Spain is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for Filipino travelers—whether you’re heading there for tourism, business, or to visit family. If you’re a Philippine passport holder, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen Visa before you can enter Spain
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Spain Schengen Visa via the Spanish Embassy in Manila, including where to book an appointment, what documents to prepare, and what to expect.
📍 Where to Apply for a Spain Schengen Visa
The Spanish Embassy in Manila does not accept direct walk-in visa applications. All short-stay Schengen visa applications for Spain must be submitted through BLS International, the official outsourcing partner of the Spanish Embassy in the Philippines.
✔️ BLS Spain Visa Application Center – Manila
- Address: Unit 1903, 19th Floor, Philippine AXA Life Centre, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
- Website: https://ph.blsspainvisa.com
🗓️ Step 1: Book an Appointment Online
To submit your application, you must book an appointment in advance through the BLS website:
👉 Go to: https://ph.blsspainvisa.com
👉 Create an account and select a time slot
👉 Print your appointment confirmation
💡 TIP: Appointments fill up fast, especially during travel season. Book at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
🧾 Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Make sure to gather all required documents before your appointment. Here’s what you’ll need:
📝 Basic Requirements:
- Completed Schengen Visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm, white background)
- Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond your stay)
- Photocopy of passport (data page + previous visas)
✈️ Travel Documents:
- Flight reservation (dummy booking is acceptable)
- Hotel booking or accommodation proof
- Travel insurance (coverage of at least €30,000 for entire Schengen area)
💰 Proof of Financial Means:
- Bank statements for the past 3 months
- Bank certificate
- Employment certificate or business documents
- Income Tax Return (ITR)
📄 Supporting Documents:
- Cover letter (explain purpose of travel and travel itinerary)
- If employed: COE, payslips, approved leave
- If self-employed: Business permits, DTI/SEC registration
- If student: School ID, proof of enrollment
- If sponsored: Affidavit of support and sponsor’s documents
💵 Step 3: Pay the Fees
Visa and service fees must be paid in cash during your appointment:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee (Adult) | €90 (₱~5,500) |
| BLS Service Fee | ₱1,030 |
| Optional Add-ons (SMS, courier, photocopy) | Additional charges |
🏢 Step 4: Go to Your BLS Appointment
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early
- Bring all original and photocopied documents
- Dress smartly and follow all instructions inside the visa center
- Your biometrics (photo and fingerprints) will be taken
🧍♂️ Companions are generally not allowed unless necessary (e.g., minors or PWD)
⏳ Step 5: Wait for Processing
Visa processing usually takes 7 to 15 working days, but can extend up to 30+ days depending on your case.
Track your application via the BLS tracking tool or via SMS if you availed of the update service.
📦 Step 6: Collect Your Passport
You’ll be notified once your passport is ready for pickup. Collection is usually between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays.
If someone else will collect it for you, they must bring:
- Authorization letter
- Your original receipt
- Photocopy of their valid ID
🛑 Common Reasons for Rejection
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Incomplete documents
- Insufficient funds or bank history
- Invalid or missing insurance
- Vague purpose of travel
✅ Always ensure consistency across your documents—especially your itinerary, bookings, and employment records.
✨ Final Tips
- Apply at least 3 weeks in advance
- Double-check document requirements via the official BLS website
- Bring extra photocopies just in case
- Keep your communication clear and confident
📣 Need Help?
If you’re unsure about your application, you can consult travel agencies or visa assistance services. Just make sure they’re reputable.
Or, visit the official Spanish Embassy website for updates:
👉 https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/Manila/en/
🎒 Ready to Explore España?
Now that you know the process, it’s time to gather your documents, book that appointment, and start planning your Spanish adventure. ¡Buen viaje!
PADDYLAST INC. 