Application Process

The US B1/B2 visa requires an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Manila.1 The application process involves several steps that must be completed in order.

1. Complete DS-160 Online Application

Fill out the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov.6 This comprehensive form requires information about your travel plans, employment history, education, family, and previous travel. Be thorough when listing relatives in the United States, as consular officers will verify this information.1 Upload a compliant digital photograph meeting US specifications.

2. Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the $185 MRV fee at BPI, Unionbank, or other designated bank branches.2 Keep your payment receipt as you will need the receipt number to schedule your interview. The fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.2

3. Schedule Interview Appointment

After paying the fee, schedule your interview through the US visa appointment website for the Philippines.3 Interviews are conducted only at the US Embassy in Manila. Current wait times are very short, often just a few days.3

4. Attend Visa Interview

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, appointment letter, fee receipt, and supporting documents.1 The interview typically lasts 2-5 minutes. Your fingerprints will be collected electronically.3

5. Receive Decision

Most applicants receive a decision immediately after the interview.3 If approved, your passport with the visa will be available for pickup or courier delivery within 3-5 business days.

Fees

The MRV fee payment is valid for one year from the date of payment.2 If you do not schedule and attend your interview within this period, you will need to pay again.

What You Need to Prove

Under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, all visa applicants are presumed to have immigrant intent.5 Filipino applicants face particular scrutiny due to the large Filipino-American community and historical overstay concerns. You must overcome this presumption by demonstrating:

• Strong ties to the Philippines that would compel you to return after your visit5
• Sufficient financial resources to cover all expenses without working in the US1
• Clear purpose of travel with a realistic itinerary1
• Intent to depart at the end of your authorized stay5

The burden of proof is entirely on the applicant. The consular officer must be convinced you will return to the Philippines.5

Processing Times

Interview wait times in Manila are currently very short.3 Unlike many other countries, Filipino applicants can often get interview appointments within days of scheduling.

Once you complete your interview, decisions are typically issued the same day.3 Approved visas are placed in passports and returned within 3-5 business days via the delivery method you selected.

Special Considerations for Filipino Applicants

The Philippines has unique factors that consular officers consider:

Large Filipino-American Community

With over 4 million Filipino-Americans in the United States, many applicants have relatives there. This is not disqualifying, but requires stronger demonstration of ties to the Philippines. Be completely honest about all US relatives in your DS-160.3

OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers)

If you currently work abroad, provide your employment contract and proof of current overseas employment. OFW status can be positive (shows you have a job to return to) or raise questions (why visit US instead of home?). Be prepared to explain clearly.3

Pending Immigrant Petitions

Having a pending family-based immigrant petition does not automatically disqualify you from a tourist visa. However, you must convincingly demonstrate non-immigrant intent despite the pending petition. This is challenging but not impossible.

After Your Visa is Approved

Your B1/B2 visa will be stamped in your passport. Filipino citizens typically receive visas valid for 10 years with multiple entries. However, visa validity does not determine how long you can stay.

At the US port of entry, the Customs and Border Protection officer will:

• Review your passport and visa
• Ask about your trip purpose and plans
• Determine your authorized period of stay (typically up to 6 months)
• Stamp your passport with the admission date and status

Keep your I-94 arrival record (available online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov) as proof of legal entry and authorized stay period.

If Your Visa is Refused

The most common refusal is under Section 214(b), meaning the officer was not convinced you have sufficient ties to the Philippines or that you intend to return.5 This is not a permanent ban.

If refused, you can:

1. Reapply with stronger documentation addressing the concerns
2. Wait for changed circumstances such as new employment, property purchase, or marriage
3. Consult an immigration attorney for complex situations involving previous overstays or immigration issues

Each new application requires paying the fee again and scheduling a fresh interview.5 Previous refusals remain on your record but do not automatically result in future denials if your circumstances have improved.