It is the dream of many Filipinos to explore Europe or to go to Europe to be with your spouse, boyfriend, or family living there. But before you can fly to EU, you must have an approved Schengen Visa. There are different types of visas but the most common being applied in our country are Schengen Tourist Visa and Visit Visa.
Aside from the basic documents that you need to submit, you must first demonstrate that you have strong ties to the Philippines. If you plan to submit your Schengen visa application in VFS or TLS France, first reflect if your ties are strong enough to be granted a travel visa to the European States.
Strong ties refer to factors that demonstrate your commitment to returning to your home country after your trip, i.e. that you will have strong reasons to go home to the Philippines before your visa expires, these are the circumstances that will pull you back to return home. Visa officers assess these ties to ensure you do not overstay your visa. Strong ties can be categorized into different areas:
1. Economic/Financial Ties
*If your EU trip is self-funded, your financial stability is very, very important to show that you can afford the trip to Europe.
Stable job with a steady income – you can submit these documents: COE or Certificate of Employment, ITR from the BIR, 3 to 6 months payslips, bank statements, bank certificate with ADB, balance, and account opening date.
Business ownership or self-employment – if you have a business, your profile will become stronger if you will submit DTI business registration, BIR Certificate of Registration (COR), and business financial statements.
Property ownership – submit photocopies of your properties like land, house, car, etc.
Investments – submit certification of your holdings of stocks, bonds, UITF, etc.
2. Family Ties
This is the social tie that will make you return to the Philippines, because you can’t possibly be away from them for so long. Example are your spouse, children, or elderly parents who depend on you financially and for day to day living.
Proof of family relationships – you must submit PSA marriage certificate and birth certificates.
Legal responsibilities – this is applicable in situation wherein you have the custody of children or caring for dependents.
3. Social/Cultural Ties
If you are an active member in organizations, religious groups, or community activities, especially if you are a leader or you hold a position in the organization – submit certifications of your membership.
Strong local connections through volunteer work, social engagements, or clubs. You can submit certifications and photos of you in action. Make sure to explain your involvement in the cover letter.
4. Educational Ties (For Students)
Enrollment in a university or school.
Proof of tuition payment or scholarship.
Letter from school confirming your return after the trip.
5. Previous Travel History
Compliance with past visas (no overstays).
Previous Schengen, US, UK, or other high-credibility visas. Photocopy all old / used / active visas that you have.
Providing strong documentation of these ties increases your chances of visa approval.
Now, if you want to make your profile a whole lot stronger, we at PisoFare PH recommends that you also submit a notarized affidavit to return to the Philippines. It can help get you approved for Schengen Visa. And oh, don’t forget, if you are sponsored, have your sponsor send you via DHL, FedEx, etc an ORIGINAL AOSG (Affidavit of Support and Guarantee). Why? Because Philippine Immigration Officers or IOs will ask you to present this before you are cleared for your flight to Europe.
We hope that your Schengen application will be approved and that you get to travel to Europe soon! Subscribe to our website for Travel Guides like this and for promo sharing. Thank you!