United States Tourist Visa

B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Philippines citizens

72%
approval
Varies
Processing
US$185
Fee
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Verified Guide
· 3 official sources

Planning a trip to the United States as a Filipino citizen? You will need a B1/B2 visitor visa, which costs US$185 (approximately PHP 10,900) and requires an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Manila. This guide covers all requirements for a successful US visa application from the Philippines.

Application Process

Filipino citizens must apply for a B1/B2 visa with an in-person interview.1

1. Complete DS-160 Online

Fill out the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application online.1 Key sections include:

  • Personal information
  • Travel plans
  • Employment history
  • Previous US travel
  • Security questions

Print the confirmation page with barcode.

2. Create Profile and Pay Fee

Create a profile on USTravelDocs and pay the US$185 MRV fee.2 Payment options:

  • Cash at Bank of Philippine Islands (BPI)
  • Online via BPI account
  • PesoNet

3. Schedule Interview

Book your interview appointment through USTravelDocs.2 Check current wait times and schedule as early as possible.

4. Prepare Documents

Gather supporting documents:1

  • Valid passport
  • DS-160 confirmation page
  • Interview appointment letter
  • 2x2 inch photograph
  • Bank statements (6 months)
  • Employment certificate
  • ITR
  • Evidence of ties to Philippines

5. Attend Interview

Visit the US Embassy in Manila on your appointment date.1

  • Arrive on time
  • No electronics, food, or large bags allowed
  • Interview typically lasts 2-5 minutes
  • Answer questions honestly and directly

6. Wait for Decision

If approved, passport with visa is typically ready within 2-7 business days.1

Fees

Fee TypeAmount (USD)Amount (PHP approx.)
Visa Application (MRV)18510,900

The fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.3

What You Need to Prove

US immigration law presumes immigrant intent. You must prove:1

  • Non-immigrant intent: You will return to the Philippines
  • Strong ties: Employment, property, family, business
  • Financial capability: Funds to support your trip
  • Clear purpose: Specific reason for visiting the US
  • Limited stay: Plans to depart before visa expires

Interview Tips

The interview is crucial for US visa approval:1

Do:

  • Be confident and calm
  • Answer directly and briefly
  • Look the officer in the eye
  • Tell the truth
  • Have documents organized

Don’t:

  • Over-explain or ramble
  • Provide documents unless asked
  • Be nervous or defensive
  • Lie or exaggerate
  • Argue with the officer

US Embassy Manila

DetailInformation
Address1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila
Interview HoursMonday-Friday (except holidays)
Websiteph.usembassy.gov

Schedule through USTravelDocs. No walk-in appointments.2

After Your Visa is Approved

Once approved:

  • Collect passport via courier
  • B1/B2 visa typically valid 10 years
  • Each entry stay determined by CBP officer
  • At US port of entry, answer questions honestly
  • Keep return ticket and accommodation details accessible

If Your Visa is Refused

If denied under Section 214(b):

  1. Understand the reason: Unable to prove non-immigrant intent
  2. Review your situation: What ties can you strengthen?
  3. Reapply when circumstances change: New job, property, marriage
  4. No mandatory waiting period: But immediate reapplication rarely helps

The most common reason is failing to prove strong ties to the Philippines.1

Common Rejection Reasons

Based on official refusal data for this corridor

45%

Unable to Overcome Section 214(b)

Failed to demonstrate strong ties to the Philippines and intent to return.

How to avoid: This is the most common reason. Show stable employment, property, family, business that require you to return.

25%

Insufficient Financial Evidence

Unable to demonstrate adequate funds for the trip.

How to avoid: Provide bank statements showing regular income over 6 months. Include ITR and employment certificate.

15%

Poor Interview Performance

Inconsistent or nervous responses during interview.

How to avoid: Be confident, honest, and direct. Answer questions clearly without over-explaining.

10%

Weak Travel History

Limited international travel or previous visa issues.

How to avoid: Build travel history with other countries first. Be honest about any previous issues.

5%

Unclear Travel Purpose

Vague travel plans or unable to explain purpose of visit.

How to avoid: Have clear, specific plans. Know your itinerary and what you want to see.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Filipino citizens need a visa for the USA?

Yes, Filipino citizens need a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the United States. The Philippines is not part of the Visa Waiver Program.

How much does a US visa cost for Filipino citizens?

The B1/B2 visa application fee is US$185 (approximately PHP 10,900). This MRV fee is non-refundable.

How long does US visa processing take for Filipinos?

Interview wait times vary throughout the year. After a successful interview, the visa is typically issued within 2-7 business days.

How long can Filipinos stay in the USA on a tourist visa?

The immigration officer at entry determines your stay, typically up to 6 months. The B1/B2 visa itself may be valid for 10 years.

Where do I apply for US visa from Philippines?

Complete DS-160 online, pay through BPI bank, then attend an interview at the US Embassy in Manila.

What is the US visa approval rate for Filipino citizens?

The approval rate is approximately 72% for Filipino applicants. Strong ties to the Philippines are crucial.

Do I need an interview for US tourist visa?

Yes, an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Manila is required for most applicants.

How long is the US tourist visa valid?

B1/B2 visas for Filipino citizens are typically issued for 10 years with multiple entry. Each stay is limited by the CBP officer.

Sources

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