Setting up an appointment for (German) visa application

This afternoon, I went to the German Embassy to set up an appointment for my visa application -- you see, it's free if you go personally and it's hella expensive if you use their call center services.

25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Ave (cor Sen. Gil Puyat Ave)
Makati City
Metro Manila, Philippines

See address, contact numbers and opening hours on http://www.manila.diplo.de

Unfortunately, the earliest visa application appointment they can give me is later than my reserved flight ticket. So that sucks. The nice Filipino woman on the other side of the seemingly bullet proof window told me that applicants who set an appointment via their call center services are given priority so I'll have a high chance of getting an appointment schedule before the end of the month.

So instead of ranting [more] about that experience, let me just give you tips that would hopefully save you time and money and unnecessary preparations that other people tell you to do:

• Set your visa application appointment through their call center services, and only after you have all information needed -- Priority is given on those who use their call center services -- which would end up costing around Php600-800 (15 mins more or less) if you're smart enough to prepare and make sure all needed information are at hand

• "All needed information" is basically filling up the application form on your own because they'll ask you the same questions. If you filled that up with no missing information, then you're good to go

• I didn't have my travel/health insurance at the time I set up an appointment but I said I'll have it during my application interview -- I DO NOT guarantee that this would work for all

• Make sure you have pen and paper with you because at the end of the call, the agent will give you your schedule and your reference number

Preparing for the application interview:

• 1 original set of all required documents [original - don't worry, they won't take any of it. But best to keep track of what original documents you brought. They only really have to see them, just to prove to that your "photocopy" is not fabricated.]

• 1 photocopy set of all required documents [a different call center agent told me to bring 2 photocopies. THAT'S NOT TRUE. If you actually give them more than one copy, unless specified, they'll look at you like you're an incompetent bastard]

• 2 ID pictures (check the photo requirements), 1 for the application form and the other dettached.

• Php3,400 for the visa application fee

• If you get your appointment through their hella-expensive call center, you don't have to bring the visa application form. They won't even look at your copy. They'll give you that copy. Make sure you review it, change anything you have to change (erroneous data) then sign it.

• If you're employed and you can, do bring original + photocopy documents of your employer
• SEC or DTI
• ITR
• Bank Statement (with bank approval/certification)
Those are the additional documents they asked me to bring before they submit my visa application for approval.

They also asked me to provide original + photocopy confirmed hotel booking.