Australia: Applying for an Australian visa in the Philippines

Applying for an Australian visa in the Philippines will require some lead time, at least four weeks. Here are tips to help you apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600), that will allow you to visit or remain in Australia for tourism or other recreational activities (holiday, sightseeing, social or recreational reasons or to visit relatives or friends).

1. Call the Australia Visa Service Desk at telephone no. +63 (2) 790 4900 and request for the latest Checklist for Tourist Visa. Note that the checklist and application form change quite often. And it's important for you to get the latest versions.

2. The good thing about applying for an Australian visa is that you do not need to submit your passport. Photocopy the information page and any stamps from previous travel. Do not include original documents as well. Should original documents be required, you may be requested to provide them at a later date.

3. Remember that visa processing takes at least one month for most cases. Mine was processed in two weeks. Here is more information on the Visitors visa.

4. Make sure you submit copies of all the documents stated in the checklist. The decision on your visa application may be decided based on the information and documentation included with your application at time of submission. Submitting incomplete documents may cause delay or denial of visa. The checklist (as of this writing) asks for the following requirements:
     A. Application Form 1419 or the Application for a Visitor visa – Tourist stream completed in English which you can download here. You can type your answers in the .pdf form.
     B. Visa application charge of AUD130 in Philippine pesos via a manager's cheque payable to: Australian Embassy. The exact fee will depend on prevailing exchange rates and you will need to confirm this when you call. Even if I called, I was unfortunate that the fee increased by Php100 while my application was in transit. So it delayed my application by a week. As a result, I was required to submit an additional manager's check for Php100 for the papers to move.
     C. Copy of your passport – This includes the photo page of your passport and any pages with amendments, endorsements, visas and entry / exit stamps
     D. One (1) passport sized photo attached to the front of the application form
     E. Evidence of your financial status and capacity to support yourself during your intended stay in Australia, such as: (a) copies of your bank deposit books showing your history of savings or salary; (b) copies of bank statements or payslips over a period of time; (c) credit card statements and limits; (d) letter of support from Australian contact with the above evidence of financial capability; or (e) evidence of current employment or documents supporting business ownership.
     F. Evidence of intended purpose of travel (this can include airline, hotel and tour bookings, etc.)
     G. Invitation letter from Australian contact (if applicable). If supported by Australian contact, evidence of relationship to Australian contact i.e. birth certificate, marriage certificate etc. and a copy of the photo page of their passport.
     H. For applicants below the age of 18, copy of the child’s birth certificate, showing names of the child and both parents.
     I. For children traveling without one or both parents or legal guardians, provide: (1) copy of each non-traveling parent’s ID; and (2) signed written authorization (or form 1229) by non-traveling parent(s) stating their agreement to permit their child to travel, the approximate date and duration of travel, whether a single visit or multiple trips are permitted and their contact information.

5. Once you've completed the checklist, you can call the Australia Visa Service Desk at telephone no. +63 (2) 790 4900 to set an appointment or have your documents picked up by courier for a fee. I chose to have my documents picked up by courier and was required to include a manager's check for Php1220 payable to VFS Services Philippines Private, Inc.

6. From the time of submission or pick-up, you just have to wait for the Visa Grant Notice to arrive. The reason they no longer ask for your passport is because they do not place visa labels on them. Instead, the Visa Grant Notice is printed on bond paper informing you that you've been granted a visa. If you need a visa label on your passport, you can get one for an additional fee of AUD150.

7. When you arrive at Australian Immigration, you simply need to present your passport (but make sure you bring the Visa Grant Notice just in case). Here's a tip, upon exiting Australia, they no longer stamp your passport. But you can request for an exit stamp as a souvenir, which is what I did.

VFS Services Philippines Private, Inc.
Mezzanine Floor Ecoplaza Building
2305 Chino Roces Ave. Ext. Makati City 1231
Phone No. +63 (2) 790 4900
E-mail: info.auph@vfshelpline.com

UK: Applying for a British visa in the Philippines

Philippine passport holders are required to apply for a visa for visits to the United Kingdom. Applying for a British visa will require you to prepare quite a number of documents. And completing these requirements is the first step of the application process. You’ll need to provide the following:

1. Current passport with at least one blank page
2. Two (2) passport size colored photographs. Make sure to read the guidelines since they are very strict with the photos.
3. Evidence that you can support yourself during your trip such as total monthly income from all sources (employment, friends, family, personal savings or property). You can submit any of the following financial documents:
- Bank statements or bank books covering the past six (6) months
- Bank letter or balance certificate
- Payslips covering up to the previous six months
- Tax returns (business or personal)
- Business bank account statements
- Evidence of income from property or land (property deeds, mortgage statements, tenancy agreements, accountant’s letters, land registration documents or crop receipts)

4. Details of where you intend to stay and your travel plans. Note that you shouldn’t pay for accommodation or travel until you get your visa. The documents you may submit include:

- Hotel booking confirmation (usually e-mail confirmation)

- Airline booking confirmation

- Travel agent confirmation of both

- Accommodation details with a supporting letter from the occupant confirming that you are able to stay there

- Planned itinerary including bookings or tickets for any excursions, trips and outings

5. Previous passports to show your travel history

6. Evidence of your marital status (marriage certificate, a civil partnership certificate, a divorce certificate or a death certificate)
7. Evidence of your current employment or studies
- For employees, a letter from your employer on company letterhead detailing your salary and the length of your employment, confirming that you have been given time off work, and stating whether this time off is paid or unpaid
- For students, a letter from your school on school letterhead confirming your enrollment and leave of absence
- For business owners, business registration documents confirming the business owner’s name and the date when the business started trading
8. Print out of completed visa application form filled-up online (see details below)

After you have completed the requirements, you should now proceed to fill-up the visa application form online. Avoid filling-out the form without completing the requirements because some of the questions will require answers from the other documents you will be submitting. Note that you have to accomplish the following steps:

1. Register for an account
2. Fill in the application form in English
3. Pay for the visa fee via credit card online (£80)
4. Print out your application form
5. Book and attend an appointment at a visa application centre. Note that this requires personal appearance since you’ll need to have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken at the visa application centre as part of your application.

Once you have printed out the application form, you can now proceed to schedule an appointment with the visa application centre. There are two ways to set an appointment. First is online by visiting the following link: https://www.vfs.firm.in/pl-apptsystem/appscheduling/appwelcome.aspx

You can also contact the VFS call centre to make your appointment. Their number is 1-909-885-VISA (8472). Note that you are charged Php32.00 for each minute for landline calls (excluding VAT and applicable NDD charges for calls made outside Metro Manila).

Once you have made your appointment, bring all your documents to the visa application centre on the date and time of your appointment. Make sure to come at least thirty (30) minutes early. The application center is located at VFS Services Philippines Private Inc., Mezzanine Floor, Ecoplaza Building, Unit 606, 2305 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City. You can find a map here.

It takes a minimum of two (2) working days to get your visa, especially for frequent travelers, which was my experience. But most visas (if approved) are delivered between five (5) to fifteen (15) working days from the date of submission. So make sure to apply well in advance. You will be allowed to apply up to three (3) months before your trip.

Note also that VFS only collects the documents and the staff have no influence on whether your visa is approved or not. It will still be the UK Border Agency which decides if you are qualified or not.

Regular submission is from Monday to Friday between 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There is a prime time service from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, but this requires an additional Php2,100 fee. Collection of passports is from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. for regular submission, and 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. for prime time. You may also opt to have your passport couriered for an additional Php380.

There is also a VIP premium lounge service if you want privacy and to avoid the lines for an additional Php2,000 for each visa applicant. The VIP service also includes refreshment and snacks, personalized attention during submission and the biometric process, plus free passport photo and photocopying (up to 50 pages) if necessary. To book the VIP appointment, e-mail vip.ukph@vfshelpline.com and request for an appointment indicating your name as it appears on your passport, your passport number, the visa category you are applying for and the desired appointment time or call (02) 5013217 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Visa-free countries for Philippine passport holders

Philippine passport holders can visit 58 destinations without the need to secure a visa before arrival according to the 2013 Henley & Partners Visa Restriction Index. Add the new visa-free access to Myanmar, that brings it to a total of 59 destinations where Philippine passport holders can enter visa-free.

There however seems to be conflicting reports as to which countries and destinations are actually included as well as the length of visa-free access. In fact, there are more than 59 in the list below. I've personally experienced that the length of visa-free access for some South American countries published online are not accurate and are shorter than stated. Length may also vary depending on your port of entry. Some countries give longer visa-free stays for airport arrivals versus land border crossings.

In all cases, make sure to verify with the diplomatic post (embassy or consulate) of the country since policies may change. For example, Philippine passport holders can no longer enter Kosovo without a visa as of July 1, 2013.

The following countries and territories allow visa-free access to Philippine passport holders traveling for tourism purposes:
Bolivia (30 days)
Brazil (90 days)
Brunei (14 days)
Cambodia (21 days)
Colombia
Cook Islands (31 days)
Costa Rica (30 days)
Dominica (21 days)
Ecuador (90 days)
Fiji (4 months)
Gambia (90 days with prior approval from Gambian Immigration)

Haiti (3 months)

Hong Kong (14 days)
Indonesia (30 days)
Israel (3 months)
Laos (30 days)
Macau (30 days)
Malaysia (30 days)
Micronesia
Mongolia (21 days)
Morocco (90 days)
Myanmar (14 days)
Niue (30 days)
Palestine
Peru (60 days)
St. Vincent and the Grenadines (1 month)
Singapore (30 days)
Suriname (90 days)
Thailand (30 days at airport; 15 days at border crossing)
Vanuatu (30 days)
Vietnam (21 days)

The following countries and territories grant visa on arrival to Philippine passport holders. Make sure to check for requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country:
Armenia (E-visa can be obtained through website; 120 days)
Burundi (30 days at Bujumbura International Airport)
Cape Verde
Comoros
Djibouti
Georgia
Guinea-Bissau
India (E-visa required)
Iran (E-visa pre-approval code obtained via e-mail from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and arriving at Chah-Bahar, Qeshm, Kish, Mashad, Esfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz and Tehran)
Kenya
Kyrgyzstan (30 days)
Madagascar (90 days)
Maldives (30 days)

Mali

Marshall Islands
Mauritania (at Nouakchott Airport)
Mozambique
Nepal (See Nepal visa on arrival instructions)
Nicaragua
Palau (30 days; proof of sufficient funds, at least US$200 per week)
Papua New Guinea (60 days)
Sri Lanka (must secure Electronic Travel Authorization)
Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
Samoa (Entry Permit on arrival; 60 days)
Seychelles (Visitor's Permit on arrival; 1 month)
Somalia (pre-submitted invitation letter required; 30 days)
Tajikistan (45 days)
Tanzania
Timor-Leste (30 days; US$30 visa fee)
Togo (7 days)
Turkmenistan (to be arranged by tour company registered in Turkmenistan)
Tuvalu (1 month)
Uganda
Zambia (90 days)

The following countries and territories allow visa-free access to Philippine passport holders traveling for on cruise liners:
Bahamas (only for cruise ship passengers; entry and exit must be by cruise ship)
St. Kitts and Nevis (if stay is less than 24 hours)
Aruba (if stay is less than 48 hours)
Bonaire (if stay is less than 48 hours)
Curaçao (if stay is less than 48 hours)
Saba (if stay is less than 48 hours)
St. Eustatius (if stay is less than 48 hours)
St. Maarten (if stay is less than 48 hours)

Some countries also allow conditional visa exemption to Philippine passport holders provided they have valid visas to other countries. Valid means it's a multiple entry visa that has not expired. For European countries that allow visa-free access on a Schengen visa, take note that since they are out of the Schengen area, you will require a multiple-entry Schengen visa to reenter the Schengen area. Countries that give conditional visa exemption with valid visas to countries in parenthesis include:
Albania (Schengen, type C or D only, US, UK)
Andorra (Schengen)
Antigua and Barbuda (US, Canada, Schengen, UK)
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Schengen)
Bulgaria (Schengen)
Croatia (Schengen)
Cyprus (Schengen)
Dominican Republic (Canada, US, Schengen)
El Salvador (Canada, US, Schengen)
Guatemala (Canada, US, Schengen)
Honduras (Canada, US, Schengen)
Mexico (US)
Macedonia (Schengen with approval from Ministry of Interior)
Montenegro (Ireland, Schengen, UK, US)
Nicaragua (Canada, US, Schengen)
Romania (Schengen)
Taiwan (Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Schengen, UK, US but must secure Online Travel Authority)

Here is how to apply for a Schengen visa in the Philippines and how to apply for a British visa in the Philippines.

China allows visa-free access to Hainan for Philippine passport holders who are part of a tour group organized by an accredited tour company based in Hainan. China also allows visitors to Hong Kong and Macau visa-free access to the Pearl Delta River (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Huizhou and Shantou) provided you are part of a tour group organized by a Hong Kong or Macau-based travel agency and tour is six days or less.

For the rest of China, here's how to apply for a Chinese visa in the Philippines.

South Korea allows visa-free access to Jeju Island only for stays of 30 days or less.

For the rest of South Korea, here's how to apply for a South Korean visa in the Philippines.

Jordan is said to grant visa-free entry through Aqaba provided you leave the from the same border and within 30 days or less.

The following countries grant online visa applications: Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and São Tomé and Príncipe

Again, in all cases, make sure to verify with the diplomatic post (embassy or consulate) of the country since policies may change. This list was created to help travelers plan their trips and we will not be responsible if you are denied entry in a country for not having the necessary requirements. Happy trip!

Pag wala po la listahan, malamang kailangan ng visa. Dahil maraming insidente ng TNT sa mga Pinoy, kailangan natin ng visa para makapasok sa karamihan ng mga bansa. Ito ay para mapigilan ang ilegal na pagtrabaho sa mga bansa nila. Kung gusto niyo magtrabaho sa ibang bansa, kumuha kayo ng tamang "work visa" at siguraduhing maayos ang mga papeles bago umalis ng Pilipinas.

China: Applying for a Chinese visa in the Philippines

Applying for a Chinese visa in the Philippines is very straightforward. It's a matter of completing all the requirements and submitting them to the Chinese Embassy Consular Section (2/F The World Center with entrances along Buendia/Gil Puyat Avenue or H.V. dela Costa). Here are things you need to prepare before proceeding to the embassy:

1. Passport that is valid for at least six (6) months with at least one blank visa page. Note that you will need to photocopy both the front and back pages of your passport, meaning the passport's information or photo page and emergency contact page which you can find at the back. Make sure the blanks of the emergency contact information is filled out before you photocopy.
2. Visa Application Form which you can download here. Note that you should not leave any field blank and write "N/A" if the question does not apply to you.
3. One (1) colored Passport Photo (48mm x 33mm) affixed to the Visa Application Form (note that it has to be glued; photos that are stapled, taped, clipped, detached, etc. will not be accepted). The photo should be recent, front view, white background, without head covering.
4. Travel itinerary
5. Round-trip airline ticket
6. Hotel reservation
7. Invitation letters from China (if applicable). Invitation letters must contain the full name, gender, date of birth and passport number of applicant; purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity or individual, financial source for expenditures; and name, contact telephone number, address, official stamp, signature of the legal representative of inviting entity or the inviting individual. The invitation letter may be in the form of fax, photocopy or computer printout, but the consular officer may require the applicant to submit the original of the invitation letter.
8. If you have been previously issued a visa, photocopies of the issued visas, and old passport(s) if the visa(s) are in your old passport(s).

For first time visa applicants, you will also need to submit the following:
9. Bank certificate of deposit balance
10. Bank statement showing the past 6 months history of your bank account (at least Php100,000 average daily balance)
11. Receipt for payment for the certificates (issued by the bank)
12. BIR-stamped income tax return form
13. Letter from your employer detailing your salary and the length of your employment (for employees)
14. Business registration certificate (for business owners)
15. Professional ID (for professionals)
16. Certificate of enrollment (for students)
17. A letter of explanation if you could not provide the above-mentioned documents

If you are visiting Tibet, you will need a special permit. Submit a letter from an Authorized Travel Agency in China (which you can get from your local travel agent if they have a partner in China) if you plan to join a tour. But if you are going on your own, you will need to contact the Tourism Administration of the Tibet Autonomous Region (Telephone No. +86 891-6834313; Fax No. +86 891-6834632) in advance and provide a Visa Notification issued by them.

How to submit visa applications
Once you complete all your requirements, proceed to the Consular Section of the Chinese Embassy (location map of The World Center here) anytime between 9 to 11 a.m. from Monday to Friday. No appointment is required. You may ask another person or a travel agency to submit on your behalf, but with an authorization letter. Messengers should have an authorization letter on company letterhead. Note that you may be required to go to the Consular Section for an interview if necessary. Address of the Consular Section is 2/F The World Center, 330 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City.

Visa fee is Php1,400 for a single entry visa, Php2,100 for double entry, Php2,800 for six months multiple entry and Php4,200 one (1) year multiple entry. The regular processing time is four (4) working days. But visas may be expedited with extra fees: Php1,100 pesos for three (3) working days and Php1,700 for two (2) working days. Visa fees are paid (cash only) when you claim your passport.

For information on requirements for other visa types, visit the Chinese Embassy website.

India: Applying for an Indian visa in the Philippines

Here are some tips for applying for an Indian visa in the Philippines. Although Tourist Visa on Arrival is available for Philippine tourists (details below), it's best to get a visa here in the Philippines. The application process is very straightforward as long as you are able to submit all of the requirements. If there are missing requirements, that will create problems. It takes 4 to 5 working days for the issue of a tourist visa.

The application form is completed online and once accomplished, is printed out for submission to the application center in Makati. Here is the website for the online application.

BLS India Visa Application Center is located at 902, One Corporate Plaza, Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City. Here is a location map of the application center.

Aside from the printed application form which you have to accomplish online, you will need to submit the following:
1. Two latest color photographs (size: 2x2 inches) showing full frontal view of face against a white background to be pasted on the application form. Photograph should not be stapled. To know more about photo specification: http://www.blsindiavisa-ph.com/page.php?id=20
2. Passport with a minimum validity of six months. Note also that you will not be allowed to leave the Philippines if your passport has less than 6 months validity
3. Photocopy of the passport bio page
4. Copy of the return ticket or itinerary needs to be produced at the time of submission of the application. Don't book your ticket until your visa is approved
5. Proof of financial standing / recent bank statement
6. Travel voucher or itinerary, complete with hotel bookings
7. Visa fee of Php2,210; Php148 BLS service charge; and mandatory passport delivery fee of Php190 (whether you prefer to pick it up or have it delivered, this is not refundable) for total of Php2,548.
8. Invitation letter from family, friend or sponsor in India (if applicable). You may also be asked to produce a certificate of employment and other documents.

Applications are accepted from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and are released between 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. unless you select the courier service which can be delivered anytime within the day. For inquiries, you may contact BLS at (02) 5555060 or 4789152 / Fax No. (02) 4789152 or via e-mail at info@blsindiavisa-ph.com. It's best to apply at least 2 weeks before your flight to India.

Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVOA)
The average waiting time to get a TVOA at the airport is between 3 to 4 hours because of the long lines. So if you're in a tour group or need to get out of the airport quick, you have to get your visa in the Philippines. The TVOA valid for 30 days is available to Philippine passport holders entering India through the airports of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata, whose sole objective for visiting India is tourism, casual visits or short duration medical treatment. You should present your passport with at least six months validity and your return ticket, and prove availability of sufficient funds for your stay. Visa fee is US$60 payable in its equivalent in Indian rupees. Fill out the application form when you arrive at the airport and attach one passport size photograph. Here are the complete details of the TVOA.

Hope that helps! Namaste!

Nepal: Visa on arrival & applying for a Nepali visa in the Philippines

Need a visa for Nepal? The Democratic Republic of Nepal does not have a diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in the Philippines. But visa on arrival is readily available when you land in Kathmandu. In fact, you only have to bring a passport-sized photo (35 x 45mm) and US$25 (for a 15 Day Tourist Entry Visa), fill-out the Visa Application Form (different from the Immigration Arrival Card) which is available during your flight (while supplies last) or at the airport itself, and line-up at the visa on arrival counter. It's that simple! If you forgot to bring a picture, there is a photo booth in Kathmandu Airport.

Join our tours to Nepal! Here is our schedule.

Taiwan: Applying for a Taiwanese visa in the Philippines

Here is information on how to apply for a Taiwanese visa in the Philippines. I actually had to apply for one despite supposedly being exempted since my trip last year happened when relations between Taiwan and the Philippines were a bit shaky for a few weeks.

For short term visas to Taiwan, you will have to submit the following to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), the office which issues Taiwanese visas in the Philippines:
1. Application form completely and correctly filled out plus one photocopy. Do not leave blanks. Indicate N/A if not applicable
2. Two (2) passport size photos 1.5 x 2 inches with white background, taken within the last three (3) months
3. Philippine Passport valid for at least six (6) months plus a photocopy of the first page
4. Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office
5. Marriage Contract (if applicable) issued by the National Statistics Office
6. Supporting documents related to the purpose of visit and financial capability such as:
- Confirmed round trip plane ticket or booking certificate
- Certificate of Employment and letter of permission or proof of leave from employer
- Financial statements of the applicant such as: (1) Income Tax Return (2) Bank Book or Bank Statements
- Letter of Guarantee (if applicable)
7. If traveling on business, you must also submit:
- Business letter or trading records from the Taiwanese company
- Certificate of Business Name Registration and SEC Registration (if owner of the company)
- Invitation letter from the Taiwanese company or organization in Chinese letterhead that outlines clearly the purpose of your visit and duration of your stay
- Official letters or request letters from concerned authorities for official trip
- Seminar program
- Certificate of Employment, professional identification and/or company ID
- Other supporting documents if required such as SSS contribution lists, pay slip, etc.
8. All documents submitted must be original plus one photocopy
9. Applicant may be scheduled for an interview (if required)
10 Visa fees are Php2,400.00 (Single Entry) and Php4,800.00 (Multiple Entry), payable upon filing of application and are non-refundable.
11. Processing time is three (3) working days. For rush applications (one day processing), there is an Expedite Fee of Php1,200.00 (Single Entry) and Php2,400.00 (Multiple Entry)
12: Filing Time is 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. from Mondays to Fridays except holidays. Releasing Time is 1:45 to 4:45 p.m. Mondays to Fridays except holidays.

Visa Exemptions
Effective March 15, 2011, Philippine passport holders may apply online for an Authorization Certificate for visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to thirty (30) days. Those eligible for visa-free entry are passport-holders with valid visas or permanent resident cards of the United States, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, European Union (Schengen), Australia and New Zealand, provided that they have never worked in Taiwan as blue-collar workers before.

Qualified applicants should register their passports and personal data at the website of the National Immigration Agency of Taiwan and apply for approval. Upon obtaining approval, print out the Authorization Certificate and show it to the airline check-in counter. Remember that the Authorization Certificate must be presented at Taiwanese Immigration together with the valid visas or permanent resident cards. Failure to do so will lead to prohibition from entering Taiwan.

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office
41st Floor, Tower 1, RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City
Telephone No. (02) 8876688; Fax No. (02) 8877828

Download Taiwanese Visa Application Form (print on A4 paper)
Alternate link for Taiwan Visa Applcation Form

Japan: Applying for a Japanese visa in the Philippines

Applying for a Japanese visa is no longer done at the Japanese Embassy. Most visa applications must be made through the agencies accredited by the embassy. Which is why it is very important that you submit complete and accurate documents. The embassy may require certain applicants to appear in person for an interview at the embassy or consulate.

Where to Apply
Contact any of the following accredited agencies of the Japanese Embassy to submit your application for a Japanese visa:

Universal Holidays
http://www.universalholidays.com
Manila Branch: G/F Shopping Arcade, Century Park Hotel, P. Ocampo Sr. St., Malate, Manila
Tel. No. (02) 5250606/5229074/5244370
Makati Branch: Mezzanine, Dusit Thani Hotel, EDSA cor. Arnaiz Ave. Ayala Center, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8593811 to 15/(0922) 8403785/(0906) 4665899
Cebu Branch: 2/F JY Square Mall, 1 Salinas Dr., Lahug, Cebu City
Tel No. (032) 5056227/5056228/(0932) 9174873

Rajah Travel Corporation
http://www.rajahtravel.com
Manila Branch: G/F GLC Bldg., A. Mabini cor. T.M. Kalaw St. Ermita, Manila
Tel No. (02) 5238801 to 07

Reli Tours and Travel Agency
http://www.relitours.ph
SM Mall of Asia Branch: SM Department Store South Building, SM Mall of Asia, Bay City, Pasay City
Tel No. (0906) 5136777, (02) 5561445 to 47/5560546
SM Megamall Branch: 5/F Bridge Way, SM Megamall, EDSA, Mandaluyong City
Tel. No. (0906) 5136555/(02) 6374694 to 96/6375020/6329207
SM Southmall Branch: SM Southmall, Las Pinas City
Tel. No. (0906) 5136222/(02) 8004948 to 50/8053588

Attic Tours Phils., Inc.
http://www.attictours.ph/index.html
Manila Office: Unit 203 Coko Bldg. 1, Patio Madrigal Compound, 2550 Roxas Blvd., Pasay City 1302
Tel. No. (02) 5566301 to 05
Traders Hotel Branch: G/F Traders Hotel Manila, 3001 Roxas Blvd., Pasay City 1305
Tel. No. (02) 9840566/6689845
Cebu Office: Waterfront Airport Hotel 1, Airport Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Cebu
Tel. No. (032) 3412299/3412011/3412012/3412015

Friendship Tours and Resorts Corporation
http://www.friendshipmanila.com
Main Office: 3/F Dusit Thani Manila, Ayala Center, Makati City
Tel. No (02) 8401060/8188896/8195644
Cebu Branch: Unit 101 Bldg.1, Oakridge Business Park, 880 A.S. Fortuna St., Banilad, Mandaue City
Tel No. (032) 3453459/3444825

Pan Pacific Travel Corporation
http://www.panpacifictravel.ph
Main Office: 353 E.T. Yuchengco St., Binondo, Manila
Tel. No. (02) 2436666
Ermita Branch: Space A, G/F and 2/F Pacific Pace Apartelle Suite, 539 Arquiza St., Ermita, Manila
Tel. No. (02) 5213141 to 46
Makati Branch: LG01 Herrera Tower Condo, 98 V.A. Rufino St. (Herrera St.) cor. Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8108551 to 56
Cebu Branch: Diplomat Hotel, 90 F. Ramos St. Cebu City
Tel. No. (032) 2540343/45/47/49

The accredited agencies accept all types of visa applications except for Pan Pacific which can only receive applications without a Japanese guarantor (i.e. no Japanese documents). While the temporary visitor visa is free (gratis), the agencies collect a handling fee and each agency is free to set their own fees.

Note that there are exceptions. When I applied for a Japanese visa last year, I did direct at the Japanese Embassy since I was invited by a UN agency. If you fall under any of the following cases, you can apply directly with the Japanese Embassy:
(1) Diplomatic or official visas
(2) Visas for invitees by Japanese government organizations or institutions, independent administrative agencies of Japan
(3) Visas for invitees of Japan local governments or national, municipal educational institutions of Japan to participate in educational, cultural exchange programs and youth exchange programs
(4) Visas for scholarship awardees sponsored by the government of Japan
(5) Visas for commercial purpose of employees of a joint venture company or a branch office of a Japanese enterprise listed in the Japanese Stock Exchange or a member of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines
(6) For cases requiring humanitarian consideration such as serious illness of a relative in Japan

To clarify if you fall under any of these cases, you can contact the Japanese Embassy:
Manila: (02) 8347514
Cebu: (032) 2317321/2317322
Davao: (082) 2213100/3200

Requirements
All documents must be original unless otherwise stated:
(1) Philippine passport (broken lamination of the photo part is not accepted; must have signature and have at least two blank pages)
(2) Visa application form
(3) Photo (4.5cm x 4.5cm with white background; photo must be pasted on the application form)
(4) Birth certificate of applicant (NSO issued within one year)
(5) Marriage contract (if the applicant is married; NSO issued within one year)
(6) Daily Schedule
(7) If visiting a friend, documents or photos to prove relationship
(8) Invitation letter from guarantor in Japan (must have handwritten signature)
(9) Bank Certificate
(10) Income Tax Return (Form 2316) original and photocopy
(11) Residence Certificate or Juminhyo (if guarantor is a Japanese)
(12) Foreign Registration Certificate from City Hall (if guarantor in Japan is not a Japanese)


If the applicant presents an old or valid passport with a used Japanese visa, no need for (4) and (5). If on package tour, no need for (8). Make sure you can produce all the requirements for the visa. You can also submit additional documents such as proof of income, economic and social ties with the Philippines, or urgent cases such as medical certificate or a wedding invitation. Remember that submission of requirements does not guarantee issuance of visa.

If guarantor in Japan will shoulders any part of travel or living expenses, you will need to submit (i) guarantee letter (mimoto hoshosho) and (ii) income certificate of guarantor (shotoku shomeisho) from City Hall, tax return certificate (nouzeishomeisho form 2) from tax office, kakuteishinkokusho hikae or bank certificate (yokin zandaka shomeisho).

Application Procedure
(1) Applications filed through accredited agencies
Applications will be accepted from 8:40 to 9:40 a.m. on weekdays except Wednesdays. After accepting the application, a receipt stating the verification date will be issued to the accredited agencies.

If the examination of an application is not completed by the verification date, the additional required documents or reasons for the delay in processing will be noted in the receipt. If you wish to know the status of your application, please inquire with the accredited agency.

(2) Applications filed direct with the Japanese Embassy
Manila: Applications will be accepted from 8:40 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on weekdays except Wednesdays. A receipt stating the verification date will be issued for accepted applications.
Cebu and Davao: Applications are accepted on weekdays from 8:40 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. After an application is accepted, applicant will be contacted by telephone on when to report at the consular offices.

Multiple Entry Visas
To see if you qualify for a multiple entry visa, you can read the eligibility and requirements in the Japanese Embassy website.

Download Japanese Visa Application Form (print on A4 paper)

Europe: Applying for a Schengen visa in the Philippines

Visiting Europe is a dream for many. Thanks to the Schengen Agreement, you can visit most of Europe with a single visa called the Schengen visa.

There are twenty-six countries in the Schengen Area namely 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 and Switzerland. Although not part of the Schengen Area, you can also visit four microstates namely Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican City that maintain open or semi-open borders with Schengen countries.

Update (02/12/2012): A Schengen visa will allow you to transit Romania within a period of five (5) days. From January 31, 2012, Bulgaria now allows visa-free entry to holders of Schengen visas with stays of up to three (3) months. Croatia temporarily allows holders of two or multiple entry Schengen visas to enter from January 1 to December 31, 2012.

Applying for a Schengen visa can be difficult at times for Philippine passport holders for reasons quite known to us. Note that there are rules on which embassy you should apply with for your visa. I've been to Europe on three separate occasions and had to apply with the Spanish, Portuguese and French Embassies respectively. Note also that the minimum processing period for a short stay visa is ten (10) working days and can take longer depending on the circumstances. So it's best to apply at least one month before your intended date of departure. Visa processing fees are also non-refundable so make sure you prepare the necessary documents to avoid visa refusal.

Where to Apply
If you are going to visit only one Schengen state, the visa application must be made at the embassy or consulate of that particular member state. If your trip will include more than one country, the visa application must be made at the embassy or consulate of the member state whose territory constitutes the main destination of the trip in terms of purpose or the length of stay.

One example, I had to attend an ICOMOS meeting in Portugal in 2010. Unfortunately, we no longer have a Portuguese Embassy in the Philippines. So I tried applying at the Dutch Embassy since Amsterdam was going to be my port of entry. Unfortunately, I was told that because my main purpose to visit Europe was a meeting in Portugal, I had to apply with the Portuguese Embassy which is in Jakarta, Indonesia. I tried calling the embassy there but the phone was on answering machine. The e-mail address in the website was bouncing.


After all those wasted long-distance calls, and because I had just a little over two weeks left before the meeting, I had no choice but to fly to Jakarta to personally apply for a visa at the Portuguese Embassy there. When the Schengen country you will visit does not have an embassy or consulate that issues visas in the Philippines, you will have to allot at least four weeks since your passport may have to be mailed to an embassy abroad.

The following are the Schengen states with embassies and consulates in the Philippines that issue Schengen visas. Some embassies represent other Schengen countries in the Philippines with regard to visa issuance. You can click on the links to read visa application procedures specific to the embassy:

Austria (plus Lithuania)
4/F Prince Building, 117 Rada Street
Legaspi Village, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8179191/8174992; Fax. No. (02) 8134238

Belgium (plus Hungary, Luxembourg and Slovenia)
6/F Don Jacinto Building, De la Rosa cor. Salcedo Streets
Legaspi Village, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8451869/72; Fax No. (02) 8452076

Czech Republic
Rufino Pacific Tower
6784 Ayala Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8111155; Fax No. (02) 8111020

Finland (plus Estonia)
21/F Far East Bank Center
Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8915011/15; Fax No. (02) 8914107

France
16/F Pacific Star Building
Makati Ave. cor. Sen Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8576900; Fax No. (02) 8576951

Germany
25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza,
6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 7023000 / Fax No. (02) 7023015

Greece
12/F Sage House, 110 Rufino Street
Legaspi Village, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8174444/8173417; Fax No. (02) 8120202

Italy
6/F Zeta Building, 191 Salcedo Street
Legaspi Village Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8924531/34; Fax No. (02) 8171436

The Netherlands (plus Poland)
26/F Equitable Bank Tower
8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 7866655; Fax No. (02) 7866644

Norway (plus Denmark and Iceland)
21/F Petron Mega Plaza Building
358 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8863245/49; Fax No. (02) 8863244

Spain
5/F ACT Tower
135 Sen Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 8183561/8183581/8185526; Fax No. (02) 8102885

Switzerland (plus Sweden)
24/F Equitable Bank Tower
8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City
Tel. No. (02) 7579001; Fax No. (02) 7573717

Scheduling a Visa Appointment
The appointment procedures vary per embassy. Again, you can click on the links which I've conveniently placed above to read visa application appointment and application procedures specific to each embassy. The links are self-explanatory. But if you have any questions, it's best to call the embassy for appointment procedures.

For the French Embassy, appointments may be set either (1) by phone at 8576924 between 2 to 4 p.m., Mon-Thur; or (2) via e-mail at visa.ambafrance.manille@gmail.com. I did mine via e-mail since the lines were quite busy during appointment hours. When e-mailing the embassy, provide the name of the applicant, e-mail address and/or contact number as well as the purpose of the trip. Remember that appointments made through e-mail must be confirmed either by an e-mail reply or by a phone call from the visa section. You will have to wait for this confirmation before you can proceed to the embassy.

Other embassies will require you to call service numbers with charges per minute or per call. You can find these charges in the embassy website. And make sure to have everything ready when you make the call so that you don't waste any time.

General Requirements
Check with the embassy you will be applying with for their specific requirements. But to give you an idea, when I applied with the French Embassy late last year, the following documents were required:

(1) Signed application form for Schengen visa with photo (35mm x 45mm, white background) plus 1 extra photo
(2) Valid passport (3 months validity from the end of approved duration stay) and photocopy of valid and former visas
(3) Cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip as well as dates and places to be visited
(4) Details about the trip:
(i) proof of accommodations (either hotel vouchers or if staying with a French resident: Attestation d’accueil plus copy of your host’s national identity card if EU citizen or residence permit if citizen of a country other than the EU);
(ii) Round trip flight ticket booking (please do not purchase your ticket unless your visa is granted)
(iii) Complete itinerary with departure and return dates
(iv) For family visit, proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
(5) Proof of employment (if any):
(i) Certificate of employment with monthly salary and leave of absence approved by employer
(ii) If self-employed, official business registration for current and previous year
(iii) For priests, nuns and missionaries, certificate from the Apostolic Nunciature and guarantee letter from French and Filipino congregation.
(6) Proof of income
(i) Income tax return from previous year, where applicable
(ii) Recent bank certification
(iii) Photocopy of the last three months statement of account of the same bank account
(7) Identity and marital status
(i) Photocopy of the first page of your valid passport and all relevant obtained visas
(ii) If married, photocopy of your mariage contract and birth certificate anthenticated by the NSO
(iii) If single, photocopy of your birth certificate authenticated by the NSO
(iv) For minors, notarized affidavit from one or both parents if they don’t travel with the child
(8) An international insurance (medical expenses and repatriation) covering the entire period of the person’s intended stay and valid for all Schengen states. Minimum coverage should be EUR30,000

Again, note that incomplete files may result to the refusal of the application. It's also best to prepare additional documents, particularly for proof of income, which may be requested for specific cases.

At the Embassy
On the day of your interview, make sure to be at the embassy at least thirty minutes before your scheduled appointment. You may not be allowed inside if you are late for your appointment. Also bring the exact amount for the visa fee. At the French Embassy, they require the exact amount in Philippine pesos and do not give change.

When I arrived at the French Embassy, I gave my name and appointment time to the guard who then checked it on their list. I was given a number and sat down in the waiting area for my number to be called. When your number is called, you proceed to the window for checking of documents and payment. You will then be asked to be seated again and wait for your name to be called.

When your name is called, you proceed to the designated window for your interview and submission of other documents. You will be asked about your trip, your purpose for going, your work and other pertinent questions which will help the consul decide whether you are qualified for a visa. First time travelers will have a difficult time since this raises alarm bells of the consul interviewing you. So you might want to get some passport stamps before applying for a Schengen visa. The rationale behind the questioning is for you to prove to the consul that you will return to the Philippines as stated in your submitted travel plans.

The consul may reject applicants as a result of the interview. If the consul is satisfied or will consider your application, they will collect your documents (except the passport) and proceed to record biometric data, particularly your fingerprints and a photograph that will appear on your visa (if granted). They will then issue you a slip which states the date and time that you will return. Remember that the French Embassy will not collect your passport. You will bring your passport with you on the scheduled date. Note also that this is not an assurance that your visa is granted.

When you return to the French Embassy on the scheduled date for claiming your visa, you will submit your slips and wait for your name to be called. Those called first are applicants whose visas have been refused. If it is refused, you will be asked to receive a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating why your visa was refused. Those whose visas are approved will have to wait a little longer as the staff affix the visa sticker to your passport. Again, this is the procedure of the French Embassy. Each embassy or consulate has different application procedures.

Honorary Consulates and Embassies Abroad
Unfortunately, honorary consulates are not authorized to issue Schengen visas. But they can point you towards the right direction. Here are the contact details of honorary consulates or Schengen states with embassies outside the Philippines:

Latvia
2253 Aurora Boulevard (Tramo), Pasay City
Tel. No. (02) 8332551/52-55; Fax No. (02) 8332358
E-mail: coltrans@skyinet.net

Malta
Room 1242, Megaplaza Building,
ADB Avenue cor. Garnet Road
Ortigas Center, Pasig City
Tel. No. (02) 6877245/8937042; Fax No. (02) 6877245
E-mail: maltaconsul.manila@gov.mt

Portugal
Jl. Indramayu nº 2A.
Jakarta Pusat 10310, Indonesia
Tel. No. (0062 21) 31908030, Consular (0062 21) 3156 728; Fax No. (0062 21) 3190 8031

Slovakia
2nd Floor GCH Building
Tres Borces Street Mabolo
Cebu City 6000 Philippines
Tel. No. (032) 2329445
E-mail: srconsulatecebu@yahoo.com

South Korea: Applying for a Korean visa in the Philippines

Visa application procedures have been a common query friends and readers ask me. Just yesterday, I was discussing with a friend who found it such a hassle to apply for several visas for just one trip. I realized I had applied for several visas last year alone. So I'm sharing my tourist visa application experiences beginning with South Korea since I'm currently here.

Here is a tip, when applying for a visa, make sure to photocopy or request for duplicate copies of all the documents you will submit. This will come in very handy and will make life easier for you when you apply for a visa for another country.

Aside from short-term tourist visas being free of charge to Philippine passport holders for stays of 59 days or less, the good news is that the Ministry of Justice of South Korea had simplified Korean tourist visa requirements last year to attract more tourists from South East Asian countries, including the Philippines. Aside from the single entry visas, they now issue double entry and extended multiple entry visas with validity from one to three years. In fact, I was given an extended multiple entry visa valid for three years when I applied for this trip.

The basic requirements are: (1) application form, (2) one passport-sized photo and (3) your original passport with at least six months validity and a photocopy of the first page.

Note that the Korean Embassy is very strict about complete requirements. So make sure you have everything that is needed. In many cases, people are sent away since requirements were incomplete.

Single Entry Visas
For single entry short-term visas (C-3) for tourists, you also have to submit: (1) employment certificate or business registration issued by SEC or DTI, (2) personal bank certificate, and (3) individual ITR or a copy of Form 2316 from the previous year. If you lack these documents, the Korean Embassy allows alternative documents for proof of income such as land titles, vehicle registration, country club or golf membership and pension certificates.

For an applicant who has traveled or has a valid visa to any one of the OECD member countries within the last five years, you are only required to submit requirement (1) and photocopies of OECD countries visa and arrival stamps. Here is a list of OECD countries.

If applicants are students, they are required to submit their school certificate, birth certificate and requirements (1), (2) and (3) of their parents.

Double Entry Visas
This visa is for visitors who plan to visit South Korea twice within six months. The visa requirements are the same as the single entry visa. A double entry C-3 visa is issued with a validity of six months.

Multiple Entry Visas
There are several criteria to qualify you for a multiple entry visa. These include the following (plus requirements):
(1) Applicants who have obtained permanent residency in any OECD member country (except South Korea) or people who visited OECD member countries more than two times within the last four years, or people who visited Korea more than four times within the last two years (original and photocopy of visiting records in the applicant's passport - visa and arrival stamps)
(2) Group tour guides who have traveled to South Korea more than once in the last two years
(3) Philippine government officials (employment certificate)
(4) High-rank officials and employees of international airline companies to South Korea (employment certificate)
(5) Applicants who earn more than $10,000 annually or have a platinum international credit card (official documents proving the financial status of the applicant or original and photocopy of platinum card)
(6) Applicants who are invited for contract and consultation by Korean public agencies in connection to resources and energy development (employment certificate and related contracts or guarantee letter from host)
(7) Applicants who are invited by the Korean Government to attend international forums, international conferences and international conventions (employment certificate and invitation letter)
(8) Executive or high ranking staff of a company that is listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange (business permit or employment certificate, individual ITR)
(9) Reporters, PD, journalists, news editors, etc. including people who work in a major media company for more than one year (identification card and employment certificate with the period of employment indicated, ITR)
(10) Professionals such as lawyers, doctors, accountants, professors, PRC or IBP card holders (employment certificate, PRC ID copy or IBP copy)
(11) Popular celebrities, artists, athletes, writers who can be searched or viewed in Philippine major media websites (a membership card or an ID, media records or records of concerned activity)
(12) Retired workers aged 55 years and above who are receiving pensions of more than Php20,000 monthly (any supporting document which proves he/she is a pensioner)
(13) People who have obtained a two year college degree or bachelor’s degree, master’s or doctorate degree from universities in Korea (diploma)
(14) Spouse, minor-aged children or parents-in-law of a Korean national (Korean couple's marriage contract and Korean marriage history)
(15) Dependent (spouse, children, etc.) of multiple visa holders (photocopy of multiple visa and proof of relationship documents - birth certificate, marriage certificate)

Application Procedure
There is no need for an appointment. After completing the required documents, applicants may file their applications at the Consular Office of the Korean Embassy from 9 to 11 a.m. only, Monday to Friday. This is on a first come, first served basis. Note that gates open at 8 a.m.

The Korean Embassy is located at the corner of Upper McKinley Road and C5 in Taguig City. When you arrive at the gate, you will need to get a gate pass and sign on the log sheet. There is a separate log for first time travelers and frequent travelers. So make sure you sign the right one.

The gate pass is not yet your number. After entering, you will have to get your number from the reception table. Again, the numbers for first time and frequent travelers are different. So make sure you get the right one.

When your number is called, you proceed to the window with your documents for checking. If they are complete and the consul does not have any questions, they will receive your documents. That is not an assurance that your visa is granted. They will then give you a claim slip indicating the date when you can return to the embassy to pick up your passport (and visa if approved). Don't lose it since you will need it to claim your passport. For first time travelers, processing takes five working days. While for frequent travelers, processing is three working days. It can take longer depending on the decision of the consul.

Releasing time is only from 2 to 4 p.m. The same entry procedures apply, get a gate pass and sign on the log sheet, then get a number once inside. Make sure you bring your claim slip with you because you will need this to enter and get a number. If you are unable to claim your visa on the scheduled date, you may pick it up on another date. But make sure to mention it to the consul. You may also have someone claim your passport for you with the necessary authorization letters. Also make sure to mention this to the consul.

Visa Fees
Visas are free (gratis) for stays of 59 days or less. If you plan to stay longer that 59 days, the visa fees are as follows: single entry Php1500; double entry Php3000; and multiple entry Php4000.

Visa-free entry to Jeju Island
Philippine passport holders can visit Jeju Island visa-free for up to 30 days. Note that you will have to fly direct to Jeju Island without passing through any Korean airport. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to Jeju from the Philippines. To remedy this, you will have to pass through a third country in transit, such as Japan or Hong Kong, and take a flight to Jeju from there.

Download Korean Visa Application Form (print on A4 paper)

Embassy of the Republic of Korea
122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center
Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634 Philippines
Tel. No. (02) 8569210, Fax No. (02) 8569024 (Consular Section)
E-mail: philippines@mofat.go.kr or ph04@mofat.go.kr (Consular Section)