Belgium Schengen Visa for Filipino Citizens: Complete Application Guide for 2023

Dreaming of exploring Belgium's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage? Look no further! This comprehensive guide is your key to obtaining a Belgium Schengen Visa for Filipino citizens in 2023.

Navigating the visa application process can be daunting, but fear not! We've got you covered with step-by-step instructions and expert advice to make the journey to your Belgian adventure hassle-free.

At iVisa, we're dedicated to simplifying visa applications. Our user-friendly platform, expert guidance, and convenient mobile app are all geared toward ensuring a seamless experience.

Do Filipino citizens need a Schengen visa for Belgium?

Yes, Filipino citizens need a Schengen visa to travel to Belgium. As Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, which comprises 27 European countries with open borders, Filipino citizens must have a Schengen visa to enter the country for short-term stays.

What is a Belgium Schengen Visa?

A Belgium Schengen Visa is a type of short-term visa that allows foreign nationals, including Filipino citizens, to travel to Belgium and other Schengen Area countries for a temporary stay.

The Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing for unrestricted movement of people within the area. These countries have also adopted a standard visa policy, which means that a Schengen visa issued by one country is generally valid for travel to all other Schengen countries.

The Belgian Schengen Visa is specifically issued for travel to Belgium, but it also allows the visa holder to visit other Schengen countries during the authorized period. However, Belgium must be the main destination or the first point of entry if the applicant plans to visit multiple countries of the Zone during their trip.

There are several types of Belgium Schengen Visas based on the purpose of travel, such as:

• Tourist isa: For individuals planning to visit Belgium for tourism, leisure, or to explore the country's cultural and historical attractions.

• Business Visa: For those traveling to Belgium for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or business activities.

• Visiting family and friends: This visa allows individuals to visit their family members or friends who are legal residents or citizens of Belgium.

• Transit Visa: For travelers with a layover or a short stay in Belgium while traveling to another destination outside the Schengen Area.

• Medical Visa: For individuals seeking medical treatment in Belgium.

Benefits of a Belgium visa for Filipino citizens

The Belgium Schengen Visa offers several benefits to Filipino citizens who wish to travel to Belgium and other Schengen Area countries. Some of the key benefits include:

• Travel to multiple countries: With a Belgium Schengen Visa, Filipino citizens can visit Belgium and any other of the 26 Schengen Area countries without needing separate visas or border checks. This makes it easier and more convenient for travelers to explore multiple European destinations.

• Ease of travel: Once granted a Schengen visa, Filipino citizens can enter and exit any Schengen country freely within the visa's validity period. This means they can travel within the Schengen Area without facing the hassle of border controls at internal borders.

• Short-term stay: The Belgium Schengen Visa is typically issued for short-term stays, allowing Filipino citizens to visit Belgium and other Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days. This is ideal for tourists, business travelers, or those visiting family and friends.

• Ease of application: The visa application process is relatively straightforward and streamlined when you apply with us.

• Business opportunities: For Filipino business professionals, the Belgium Schengen Visa provides opportunities to attend conferences, trade fairs, business meetings, or explore potential business ventures in Belgium and other Schengen countries.

• Cultural exploration: Belgium offers a rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks, art museums, and vibrant cities. The Schengen visa allows Filipino travelers to immerse themselves in Belgian culture and explore famous attractions like the Grand Place in Brussels, Bruges' medieval architecture, and Antwerp's diamond district.

• Family visits: The visa allows Filipino citizens to visit family members and friends residing in Belgium, fostering personal connections and creating memorable experiences with loved ones.

• Medical treatment: In case of medical emergencies or specialized medical treatment, the Schengen visa facilitates access to healthcare services in Belgium.

• Education and research: The visa enables students and researchers from the Philippines to participate in short-term study programs, academic exchanges, or conferences in Belgium.

Filipino citizens must apply for the appropriate type of Belgium Schengen Visa based on their purpose of travel.

Belgium Schengen Visa: Eligibility criteria for Filipino citizens

To be eligible for a Belgium Schengen Visa, Filipino citizens need to meet several criteria, including but not limited to:

1. Purpose of visit: Applicants should clearly state their purpose of visit. This could be for tourism, business, studying, cultural events, medical reasons, etc.

2. Valid passport.

3. Travel health insurance: Applicants should have valid travel health insurance covering any medical emergency with hospital care and returning to their home country. The insurance should cover expenses of at least 30,000 euros.

4. Proof of accommodation: Proof of hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from the host in Belgium is needed.

5. Financial sustenance: Proof of sufficient financial means for the stay in Belgium. This could be bank statements, proof of income, or a sponsorship letter.

6. Flight itinerary: A confirmed round-trip reservation is needed.

Please note that the criteria can vary slightly based on the specific type of Schengen visa you're applying for.

How long can Filipino citizens stay in Belgium?

The Belgium Schengen Visa allows you to spend up to 90 days Per Entry within 180 days. Experience the freedom to travel seamlessly between any Schengen country if your cumulative stay does not exceed the allocated 90 days.

Visa applicants can start the process to get a Multiple Entry visa through our services. However, the final decision lies in the hands of the Belgian authorities. They will determine whether you are granted a multiple-entry, double-entry, or single-entry visa.

The duration of a Multiple Entry visa typically ranges from 180 days to 5 years after issued, allowing for maximum flexibility with a 90 days Per Entry. Factors such as your supporting documents and travel history influence this decision.

How to apply for the Belgium Schengen Visa in the Philippines?

For a quick and straightforward process to obtain your visa to Belgium, follow the steps below:

• Step 1: Provide your personal details and travel information on our online visa form or through our user-friendly app. Double-check that all information is accurate.

• Step 2: Pay our iVisa service fee using a debit card, credit card, or PayPal. The government fee must be paid during your interview.

• Step 3: Complete the remaining sections of our simplified application form, following our instructions, and upload a scanned copy of your passport and a photo before submitting the information for expert review.

You'll receive a step-by-step manual providing instructions on filling out all details on the application form. Once our team checks said form, we will send you the completed version to sign and a list of documents to bring to the mandatory visa interview. We will arrange the interview appointment on your behalf.

• Step 4: Attend the interview at the nearest Belgian Consulate, Embassy, or Visa Application Center (VAC). Remember to bring all the required documents, including the completed and signed application form.

What is the cost of the Belgium Schengen Visa in the Philippines?

The Belgium Visa fees consist of two parts:

iVisa standard processing: It takes up to 30 days and costs USD $247.99 excluding the government fee. This fee covers full support from our experts and a step-by-step manual to help you complete the application form and prepare for your interview.

Government processing: The Belgian Immigration Office usually takes up to 45 days to decide, but it may take longer depending on the situation. Applying for a Schengen visa at least two months before your trip is recommended . The government visa fee of about US$85 must be paid during your appointment (half-price for children between 6 and 12 and free for children under 6).

You won’t need to pay the government fee if you are:

• A child or a spouse of an EU citizen.

• A student, pupil, or postgraduate student with educational or vocational purposes traveling with teachers.

• Under 25 years old and a representative of a non-profit organization wishing to participate in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural, or educational events hosted by non-profit organizations.

Belgium Schengen Visa required documents for citizens from the Philippines

To apply for a Belgium Schengen Visa, Filipino citizens typically need to provide the following documents:

1. Visa application form: Filled and signed.

2. Recent photos: Two recent passport-size photographs that meet the Schengen visa photo criteria.

3. Valid passport.

4. Travel medical insurance: Proof of a health insurance policy that covers the entire Schengen Area with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros for medical emergencies and repatriation for medical reasons.

5. Cover letter: A letter explaining the purpose of the visit and the itinerary.

6. Flight itinerary: Details of your round-trip flight bookings.

7. Proof of accommodation: This could be a hotel reservation, a rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from a host residing in Belgium.

8. Proof of financial means: Recent bank statements, proof of income, or a letter of sponsorship to show that you can cover your living and travel expenses during your stay.

Belgium visa passport requirements

For your visa application, your passport must meet the following criteria:

1. Have been issued within the last ten years.

2. Have at least two blank pages.

3. Remain valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

Belgium visa photo requirements

The photographs you submit for a visa application must adhere to these guidelines:

1. Photos should be recent (not older than six months).

2. The size should be 35mm x 45mm.

3. They should be taken against a plain, light-colored background.

4. Your face should be visible and occupy 70-80% of the photo.

5. You should have a neutral facial expression with both eyes open.

6. Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons; and even then, it must not cover the face.

You can get government-compliant passport photos online using our passport photo service.

Tips for a successful Belgium Schengen Visa application in the Philippines

1. Apply early: Don't wait until the last minute. Apply for your visa at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date.

2. Complete documents: Prepare and submit all required documents. Double-check everything for completeness and accuracy.

3. Clear purpose of visit: Clearly state your purpose of visiting Belgium. The more specific you are, the better.

4. Sufficient funds: Show proof of having sufficient funds for your stay in the Schengen Area. This could be bank statements, income certificates, etc.

5. Insurance coverage: Secure travel insurance that covers at least 30,000 euros for medical emergencies and repatriation.

6. Interview preparation: Prepare for your visa interview. Be ready to answer your travel plans, accommodation, and financial capability questions.

7. Honesty is best: Be honest in all your dealings with the Belgian Embassy or Consulate. Any false information can lead to visa denial or future complications.

We streamline the visa application process and assist in filling out the application form correctly, ensuring all documents are in order, and giving you updates about your application status. Our expertise can increase the chances of a successful visa application.

Common reasons for Belgium Schengen Visa refusals in the Philippines

1. Incomplete documents: The absence of required documents or incomplete forms is one of the most common reasons for visa denial.

2. Lack of travel insurance: Failure to present valid travel insurance covering the whole Schengen Area can result in visa refusal.

3. Insufficient proof of financial means: Not providing sufficient evidence of having enough funds to support your stay in Belgium and the Schengen Area can result in a visa denial.

4. Invalid passport: If your passport is not valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay, your visa application may be denied.

5. Lack of proof of ties to home country: If you cannot prove strong ties to the Philippines, such as employment, property, or family ties, the consulate may deny your visa application due to suspicion of immigration intent.

6. Unclear purpose of visit: If you cannot clearly explain your purpose of visiting Belgium and the Schengen Area, your visa may be refused.

Remember that each application is unique, and these are general reasons. A specific case may have different circumstances affecting the application's outcome. We are here to help you avoid making these mistakes.

My Belgium Schengen Visa was denied. What should I do?

If your Belgium Schengen Visa application was denied, it's natural to feel disappointed and uncertain about what to do next. Here at iVisa, we recommend you follow these steps to rectify the situation:

1. Understand the reasons for denial: When a Schengen Visa application is rejected, the Belgium Embassy will provide a reason for the rejection. It is crucial to understand these reasons, as they will guide your next steps.

2. Address the issues: Depending on the reasons for denial, you may need to provide additional documentation, modify your travel plans, or clarify information on your application.

3. Appeal the decision: If you believe the decision was made in error and you have substantial proof to counter the reasons provided for the denial, you have the right to appeal. The process and deadline for appeals vary, so you'll need to verify this information with the embassy.

4. Reapply for the visa: If the reasons for the denial are clear and unarguable, your best course of action is to correct the issues and reapply for the visa. Keep in mind that you must pay the visa fee again when you reapply.

Remember, our team at iVisa is always ready to assist you in understanding the application process and providing guidance on enhancing your chances of a successful visa application.

Need more information?

If you need more info about traveling to Belgium, don't hesitate to contact our customer support team anytime via online chat or email at [email protected].