Is there any cheaper alternative to Call 090 numbers

macgyver

Hi there,

I need to book an appointment to apply for a Schengan Visa and they dont accept e-mail or postal applications.. Only option is to call a premium number 090*********.
Is there any alternative or any solution to cut the cost as the call duration can be upto 15 min at that rate.

Last time I did it, I remember using a calling card from a BT line which actually decreased the cost from £15 to £10

Any suggestions highly welcome.

many thanks in advance

utilitybroker

Is the geographical number on their site no good?

http://www.theschengenoffice.com/emailer/eform3.html

macgyver

Many thanks UB,

But I have tried the geog number and they say that this for enquires only and I need to call up 090 number for making an appointment.
I am actually talking about the Italian Visa office, they also have a geog number but no good

abngrl1

I too having same problem with the irish embassy.

Paul_Varjak

I think many embassies/consulates use 09065 540 xxx numbers only to make an appointment for visa applications. Some do not.

Are you visiting another Schengen country? Maybe you can apply for visa with that country's embassy if it does not use expensive 090 numbers or allows postal applications?

I have tried searching for the geographical number linked to the 090 number but without success.

macgyver

Many thanks. But I am just visiting Italy and moreover, you have to apply to the main country you are visiting not the forst country you are visiting or enterying into.

herman2811

macgyver wrote:

I am actually talking about the Italian Visa office

I don't think you need to get your visa from the Italian office. As the Schengen visa can be used in several European countries, you can get it from the embassy of any of them that are part of the Schengen agreement.

For example, a couple of years ago my wife wanted to go to France, but instead of applying with the French embassy by calling the 090 number, she applied to the Spanish embassy who accepted applications by post. (Don't expect a quick appointment though!).

I know they say you have to apply to the main country you are visiting, but I don't know how relevant this is. My wife's had 2 Schengen visa's in the past, for a total period of 9 months, and in that time had 5 or 6 trips abroad but only 1 trip to the country (Spain) that issued her Schengen visa!

Hope this helps you make a decision.

macgyver

One of friend tried doing this with the French embassy and he was refused the VISA because he was just passing through France enrouce to spain.
So, I dont know, if it is worth trying!!

Thanks anyway

herman2811

macgyver wrote:

One of friend tried doing this with the French embassy and he was refused the VISA because he was just passing through France enrouce to spain.
So, I dont know, if it is worth trying!!

Thanks anyway

I think they normally ask you what dates you are intending to visit their country and where exactly you are going etc. But you don't need to supply proof, and if you think about it, you're advised NOT to buy any tickets before getting yor visa. So it would probably be ok simply to make something up on the form. Your friend's mistake was possibly telling the French embassy that France is not his primary destination.

But as I said, I'd recommend applying to the Spanish embassy.

Hope that helps