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How to Get a Schengen Tourist Visa in Singapore – Helpful Tips For Visa Approval (2022 Update)

April 6, 2022 by Bino 207 Comments

https://iwandered.net/schengen-visa-singapore/

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.

the parliament building in Budapest in Hungary – a Schengen state

Table of Contents

  • What is the Schengen Visa?
  • How to apply for the Schengen visa
  • How many entries do you need for the Schengen area?
  • Where to Apply Schengen Visa For States With Limited Diplomatic Presence in Singapore
  • Here are the links to the appointment pages of some of the more popular Schengen states:
  • Required documents for Schengen tourist visa if you are applying in Singapore:
  • Tips For Your Schengen Visa Application

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, 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, Croatia, 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, Slovakia and the Czech Republic 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. A new requirement since 2020 is that the medical insurance should also cover possible Covid related treatments. 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$5 cashback when you sign up for their plan.

What I like about this insurance is that it is an all-in-one medical + travel insurance. Flight delays for as little as 3 hours are covered.

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 4 or 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 centres 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$5 cashback promotion for sign-ups)

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Bino

Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook, Telegram, or Instagram. Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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Comments

  1. S.Chan says

    June 24, 2017 at 10:34 pm

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      June 24, 2017 at 10:49 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • SChan says

        June 28, 2017 at 10:14 am

        Hi Bino, thanks for your reply. I’m planning to stay longer than 90 days, up to 12 months actually.

        Reply
        • Deedee says

          October 22, 2017 at 8:58 am

          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.

          Reply
          • kent says

            July 7, 2018 at 12:37 am

            what do u mean by 90 day out of 180 days in one country?It one country or whole schengen as whole?

  2. Snow says

    June 27, 2017 at 10:39 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      June 27, 2017 at 10:44 pm

      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.

      Reply
  3. Phillip says

    August 15, 2017 at 9:27 am

    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.

    Reply
  4. Ankita says

    August 28, 2017 at 11:36 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      August 29, 2017 at 10:23 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Megha says

        June 11, 2019 at 6:09 pm

        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.

        Reply
        • Bino says

          June 11, 2019 at 11:39 pm

          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.

          Reply
        • Nandini says

          November 27, 2019 at 1:12 pm

          Hi Megha ,

          Can i know if you were issued a Schengan VISA? My Case is similar.

          Appreciate your reply
          Thanks!

          Reply
    • Jo says

      March 25, 2018 at 11:47 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Megha says

        June 11, 2019 at 6:24 pm

        Can I get a follow up on this?

        Reply
  5. Dada says

    September 4, 2017 at 10:08 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      September 4, 2017 at 10:27 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Dada says

        September 6, 2017 at 6:29 pm

        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.

        Reply
  6. John T says

    September 7, 2017 at 3:59 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      September 9, 2017 at 12:25 am

      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).

      Reply
      • John T says

        September 23, 2017 at 4:33 am

        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. 🙂

        Reply
      • hasan kamrul says

        December 13, 2017 at 11:35 pm

        hi sir bino
        I am a work permit holder
        can I apply visa for europe

        Reply
  7. neha says

    September 12, 2017 at 1:33 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      September 12, 2017 at 5:22 pm

      You all need individual appointments. Even your son who is 2 and a half.

      Reply
      • Neha says

        September 12, 2017 at 6:10 pm

        And is it possible to take each other’s appointment if we swap?

        Reply
  8. mae lu says

    September 20, 2017 at 11:46 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      September 20, 2017 at 11:49 pm

      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.

      Reply
  9. Selva says

    October 25, 2017 at 8:43 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      October 25, 2017 at 8:55 pm

      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.

      Reply
  10. VICKY says

    November 22, 2017 at 1:36 am

    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 .

    Reply
    • Bino says

      November 25, 2017 at 6:48 pm

      Hi Vicky! The requirements are listed in this article. Pls have a look! Thanks.

      Reply
    • Cindz says

      February 19, 2019 at 9:02 pm

      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.

      Reply
  11. XN says

    November 23, 2017 at 5:38 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      November 25, 2017 at 6:47 pm

      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!

      Reply
  12. Yurina Sydney says

    November 24, 2017 at 7:32 am

    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?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      November 25, 2017 at 6:46 pm

      Hi Yurina, you’ll need to apply at the Dutch embassy in Indonesia.

      Reply
      • tan-SGD says

        March 12, 2018 at 4:31 pm

        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

        Reply
        • Bino says

          March 12, 2018 at 4:35 pm

          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.

          Reply
          • Ellie says

            October 10, 2019 at 12:46 am

            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

  13. Michelle says

    December 12, 2017 at 4:14 pm

    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

    Reply
  14. Jesika says

    December 17, 2017 at 3:47 pm

    Hi Bino,
    Is the medical insurance a compulsory requirement? Will i not be granted a visa without it? Thanks

    Reply
    • Bino says

      December 17, 2017 at 5:40 pm

      Hi Jesika, the requirement is travel insurance which has a medical component inside. You don’t need a full medical insurance. Hope it clarifies.

      Reply
  15. Jacky says

    December 27, 2017 at 4:52 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      January 5, 2018 at 4:16 pm

      Yes some embassies offer this option. Best to check with the embassy you are applying at.

      Reply
  16. Sandeep says

    December 31, 2017 at 7:00 pm

    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.

    Reply
  17. David says

    January 4, 2018 at 11:06 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      January 5, 2018 at 4:12 pm

      It’s too early. You can apply 2 to 3 months prior to your trip.

      Reply
      • EMz says

        December 1, 2018 at 1:36 am

        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

        Reply
  18. Vikram says

    January 5, 2018 at 1:16 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      January 5, 2018 at 4:12 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Vikram says

        January 6, 2018 at 12:26 am

        Thanks for being positive Bino. I will update over Monday on this.

        Reply
        • john smith says

          September 13, 2018 at 5:57 am

          how did it go at the end? I got the same response

          Reply
      • Emma Pham Nguyen says

        January 24, 2020 at 9:38 pm

        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,

        Reply
        • Bino says

          January 28, 2020 at 3:57 pm

          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.

          Reply
          • Emma Pham Nguyen says

            February 1, 2020 at 9:45 pm

            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…

    • Sheena says

      May 1, 2018 at 5:55 pm

      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!

      Reply
  19. Purbo kuncorojati says

    January 7, 2018 at 12:43 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      January 9, 2018 at 3:49 pm

      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.

      Reply
  20. Ainjelle says

    January 10, 2018 at 12:28 pm

    Hello, is is the same procedure nd requirement for business visa? Thank you!

    Reply
  21. Sam says

    January 27, 2018 at 8:07 pm

    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.

    Reply
  22. Student says

    January 30, 2018 at 5:38 pm

    I hold student pass in Singapore and do i still need to apply for visa ?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      February 3, 2018 at 9:41 pm

      Depends which passport you hold.

      Reply
  23. Tricia May Lagadon says

    February 12, 2018 at 3:26 pm

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      February 14, 2018 at 3:58 pm

      Hi Tricia, yes they are eligible. The same requirements apply as per my list.

      Reply
  24. Cynthia says

    March 1, 2018 at 11:52 pm

    Hi Bino,

    May I ask you if I am an indonesian with Student Pass in Singapore, Can I apply Schengen visa from Singapore?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 7, 2018 at 9:46 pm

      You certainly can! Essentially your letter from the school will replace the employment certificate that working adults have to get for the visa.

      Reply
  25. Stacy says

    March 2, 2018 at 1:14 am

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 7, 2018 at 9:45 pm

      Hi Stacy, for child visa yes basically you’ll need to provide financial documents of the one sponsoring their trip, i.e. the parents.

      Reply
  26. Keerthi says

    March 3, 2018 at 12:40 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Megha says

      June 11, 2019 at 6:30 pm

      Can I have an update on this…as I have a similar situation here.

      Reply
  27. lou says

    March 7, 2018 at 12:25 am

    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? 🙂

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 7, 2018 at 9:42 pm

      they can do the start date as when your trip starts (usually there’s an allowance of a few days before)

      Reply
      • lou says

        March 13, 2018 at 1:45 am

        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 …

        Reply
  28. Joel says

    March 8, 2018 at 4:59 am

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 10, 2018 at 11:11 pm

      That’s correct. You apply at the embassy/visa centre based on where you are residing.

      Reply
      • Joel says

        March 11, 2018 at 9:37 am

        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

        Reply
        • Bino says

          March 12, 2018 at 4:38 pm

          You can apply around 2 months before the trip.

          Reply
  29. tsk3x says

    March 9, 2018 at 1:02 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 10, 2018 at 11:11 pm

      Hi there – thanks for letting me know. No, Philippine nationality is not covered in that list.

      Reply
      • tsk3x says

        March 12, 2018 at 7:58 am

        Thank you!

        Reply
  30. Sandy says

    March 9, 2018 at 3:28 pm

    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!

    Reply
  31. Prakash says

    March 13, 2018 at 5:03 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 19, 2018 at 10:22 am

      You can always check but my understanding is that you still need to apply at Italian embassy due to your schedule.

      Reply
  32. ST says

    March 25, 2018 at 4:47 pm

    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?

    Reply
  33. Manjula Rimmalapudi says

    March 28, 2018 at 10:44 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      March 31, 2018 at 11:36 pm

      If I’m not wrong, the French embassy handles Greek Schengen visa applications. But pls check to make sure.

      Reply
  34. Natthaporn says

    March 31, 2018 at 11:15 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 2, 2018 at 5:49 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Natthaporn says

        April 2, 2018 at 6:28 pm

        Thank you.

        Reply
  35. Cute Panda says

    April 3, 2018 at 8:43 am

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 3, 2018 at 9:22 am

      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.

      Reply
  36. Hassan says

    April 3, 2018 at 12:39 pm

    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.

    Reply
  37. Shrikant Chavan says

    April 5, 2018 at 2:00 am

    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

    Reply
    • Shreya says

      April 6, 2018 at 3:14 pm

      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!

      Reply
      • Shreya says

        April 8, 2018 at 7:51 pm

        Please help me with this…I am really in trouble..

        Reply
      • Bino says

        April 8, 2018 at 9:20 pm

        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.

        Reply
        • shreya says

          April 9, 2018 at 9:35 am

          Thank you..

          Reply
          • Rain says

            August 7, 2018 at 11:48 pm

            Hi Shreya,

            May I know what happened to your application? I have the same case and I’m going on a business trip.

          • Raziya says

            January 7, 2019 at 9:58 am

            Hi Shreya,

            My case is also similar.. did you managed to get Visa?

  38. Tracey says

    April 18, 2018 at 5:59 pm

    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! 🙂

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 19, 2018 at 1:19 pm

      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.

      Reply
  39. Joe says

    April 18, 2018 at 6:34 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 19, 2018 at 1:16 pm

      Yes. In the app form just indicate that your wife will be financing the trip.

      Reply
  40. Joe says

    April 19, 2018 at 1:41 pm

    Thank you..

    Reply
  41. Babli says

    April 24, 2018 at 1:46 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 24, 2018 at 2:25 pm

      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.

      Reply
  42. Raj says

    April 24, 2018 at 7:36 pm

    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

    Reply
  43. Manoj says

    April 25, 2018 at 10:30 am

    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?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 26, 2018 at 11:17 am

      The Italian embassy may be able to offer you an expedited processing time for additional fee.

      Reply
      • reynen says

        May 3, 2018 at 10:22 pm

        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

        Reply
    • reynen says

      May 3, 2018 at 10:18 pm

      Hi Manoj,

      Were you able to expedite your visa from Italian embassy?

      Thanks!

      Reynen

      Reply
      • Manoj says

        May 10, 2018 at 4:01 pm

        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

        Reply
  44. Song Ai Vee says

    April 25, 2018 at 3:25 pm

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 26, 2018 at 11:15 am

      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.

      Reply
  45. Sam says

    April 25, 2018 at 4:30 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 26, 2018 at 11:13 am

      You can try including another Schengen country in your trip (with more days there) along with Germany and apply in that other embassy instead.

      Reply
      • Joe says

        May 6, 2018 at 1:47 pm

        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

        Reply
  46. AKhil says

    May 6, 2018 at 9:58 pm

    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

    Reply
  47. Celai Marcelo says

    May 7, 2018 at 10:26 am

    Hi Bino!
    Just want to say thank you for writing down all the necessary requirements for Schengen visa, big help!

    Reply
  48. Aprile says

    May 7, 2018 at 2:17 pm

    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

    Reply
  49. Smita Khanna says

    May 10, 2018 at 1:12 pm

    Huge help this piece has been! Thanks! Happy travelling!

    Reply
  50. Chiqui says

    May 11, 2018 at 11:49 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      May 11, 2018 at 4:54 pm

      No need to book the train tickets yet.

      Reply
  51. Olivia says

    May 12, 2018 at 12:42 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      May 13, 2018 at 10:57 pm

      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.

      Reply
  52. Lee Hsiang Chuan says

    May 14, 2018 at 2:29 pm

    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?

    Reply
  53. Siddharth Sathiaseelan says

    May 16, 2018 at 9:16 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      May 17, 2018 at 10:11 am

      If I’m not wrong, it’s the French embassy which handles for Greece. Greece only has a consulate here.

      Reply
  54. Avigail Cortes says

    May 19, 2018 at 8:55 pm

    Hi Bino!! Thanks for sharing this… i just want to ask … estimated…how much do they have to see in my bank account?

    Thanks

    Reply
  55. jane tan says

    May 31, 2018 at 3:08 pm

    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?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      May 31, 2018 at 5:48 pm

      Thanks for letting me know. I’ve corrected the link! No, China is not included there.

      Reply
  56. Lisa says

    June 26, 2018 at 1:12 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      June 26, 2018 at 3:18 pm

      You will need to check with the embassy or visa processing center for this special case.

      Reply
  57. Zhou says

    July 9, 2018 at 11:00 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      July 9, 2018 at 3:31 pm

      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.

      Reply
  58. Cindy says

    July 16, 2018 at 12:45 pm

    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! 🙂

    Reply
    • Bino says

      July 16, 2018 at 1:08 pm

      Good question! The German embassy handles Portuguese visa in Singapore. I have updated my article accordingly. Thanks!

      Reply
  59. sanjay kumar says

    July 17, 2018 at 11:22 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      July 21, 2018 at 11:59 am

      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!

      Reply
  60. Claire says

    July 31, 2018 at 2:01 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      July 31, 2018 at 2:16 pm

      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.

      Reply
  61. Ren says

    August 27, 2018 at 4:01 pm

    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? 🙁

    Reply
    • Bino says

      August 27, 2018 at 10:08 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Ren says

        August 29, 2018 at 2:05 pm

        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?

        Reply
        • Bino says

          August 29, 2018 at 2:38 pm

          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.

          Reply
  62. Riduan Bin Hassim says

    August 28, 2018 at 1:02 pm

    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

    Reply
  63. Govind says

    September 13, 2018 at 11:11 pm

    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.

    Reply
  64. Kathir says

    September 22, 2018 at 12:43 pm

    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 .

    Reply
  65. Kritima says

    October 7, 2018 at 3:32 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      October 10, 2018 at 6:09 pm

      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.

      Reply
  66. Saiyed Farhad parwez says

    October 26, 2018 at 2:31 pm

    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

    Reply
  67. Lhuzl says

    November 9, 2018 at 10:46 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      November 9, 2018 at 11:18 am

      Yup! All you need to do is read this article for the requirements and info on where to apply.

      Reply
      • Lhuzl says

        November 16, 2018 at 9:02 pm

        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.

        Reply
  68. Kriti says

    November 19, 2018 at 10:57 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      November 21, 2018 at 5:50 pm

      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.

      Reply
  69. Jit says

    January 7, 2019 at 11:44 am

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      January 7, 2019 at 2:10 pm

      Singaporeans actually don’t need a Schengen visa for short-term tourist visits. This article was written for foreigners residing in Singapore.

      Reply
      • Jit says

        January 8, 2019 at 10:35 am

        Hi Bino
        Thanks for the update.

        Reply
  70. Azizah says

    January 11, 2019 at 6:58 pm

    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

    Reply
  71. Bharat says

    February 5, 2019 at 4:20 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      February 10, 2019 at 10:26 pm

      Sounds fine to me.

      Reply
  72. Ashish Agrawal says

    February 11, 2019 at 9:10 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      February 21, 2019 at 2:36 pm

      Yes to both questions. UK is not part of the Schengen area.

      Reply
  73. Michelle says

    February 14, 2019 at 5:44 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      February 21, 2019 at 2:36 pm

      Yes the cert is enough.

      Reply
  74. Van Le says

    March 25, 2019 at 1:58 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 2, 2019 at 10:46 am

      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…

      Reply
  75. Yarlonetone says

    March 26, 2019 at 6:01 pm

    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?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 2, 2019 at 10:45 am

      What documents did you send them? Was it the complete set in the requirements?

      Reply
      • Rahul Jain says

        June 3, 2019 at 11:28 am

        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

        Reply
        • Bino says

          June 3, 2019 at 2:26 pm

          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.

          Reply
          • Rahul says

            June 3, 2019 at 2:40 pm

            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 ?

  76. Ayu Martiningsih says

    March 29, 2019 at 8:06 am

    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?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 2, 2019 at 10:44 am

      Hmm yours is a special situation so you have to call them.

      Reply
  77. Narendra Singh says

    March 30, 2019 at 3:05 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 2, 2019 at 10:44 am

      They need to be residing here. Unless you have a dependent pass for them, they need to apply in India.

      Reply
  78. Jay says

    April 3, 2019 at 5:05 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      April 6, 2019 at 10:15 am

      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.

      Reply
  79. Abhi says

    April 8, 2019 at 1:57 pm

    Hi Bino
    For employment Letter , is there any specific person that you need to address it to?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      May 23, 2019 at 3:30 pm

      No need. I just address it to whichever embassy I am applying at.

      Reply
  80. Joe says

    May 23, 2019 at 3:15 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      May 23, 2019 at 3:26 pm

      Yes that should not be a problem as you reside in Singapore so you apply in Singapore. Even if you fly out from India.

      Reply
  81. Yongning says

    May 24, 2019 at 10:24 am

    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 !

    Reply
  82. RKS says

    July 3, 2019 at 8:58 am

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      July 5, 2019 at 11:17 am

      Yup it says 15 days but usually it takes 3 working days only.

      Reply
      • Tevin says

        August 28, 2019 at 3:18 pm

        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

        Reply
        • Bino says

          August 28, 2019 at 3:30 pm

          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.

          Reply
  83. Hawking Shen says

    July 4, 2019 at 5:22 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      July 4, 2019 at 9:26 pm

      thanks for this!

      Reply
      • Anna says

        August 24, 2019 at 10:47 pm

        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

        Reply
  84. Cas says

    July 19, 2019 at 3:14 pm

    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)?

    Reply
  85. Sunil says

    August 2, 2019 at 8:21 pm

    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…

    Reply
  86. HO says

    September 9, 2019 at 1:33 pm

    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?

    Reply
    • Bino says

      September 12, 2019 at 2:14 pm

      Yes, you can apply. You just need to state there how you will be financing the trip, for instance via your spouse.

      Reply
  87. jill says

    September 12, 2019 at 2:07 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Bino says

      September 12, 2019 at 2:15 pm

      Theoretically yes. Most visa applications are processed within 3 business days except for special cases.

      Reply
  88. Pushpa says

    October 22, 2019 at 11:31 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Bino says

      October 23, 2019 at 9:30 am

      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.

      Reply
      • Pushpa says

        October 23, 2019 at 9:42 am

        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.

        Reply
        • Bino says

          October 23, 2019 at 9:53 am

          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.

          Reply
  89. Valencia says

    October 27, 2019 at 1:52 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Bino says

      October 27, 2019 at 9:05 pm

      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.

      Reply
  90. Bino says

    October 27, 2019 at 8:58 pm

    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 !

    Reply
    • Bino says

      October 27, 2019 at 9:03 pm

      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).

      Reply
  91. MJ says

    November 2, 2019 at 11:30 pm

    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!!

    Reply
  92. Haneesah Parveen says

    January 3, 2020 at 5:48 pm

    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?

    Reply

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