Applying Visa for Germany

After two visas, getting the third one is the most difficult (wishing that someday, Filipinos no longer need visas to enter the first world countries). Here’s are my step-by-step experiences in applying for a Schengen Visa.

TRIVIA: Schengen Visa is valid for Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ggreece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemberg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. If you got this kind of visa, you are free to move from one country to the other.

After getting a word from the Division on Ministries with Young People (DMYP) about arrangement for the Global Young People’s Convocation and Legislative Assembly Planning Team meeting in Berlin, Germany on July 6-10, I immediately set up to apply for my visa.

Visit the German Embassy website. I needed to see what are the visa requirements so I know what to prepare. The application form in PDF format is downloadable. The following are the general requirements to be submitted in original and photocopied forms.

1. Application form duly completed (including date and signature of applicant)
2. 2 recent passport photographs with applicant’s full name and birth date written on the back
3. Valid passport (valid for at least 3 months after expected date of return; passport must not be damaged) and Xerox copy of the applicant’s passport (pages containing data and Schengen-Visas)
4. for a visit (family, friends):
   
   • Original Affidavit of support (“Verpflichtungserklärung”) according to § 66-68 of the German Residence Law, certified by the competent Aliens Authority (“Ausländerbehörde”) in Germany
   • Proof of relationship with relative in Germany: Birth certificate on security paper (SECPA) from theNational Statistics Office (NSO) of applicant and relative in Germany; Marriage Contract of applicant’srelative in Germany (if married in the Philippines: on security paper issued by National Statistics Office (NSO); if married in Germany: Xerox copy or fax copy sufficient)

   for tourism:

   • confirmed hotel reservation and proof of funds covering a minimum amount of €60,- (or equivalent) per day
   • Round-trip confirmed flight reservation and complete itinerary (NOT airline ticket)

   for business:
   

   • Invitation letter in German language of the business partner in Germany stating complete name, date of birth and/or passport no. of applicant; by fax directly from Germany to German Embassy
   • Confirmed hotel reservation stating complete name, date of birth and/or passport no. of applicant
   • Proof of funds covering a minimum amount of € 60,- (or the equivalent) per day
   • Letter of guarantee from the company in the Philippines
5. Proof of health insurance valid for all Schengen States (not required for Spouses and children of EUnationals) covering an amount of € 30.000 in case of illness, repatriation and/or accidents and accredited by the Schengen-Embassies in Manila (please check accreditation with insurance provider or with Embassy)

There are other requirements depending if you are an employee, self-employed, minor, student, etc. Other requuirements can be viewed here.

Compile all the requirements needed. I emailed our meeting coordinator and the secretary of my host in Germany to send the letters that I need immediately. I already have secured my airline booking ahead of time so I was only waiting for the hard copy of the invitation letter in German language to arrive.

Call the Embassy and all the hassles. Unlike with the US Embassy where you can set an appointment for visa interview online, with German Embassy, you need to call their call center. It was not an easy dialling and talking call. It is a toll number assigned to every service provider. It’s very expensive as it cost PhP32-37 a minute.

I tried calling using the landline but I can not get through it. It says “The number you dialed is not yet assigned.” Again, slowly this time. The same answer. So I called customer service to verify of our phone’s IDD is active, and they said yes. Dialed again, the same answer. I called the General Inquiries phone of the embassy to ask if there is a problem in their number. They said none. Dialed the toll number again, the same answer. I called Bayantel customer service again to check and the CRS says there is a service error in our account.

Since the matter can’t wait since the minimum days requirement for application is 15 days and I urgently need an appointment, I loaded 500 credits on my cellphone. Dialed and not connected. I called Globe’s customer service to check again if IDD is active on my handset and they said yes. I asked for the instruction in calling a toll number. Dialed and at last I got an answering machine then a CSR. I was trying to give my name when the call dropped. Dialed again. I was in the middle of giving my passport number when the call dropped again. On the third call, I was spelling the address of my host when the call dropped. I run out of credits. So I need to load up again. Finally, I was able to set up an appointment but have spent almost a PhP1,o00. just for that. The calls took so long because I needed to spell everything with the call signs (alpha, bravo, charlie, etc.)

Get a recent passport size picture. I need to make sure the photographer follow the picture requirements. Yes, there are specificcations. You can view it here on page 4.

Appear at the Embassy. On my appointed date, I needed to be at the embassy 30 minutes before the time. The usual traffic to Makati every morning delayed me for some time but it was fine. The embassy is at 25/F RCBC Tower 2 in Ayala. I proceeded immediately to the lobby where I signed my name and get my visitor’s ID. When I arrived at the 25th floor, an arrogant guard greeted me and checked my bag. Upon inspecting, he told me that I should have deposited my laptop at the lobby. Obediently, I went down again and left my laptop. Going back to the guard, he let me in. At the window, I was given a waiting number. That time, I knew I had to forget my appointment time and just wait for my number to be called. I walked to the other side of the hall, left my cellphone at the locker, got my key and entered the room.

At least, there were less people compared to the US Embassy when I had to line up for three hours. There, I was sitting pretty. Just waiting patiently and a little nervous. When my name was called, I immediately appeared at the window with a Filipino woman consul. She got my forms and payment but instructed me to get more requirements, a travel insurance and my confirmed hotel booking. I did not have those documents with me then because the invitation letters said that the DMYP and my host shall take care of all expenses. While she was talking to me, I observed that she stamped my passport. I knew then that it was approved. If not, she should have given back my passport. Then, I paid the visa fee worth €60 or its peso equivalent, PhP3870.00. Then left, thinking where in the world will I get a travel insurance and how would I pay for it.

Get a travel insurance with US$50,000 coverage. Yes, that is the minimum coverage or at least 2.5 million. That same day after the application, I surveyed the accredited insurance companies and ask about travel insurance to Schengen countries and how much it worth. I got the best deal with Mafre Insular for only US$25 or PhP1208.50. I just needed to wake up early morning and go to their office in Ortigas.

I did not have any trouble with my hotel booking it was sent to me via email the following day. So two days after the application, I went back to the embassy to submit the remaining requirements. I could have used their accredited courier but it would cost me PhP160 plus the cost of calling their toll number again. So better find time going back to the embassy.

Upon submission of the requirements, the consul told me to go home and wait for my passport to be delivered after two weeks.

Wait, wait, wait patiently. This is I think the hardest part. There is no specific time or day when my passport will be delivered. I was just told two weeks. And to follow-up I need to call the toll number again… too much expense. I had a lot of appointments and I was worried if I miss the courier. There is not always a person staying at home. Gladly the CSR at the embassy told me to follow-up on July 1 to see if my passport can be released on that date. I was worried because I am scheduled to fly on July 6, Monday and July 1 is a Wednesday. What if, it is not delivered in time for my flight. Well, I just have to put my trust in them and (with the Lord).

July 1. I called the Visa Section of the embassy. The one who answered me says the visa can not be followed-up over the phone. I need to call the toll number to verify it. So I tried to call but all get was the answering machine repeatedly saying the spiel. I just waited for half day. Then I tried again. Finally, I got through and someone aswered affirming that my passport and visa was released yesterday and scheduled for delivery today. So I wait.

Finally, after a long wait, I got my visa today but not yet ready to fly. I am still raising funds.

Well, I just hope next time, the embassy will have a new system that will allow online appointment and bank deposit for payment for a lesser cost and more effecient use of time. If not, I have to repeat the entire process next year with a group of young people who might be more impatient that I do.

Birthday Wishes (Fulfillment)

I want to be with my boyfriend. Sadly, he is not able to come. He came and spent time together until yesterday. He can’t stay longer because of his pigery. But I was just glad to have him and celebrate our birthdays together. His birthday is on Sunday.

I wish my mom will cook a puto pao for me. My mom called and told me that she wanted to cook puto pao for me but there was no one to bring it. If only Jong told her that he will come, she would have cooked. Better luck next time. But then, thanks to Mae for cooking sopas.

June 10 @ World Chiken, Trinoma Foodcourt

I wish someone would treat me to a fine dining. Jong treated me twice! The restaurants were not so “fine dining” but they were wonderful and the foods are good. On my birthday, we went to Chef d’ Angelo with Mighty and Tatay Homer. Then yesterday, we ate at World Chicken to celebrate his birthday.

I wish someone would treat me to a movie. No one did this but we watched “Up” at home. It was a feel good animation movie and I just enjoyed it.

I wish someone would give me flowers. No flowers this time

Stringbean Jr. is my new buddy!

I want a huggable teddy bear. Jong gave me a bear! It’s name is Stringbean Jr. On its tag, it says, “Hello! Iam one of Blue Magic’s little fairy tale friends. I was created to inspire love and kindness and I promise to share with you lots of warmth and happiness. I am a twinkling dream nurtured to life by pure hearts and gentle fingers.” Meet my new buddy, STRINGBEAN JR.

I want to reward myself by traveling somewhere far from home. (I hope someone would give me a ticket.) I am working on my itinerary to Germany and getting my visa. Though is not a vacation, at least it will be far and new place for me. I am also thinking if I can go to Italy to visit my relatives there.

I want some boxes, big boxes for my things and books. No boxes yet. Can someone give me. I got a lot of books to arrange and some things to put off my desk. So I badly need these for some organization at home.

Thanks Ate April

I want another pair of slippers and sleeping socks. Thanks to Ate April, I got a new pair of slippers; and to Jong for buying me a new pair of sleeping socks.

Above all these wishes coming true, I just thank the good and gracious Lord for the wonderful things He has done for my life and letting me live yet another year. I pray that there will be more blessings that will come this year.

Birthday Wishes

Minutes from now is already my 13th birthday. I finally let go of being 12 after so many years. I always tell people that I already stopped counting my age. But this time, I just feel that I want to grow up a little.

I don’t know when was the last time I made a wish list for my birthday. Well, since I am become one year older now, I just want to post the following wishes:

1. I want to be with my boyfriend. Sadly, he is not able to come.
2. I wish my mom will cook a puto pao for me.
3. I wish someone would treat me to a fine dining.
4. I wish someone would treat me to a movie.
5. I wish someone would give me flowers.
6. I want a huggable teddy bear.
7. I want to reward myself by traveling somewhere far from home. (I hope someone would give me a ticket.)
8. I want some boxes, big boxes for my things and books.
9. I want another pair of slippers and sleeping socks.
10. I wish all these will come true this week.

I am disturbed

Long time ago, I discovered something about a person close to me. Now, I rediscovered the matter again and it’s even worse.

I don’t know what to do. I already cried a lot but the images keep flashing in my mind and I can’t stop myself in imaging actions that I could do.

It struck me deep into the spirit and I am just praying that God grant me the space to forgive this person and to love more instead of hating or losing respect.

The Book of Discipline

Finally, I got my own copy of the United Methodist Church Book of Discipline. This doesn’t mean that I need this book to have some discipline in life but I just need it as a resource book. Some may see it as the second Bible of the UMC. As Cokesbury describes it:

The Book of Discipline sets forth the plan by which we United Methodists govern ourselves. It reflects our understanding of the Church and of what is expected of its laity and clergy as they seek to be effective witnesses in the world as a part of the whole body of Christ.

The Discipline includes our church Constitution, our history, our doctrinal standards, and our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ, as well as practical processes through which our congregations connect and support each other to reach the world.

Thanks to the pastor who gave this to me as I continue to explore the life and ministries of our church. Twin to this book is the UMC Book of Resolutions, a thicker one. But since I do not want to carry two thick books with me in my luggage, I just bought a CD for it.

I am proud of the Book of Resolutions because part of it is our contribution. We had a resolution condemning the Political Killings in the Philippines passed last 2006 in the Global Young People’s Convocation and Legislative Assembly and was adopted by the 2008 General Conference and now included in the book.

Finally, A Registered Voter

I have already missed one national and local elections since I turned 18, though I have covered a national election in 2004 as a news correspondent.

My friends usually joke me: “You do not have the right to complain to the government because you are not exercising your right to vote those officials.” I would defend myself in saying that I pay my taxes and not all government officials are elected. But then again, the right to vote is basic.

Next year, I can already vote because finally, I went to the local Commission on Elections (Comelec) Office to register.

Qualifications:

• at least 18 years old – CHECK!
• 1 year residence in the Philippines – 22 years now, CHECK!
• 6 months residence in the place wherein he proposes to vote – 13 years now, CHECK!

So definitely, I was qualified. I needed one of the following IDs (photocopied):

1. Employee’s identification card (ID) with the signature of the employer or authorized representative;
2. Postal ID;
3. Student’s ID or library card, signed by the school authority;
4. Senior Citizen’s ID;
5. Driver’s license;
6. NBI/PNP clearance;
7. Passport;
8. SSS/GSIS ID;
9. Integrated Bar of the Philippine (IBP) ID;
10. License issued by the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC); and
11. Any other valid ID.

First, I entered the office, told them my name and have it verified. In fairness, the records are already computerized. I saw four people with my surname including my mom. Yey!

Second, they gave me a form to be accomplished in triplicate. Remember to only use ballpoint pen. Then the student intern assisted me in putting my left and right thumb mark in violet ink.

Third, I submitted the form then have it verified again. Then they have to sign it and assign the precinct and ID number.

Lastly, they have my biometrics and photo taken. (sosyal, digital na!) Then an acknowledgment  receipt was given, which I shall use to claim my Voter’s ID in six months. (That long?) The officer explained that all IDs come from Manila so it would take them that long to get everything in a given period of time. OK!

So finally, I am a registered voter! I encourage other young people who are 18 and above to exercise this right and be part of nation-building. If we want transformation, let us be the first to show it. Participate in the elections!

For more information visit COMELEC Website.

free writing while waiting

i am just waiting for some email reply from a friend in the US it is already late but i just decided to type something in here i know have not updated this blog for sometime now and i do not when i could post a really good post in here the past few days have been busy from office to thinking for the next two years to going home to the province

i went home to the province and i was so happy to be with my mom and many other moms during the mothers day but sadly i have to be back immediately to manila because of some meetings and office work i will be leaving for more than a week again and i want to make sure that my office works will be done on time especially that the ambitious deadlines are tight

they are very tight that while the magazines are on the graphics and layouting we should be writing our articles for the following issue as if we are not the one processing the implementation of corrections and some proofreading well i know that schedule will remain an ambition

well it seems that the next reply to my email will already be tomorrow so since its already time to go to bed and i am sleepy and sick i should go now i am just amazed with this post as i have not used any punctuations

i’ve been thinking

it’s been some time since my last entry. well, as usual (as useless, according to lynn), i’ve been so busy; and actually, i’ve been thinking what to write (still thinking until this very moment).

i’m just typing now for the sake of updating. i’m not thinking of anything to write. (where are my brain cells?)

hmmm… i’m in love!

well, just view my other blog. i just updated it last week with my community immersion experience. enjoy!

THE FIRST FAMILY: Tatay Arthur, Nanay Mirriam, Jonalyn (aka Pukaw), Kuya Ramil, Romalyn, Jeremy, Arthur Jr, Manilyn, Earlie and Ninoy. They were my foster family while in Sitio Ye Young, an Aeta Community, last Holy Week. Tatay Arthur is the Sitio Captain.

Is global warming making the Philippines colder?

Going home from the office last Monday, we felt a sudden drop in temperature. I was wearing long-sleeved-turtle-necked top that time but I still felt the cold. (I was immediately reminded of my temperature adjustment while in Joburg last December.)

I was taught that February is the coldest month in the Philippines. Tomorrow is already February so I think this kind of temperature will persist. Quezon City has already recorded 18.7ºC, lowest with the past two months. How long would I enjoy this? I have low tolerance of temperature, when its cold it would really be cold and when hot really hot, which usually cause me to barely breath or hyperventilate. But I love cool temperature more! I hate staying in the city especially in Metro Manila where temperature could go as high as 29ºC to 35ºC. Good thing, I spend most of my days in our airconditioned office.

Going back to the title of my entry, yes it could be. But I am not sure, though. It’s just that I can’t remember experiencing such cold the same time last year or the other years. What I am definite about is that the cool temperature during evenings and mornings is caused by the northeast monsoon (hanging amihan) and the cold front.

*10:20 a.m. – barely breathing: Naiiyak na ako sa dami ng iniisip na trabaho. I only slept two hours last night. Tapos may trabaho pa dito sa office. Pagod na talaga ako.

* Hay, malamig na naman ang Valentines!

* Yay! I’m writing again… I was able to finish five devotionals for the last two days. I am also trying to set-up a website for our newsletter. I hope to finish it before this week ends.

whatever!

My officemate told me that he just feel speaking English for the past two days. He sent me messages all in English. Whatever these sentences means… well, just check them out.

• Hey, it seems like that Elmo thingy is making this whole idiosyncracy of the mediocre society of yours into something that makes work a bit senseless! It doesn’t necessarily mean that the beginning of this cultural diversity is creating a havoc in the social implementation of the bureaucracy of the system!
• However, you managed to have a time to check that red little unscropulous anorexic monster despite the circulation of this kind of political extravaganza in our community today. Amazingly, the rebuttal stage  of this speck of dust in this nation is lost. Tsk tsk tsk…
• It’s good to practice English everyday despite the exascerbate upbringing of the society in what we call ourselves! You know 90% of street foods come from the streets! And this nuisance government is making a compelling astigmatic neuropsychotic aura in our community! So, to make this matrix of the society worth it, the bureaucracy of the system must annihilate out of this exasperation!

Woooow! I just hope I was able to connect all the words into an idea that is worth keeping in my mind. Anyway, just see this ELMO thingy he mentioned about. Perhaps, that would make your day happier!

*** Yan si EK kung walang magawa. bow.