Dreaming of visiting Norway, a country known for its stunning scenery, diverse culture, and lively cities, is a goal shared by many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Whether you’re looking for a break to spend time with family or excited to explore Norway’s captivating wonders, getting a Visit Visa is the key to turning these dreams into reality.
This guide breaks down the steps to obtain a Visit Visa for Norway. We’ll help you understand the process easily, giving you a clear path to follow. Norway, situated in Scandinavia, combines modern living with natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for those seeking new adventures. Join us as we simplify the journey to experience Norway’s charm and hospitality.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Norway Bound: A Practical Guide to Obtaining Your Visit Visa
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from the channel “Aicyl Mae Aparre.” In this video, the OFW vlogger talks about the requirements you need to submit to get a visit visa to Norway. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
A visitor’s visa allows you to spend a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period in Norway or other Schengen area countries.
Residents of the Philippines are required to apply for a visitor’s visa, and the processing of applications from the Philippines is handled by the Norwegian Embassy in Bangkok.
For those intending to visit multiple Schengen countries during a single trip or planning several separate trips within a two-month period, it’s essential to submit the visa application to the embassy or consulate of the country that serves as the primary destination based on either the length or purpose of your stay.
If your visit involves multiple Schengen countries, and it’s challenging to identify the main destination, you should submit your application to the embassy or consulate of the country that represents your initial point of entry into the Schengen area.
Before You Apply
It is advisable to submit your visa application well in advance, generally no later than 15 days before your planned travel. In certain countries where document courier services are involved, we recommend applying at least 4 weeks before your intended departure.
Applications can be submitted up to six months before the planned departure, extending to nine months for seafarers. It is recommended not to purchase your ticket until the visa has been approved.
Online registration of your application is mandatory before submitting the required documentation. During the application process, fingerprint submission is required, unless your fingerprints have been collected within the last 59 months.
It’s essential to note that visa agents operate widely throughout the Philippines. However, it’s crucial to be aware that the Norwegian Embassy in Bangkok does not collaborate with any visa agents in the Philippines. VFS Global is the official partner of Norway in the Philippines.
Applicants are strongly cautioned against engaging with visa agents due to their tendency to charge high fees, provide inaccurate information, and, in some instances, compromise the overall credibility of an application by encouraging falsification of information and documentation.
Documents Needed
- Ensure your passport is valid for three months beyond your intended travel date, with at least two blank pages. Include copies of the bio data page and used pages.
- Submit a recent, unaltered photo taken within the last six months, adhering to specified requirements.
- Provide a signed printout of the application form from the UDI online portal, demonstrating your commitment to the application process.
- Secure travel medical insurance covering the entire trip and the Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000.
- Evidence of financial stability:
- Present bank certification, bank books, or personal bank statements reflecting regular income, credit card statements, or balances spanning the last six months.
- If applicable, offer proof of social security contributions to strengthen your application.
- If you own real estate, include a copy of the title-deed as relevant documentation.
- Establish family ties in the Philippines by providing documents like children’s birth certificates or your marriage certificate, all issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Proof of Occupation
- If you are employed, include the following documents:
- A certificate of employment verifying your current job status.
- A certificate of leave absence if applicable to your current situation.
- The most recent Income Tax Return to showcase your financial standing.
- If you are self-employed, provide the following:
- Evidence of company registration issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) or Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) registration of your business.
- The latest Income Tax Return reflecting your personal or business finances.
- A Business Financial Statement for a comprehensive overview of your business’s financial health.
- If you are traveling with your spouse and/or children, include the following documents:
- A certified marriage contract issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) as proof of your marital status.
- Certified birth certificates of accompanying children, also issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
- Provide proof of accommodation, which can be in the form of a confirmed hotel booking, hotel voucher, or a signed sponsorship form by your host.
Documents Depending on Purpose
Tourism
- For a leisure trip, provide a detailed day-to-day itinerary outlining your planned activities during the visit.
- Submit proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation by your host in Norway, including:
- A sponsorship form affirming your host’s commitment.
- Evidence illustrating the relationship between you and your host.
Business or Official Visit
- If your travel is for business or an official visit, ensure you provide the following documentation:
- A certificate from your employer, including a letter from the Philippine company introducing the businessperson. This should cover details such as the purpose and duration of the visit(s), financial coverage, and a brief company profile.
- An invitation from the hosting company or organization, containing essential information such as:
- Relevant personal data of the invited person.
- The invited person’s function.
- Length and purpose of the visit, along with the planned activities during the stay.
- Details on who will cover the cost of the stay.
- Name and position of the counter-signing person.
- Provide proof of recent business contacts, showcasing the ongoing business relationship between the two companies (e.g., contracts, invoices), if applicable.
Online Registration and Payment
Before submitting your passport and other documents, it is essential to register your application online and make the necessary payment. If this is your initial registration on the portal, you must first create a user account.
Once you’ve filled out the online application form and settled the fee, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing a copy of your application form (schengen.pdf), application summary, and payment receipt. It’s crucial to print the application form (schengen.pdf) and present it alongside the other required documentation during the submission.
Application Fee
The visa fee amounts to EUR 80, with an exemption for children under six years who are not required to pay. For children aged six to under 12 years, the visa fee is reduced to EUR 40. To learn about additional groups exempt from the visa fee, please refer to the UDI website.
It’s important to highlight that the fee is paid during the application registration on the portal. Applicants who are eligible for exemption from the visa fee will receive a refund.
Notably, if you are applying for a visa as a family member to an EU/EEA citizen, the application fee is not applicable in your case.
Service and Courier Fee at VFS Global (the Norway Visa Application Centre)
In the Philippines, VFS Global, the Norway Visa Application Centre, collects a service fee for processing applications. There is also an extra courier fee to cover the expenses of sending documents to the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand.
Some extra services provided by VFS Global are not part of the service fee. It’s important to know that these services are optional. For more details, you can visit the VFS Global website.
One such service is booking an appointment to submit your application and supporting documents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Embarking on the journey to obtain a Visit Visa to Norway is an exciting prospect for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). However, it’s crucial to navigate the application process carefully to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Submitting incomplete documentation is a common error. Review the checklist and provide all required papers to avoid delays or visa denials.
- Double-checking information on the application form is crucial. Small errors can complicate visa processing, so ensure accuracy.
- Neglecting to present clear financial proof is a common pitfall. Make sure bank statements and financial documents reflect your ability to cover your stay costs in Norway.
- Initiating the visa application process at the last minute can lead to stress and time constraints. Apply well in advance to allow for processing time and unforeseen delays.
Obtaining a Visit Visa to Norway as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is an exciting opportunity, but it requires careful planning and adherence to the application process. By steering clear of common mistakes such as incomplete documentation, inaccuracies on the application form, and overlooking financial proof, OFWs can significantly enhance their chances of a successful visa application.