German tourist visa

[whiterose23]

Hi.

I'm a permanent resident in the US and want to apply for a Schengen visa to go to Germany. I have several questions:

1. How long does it usually take for the German Consulate (I'll be applying at the consulate in NYC) to approve the application?

2. Do I need an appointment to apply (or does it differ at every consulate) or I could just go to the consulate?

3. One of the required documents listed on the NY site is an "employer reference" letter. What exactly is that?

Thanks in advance to anyone who can provide answers.

[John]

Your nationality?

[whiterose23]

Right, oops.

I'm Filipino.

[John]

OK, your nationality confirms that you will need a Schengen visa to enter Germany. Your status in the USA does not change that at all, except to the extent of confirming you can make your application in the USA.

I suspect that all you need to know is on this webpage and the "Visa" link from it.

For a start that page says as regards visas "Monday to Friday 9am to 11am" and much more information on the Visa page.

As regards "reference letter from your employer". You don't say why you are going to Germany. On your employer's business? If so the letter from your employer should say that. If going as a tourist that a letter from your employer should confirm that you work for them and it might be helpful to confirm things like you having holiday booked from (date) to (date).