to put an address down style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif She said i don&#39;t know any, so the guy suggested a hotel in paris and said don&#39;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&#39;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 &#33;&#33;&#33;

[walesrob]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ginapeterb &#064; May 12 2006, 03&#58;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&#39;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 &#33;&#33;&#33;
[/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&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;

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&#39;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&#33;&#33; 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 &#064; May 12 2006, 03&#58;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&#39;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 &#33;&#33;&#33;
[/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 &#064; May 12 2006, 03&#58;59 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>

I don&#39;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 &#33;&#33;&#33;
[/b][/quote]


All you had to do was move to Scotland and apply to the French Consol in Edinburgh by post&#33; Easy ..

Dont forget to post your trip report on France plus photos of Gina in Paris&#33;

[andypaul]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mupsuit &#064; May 12 2006, 04&#58;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&#33; Easy ..

Dont forget to post your trip report on France plus photos of Gina in Paris&#33;
[/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 &#064; May 13 2006, 12&#58;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 &#064; May 18 2006, 05&#58;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&#39;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&#33;&#33;

[mrsfrivolity]

Not to dishearted anyone but my own application for a schengen visa was painless and I think, it&#39;s because we didn&#39;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&#39;t even bother checking our visas at the port of exit. I guess, the brits doesn&#39;t really care if you&#39;re leaving... style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif neither at the Calais port of entry&#33; In fact, my passport didn&#39;t didn&#39;t get checked until I was coming back to the UK. I guess it&#39;s easier if you&#39;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&#39;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&#39;t as complicated. My visa is expired now and we&#39;re thinking about going to France sometime in the summer to visit Bill&#39;s bro-in-law and what we&#39;ll do is just re-new at the Netherlands embassy.
So that&#39;s another avenue future applicants could consider.

[walesrob]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mrsfrivolity &#064; May 21 2006, 05&#58;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&#39;s because we didn&#39;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&#33; style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/BouncyHappy.gif

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mrsfrivolity &#064; May 21 2006, 05&#58;09 PM) Quoted post</div><div class='quotemain'>
what we&#39;ll do is just re-new at the Netherlands embassy.
So that&#39;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 &#064; May 25 2006, 10&#58;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&#39;t really tried to be honest, but i&#39;m assuming that i would apply for a new one and because it would show in my passport that i&#39;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&#33; xxx

[mupsuit]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(walesrob &#064; May 25 2006, 10&#58;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://filipinaroses.com/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://filipinaroses.com/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!

[waynedaisy]

Guys, spouse of EU citizens can download the standard Schengen form fill it it, passport copy of EU spouse, wedding certificate, nothing else can be asked!! Please remember its a FREE visa no charge at all. Also cannot be refused and must be issued within 15 days!! My wife applied Manila had hers within two hrs but another friend there one took four days, Norwegian Embassy good choice. Can be any of them where you apply

[mesmo]

HI all, I have read through the posts above and am trying to see what we as a couple need to do.

My Fiancee has just arrived in the UK 2 weeks ago on a Fiancee Visa

We are now planning our wedding and the subsequent honeymoon ..... the latter being Turkey

Neither the UK nor Turkey subscribe to the Schengen Visa scheme.

When I tried to apply for my general tourist visa, I thought I would just enter Merlyn's details and sure enough it says we need the Schengen Visa

Now I am totally lost as to what I should be doing and where I should be applying / sending it to

Can someone please please please tell me in idiot terms what I should be doing?

PS I will post an introductory post this evening about Mine and Merlyns journey thus far

[Terpe]

HI all, I have read through the posts above and am trying to see what we as a couple need to do.

My Fiancee has just arrived in the UK 2 weeks ago on a Fiancee Visa

We are now planning our wedding and the subsequent honeymoon ..... the latter being Turkey

Neither the UK nor Turkey subscribe to the Schengen Visa scheme.

When I tried to apply for my general tourist visa, I thought I would just enter Merlyn's details and sure enough it says we need the Schengen Visa

Now I am totally lost as to what I should be doing and where I should be applying / sending it to

Can someone please please please tell me in idiot terms what I should be doing?

PS I will post an introductory post this evening about Mine and Merlyns journey thus far

Mesmo, Turkey is not a member of the Schengen Zone.

Both you and your wife will need to secure a tourist visa if Turkey is your choice.

Here's a good resource that shows all the countries that Philippine citizens can visit without visa - Visa Requirements for Filipino Citizens (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Filipino_citizens)

Here's another good resource with visa requirements for both UK Citizens (http://turkey.visahq.co.uk/) and also for Filipino Citizens (http://turkey.visahq.co.uk/requirements/Philippines/resident-United_Kingdom/)

If you wish to visit a country where a visa is required then first stop on how to apply would be to visit the specific website of their Embassy in UK

Good luck :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[mesmo]

Mesmo, Turkey is not a member of the Schengen Zone.

Both you and your wife will need to secure a tourist visa if Turkey is your choice.

Here's a good resource that shows all the countries that Philippine citizens can visit without visa - Visa Requirements for Filipino Citizens (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Filipino_citizens)

Here's another good resource with visa requirements for both UK Citizens (http://turkey.visahq.co.uk/) and also for Filipino Citizens (http://turkey.visahq.co.uk/requirements/Philippines/resident-United_Kingdom/)

If you wish to visit a country where a visa is required then first stop on how to apply would be to visit the specific website of their Embassy in UK

Good luck :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Hi Terpe

Thanks for replying

I got to that point yesterday and then fell foul of this section

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k30/mesmo1956/TurkeyVisaapplication_zps24b1f9ef.jpg

So back to scratching my head again:anerikke:

[mesmo]

Also .... we are on a Fiancee visa ... Turkey was going to be our honeymoon destination

[Terpe]

You'll need to contact the Turkish Embassy/Consulate to establish your Fiancee's Visa requirements.

Turkey is not a member of the Schengen Zone.
Your Fiancee has a UKVI temporary visa for 6 months max. Even for a Schengen Visa she is unable to apply whilst in UK with a visa of less than 6 months.

She could however, have applied whilst still in Philippines.

[mesmo]

You'll need to contact the Turkish Embassy/Consulate to establish your Fiancee's Visa requirements.

Turkey is not a member of the Schengen Zone.
Your Fiancee has a UKVI temporary visa for 6 months max. Even for a Schengen Visa she is unable to apply whilst in UK with a visa of less than 6 months.

She could however, have applied whilst still in Philippines.

Thank you Terpe.:xxgrinning--00xx3:

We have to go to London later this week so will try and get in there to ask their advice

[mesmo]

OK! After a round of phone calls I think I have this sussed now!!

It seems that Merlyn can travel on her Fiancée visa to Turkey as this is a recognised and VALID OECD member state visa. There is no restriction on how long the Fiancee visa has after the holiday, as long as we return before it expires and then the more common requirements of having a return air ticket a hotel reservation and $50 spending money for each day she is there.

I am just emailing them just to confirm this in writing

[Terpe]

OK! After a round of phone calls I think I have this sussed now!!

It seems that Merlyn can travel on her Fiancée visa to Turkey as this is a recognised and VALID OECD member state visa. There is no restriction on how long the Fiancee visa has after the holiday, as long as we return before it expires and then the more common requirements of having a return air ticket a hotel reservation and $50 spending money for each day she is there.

I am just emailing them just to confirm this in writing

Well done :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks a lot for the feedback.......that'll surely be helpful for others :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Donutz]

Some posts here mention premium rate numbers, several weeks for making an appointment and some more to get a visa. That cannot be (ain't) right!
Very briefly: assuming you are a Brit married with a Filipino or Filipina: you can directly contact a Schengen embassy, no prenium hotlines, no external party involved, free visa, minimum hassle (proof that you are married, show ID's, show that you will travel together), appointment should be issued within 2 weeks of the request, the visa should be issued as soon as possible, maximum 15 calender days. In theory it should be a no brainer and you should be able to with minimum hassle, costs or delays. In practise... not always...

Even regular Schengen visa's for those who are not married can be done directly via the embassy, with an appointment witin 2 weeks and a standard processing time of 15 calendat days. There cannot be a default slower processing simply because the applicant comes from a certain country.

Some useful recent topics:
- NOTHING to PAY - SCHENGEN VISA (Spouse of an EU Citizen) (http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php/45349-NOTHING-to-PAY-SCHENGEN-VISA-(Spouse-of-an-EU-Citizen))
- Travel docs needed for France Schengen Visa for Filipina wife? (http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php/53105-Travel-docs-needed-for-France-Schengen-Visa-for-Filipina-wife)

This is something I wrote, covering both normal applications for unmarried couples aswell as for marrried couples (see the "EU/EEA family member" bit):


Schengen Visa FAQ

A good preparation is essential for any visa application. Below you will find some of the most important items to be aware of. Ofcourse any application is unique so by no means can this topic cover all the possible situations, but it should provide a good starting point for most applicants.

What is a Schengen Visa?
The free movement of persons is a fundamental right guaranteed by the EU to its citizens. It entitles every EU citizen to travel, work and live in any EU country without special formalities. Schengen cooperation enhances this freedom by enabling citizens to cross internal borders without being subjected to border checks. The border-free Schengen Area guarantees free movement to more than 400 million EU citizens, as well as to many non-EU nationals, businessmen, tourists or other persons legally present on the EU territory.

The most common type of Schengen Visa is the "C type" visa also commonly known as "short stay/term" or "tourist visa". It allowed people to reside within the Schengen areas for up to a maximum of 90 days (within any 180 day period). The most common type of C visa are for "tourism", "joining a friend/relative" or "EU/EER nationals travelling to or residing in another member state than that of which he/she is a national."

More information: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/schengen/index_en.htm#resp_map

Where can I travel with a Schengen Visa?
You can travel throughout the entire Schengen area. This means that you can enter, move through and leave the Schengen area via all member states. However you must apply at the embassy of the country that is your main destination. If there is no clear main destination you should apply at the embassy of the Schengen country that you will enter first.
More info: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/index_en.htm


Do I need a Schengen Visa?
In most cases Filipino visitors do need a Schengen Visa. If a Filipino person already has a residence permit of a Schengen area member you will not need a visa. As the UK is not a member of the Schengen area, most Filipino who reside temporarily or permanently in the UK will need a Schengen Visa. See: http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/index_en.htm

What are the requirements for a Schengen Visa?
This varies as embassies may set additional requirements and it depends on the type of visa requested. In most cases it's important that the traveler convinces the embassy that their is a genuine and clear goal, meets the financial requirements, medical travel insurance and can convince that the he or she will leave the Schengen area before the visa expires (overstay, illegal residence). Simply said, they wish to verify if the trip is genuine, that the trip is affordable and that the traveller will leave in time. Details can be found at the websites of the various member states. It might be useful to know that either the host can provide financial guarantee or they applicant may provide evidence that he/she himself/herself has sufficient means of support. The exact amount of money you need per day per person varies from country to country.

Documents you may wish or need to collect: evidence of any previous visas, a letter of invitation by the host (explaining the reasons for the visit and also why the applicant will return), supporting documents that shows ties with the home country such as owning property, having to take care of family, the need to return to studies/employment etc. Make sure the application makes sense: how many people can get 3 months off from work for a holiday? It may not always be wise to apply for the maximum number of days. If this is the first visa application to a western nation you may wish to apply for less days, such as a single month. Every case is unique and judged on it's own merrits ofcourse!

Where / how to apply?
You can apply at the embassy. Most require an appointment, an appointment should be granted within 2 weeks of the request (article 9 of the Visa Code). Be aware that many embassies have outsourced part of their visa application process to external service providers such as VFS Global or TLS Contact. These are just handling agencies and you are not obligated to use their service, let alone to pay their service fee. (Article 17 of the Visa Code states so). Further details are explained in the Visa Code. You can find the Visa Code and Visa Handbook here:

- EU Home Affairs on Schengen (http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/index_en.htm)
- Handbook for the processing of visa applications (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32009R0810) (Application procedures in more detail, available in several languages)
- Handbook for the organisation of visa sections (http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/pdf/policies/borders/docs/c_2010_3667_en.pdf) (covers right of direct access to the embassy on page 21-22)

You will need to apply at the embassy of the country which the applicant will be traveling to: the country were the applicant will spent the most time, or if there is no clear main destination then you need to apply at the country which you will visit first). For a Friends visa or Family visa this most often will be the country in which the EU partner resides. You may enter and exit the Schengen country via any member state though, as long as you can convince the border guards that you are heading onward to your main destination. Useful incase the host lives near the border and find cheaper tickets a neighbouring country. Exception: in rare cases a visa with Limited Territorial Validity is issued, in which case the visa is only valid in a limited number of countries. This will be clearly noted in the visa if this is the case. Most C and D visa are valid in the entire Schengen area.

How long does it take to process my application?
Most applications should be processed within 15 calendardays, in individual cases this might be extended to 30 days and in exceptional cases to 60 days (article 23 of the Visa Code). You may apply 3 months in advance at the earliest. The earlier you apply the better, since under normal circumstances it may take 2 weeks to grand you an appointment and another 15 days to handle the application, that is nearly a month in total. How long your application takes will depend on how busy the embassy is, their general policy, your unique case etc. It may just be a matter of days or under a week if you are lucky. When your visa is granted and you travel to Europe, you are advised to carry a copy of all the documents you used at the application since the border control may ask you to show that you meet all the requirements for the Schengen Visa. Entry on a Schengen visa is NOT a right, you could be denied entry at the border if the border guards believe you do not meet the requirements.

What are the costs?
The standard fee is 60 euro's. If you chose to use a external service provider such as VFS Global or TLS Contact (you are never obligated to use their services even though some embassies push people towards them, thus violating the Schengen regulations) you will also pay additional service fees. For some types of visa a lower fee applies, for some the fee is waived altogether such as applicants who travel to an other EU/Schengen country of which the EU family member is a resident of. See below for more information on EU/EEA family visas.

My application got rejected, can I appeal?
Yes, you can appeal. Be aware that you need to do so in a timely manner. Depending on the national law of the embassy in question you may need to appeal within 4 weeks, a month, 30 days or a few months. You may wish to contact a legal expert when you make an appeal. The most common grounds of rejection are "unclear travel intentions/goal" or "risk of not leaving the Schengen area in time / illegal settlement". You can counter these by making sure that your travel intentions are clear (tickets, bookings/shelter, a travel plan, a letter from the inviting host etc.) and providing evidence that shows bonds with Filipinoland such as a job, school or family that you need to return to, property you own etc. plus ofcourse stating that you are fully aware of the consequences of illegal settlement and you have no desire to violate the law and you/your host will ensure that you leave the Schengen area on time. Ofcourse hopefully you have provided as much evidence with your initial application as to convince the embassy of your genuine and legal travel intentions.

Can I apply for a multiple entry visa?
Ofcourse you can, though the policy of issuing one is different from country to country and embassy to embassy (this may change in the future though, see here (http://www.Filipinovisa.com/forum/topic/715691-eu-commission-wants-more-flexible-schengen-rules/)). Generally after the first or second trip to the EU you could try and apply for multiple entries. You will then get a visa that is valid for a longer period of time (2-5 years), and which allows you to stat the number of stated (generally 90) days per 180 day window. The worst that can happen would be getting a single entry visa instead because they embassy doesn't believe you need or qualify for a multiple entry visa just yet. You may wish to motivate your request for a multiple entry visa in a seperate letter.


I am a family member (spouse, child) of an EU/EEA citizen:
If the applicant is travelling to another Schengen member state then the one that your EU family member is a national of, and you are travelling together or the non EU/EEA national family member is travelling to join the EU/EEA national family member, then you are entitled to a FREE visa which should be granted swiftly (accelerated procedure) and with minimum hassle. Your application falls under directive 2004/38/EC regarding the Freedom of Movement. A minimum of documentation and requirements apply.
It's important to know who qualifies as a family member of an EU/EEA citizen though.

Who qualifies?:
The non-EU spouse, (grand)children or (grand)parents. And only If they will be travelling together with you, or joining you in another EU country then the country you are a citizen of. Your registered partner and extended family - siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and so on - can ask the authorities in an EU country to officially recognise them as family members of an EU national. EU countries do not have to recognise them as your family members but they do at least have to consider the request.
Example: a German and his Filipino spouse have to apply for a regular C type visa if they are applying for a stay in Germany. If they would go on holiday to Spain for instance, they would be able to apply for the EU/EEA family member visa.

Requirements:
A minimum of documentation and requirements apply: travel insurance is not required, hotel bookings are not required, transport bookings (flight) is not required etc. For a spouse the marriage certificate + possibly legalisation by the local ministry of foreign affairs to confirm it's a genuine document + official translation to a language that the embassy can read should be sufficient. Sadly not all embassies apply the Visa Code properly. There should be no need for hotel reservations, insurance or other such things. They may for instance ask that your marriage is registrated in the EU. That most certainly is not a requirement (the EU directive simply requires you to be genuinly married). It could be more efficient to cooperate with such silly demands but if you are unable or unwilling to do so due to cost or time constraints, you would be in your right to point out that the embassy is asking too much.
What is required:
- Show that the applicant (non EU) is first line family of an EU national: provide the marriage certificat (translated if need be, there should be no need to register a Filipino marriage in the EU spouse his/her country).
- Provide passports of the both of you so they can ID you.
- Confirmation that the two of you will be traveling together or joining eachother in the member state: declaration by the EU spouse, optionally as extra evidence a reservation for transport to the EU.

It is always best for non-EU family members to be well informed in advance and have all the necessary documents before starting their journey. However, if they arrive at the border without an entry visa, the border authorities should give them the opportunity to prove by other means that they are your family members. If they manage to prove it, they should be issued with an entry visa on the spot.
Further details:
- Directive 2004/38/EC on the Freedom of Movement (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32004L0038) (articles 1, 2, 5 and 6. Available as PDF in most languages. Show these articles if the embassy is making things difficult for you).
- http://europa.eu/you...ly/index_en.htm (http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/non-eu-family/index_en.htm)
- The Visa Handbook (http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/policies/borders/docs/c_2010_1620_en.pdf)

These rights also apply (infact they not need a visa at all) to those who are family members of an EU citizen who gained "freedom of movement" rights: EU citizens who live/work in another EU member state. If an EU citizen lives and works in the country that they are a citizen of then you are not an EU/EEA citizen. The non-EU spouse of an EU national who is or has executed his/her freedom of movement righrs should have a residence card that states "family member of an EU/EEA national".

The embassy is giving me a hard time!
Make sure you know your rights and obligations. Read the information on the embassy website carefully as well as the information provided by the EU (Home Affairs department). Embassy staff are not always perfect or entirely competent, they can make mistakes or even misinform you on purpose. This also applies to external service providers. The main sources are set out in the Freedom of Movement directive, Visa Code and Visa Handbook. If you do encounter problems, see if you can cite the Freedom of Movement directive or Visa Code. If you still encounter problems you may wish to contact one or more of the following options:
- Check: http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/index_en.htm
- Contact Solvit: https://ec.europa.eu/imi-public/
- Contact the ministry of foreign affairs of the embassy in question
- Contact a legal expert (immigration lawyer)
- Ask the help of a visa agency
- You may also wish to contact other authorities higher up the chain such as the European Commission (Home Affairs (http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/who-we-are/contact-us/index_en.htm)) or the EU Commision's Representation (http://ec.europa.eu/contact/local_offices_en.htm) abroad such as in Philipines (http://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/philippines/about_us/contacts/index_en.htm).
- ....
---------------------------------------------------------

Quick references, important rights:

Websites:
- The website of the embassy you will be applying at (see above)
- http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/schengen/index_en.htm
- http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/index_en.htm

The Schengen Code (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32009R0810) (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 ):
- Article 9: covers practical modalities for lodging an application.
- Article 17: covers service fees by external service providers such as VFS Global and TLS Contact (you aren't obligated to use their services!)
- Article 23: covers the decision (processing time) of an application.

- The Visa Handbook (http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/policies/borders/docs/c_2010_1620_en.pdf)
-- Covers the rules in more detail. Useful for more complicated applications such as those who apply for a EU/EEA family member visa where visa fees should be waived and the visa issued swiftly and with minimum hassle.

- Overstay Calculator (basically on any given day within the Schengen area, count back 180 days and make sure you don't exceed the 90 day limit):
http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/border-crossing/schengen_calculator_en.html

- Interesting data and statistics for those interested in the number of visas issued and declined:
http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/index_en.htm#stats

[andyg]

Hi,

Mizel has a multi entry Schengen Visa issued by France. We used this in July for our trip to Paris. As it's still valid, we are planning on going to Iceland next week. From the research I've done this should be fine, but there is a slight element of doubt. If anyone has had first-hand experience of this, we would appreciate hearing from you.

Thanks
Andy & Mizel

[Terpe]

Iceland is a Schengen area member.

Not sure exactly what your doubts are?

My wife had her first Schengen visa issued by the French Embassy for a trip to Paris. We made a number of other trips to Schengen area countries within the visa validity and didn't encounter any problems. Only the usual extra scrutiny of her passport hehehe

[andyg]

There's not much information about Schengen visas once you've exited the zone and want to return at a later date to a different member country.

Why can't UK just join the Schengen Zone and make things so much easier for everyone?

One thing that really does concern me is, yesterday we noticed that the entry stamp for Paris was dated a month after we'd entered and left.

[andyg]

Thank you for your reply Terpe.

This is Mizel, honestly, my worries are:

I thought we have to get/apply separate visas for each of the EU Schengen member countries that we wish to visit. I only want to know that my Schengen Visa I used once to enter Paris will still be the same visa I have to use to enter a Schengen member country like (Iceland) which is within the validity. It was all confusing to me having received conflicting answers on different forums about my problem.

That's why I asked my hubby if we could get advice on this forum. Having read your reply it's all made clear to me now and thank you very much for making me understand it better. Just fingers crossed that they accept the visa. We also just noticed last night about the error on the stamp and time is a factor if ever I really needed to get a new one as its gonna be next week and I cannot find a straight forward reply regarding the matter since it's the weekend and no office to call.

[Terpe]

Hi Mizel,
A multiple-entry visa will allow you to go in and out of the Schengen area just as you want in line with the validity and limitations indicated on the visa.
It's not normally allowed to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days within a 180 day period so frequent travellers should check their passport stamps.

From the information you've shared you face no issues.
When my wife and I used to travel around the Schengen area we always carried supporting documentation as back up such as marriage certificate and booking docs with name and address etc. I'm not suggesting it's a requirement but sometimes immigration officers can be difficult.

You'll be fine, enjoy the trip :Jump:

[andyg]

Thanks Terpe :smile:

[Donutz]

Apparantly some embassies still don't give a damn about the regular Schengen rules or EU family member rights (freedom of movement directive):
- Ex1: http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php/56658-Schengen-visa-for-Spain
- Ex2: http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php/57929-French-Schengen-Visa-Processing

But remember that:
1- An appointment MUST be given within 2 weeks of the request for regular visa applicants (you can apply up to 3 months in advance though) and ASAP for family (spouse) of EU/EEA family members.
2- Processing time should be max 15 calendar days if the application is complete or if it's an EU/EEA applicantion.
3- The external service providers TLS and VFS are entirely optional, direct contact is always possible (saving you their service fee).
4- an application for the family member (spouse) of an EU/EEA national , such as PH spouse of an UK citizen is entirely free: no visa fee etc. Service costs can only be charged if you chose entirely optional services. These applications need to be handled ASAP and with minimum hassle.
5 - If you are the spouse of an EU national they cannot ask about sufficient funds, medical travel insurance etc. Though obviously you are going to travel with some money and proper insurance regardless, not?

--------

Articles and handbooks:

CHAPTER II

Application

Article 9

Practical modalities for lodging an application

1. Applications shall be lodged no more than three months before the start of the intended visit. Holders of a multiple-entry visa may lodge the application before the expiry of the visa valid for a period of at least six months.

2. Applicants may be required to obtain an appointment for the lodging of an application. The appointment shall, as a rule, take place within a period of two weeks from the date when the appointment was requested.

(...)

Article 23

Decision on the application

1. Applications shall be decided on within 15 calendar days of the date of the lodging of an application which is admissible in accordance with Article 19.

2. That period may be extended up to a maximum of 30 calendar days in individual cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is needed or in cases of representation where the authorities of the represented Member State are consulted.

3. Exceptionally, when additional documentation is needed in specific cases, the period may be extended up to a maximum of 60 calendar days.

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32009R0810



4.4. Direct access
Maintaining the possibility for visa applicants to lodge their applications directly at the consulate instead of via an external service provider implies that there should be a genuine choice between these two possibilities.

Even if direct access does not have to be organised under identical or similar conditions to those for access to the service provider, the conditions should not make direct access impossible in practice. Even if it is acceptable to have a different waiting time for obtaining an appointment in the case of direct access, the waiting time should not be so long that it would render direct access impossible in practice.

The different options available for lodging a visa application should be presented plainly to the public, including clear information both on the choice and the cost of the additional services of the external service provider (see Part I, point 4.1)."
http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/pdf/policies/borders/docs/c_2010_3667_en.pdf



3. SPECIFIC DEROGATIONS FROM THE GENERAL RULES OF THE VISA CODE

3.1. Visa Fee
No visa fee can be charged.

3.2. Service fee in case of outsourcing of the collection of applications
As family members should not pay any fee when submitting the application, they cannot be
obliged to obtain an appointment via a premium call line or via an external provider whose
services are charged to the applicant. Family members must be allowed to lodge their
application directly at the consulate without any costs. However, if family members decide
not to make use of their right to lodge their application directly at the consulate but to use the extra services, they should pay for these services.
If an appointment system is nevertheless in place, separate call lines (at ordinary local tariff)
to the consulate should be put at the disposal of family members respecting comparable
standards to those of "premium lines", i.e. the availability of such lines should be of standards comparable to those in place for other categories of applicants and an appointment must be allocated without delay.

3.3. Granting every facility
Member States shall grant third country family members of EU citizens falling under the
Directive every facility to obtain the necessary visa. This notion must be interpreted as
ensuring that Member States take all appropriate measures to ensure fulfilment of the
obligations arising out of the right of free movement and afford to such visa applicants the
best conditions to obtain the entry visa.

3.4. Processing time
The visas must be issued as soon as possible and on the basis of an accelerated procedure and the procedures put in place by Member States (with or without outsourcing) must allow to distinguish between the rights of a third country national who is a family member of an EU
citizen and other third country nationals. The former must be treated more favourably than the latter.
Processing times for a visa application lodged by a third-country national who is a family
member of an EU citizen covered by the Directive going beyond 15 days should be
exceptional and duly justified.

3.5. Types of visa issued
Article 5(2) of the Directive provides that third-country nationals who are family members of
EU citizens may only be required to have an entry visa in accordance with Regulation (EC)
No 539/2001.

3.6. Supporting documents
In order to prove that the applicant has the right to be issued with an entry visa under the Directive, he must establish that he is a
beneficiary of the Directive. This is done by presenting documents relevant for the purposes of the three questions referred to above, i.e. proving that:
• there is an EU citizen from whom the visa applicant can derive any rights;
• the visa applicant is a family member (e.g. a marriage certificate, birthcertificate, proof of dependency, serious health grounds,
durability of partnerships ...) and his identity (passport); and
• the visa applicant accompanies or joins an EU citizen (e.g. a proof that the EU
citizen already resides in the host Member State or a confirmation that the EU
citizen will travel to the host Member State).

It is an established principle of EU law in the area of free movement that visa applicants have the right of choice of the documentary evidence by which they wish to prove that they are covered by the Directive (i.e. of the family link, dependency ...) . Member States may, however, ask for specific documents (e.g. a marriage certificate as the means of proving the existence of marriage), but should not refuse other means of proof.

For further information in relation to the documentation, see Commission Communication
COM (2009) 313 final 22.

3.7. Burden of proof
The burden of proof applicable in the framework of the visa application under the Directive is
twofold:
Firstly, it is up to the visa applicant to prove that he is a beneficiary of the Directive. He mustbe able to provide documentary evidence foreseen above as he must be able to present evidence to support his claim.

If he fails to provide such evidence, the consulate can conclude that the applicant is not
entitled to the specific treatment under the Directive. Additional documents may not be required regarding the purpose of travel and means of subsistence (e.g. proof of accommodation, proof of cost of travelling),which is reflected in the exemption for family members of EU citizens from filling in the following fields of the visa application form: (...)" http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/docs/20140709_visa_code_handbook_consolidated_en.pdf

Sources and useful info:
- http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/index_en.htm
- http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32009R0810
- http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/non-eu-family/index_en.htm (<- link to EU Ombudsman SOLVIT at the bottom).

[hornash]

Hi, Me and my wife are going to France in May. Can you still go straight to the embassy for the visa or have they changed it so you have to go with TLS?
Cheers

[robbie bobby]

Apparantly some embassies still don't give a damn about the regular Schengen rules or EU family member rights (freedom of movement directive):
- Ex1: http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php/56658-Schengen-visa-for-Spain
- Ex2: http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php/57929-French-Schengen-Visa-Processing

But remember that:
1- An appointment MUST be given within 2 weeks of the request for regular visa applicants (you can apply up to 3 months in advance though) and ASAP for family (spouse) of EU/EEA family members.
2- Processing time should be max 15 calendar days if the application is complete or if it's an EU/EEA applicantion.
3- The external service providers TLS and VFS are entirely optional, direct contact is always possible (saving you their service fee).
4- an application for the family member (spouse) of an EU/EEA national , such as PH spouse of an UK citizen is entirely free: no visa fee etc. Service costs can only be charged if you chose entirely optional services. These applications need to be handled ASAP and with minimum hassle.
5 - If you are the spouse of an EU national they cannot ask about sufficient funds, medical travel insurance etc. Though obviously you are going to travel with some money and proper insurance regardless, not?

--------

Articles and handbooks:
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32009R0810

http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/pdf/policies/borders/docs/c_2010_3667_en.pdf

http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/docs/20140709_visa_code_handbook_consolidated_en.pdf

Sources and useful info:
- http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/index_en.htm
- http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32009R0810
- http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/non-eu-family/index_en.htm (<- link to EU Ombudsman SOLVIT at the bottom).

I am just going to wait until the wife gets her naturalisation in Sept and get her a British Passport before going to Europe.Its getting pathetic and a lot of cost to get a Schengen visa what with living in Guernsay an all.At one time we just sent our doc to London and that was that.Now it's terrible and time consuming.If we were refugees it would be much easier.