Many of my long trips over the past five years have been in Europe and since I require a Schengen visa to enter most countries in the continent, I have applied in various embassies here in Singapore. Generally, my experiences applying for a Schengen tourist visa have been very procedural. Several documents are required for presentation but as long as one manages to fulfill them, there are barely any questions asked — unlike the application process for other countries for example.
In this guide, I aim to show how nationalities such as Filipinos, Indonesians, Indians and others that are not visa-exempt can get a Schengen visa in Singapore.
the parliament building in Budapest in Hungary – a Schengen state
Table of Contents
What is the Schengen Visa?
Several countries in Europe are part of the Schengen agreement and share a common visa. This means that as long as you are issued the Schengen visa, you can move anywhere within the countries part of the agreement during the duration of your visa. As of this writing, these countries are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
In addition to the countries formally part of the Schengen area, there are other countries which exempt you from getting their own visas and allow entry as long as you have a multiple entry Schengen visa. These countries are: Albania, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro and Romania. Besides these, there are other countries that share an open border with the Schengen area, therefore the only way to enter these countries is via other Schengen area countries. These nations are: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City
All in all, you can enter around 40 countries with a multiple entry Schengen visa which actually makes it quite a powerful visa to hold.
For the purpose of this article, discussion revolves around application for a “C” of short-term visa.
How to apply for the Schengen visa
You can apply for a Schengen visa as early as 90 days before your trip. To know where you should apply for the Schengen visa, the main criterion is the country where you’ll be spending the longest time for your trip. Assuming you are spending the same amount of time in more than one country, then the next criterion you’ll be looking at is the Schengen area country where you first enter.
Many of the Schengen area countries have embassies here in Singapore and to start the application process, most of them require booking an appointment. I have personally applied in the Danish, Spanish and Polish embassies for my Schengen visa.
For larger European countries such as France, Italy, Spain and Germany, the centers to apply in are quite straightforward – either the embassy of the same country or its equivalent processing centers.
Example #1
First Schengen state of entry is Finland where you spend 2 nights but you are also going to France (3 nights), Norway (1 night) and Denmark (2 nights)
You apply in French Embassy as you are staying in France the longest even though it is not your first port of entry.
Example #2
First Schengen state of entry is Germany where you spend 2 nights but you are also going to Spain (2 nights), Italy (2 nights) and Greece (2 nights)
Since you are staying the same number of nights in all the Schengen states you are visiting, you then apply for the visa in the German Embassy.
How many entries do you need for the Schengen area?
In the application form, you can choose whether you’d like to have a single, double or multiple entry visa. It is still up to the consul how many entries you will be given. I have received plenty of questions from people who are confused about the number of entries they need. First, you’ll have to note what constitutes the Schengen area. As long as you stay within the Schengen area, even if you visit multiple countries, it still constitutes a single entry as there are no border checkpoints between countries such as France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Netherlands, etc. However, if you are going to the United Kingdom (which is not a Schengen state) in the middle of your trip and then returning to the Schengen area again after, then you’ll need a double or multiple entry visa.
Where to Apply Schengen Visa For States With Limited Diplomatic Presence in Singapore
It’s trickier for certain Schengen countries with no or reduced presence in Singapore. Here’s a guide to some of them.
Schengen visa applications for Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia are handled by the Hungarian Embassy in Singapore.
Schengen visa applications for Slovenia are handled by the Embassy of Spain through its visa processing center.
Schengen visa applications for Austria are handled by France through its visa processing center.
Schengen visa applications for Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland are handled by Denmark, through its visa processing center.
Schengen visa applications for Portugal are handled by the Embassy of Germany in Singapore through its visa processing center.
Schengen visa applications for Malta are handled by the Italian Embassy in Singapore through its visa processing center.
Cost of the Schengen visa is 80 Euros, payable in its Singapore Dollar equivalent. If you apply through a VFS Centre, do note that they will also charge a service fee on top of the visa fees.
Here are the links to the appointment pages of some of the more popular Schengen states:
Germany – link here
Italy – link here
France – link here
Spain – link here
Switzerland – link here
Hungary – link here
Do note that individual appointments are required. This includes families and even children. For example, if a family of 4 comprising of husband and wife and 2 children are traveling to the Schengen States, 4 appointments are required.
Required documents for Schengen tourist visa if you are applying in Singapore:
Schengen visa application form – It is the same form regardless of the embassy you are applying from. The form itself is quite straightforward.
Passport photo – must be glued to the application form. The photo must clearly show the face, forehead hairline and ears on a white background.
Passport – aside from the physical passport, remember to bring a photocopy of the identity page/s as well. The passport needs to be valid for 3 months after the completion of stay in the Schengen countries and needs to have at least 2 blank pages.
Singapore IC – It can be an employment pass, work permit or a PR card. For the latter, the PR card needs to be supplemented by the Re-entry permit. Remember to bring a copy of the IC. For employment pass or work permit, do note that you departure date from the Schengen area should be at least 90 days from the date of expiry of your pass.
Flight booking – The Schengen countries are quite flexible in the definition of a flight booking. It does not have to be a confirmed flight booking, i.e. waitlisted or tentatively reserved flights are acceptable.
Medical insurance policy – The coverage needs to be EUR 30,000 at least and should cover medical expenses, hospitalization and emergency and repatriation in all the Schengen countries you intend to visit. For the type of insurance that is acceptable for the Schengen visa, you can buy HERE. This insurance provider currently has a promotion where you can get a S$10 cashback when you sign up for their plan.
Hotel reservation and trip itinerary – Again, the bookings don’t have to be prepaid. Cancellable bookings are perfectly fine. However, the bookings need to cover the entirety of your stay in the Schengen countries. If you are applying for a multiple entry visa, you need to show that you will be leaving the Schengen countries as well. This can be evidenced via hotel bookings in a non-Schengen country.
Proof of financial support – This is evidenced via 3 months bank statements. I typically print out my online banking 3-months transaction history. This should be sufficient as long as your online banking print out includes your full name. If you have a bank account overseas, those are not acceptable. Only Singapore-based bank accounts are accepted and these must be denominated in SGD, EUR or USD.
What to do if you are a student or have someone else sponsoring your trip?
- Get a signed letter of financial support. If your sponsor (i.e. parent) is traveling with you, you don’t need to produce this.
- Sponsor’s 3 months bank statements
- Sponsor’s passport biodata page with the signature page
- Sponsor’s Singapore legal status such as a copy of IC, re-entry permit, etc. If your sponsor does not reside in Singapore, you don’t need to produce this.
- Evidence of your relationship with sponsor (i.e. birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc)
Employment letter – My letter has the following information: my duration of employment with the company, job title, salary and most importantly, confirmation from my firm’s HR that my leave dates were granted for my intended trip.
Tips For Your Schengen Visa Application
- The key to getting a Schengen visa is to have the complete stack of required documents. The authorities are a stickler for rules and as long as you fulfill them, you should not have any problems getting your visa.
- Do note that Schengen visa applications need to be submitted personally. There are rare cases where some embassies / processing centers allow non-personal submissions as long as biometric data was captured within the last 59 months.
- Schengen states have different minimum cash requirements for traveling around the zone. This is called “means of subsistence.” In Spain, the minimum required is EUR 100 per day while in Belgium, it’s EUR 95 per day. Some countries also have a different minimum requirement depending on whether you have a hotel booking or not. For France, they require at least EUR 120 if you don’t have a hotel booking but it drops to EUR 65 per day if you already have prepaid accommodations.
- The consul will be more confident in approving your visa if you can show that you have previously visited other industrialized countries. Even if you have an expired visa for USA, Canada, Japan, Australia or New Zealand lying in an old passport, it would be useful to photocopy those and bring them during your appointment
- For first time visitors, most (if not all) Schengen country embassies don’t issue a visa with a validity that’s a little bit more than your travel duration. It becomes easier though to get longer validities from the second Schengen visa onwards. 1-year multiple entry visas are not unheard of. 2-year Schengen visas are possible as well for nationalities like Filipinos and Indonesians but these require permission from the home country and may require a bit of time to process.
- If you are applying through an embassy, standard processing time is usually 5 working days except for other nationalities (refer to this list) in which case the processing time may take 10 to 15 working days. If you are applying via the VFS / BLS; the processing time is usually standardized to 15 working days. But from experience, even applications lodged at the visa processing centers can take as little as 3 to 4 working days to be issued.
- The right kind of medical insurance is important to the Schengen authorities. While there are certain credit cards which supposedly come with travel insurance, these may not meet the minimum inclusion which is required for the visa. To ensure you have the acceptable type of insurance, you can purchase an inexpensive one HERE (S$10 cashback promotion for sign-ups)
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Hi Bino,
I happened to chance upon your post on the Schengen Visa. I am actually looking to spend some time in Germany and Spain next year while I take a break from work. Germany as my boyfriend is currently working there, Spain as I want to spend time learning flamenco. The standard visa which we already do not need to apply for Singaporeans is valid for 90 days within 180 day period. Would I be right to assume that this means that I would probably need to apply for the Schengen Visa? Also, you mentioned proof of work – does this mean that I should be employed still when I apply for this visa?
Still figuring out how this is going to work out :/ I didn’t realise it would be this complicated just wanting to mainly move to Spain just to take long term dance classes.
Thanks in advance!
Hi, you did not mention how long you intend to stay in Europe. I am assuming you intend to stay more than 90 days. If you want to do it the easy way you can try traveling to a nearby non-schengen country when your 90 days is almost up then return. For example, the UK is not part of Schengen. Similarly, many Balkan countries are also outside Schengen and are visa-free for Singaporeans.
Hi Bino, thanks for your reply. I’m planning to stay longer than 90 days, up to 12 months actually.
Hi,
Please take note that you can only stay 90 days out of 180 days period in one country within Schengen. Hence, if there is a chance that you will reach more than 90 days, you might have to leave the country and not return for 90 days or risk an over stay. Singapore passport holders are entitled to stay another 90 days with 180 days if you go to another country within Schengen. My suggestion is that you check with the embassy of the countries you plan to visit.
what do u mean by 90 day out of 180 days in one country?It one country or whole schengen as whole?
Hi Bino. We are actually re-allocated to Myanmar on this month of August. I am visiting to my in-law family with my husband before going to Myanmar. I am no more longer holding S-pass so please advise me on what are the requirement for me to apply Schengen Visa.
Hi there. You will need some form of residency permit in order to apply the Schengen visa in Singapore. If you no longer hold the S-pass – does this mean you also no longer have work in Singapore? If that’s the case, I’m afraid you’ll have to apply when you return to Myanmar. Both a residency permit (whether permanent residency or just an employment/s pass) and proof of employment are required for Schengen visa.
I found this article very helpful as my wife and I, together with a group of friends, intend to travel to Europe in 2019 and making plans for that now. Thanks very much Bino.
Hi Bino
I am an EP pass holder and its due to expire on 20th Dec 2017. I plan to visit Italy or Austria around Mid November.
Does my EP needs to hold validity of at least 90 days, post my intended return from my trip?
Appreciate your guidance
Hi Ankita, yes that’s right. Your employment pass needs to be valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from the Schengen area.
Hi Bino
I am an EP pass Holder too.my EP is about to expire by September 5th 2019.
It will get renewed though. I plan to visit Switzerland on July 31 to 19 August 2019.
If while I apply for the Schengen visa if I provide a letter from the employer stating that my EP will be renewed by 1st week of September. Will tat help.i plan to visit my husband Ter at that time as he will be stationed in Zurich during August.
Kindly let me know.
Hmm.. I don’t really know how they’ll process your application in this regard. Yes you might try to ask your employer for a letter.
Hi Megha ,
Can i know if you were issued a Schengan VISA? My Case is similar.
Appreciate your reply
Thanks!
Hi Ankita,
Can I follow up on this? So do you get your EP renewed first before you apply or does your company provide a letter stating that your pass will be renewed and you’ll continue to work in singapore?
Thank you.
Can I get a follow up on this?
Hi BINO,
Can I apply visa in any embassy if I cannot get appointment from Spain Embassy? I need to travel to Spain end of this month and I cannot get hold of appointment from Spain embassy. Pls advise. Thanks.
Hi Dada, I’m afraid not. It’s one of the fundamental rules of the Schengen visa to apply at the country where you will be staying the longest or heading first (if all countries are of the same duration). Are you only going to Spain? If you are unable to fix an appointment you can try visiting the embassy physically in Suntec to ask for other alternatives. The consul there may have solutions.
Thanks BINO,
I went to Spain embassy and they asked me to email and explained the situation. I did and they gave me appointment before my trip. It was just random luck I think. Now I am preparing all documents. Thanks again for your suggestions.
Hi Bino, can I ask you about one of the visa requirements clause in Italian Embassy regarding Flight reservation. it states ” If travelling around the Schengen area please provide ALL TRAINS, FLIGHTS or CAR RENTAL from country to country. Does it mean I need to buy train tickets in advance? How does it works? Thanks a lot.
Hello, for other modes like trains, flights or car rental you can just show them the schedule you intend to take. As mentioned in the checklist, you don’t need to book those now and for the example of “car rental” for example, you just need to show them details of what car service you intend to book and from which points. Same for flights and trains (i.e. flight numbers and departure times would be good to list down).
Hi Bino, thanks for the info. I got my visa now. 🙂 now my next question is.. is it okay that my point of entry and back would be in a different Schengen country like Netherlands, spend a night then head to Italy (we are still spending more days in Italy)? Our flight back to Singapore by the way is via France? Is there any conflict on that? Thanks. 🙂
hi sir bino
I am a work permit holder
can I apply visa for europe
hello, we are travelling in mid october to spain this year. my husband ha already taken an appointment at Spain embassy. can u help us to find out weather me and my son can also go in the same appointment or we need to book separate appointments. also if that is the case then would just one more appointment be enough as my son is only 2 and a half.
thanks.
You all need individual appointments. Even your son who is 2 and a half.
And is it possible to take each other’s appointment if we swap?
hi bino!
im planning to visit monaco this november. do i need to provide a whole trip itinerary even though im a house guest of my mom’s boss (who is quite a big shot person there) and i do have a proof of accommodation given by the municipality of monaco.
I assume you are applying at the French embassy. Yes, you will need an itinerary. Your itinerary doesn’t need to be full of activities. You can just specify you will stay at the house, etc.
Hi Bino
We are travelling to Europe (France; Germany; Swiss and Belgium) and wants to apply for Schengen Visa. We are staying there for a day only in each country.. How to apply Schengen Visa and I want the Visa to be processed in a week time. Please advise which embassy is the best to apply..
Thanks.
Hi Selva, if you stay equal days in each country, you’re not really given the option to choose where to apply for your visa. You have to apply in the embassy of the first country you are visiting.
hi I am working in Singapore holding a Marine Work Permit .
I want to visit my friend in Portugal for around 2 weeks .
what are the documents required . is it my employer here need to give any travel related documents..
Do let me know Sir Thanks .
Hi Vicky! The requirements are listed in this article. Pls have a look! Thanks.
Hi Bino,
Would like to ask im spass holder and i want to travel to Italy with my husband. But my husband doesn’t work in singapore he will come here to singapore for tourist. How can i process his visa? Can i use my requirements as sponsor?i will apply together.
Hello, I am an Indonesian holding SPR in SIngapore. I’ll be travelling to Switzerland end of December and I got the appointment date in mid December. Is the usual processing time enough for the visa to be approved? Thanks.
That’s quite rushed! Assuming there are no hitches with your application then yes the usual processing time should allow you to receive your visa just before you leave!
Hi Bino,
If I am an Indonesian resident and wanted to apply Netherland Visa in Singapore, can I do that without Singapore resident/work permit?
Hi Yurina, you’ll need to apply at the Dutch embassy in Indonesia.
Hi Bino,
My parents are Indonesian but they are holding Dependant pass in Singapore. Can they apply Schengen Visa in Singapore ? we plan to go with Travel agent for about 12 days. thank you
Theoretically yes as they are residing here. However, do they have bank accounts in Singapore? The financial aspect is one important thing the embassy will be looking at. I assume they are not working since they are on a dependent pass. You might be asked to provide some sort of guarantee for your parents’ expenses while in the Schengen area.
Hi Bino,
My husband is Singaporean. I am an indonesian and have an LTVP holder. Is it possible to apply Schengen visa for our holiday here in Singapore. I am just a housewife. But we married in singapore.
Thank u in advance
Hi Bino,
I have a question here. I am intending to travel to Italy (Venice and Milan) by March 16 and departing on March 25. It will be a short getaway and will only be in Italy.
My Pass is expiring by June 28 so I think I am meeting the requirements.
Here are my questions:
any idea how much is the required money in your bank account?
do I have to print my confirmed hotel bookings for venice and milan and the detailed itinerary of my whereabouts in Milan and venice?
Thanks,
michelle
Hi Bino,
Is the medical insurance a compulsory requirement? Will i not be granted a visa without it? Thanks
Hi Jesika, the requirement is travel insurance which has a medical component inside. You don’t need a full medical insurance. Hope it clarifies.
hi Bino , sorry to bother and just a quick question.
Is there any express way to apply Schengen visa for thai passport in Singapore as we are holding s pass ,example 2-3 days instead of 5 days ?
because we are travelling often and need to hold on our passport.
thanks and would appreciate your reply.
Yes some embassies offer this option. Best to check with the embassy you are applying at.
Hi Bino
I would be travelling to Greece in Feb. Do I still go through VFS to apply for the visa as a tourist? Any guidance on where to apply would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hi! I have a trip in August, can i apply for my visa now? If not, when is the earliest i can settle my visa?
Thank you!
It’s too early. You can apply 2 to 3 months prior to your trip.
HEllo!
Intending to fly to vienna from sg but I’ll be having a transit in london. Do I need a separate visa for london?
Thanks
Hi Bino.
I am a EP pass holder and I applied my VISA with the appointment on 03-Jan-18 by 10AM. They gave a slip to collect the passport on Monday (08Jan-18).
when I checked on 04-Jan-18, it says “The decision concerning your application has been reached” which means they have processed I believe from the blogs I understood. Within a day this has been processed. So I am not sure if it is positive or no. So thought of checking with you if it is the case you have heard off before.
I already have 4 times Schengen Visa stamped in my current passport from 2010 to 2013.
We can’t tell for sure whether it’s positive or not but high chances of it being so if you’ve had Schengen visas before.
Thanks for being positive Bino. I will update over Monday on this.
how did it go at the end? I got the same response
Hi,
Do you think if double entry is doable for first time visitor?
I plan to go to Istabul as well together with my trip to Switzerland and Gẻmany in May, so would it be possible for me to apply for double entry since this is my first time in Schengen area?
Appreciate your guidance. Regards,
Hi, yes double entry is definitely do-able for first timers if you can show thru your itinerary and flight tickets that you need it.
Hi, thanks so much!
One more question, so in that case I have to book the flight ticket to Istanbul as well? Could I show them by the booking hotel instead? Then include a piece of my itinerary explaining that I’m going to Istanbul and something in my application? As I don’t see anywhere to write those in the application. As I’m not sure if they are gonna grant me the double-entry so I’m a bit hesitating to buy the flight ticket yet…
Hi Vikram – Did you provide legalized true copy of your EP or just a scanned copy of your EP? If yes, you provide legalized true copy, what is the process?. Thanks!
Hi Bino,
I am Indonesian, and I want to proceed Schengen visa from Singapore.
because this month I will back forward from Indonesia to Singapore , and mostly I will stay at Singapore.
I don’t have work permit in Singapore yet, still in the process, it takes time to get this.
so if the working permit not yet approve, how I proceed this? can I still proceed the visa?
if yes, how can I do it?
really appreciate your help on this
Thanks and regards
If you don’t have work permit yet what’s your status in Singapore? If it’s just on a tourist entry, you’ll need to apply your Schengen visa in Indonesia.
Hello, is is the same procedure nd requirement for business visa? Thank you!
Hi Bino! I was wondering what is the average waiting time for a national visa as my friend who applied later than me have already got hers approved so I am kind of worried about my application.
I hold student pass in Singapore and do i still need to apply for visa ?
Depends which passport you hold.
Hi Bino! I would like to ask if the the foreign domestic worker is allowed to get a visit visa to Germany?
And if yes who are thise eligible?
And how long it takes the processing time..
Thanks!
Hi Tricia, yes they are eligible. The same requirements apply as per my list.
Hi Bino,
May I ask you if I am an indonesian with Student Pass in Singapore, Can I apply Schengen visa from Singapore?
You certainly can! Essentially your letter from the school will replace the employment certificate that working adults have to get for the visa.
Hi BINO, thank you for all the information. My Husband in a South African passport has already applied for a Schengen Visa through his company as he will be going to Athens for business.
I am on a British passport which does not require a Schengen visa and me and my kids have decided to go to Santorini in June and my husband will meet up with us there. For them they are on a South African passport which also requires a Schengen visa. For the documents required for a child visa would we still need to provide banking statements etc. Also do you know what the cost of a child visa is or is it the same as an adult visa.
Would you also know anything with regards to a direct transit visa for kids if we fly via Heathrow to Santorini and where to apply for this?
Thanking you in advance
Stacy
Hi Stacy, for child visa yes basically you’ll need to provide financial documents of the one sponsoring their trip, i.e. the parents.
Hi Bino,
We are planning to visit Germany in November and my Employment pass expires on Jan 10 2019. Is it ok if i can submit a letter from the company to the embassy that my pass will be renewed further, so as to satisfy the criteria that requires 90 days of visa validity after the departure from schengen area. Please advice. Thanks
Can I have an update on this…as I have a similar situation here.
Hi Bino… thanks for the cool tips.. just want to check with you the approval date and visa start date… when u apply earlier, for instance my travel will be on June and applied my schengen visa by May, will the start date of my visa the same as my date of entry in schengen country? or it will follow the date that it was approved?
also, usually whats the minumum number of months do they grant? and have you tried request letter to grant for multiple pass? 🙂
they can do the start date as when your trip starts (usually there’s an allowance of a few days before)
i see.. thank you ☺️ btw, how would i know where to apply visa? ive read some says point of entry and some says where the most number of nights will be spent … like for my case 4nights in Spain and 9nights in Italy …
Hi Bino,
Good day to you. Im currently working here in Singapore. We are planning to go this coming December in Italy-Prague-Paris. My wife and 2 kids are staying in Philippines and im the only one stay here in Singapore.
My question is, is it correct that i will apply schengen visa here in Italian embassy in Singapore and my wife and kids in Italian embassy in the Philippines?
Thank you
That’s correct. You apply at the embassy/visa centre based on where you are residing.
Thanks Bino. By the way prior to my question, when is the best period we can apply or get an appointment for visa application if our flight schedule will be on December 26? Thanks
You can apply around 2 months before the trip.
Hello Bino, great article! I tried to click on the link for the nationalities that may take 10-15 working days of processing but it’s not showing. May I know if a Philippine passport is included there?
We’re planning to go 2nd week of May for a friend’s wedding but my husband has business trips later in March and April. I’m afraid the visa won’t be processed in time. Thanks!
Hi there – thanks for letting me know. No, Philippine nationality is not covered in that list.
Thank you!
Hi Bino,
I am trying to apply for a Schengen and Ireland visa. I am going to Belgium first before Ireland and returning to Singapore where I hold a valid pass. The Belgium embassy said I would need to get an Irish visa first as compared to Schengen as that comes after Ireland. But when I applied to Ireland embassy, the officer said I would still need to show my Schengen visa before my Ireland visa is approved. I think the Belgium staff is right, what do you think? I am so pressed for time too!
Hi Bino
We are planning to take a holiday to Italy and Switzerland and duration of stay would be 6 days in Italy and 5 days in Switzerland. My entry port into Schengen area would be Milan Italy. As per your article , I should be applying for the visa at the Italian Embassy. However with the process time of 15 days and long waiting to get an appointment, woiuld you recommend applying for the visa at Swiss embassy, Would bthey accept my application
You can always check but my understanding is that you still need to apply at Italian embassy due to your schedule.
Hi Bino,
I an Indonesian, studying in SMU in Singapore. I am going to Swiss for an university exchange. I have booked my appointment two week ago for visa but the earliest available appointment is on 9 April and I will be leaving Singapore on 27 April. Do you think it is suffficient time to get my visa approved?
Hi Bino,
We are planning on travelling to Greece only. I was not able to find any websites from which I can apply for the schengen visa at the Greece Embassy. Would you happen to know where I can apply?
Thank you!
Regards,
Manjula
If I’m not wrong, the French embassy handles Greek Schengen visa applications. But pls check to make sure.
Hi!! I’m holding a Thai passport. I’m going to buy a tour package (9 days) to Eastern Europe which consists of Slovakia, Hungary, Austria and Czech Republic. Do I have to make an appointment to all 4 embassies for Schengen bisa application.
Apply at the country where you’re spending the longest time. If all are equal days, apply at the first Schengen country you’re arriving in.
Thank you.
Hi Bino, thank u for ur information on schengen visa application in this blog. One thing that i m still confused is “booked” flight ticket without paying any single cents. As far as i know, all online flight website require us to book and pay at the same time (especially for those on promotion rate) unless we opt for flight with free cancellation which is far more expensive. I read through all comments above, u did mention that we could provide flight plan only. Does that mean just information on flight schedule without providing any booking number/flight itinerary is acceptable? Some sites provide information on “reserved flight” service with a fee. Means that they provide real flight itinerary without paying for visa application purpose. Once visa is approved, they will cancel it and we could purchase our flight ticket on our own. How does it work? Please advise which is more reliable. Thank u in advance
Hi, with brick and mortar travel agents, you can book the traditional way (with booking number) and hold the ticket for a few days before paying.
Hi Bino.
Firstly, thanks for providing this service to all the future travellers to Europe. It’s indeed very helpfull.
Moreover, I am an EP holder in Singapore and will be applying for my Schengen visa at the BLS Spain visa centre soon since I will be spending most of my time in Spain and Spain is also my port of entry in Europe.
However, under the list of documents required as mentioned on the BLS website, I need to show my original EP and submit a legalized true copy of the same. This copy is to be notarized (through a public notary) and legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Singapore. This is mentioned on this link: https://singapore.blsspainvisa.com/short_term_visa_tourist.php
Can I please have your thoughts on this i.e. if it is really mandatory to have the EP notarised? Will they just accept a simple photo copy as I will be showing them my original EP at the time of submission of the application? Thanks a lot.
Regards,
Hassan.
Hi Bino,
I am travelling to Italy on 03rd May and when I went to link to book an appointment with vfsglobal for the schengen visa. It is showing that the latest appointment is available on 08th May.
Please let me know what options I have.
Thanks,
Shrikant Chavan
Hi Bino
I am a DP pass holder in Singapore and my pass is valid for only 80 days , post my intended return date from trip. I already booked hotel and flights tickets. Does my DP and residence proof needs to hold validity of 90 days? Please guide me what should i do in this case?
Thanks!
Please help me with this…I am really in trouble..
Hi Shreya, yes 90 days is the requirement. I don’t know what they can do if your pass expires less than that but my understanding is that it is a requirement so there’s no way around it. You may want to call them up to confirm.
Thank you..
Hi Shreya,
May I know what happened to your application? I have the same case and I’m going on a business trip.
Hi Shreya,
My case is also similar.. did you managed to get Visa?
Hi. Is it possible to send a proxy for my appointment?
I cant seem to find a link with regards to this issue in their website.
We have previously done this with Japan. One of us submitted the documents for the whole group.
I wonder if we could do the same as well.
Thank you in advance! 🙂
All the websites for Singapore do indicate you need to apply in person. Also, you’re obliged to submit your fingerprints if you have not done so after 2014. But it would not hurt to check personally if application by proxy is possible.
Hi bino,
Me n my wife traveling Europe around 20 days, both of us currently working in Singapore.my concern possible to provide my wife bank statement instead of mine.
Advise pls
Joe
Yes. In the app form just indicate that your wife will be financing the trip.
Thank you..
Hi Bino,
My husband and I are travelling to Europe on 24th May 2018 for a duration of 18 days(including days of travel). We will be visiting the following countries :
1. Germany (3 Days)
2. Czech Republic (3 Days)
3. Slovakia (1-2 Days)
4. Slovenia (2 Days)
5. Austria (3-4 Days)
6. Hungary (2 Days)
While looking to book and appointment for Schengen visa with the German Embassy, we noticed that appointments are full for the next couple of months.
Can you please help us with the following information :
1. Is there any other way to proceed with the application of Visa if the appointments are full.
2. If we apply for a Schengen visa to any of the above countries other than Germany, will it be a problem to enter Germany (Munich) with the same Schengen visa ? Our port of entry is Munich.
You’re spending more days in Austria based on your itinerary. If that’s the case, you can apply there instead. You’ll still be able to enter Germany.
Hi Bino,
I am an Indian SPR holder, and my discussion with a german organization for working there, need me to travel to Germany (definately not less than 90 days).
Since I can stay in Singapore without a job, till my re entry permit expires, do I still need to get any supporting documents from my current organization, as I would be resigning for the job in Germany.?
Can I apply for a visa for Germany from here at singapore?
Thanks- Raj
Hi Bino,
Our family of 4 plan for a package tour and point of entry @ Italy (spending more days in Italy as well). First time applying for Schengen visa. All are SPR. Confirmed ticket is on June 9th. Appointment got only on 30th May. Only 7 workings days left for getting Visa. Is this enough for getting visa? Any ways to prepone the visa appointment date?
The Italian embassy may be able to offer you an expedited processing time for additional fee.
Hi Bino,
We had some trouble with our applications. We need to get our Schengen visa from Italian Embassy but the next available slot is on June 15 via vfsglobal. Our confirmed trip date is on 31st May. Is there any way that we can acquire the visa?
Thanks!
Reynen
Hi Manoj,
Were you able to expedite your visa from Italian embassy?
Thanks!
Reynen
Hi Reynen,
I manage to get a reply from Italian embassy to reach out to VFS for any early application date. My appointment date is 30th May and travel date is June 9th. Italian embassy informed me in the email that my family of 4 can get the visa before my travel date. There was no option of any express way of getting visa offered with any additional fee from them.
thanks
manoj
Hi Bino,
I’m a singaporean student on exchange right now in Switzerland and have a switzerland residence permit until the 30th of June. However, my family would like to come visit me in July. Is it possible for me to still stay in Switzerland as a tourist? I would also like to travel to other Schengen countries like Greece and Italy before returning to Singapore. Would that be an issue?
Please assist me, the immigration office here in Switzerland is giving me confusing responses whenever I ask them. Thank you so much!
Sorry I am not familiar with that. I only know about applying for the Schengen visa IN Singapore.
One thing you might be able to do is exit Switzerland when your student visa expires (and travel to a non-Schengen country) then go back afterwards as a tourist.
Hi Bino,
I am planning to travel to Germany in May.
But I am not able to get an appointment from the website. Then I visisted the embassy they said they dont have any slot available for almost 60 days as they are under staffed .
Please advice.
thanks
You can try including another Schengen country in your trip (with more days there) along with Germany and apply in that other embassy instead.
Hi Bino,
I’m planning to apply for the Schengen Visa at The Embassy Of Switzerland since the Swiss is my main destination.
I will be landing in London first, then to Paris and to Zurich from there.
Do I need to get the Uk Visa first before applying for the Schengen Visa since London is my first stop or is it ok to apply for the Schengen Visa first?
Kindly advise since I already have the confirmed fight tickets for the same.
Thanks,
Joe
Hi Bino,
Im an Indian national living in Singapore and resident here based on Employment Pass. I intend to travel with my family to Switzerland on 22nd June 2018 from Mumbai (India) and have booked tickets to Mumbai for the 7th June 2018 to Mumbai
I requested for an appointment at the Swiss Embassy but the earliest date as per their website are of 12th June 2018. Do you have suggestions on getting an earlier appointment. Unfortunately my tickets to India too are non-refundable.
Regards
Akhil
Hi Bino!
Just want to say thank you for writing down all the necessary requirements for Schengen visa, big help!
Hi Bino,
Good Day to you.
I am a Filipina and currently working here in Brunei. I want to apply for Schengen Visa in Singapore as I am planning to travel to Denmark this coming September or December. I want to visit my friend for around 2 weeks.
My question is where and how to apply and how long it will take for a visa to be processed?
How long do I have to stay and wait in Singapore as I need to ask my leave approval from my employer.
Thank you,
Aprile
Huge help this piece has been! Thanks! Happy travelling!
Hi Bino,
I will be travelling to Europe this November (2 weeks) but it will be 5 countries. I only have a booking for multicity from and to SG. Do I need to book tickets (train or by plane) if I transfer to different countries within the 2 weeks travel? Or detailed itinerary should be enough?
Thank you.
No need to book the train tickets yet.
Hello Bino! I hope you can share your insights with me, too.
I intend to enroll A1 class in Germany ny Oct and I will be taking Visit visa to apply. Since here in Singapore employers do not allow employees to go on leave for long, I wont be able to submit my COE as a reqt for the Schengen visa.
My husband is German and he is going to send me a Formal Declaration/Obligation (although the enrollment is absolutely my expenses). After taking the exam there (1 mo) I intend to go home to the Phils (jobless) Do you think applying for a Schengen visa without COE will be accepted?
Thanks!
Olivia
Theoretically, people who don’t hold any jobs – the unemployed – can apply for Schengen visa as well. Approval is on a case-by-case basis. Most likely, the visa, if approved, will just be for the duration of the trip.
hi Bino,
My wife is planning travel to Finland on coming October, she is a PRC holding S-pass which expired in October, and her company haven’t got direction to renew her pass.
In this case, any chance if she able to apply a long-term pass staying at SG, and apply Schengen visa using that pass with I am the guarantor?
Hi Bino,
Visiting Greece with my wife this july . Made an appointment through the French Embassy for the Schenzen visa although am not going via France .
Will this be accepted or do i have to apply through the Greek embassy only ?
Siddharth
If I’m not wrong, it’s the French embassy which handles for Greece. Greece only has a consulate here.
Hi Bino!! Thanks for sharing this… i just want to ask … estimated…how much do they have to see in my bank account?
Thanks
Hello Bino, great article! I tried to click on the link for the nationalities that may take 10-15 working days of processing but the document is not available. May I know if a Chinese passport is included there?
Thanks for letting me know. I’ve corrected the link! No, China is not included there.
Hello Bino,
I am working in SPass holder and would like to apply a visa with my daughter age 13. She is in the Philippines.
Is it possible to apply from Singapore as well since I will be flying with her on the trip? Thank you in advance for your reply.
You will need to check with the embassy or visa processing center for this special case.
Hi Bino, very helpful article. I have one question. Can I get the 90 days in 180 days multi-entry Schengen visa if I can only submit materials to prove a 3-week stay? Also, if that’s possible, will it be all right if I stay for 90 days even if during the application I state my trip is going to be around 3 weeks?
Thanks!
Hi Zhou, the duration of your visa is a case-by-case basis. Sometimes, you get that but if it’s your first time, you’re likely to get only for the duration of your stay.
Hi Bino,
Your article is so helpful!! Glad I stumbled upon it. May I just ask if you have any idea where to apply for Portugal visa here in Singapore? I cannot seem to find any details. I am S Pass holder and will be travelling this coming October to Portugal and Spain. Thanks in advance! 🙂
Good question! The German embassy handles Portuguese visa in Singapore. I have updated my article accordingly. Thanks!
Dear Bino, I chanced upon your write up about the Schengen visa from Singapore and its so useful. We are Singapore PR family, travelling to Italy-France-Greece in October and presently preparing all documents.
My question – What is the difference of applying through the authorised submission centre (currently BLS) verses going to the Italian embassy ourselves? Even in BLS, personal appearance for biometrics is required anyway. So why not save SGD 22/- x 4 by going to the embassy? Is the waiting time for appointment is longer?
Thanks in Advance.
Italy is one of the few countries that allow applications in both the embassy and the visa processing center. Haven’t had any personal experience with them so can’t help there. Sorry!
Hi Bino
I have a sister wanting to travel from Papua New Guinea to Singapore then to Doha then to Amsterdam,Netherlands for about 9 days visit
and return. They will be there for holiday-Tourist
We are Papua New Guineans and they wish to apply for Schengen visa for x4 so which embarrass in Singapore can they lodge and have their appointment done.
Kindly advise how we can lodge in PNG.
Await your response.
Thank in Advance
Hi there, believe it’s the Dutch embassy in Canberra, Australia that handles Schengen visa for Netherlands for Papua New Guinea residents. Think you should call them on arranging the sending of your passports. Don’t think you can apply in Singapore unless you reside there.
Hi Bino,
Just want to check, this is my first time getting a schengen visa, im an Spass holder.. i want to apply for a double entry visa but im afraid ill get rejected if I do this. I dont have the dates yet for my 2nd travel dates but just for me to apply once in one go. My first travel is for 17days.. is it possible that they grant me more than what i applied for? Or it is safe if ill just apply for a sigle entry? If i applied for a double entry and it gets rejected but I meet the requirement for a single entry, will they automatically grant me just for single entry or will it be total rejection and I need to reapply again? 🙁
If it’s your first time, don’t think they will give double entry. But no harm applying that. If you aren’t eligible for 2x entry, they will give you single entry.
Hi Bino,
Thanks for the info. Just wondering if there are additional requirements for a double entry visa. I cannot find a blog regarding it.
As for the invitation letter, will a scanned copy be accepted or they need the original?
For double entry, it is roughly the same except they need your medical/travel insurance to be valid for your second visit as well. If you bought insurance only for your first trip, you’d need to get insurance for 2nd trip also.
Hi Bino. I will be bringing my indonedian maid to Greece (7days) and Netherlands (6 days). Thus can u advise me on the following.
A) Where can i download the Schengen visa application form.
B) Where do i submit the visa application. At which embassy in Singapore
C) What documents do i need to prepare for my helper and myself for the visa application.
D) Do i need to get a letter from my employer stating my salary, leave spproval, how long i am with the company, etc.
E) visa payment of 60 euros. Is it payabele by nets,visa, mastercard or cash only
Thank you
Hi Bino,
This is helpful, thanks for writing up. I live in Singapore on EP. I have my travel booked from on 17th October. My appointment in on 24th September but I have another travel booked to the US from 28th September to 14th October. I will need my passport back by 28th September. Do you think there is a possibility for that? I have applied for a French visa which some websites claim will be approved and can be collected within 2 days.
Hi Bino,
I’m Indian National with Singapore PR. Planning Germany tour from 22nd November till 3rd December. Got visa appointment on 30 October . Bit concerned about processing time considering my planned tour date. How Long the visa processing time for Indian National.
Appreciate if you could advice whether the timing is sufficient . Thank you.
Regards,
Kathir .
Hi Bino, I really appreciated your post. Its quite clear and very helpful.
I’m a Nepali with SPR. I am planning to travel to Europe in march next year with my Family. I am very confused about the process.
1. My first destination is Germany for 1-2 days from Singapore and last is Athens to Singapore. We are planning to visit around 7 countries in 16 days but all are for 2-3 days except for Switzerland which may be 4 days. In this case, should I apply from Switzerland embassy or first destination: Germany?
2. Since I will be starting from germany, going to Czech, Austria, Hungary, France, Switzerland, Italy and then to Greece and finally back to singapore. Should I apply for single or double or multiple entry?
Thank you in advance
Hi, First destination will only apply if you’re spending equal days in the Schengen countries. Since you have a country where you will be spending more days, you need to apply in that country where you’re spending the longest time.
All countries you are visiting are Schengen countries. Since there is freedom of movement across the Schengen countries, a single entry visa will suffice.
Hi,
Thank you for this detailed post.
I have a question :
Does the bank statements need to be Stamped/Signed by Bank or Printout of eStatements are fine?
I am applying for Czech Republich through Hungary Embassy.
In their Required documents List, They Say : “Certified Bank Statements”.
Not sure what is “certified” or the bank eStatements certified in itself.
Thanks
Saiyed
Hi.. I am from Philippines and currently working here in Singapore. I am planning to visit a friend in Poland and just wanna asks if it is possible for me to apply for a Schengen Visa here in Singapore sothat I don’t have ro go back to Manila to apply for the said visa? If possible, where can I apply and what are the requirements/documents needed?. Thank you!
Yup! All you need to do is read this article for the requirements and info on where to apply.
Thanks for the reply.. I’ve read the article and I found it very helpful but I don’t seem to see Poland on the list of where to apply so I am quite not sure which embassy should I go to.
Hi Bino, I am from India and moved to Singapore on EP only in October. I am travelling to Spain and wanted to apply for Schengen visa in Singapore. My SG bank account was opened in October. So, I do not have bank account statement in SGD denomination for 3 months. Can I provide SG bank account statement for Oct and India account statement for Sep & Aug? Appreciate your guidance on this.. Thanks.
Hmm.. as far as I know overseas bank statements are not accepted. When applying, just explain to them that you moved to Singapore only recently.
Hi Bino
Your blog is very informative. Just wanted to know whether the process that you have mentioned is applicable only to Singaporeans ? I am a Singapore PR with Indian passport. Can I apply directly for Schengen Tourist Visa at the French embassy based on the steps you mentioned? Or I need to go through any of the Agents that are there like VFS?
Thanks
Singaporeans actually don’t need a Schengen visa for short-term tourist visits. This article was written for foreigners residing in Singapore.
Hi Bino
Thanks for the update.
Hi Bino,
I’m Indonesian with SPR. I’ve 3 weeks before departure date. Have I enough time to apply for schengen visa. If its too rush which country / embassy able to provide visa with shorter time. Thank you
Hi Bino,good article ,I am an Indian in Singapore in EP,
Just wanted to check on state of entry as I am getting quite mixed answers in several sites
My visa will be approved by Netherlands embassy through VfS as I am staying longest in Amsterdam
But my first state of entry would be Berlin,I have straight flight from Singapore to Berlin
Would that be an issue ?
Thanks in advance
Sounds fine to me.
Hi Bino, thanks for this article, this is really helpful.
I have one query:
I am holding Indian Passport, residing in Singapore (Employment Pass). Flying to London (staying 5 days) from Singapore and then travelling to other countries France (3 days), Switzerland (9 days) and Italy (6 days) and then returning back to London and flying back to Singapore.
I would like to know, do i need to apply for UK visa and Schengen visa separately? Does UK visa will be a multiple entry visa since i will be returning back from Italy to fly back to Singapore.
Please advise.
Thanks,
Ashish
Yes to both questions. UK is not part of the Schengen area.
For the insurance, I got it at worldnomads as well. Is the certificate of insurance already sufficient for my shcnegrb application? Or do i need to request a certain letter from the insurance company?
Thanks for your post. I find it very helpful.
Yes the cert is enough.
Hi BINO,
I am going to apply a Schengen visa via Switzerland embassy. I am gonna book my air tickets like this: Sing to Zurich and Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Sing. And most likely I’ll book with Qatar airways. I have two questions: 1) is this accepted by Switzerland embassy, since other embassy may require returned tickets from same country. 2) Is this accepted by Qatar airways (at the airport before departure), because it usually asked a returned tickets as well. Thank you!
Where did you get the information that the embassy needs return tickets from the same country? This has never been the requirement for Schengen Visa…
I received a letter like this “the information submitted regarding the justification for the purpose and conditions of the intended stay was not reliable”. so what documents should I prepare?
What documents did you send them? Was it the complete set in the requirements?
Hello Bino, I got same response from French embassy for application as solo traveller. I produced following documents for my trip to France, Amsterdam,Germany,Prague,Zurich,Milan. Maximum nights are in france.
Cover letter explaining my trip
Leave letter from employer
3 months bank statement
Copy of EP and passport
Hotel and Flight booking and travel insurance
I am planning to apply again next week. what documents can i add
It may be that the leave letter you submitted from your employer did not contain the needed info. It needs to state – duration of your employment, salary and leave dates granted.
Also, the type of travel insurance needs to be the type that is acceptable for Schengen visa – you can check the link in my article under travel insurance to find out more.
Both these documents were in place. Do we also need to submit our travel tickets inside Schengen area ? And tickets to attractions to prove that our trip is for tourism.
2 of us applied on same day with same documents. We are suspecting it is as we are travelling alone thats why we got rejected ?
Hi Bino,
Thank you for providing us with such detailed info on schengen visa application.
However, when I checked in the Spain embassy in Singapore website, they stated that short term tourist visa application is done through BLS.
I am a flying crew, so I can’t surrender my passport for too long. If I were to go straight to Spain embassy, for shorter processing time, will they still take my application?
Hmm yours is a special situation so you have to call them.
Hi Bino, thanks for this article
I am India national with S-pass in Singapore. I will be travelling to Switzerland from 18-05-19 to 29-05-2019. My family is in India and they will also be going with me to Switzerland from Singapore during the same period(Return ticket is from Singapore). They will be here in Singapore from 13-04-19 to 23-04-19 and again will come to Singapore on 10-05-2019. They do not have Dependent pass but my wife has worked here in Singapore for a period of one year(July 2017 to June, 2018) . Can we apply for schengen visa from Singapore for all the family member when they are here from 13-04-2019?
Thanks
They need to be residing here. Unless you have a dependent pass for them, they need to apply in India.
Hello Bino,
I’m planing to go to Europe this July 2019 for visiting my relatives around 3 weeks, my schedule will be France 1 week and Czech 2 weeks as both places my relatives are around, and they willing to let me stay at their houses and they also drive me around by their car. So for the documents, what should i do for this case? also, because i will stay in Czech longer than France but my first arrival might be in Paris, but there is no Czech republic embassy in Singapore to do the visa for this country, and France visa could be easier, do you have any advises for this? Thank you for your help.
Hi as mentioned in my article, the Embassy of Hungary will process visas for Czech Republic so should not be a problem there.
If you are staying in someone’s house, you’ll need them to produce a letter for you.
Hi Bino
For employment Letter , is there any specific person that you need to address it to?
No need. I just address it to whichever embassy I am applying at.
Hi, My parents booked a Europe trip for them,,me my wife and our 1 year old. first entry pairs
My parents are in India and their visas will be done there.
Me, my wife and child are SPR, as the trip originates from India can we apply from Singapore ? The itinerary has 5 individuals . but 3 applying from Singapore and 2 from India is it OK?
We have our jobs and bank accounts here in SG.
Yes that should not be a problem as you reside in Singapore so you apply in Singapore. Even if you fly out from India.
Hi Bino,
My current Schengen visa (issued by France Embassy) is still valid but I have renewed my passport and the visa is stamped on my old passport. Do I need to transfer my current Schengen Visa to my new passport in order for me to enter France?
And, can I enter Italy using my current Schengen Visa without traveling to France?
Thank you very much !
Hello,
Thanks for starting blog, very helpful. Do you know which embassy takes shorter time? have done Schengen few times, my last visa was done directly at Spain embassy, got for 2years. Looks like they outsourced to BLS, processing time says 15days
Yup it says 15 days but usually it takes 3 working days only.
Hi Bino,
I’m holding China passport (Singapore PR).going Croatia 5 night and 2 night at Slovenia on Nov.may I know which Schengen Visa country to apply ? No Croatia embassy in Singapore. Do you have any advise?
Thank You.
Regards
Tevin sua
Hi Tevin, Been in your shoes a few times specifically on trips to Croatia. Yes the nearest one I believe is in Jakarta. Croatia accepts the Schengen visa but the Croatia-specific visa is not applicable for other Schengen countries. So my solution is that I would apply for a Schengen visa to cover my time in Croatia.
However, you can’t simply apply for a Schengen visa without actually inserting a Schengen country into your trip. In my case, I would schedule Croatia somewhere in between my Europe trip (but not the start), where the start and end would be in a Schengen country. This guarantees, in a way, that the Schengen visa to be issued to me will cover my entire time there including in other non-Schengen European countries where Schengen visa is accepted.
Please note that France doesn’t handle visa application for Greece anymore. You should appoint visa application through email. Find more info from https://www.mfa.gr/missionsabroad/en/visas.html?mission=sgp&mis=singapore
thanks for this!
Hi Bino..
Quick question can i add another country to visit after i get my Schengen visa?eventhough it was not in the original itenerary ?just in case i have spare money 😅
Thank you
Hi,
I am applying Schengen Visa for my domestic helper (Philippines) through Spain Embassy. Entry at Spain, travel via cruise to Italy, Greece and Malta. On the application form no. 28 (Entry permit for the final country of destination), does this means the details of the domestic helper work permit?
And upon returning to Singapore, we will transit at Germany, which is not part of our travel country. Do we still need to state it on no. 22 (Member state of destination)?
Hi Bino,
Wandering if you could advise me on my situation..I am currently working in SG. I am hoping to fly to UK in mid September (leaving SG on 14th) & then intend to travel to France for 1 day & Switzerland for 4 days. I am also traveling back to my home country at the end of this month. As my Epass is expiring next month I am still waiting for the renewed pass therefore was not able to apply for the visa earlier , as my current pass will have expired by the days of my Europe travel.
The earliest date I can submit documents for visa processing to VFS which handles Swiz visa would be 26th August & that allows only 14 working days before my intended travel.. Do you think its advisable to apply for Swiz visa with the time I have available?
I checked on France visa & it seems like VFS is handling the process now or is there any way to apply through the French embassy directly? I can alter my travel dates to stay more nights in France if needed…
Hi bino
Just a quick advise. Is a long term visit pass holder working in spore n married to a singaporean able to apply for a schengen visa to norway, finland and sweden? Is it easier yo get such a visa if going by a group tour from singapore?
Yes, you can apply. You just need to state there how you will be financing the trip, for instance via your spouse.
Hi,
I am currently working and pr in singapore.
I would like to apply netherland visa which is also schengen visa.
I would be traveling on 20th sept to 22 sept 2019 and i planning to go to the application centre on 23rd to apply visa.
My flight trip is on 4 oct 2019.
Will i be able to get the visa on time? since in the article says usually takes 3 to 4 working but the website says 15 days.
please advice on this.
Appreciate (:
Thank you
Theoretically yes. Most visa applications are processed within 3 business days except for special cases.
I’m writing to you on behalf of my niece.
She’s a student at NUS, but an Indian citizen, and we are planning a trip to Austria in December. She has to apply for her visa from Singapore.
We fly out from and in to Mumbai from the Schengen area.
She is not able to get an appointment for a tourist visa since the website doesn’t show this as an option.
Would you be able to guide us as to how to go about this?
Also, since she is a student, her father and I will be sponsoring her trip. Is it ok to show proof of funds in India?
Your help would be much appreciated.
Hi there, which website is it? Do you mean that your date is not available for appointment as it is full?
For the proof of funds, it’s okay to show bank account in India but it needs to be in USD or EUR.
Hi Bino,
Thanks for the prompt reply. We tried through the VFS Global website. We are not able to find the Tourist visa option for Austria.
Also, Indian banks do not balances in USD or Euro, only in rupees. Is there a workaround?
She has an account in Singapore, but that is used for her expenses in Singapore, it may not be sufficient for proof of funds to travel.
The VFS Global website for Austria has the appointment schedule link in their front page: https://www.vfsglobal.com/Austria/Singapore/
The tourist visa for Schengen is called short-stay “c” type visa.
For your specific case on the financial documents, it’s better to check with them directly.
Hi Bino, I’m a PR who is trying to apply for the Schengen visa. My parents are sponsoring the trip but they are currently residing in Indonesia. Must they be present to sign a form of sponsorship which is written on the checklist of the website?
In addition, must the bank account statement be from a Singapore bank or is a bank statement from an Indonesian bank allowed?
Moreover, because I just finished my PR formalities, my IC is not out yet. Do you think I’ll be able to apply the visa using the collection slip as proof (I have the IC number already) or must I wait for my new physical IC to be out before applying because I’m quite pressed for time?
Thank you!
Hi, as far as I know, different embassies have different requirements. Some may allow overseas accounts, some accept Singapore-based accounts only. However, what is uniform is that only bank accounts denominated in EUR, SGD and USD are recognized.
Hello Bino,
I would like to ask you about travel insurances in Singapore..
Woud you advice me to subscribe this insurance? https://www.axa.com.sg/travel-insurance
Thanks !
AXA has a specific insurance for Schengen which is the AXA Schengen visa insurance. I think that is terribly overpriced given that the coverage is just the minimum required by the Schengen visa. You can check out the travel insurance I recommended in the article which are far cheaper and have much higher coverage (includes things like flight delay, cancellation, etc which the AXA insurance does not).
Hello Bino!!
I resided in France from 2006-2015.
Now, I have intention of returning France and monitor and *probably* set up a freelance business there.
1.) As such, will Long Term Visa – Professionale Liberale be apt? Or should it be visiteur… ….
2.) Regarding travel insurances in Singapore..
I clicked on the link you recommended for travel insurance and a whole list pop up. :X
Does it work to check in with you which exactly did you apply for please. 🙂
Thanks!!
Hi Bino,
Does the ‘departure date from the Schengen area should be at least 90 days from the date of expiry of your pass.’ Rule apply to Long term visit pass(LTVP) holders too?
Hi Bino , your post is extremely useful !
Can I ask if an Indian foreign spouse wish to travel to England, where do I help him apply? It doesn’t seems to be included inside the list of country for Schengen visa anymore.
Thank you.
Hi Hazel, UK does not participate in the Schengen agreement and they issue their own visas. You’ll need to apply at the UK Visa Centre.
I hold an Indian passport and am planning a trip to Singapore in the fourth quarter of this year. After that, I want to fly to New York for New Year Celebration. Can I apply for the US visa from Singapore?
Hi Bino
If i am acting as the sponsor for my spouse, will he (the non Sg-citizen) still need to produce an employment letter from his company?
Hi there. The employment letter’s purpose in the visa application is not simply to prove financial capability. It is also meant to show that the applicant is approved to travel during the intended travel dates. This is why the employment letter also needs to show that applicant is approved to take leave during the intended travel dates. Hope this clarifies.