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USCIS Guide

Find Answers to Immigration Questions

Visa Requirements to Visit the U.S. from Philippines

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How To Apply for a US Visa in the Philippines: An Ultimate Guide

With Uncle Sam tightening its immigration policy more than ever before, US visa application can be a nerve-racking experience, especially for first-timers.

It’s not unusual to hear about applicants who entered the US Embassy oozing with the confidence only to come out later with the bad news of rejection.

No less than President Rodrigo Duterte can share his own horror story of having his US visa application rejected .

US visa is, without a doubt, one of the most difficult to obtain among the foreign visas. But is there a way to increase your chances of getting approved?

In this definite guide, we’ll discuss in great detail every step involved in the US visa application, plus tips to boost your chances of getting approved.

Table of Contents

What is a us visa, a. immigrant visas, a. business/tourist visa, b. work visa, c. student visa, d. exchange visitor visa, e. transit/ship crew visa, f. religious worker visa, g. domestic employee visa, h. journalist and media visa, i. treaty investors and traders visa, 2. check if you’re qualified to apply for your chosen us visa, general requirements, supporting documents, other supporting documents (according to us visa type), 4. fill out the us visa online application form, option 1: over-the-counter payment, option 2: online payment, option 1: online, option 2: over the phone, 7. show up at the us embassy on the date and time of your interview, 8. wait for your passport to be released, tips and warnings, 1. do i need to have ‘show money’ when applying for a us visa what is the minimum amount of money that i need to show in my bank account, 2. my visa got denied. what happens next.

• 3. My visa application has been denied. What can I possibly do to reverse the decision? 

4. I was found ineligible for a visa. Can I get my money back?

5. when can i re-apply for a us visa, 6. is there a time limit as to when i can re-apply, 7. what could make the consul change his mind and grant my visa on re-application, 8. how can i apply for a us visa for my yaya/caregiver/secretary, 9. how can i apply for a us visa for my baby/infant, 10. how long is the validity of the us visa, 11. i set an appointment with the embassy but made a mistake in my application. what should i do next, 12. i’m a fresh grad with less than php 30k on my bank account. will my visa application be denied, 13. is it possible to be granted a us visa to visit a significant other.

• 14. The validity of a US visa is 5-10 years. With that said, if I renew my passport, will I still have the remaining years of my visa or not?

15. Can anyone recommend a reliable US tourist visa agency to help me get a visa?

16. is it possible to submit a family or group application.

Anyone who wants to go to the US either temporarily (for work/pleasure) or permanently as an immigrant is required to obtain a US visa.

A visa isn’t like your Philippine passport with multiple pages. Rather, it’s an endorsement placed within your passport which proves you can enter, leave, or stay in a foreign country for a specified period of time.

A US visa looks something like this:

It should be noted that citizens from countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program can travel to the US visa-free.

Unfortunately, the Philippines is not one of them. And for a good reason.

Filipinos with short-term visas have been notorious for overstaying and eventually seeking employment in the US illegally, so much so that we have a colloquial term for them– TNT which is short for “tago ng tago”  or constantly hiding from immigration authorities.

US visa is a way for Americans to protect their country not just from illegal immigrants but also from threats of terrorism, human trafficking, and the likes.

If the US Embassy is extremely selective when screening applicants, it’s only because of a lot of Filipinos in the past who betrayed them.

Therefore, Filipinos with an ulterior motive when applying for a US visa must be warned: the US Embassy is always ready to deny your application at the slightest chance they get.

How To Apply for a US Visa in the Philippines in 8 Steps

1. identify the appropriate visa for the purpose of your trip.

There are different types of US visas.

For your application to become successful, ensure that you’re applying for a US visa that aligns with your purpose of traveling to the US.

There’s no point in applying for a tourist visa when the purpose of your trip is to study and possibly get a permanent employment in the US.

In general, US visa has two types: Immigrant visa and Nonimmigrant visa.

Immigrant visas are granted to those who intend to live permanently in the United States.

To apply for this visa, an employer or a family member who is already a US resident or citizen must first submit a petition to the US Embassy or the US Citizenship & Immigration Service (USCIS) on your behalf.

Once granted, you can use the visa to stay in the US as a Legal Permanent Resident and eventually acquire US citizenship.

b. Nonimmigrant visas

By contrast, nonimmigrant visas are issued to specialty workers, tourists, students, and business people who are planning to stay in the United States for a limited period of time.

The following is a list of common nonimmigrant visas:

B-1 and B-2 visas are granted to foreigners who are visiting the United States temporarily.

B-1 is for those who are going on a business trip (e.g., attending conventions/conferences, consulting with business associates, negotiating contracts, etc.). B-2, on the other hand, refers to the “tourist visa” given to those coming to the US for a vacation, family reunion, medical treatment, etc.

While B-1 and B-2 visas differ in terms of purpose, they’re combined and issued as one visa, also known as the B-1/B-2 visa.

A work visa is intended for those who have been petitioned by an employer or agent to work in the United States temporarily.

There are different work visas for different kinds of jobs:

• H-1B (specialty occupation)
• H-2A (seasonal agricultural workers)
• H-2B visa (skilled and unskilled workers)
• H-3 (trainee)
• H-4 (dependents)
• L-1 (intra-company transferees)
• L-2 (dependents)
• O (people with outstanding ability/achievements in sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, motion picture, and television production)
• P (artists and entertainers)
• Q (people who are participating in an international cultural exchange program).

As the name suggests, a student visa is issued to Filipinos who have been approved to study in a legitimate educational institution in the United States.

It comes in two varieties:

• F-1 visa, for those who are pursuing academic studies.
• M-1 visa, designed for those who wish to engage in a non-academic or vocational study/training.

Also known as a J visa, this type of US visa is given to those who have been accepted and approved to participate in exchange programs in the US. An exchange program is designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of arts, sciences, and education.

Aside from the principal visa holder (J-1 visa), dependents who wish to accompany him/her for the duration of the trip may also apply for a J-2 visa.

The transit or C visa is used whenever you’re passing through the United States en route to another country. It’s like a tourist visa except that you’re only allowed to stay in the US for a relatively shorter period of time.

Crew or D visa, meanwhile, is designed for the crew members of a ship or an aircraft who will likewise transit or pass through the United States.

In most cases, the crew members use a combination of transit/crew visas (C-1/D). Should they wish to spend more time in the US for vacation or during time-off between flights/cruises, they have to apply for both transit/ship crew visas and the B-1/B-2 visa.

A religious worker who belongs to a recognized religious group or organization may apply for this visa (also known as R visa) to stay in the US temporarily. The visa will allow the religious worker to conduct religious worship and other activities within the limits of his/her occupation.

A domestic employee is defined as a personal or domestic servant who is accompanying or following an employer to the United States.

In this case, the Filipino worker may be eligible for a B-1 visa, regardless of whether the employer is an American citizen or not. If the employer is a government official or a foreign diplomat, the domestic employee may qualify for an A-3 or G-5 visa, depending on the employer’s visa status.

Domestic employees include, but not limited to, nannies, au pairs, valets, chauffeurs, cooks, butlers, housemaids, footmen, gardeners, paid companions, etc.

The media or I visa is for Filipino reporters or representatives of local media who want to travel to the US temporarily to cover news or engage in activities related to their profession.

Because the Philippines is one of the countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States, Filipinos can travel to the US with an E-1 (Treaty Trader) or E-2 (Treaty Investor) visa.

This visa will allow you to come to the US to invest capital, develop and direct operations of an enterprise you’ve invested in, or carry on substantial trade (including trade in services or technology).

Before getting an appointment with the US Embassy, ensure you have valid reasons for applying for the type of visa you’re aiming for.

The embassy official who will conduct the interview will scrutinize your application and can reject it if you’re unable to prove you have the necessary qualifications.

From this point on, we’re going to focus on the more popular nonimmigrant US visas. If you want to know the qualifications and requirements for the immigrant visa, please refer to this guide .

a. For Business/Tourist Visa: You must prove to the consular officer that you intend to visit the US for a limited period of time by showing proof of funds to cover your travel expenses and solid ties to the Philippines like properties, business, or employment.

b. For Work Visa:  To qualify for a work visa, your employer or agent must first file a Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker on your behalf. The petition or Form I-129 must be approved by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Upon approval, applicants must present their petition receipt number during the interview at the US Embassy. Take note, however, that having an approved petition doesn’t guarantee visa approval.

For a complete list of work visas and their respective qualification requirements, check out  this link .

c. For Student Visa:  F-1 and M-1 visa applicants must prove that they’ve been accepted and approved to study in an accredited educational institution in the United States.

Keep in mind, however, that Filipinos (and other foreigners) are prohibited by US law to study in a public elementary school (from kindergarten to 8th grade) or a public adult education program. For more information about US student visas, visit Education USA .

d. For Exchange Visitor Visa:  To apply for this visa, Filipinos must first be accepted by an educational institution or a program sponsor in the US who will then provide the applicant with the necessary documents needed for the visa application.

Exchange visitor visa applicants can be one of the following: students, on-the-job trainees, teachers, professors, research scholars, professional trainees (medical and allied fields), etc.

e. For Transit/Ship Crew Visa:  To get approved for this visa, you must prove to the consular officer your intention by showing the following: proof of funds to support your transit journey, permission to enter your destination country, and the ticket or other documents that will prove you’re en route to the said destination.

f. For Religious Worker Visa: Filipinos who are interested to apply for this visa must be a member of a tax-exempted nonprofit religious organization (or its affiliate) recognized by the US.

You must be a member of the denomination for at least 2 years prior to the visa application. If you’ve previously spent five years in this category, you must show to the consular officer that you reside or physically present in the Philippines for the immediate prior year.

g. For Domestic Employee Visa:  As an applicant, you must prove to the consular officer that you have compelling ties to the Philippines and that you intend to go back to your home country once your contract expires.

You must also secure an  employment contract signed by you and your employer. For a complete list of qualifications for a domestic employee accompanying a US citizen or a non-US citizen, please refer to this checklist .

h. For Journalist and Media Visa: To qualify for this visa, you must be a representative (e.g., reporter, editor, film crew, etc.) of a local media and the activity you’ll be doing in the US should be informational in nature like news gathering and reporting.

If you have a spouse or unmarried children less than 21 years old who wish to accompany you on the trip, they may apply for a derivative I visa.

Freelance journalists may also qualify for the media visa, provided that they are under a contract to a media organization, hold a credential issued by a professional journalistic organization, and the content they’re working on isn’t intended for commercial entertainment/advertising.

i. For Treaty Traders and Investors Visa:  Click here for a complete list of qualification requirements for E-1 and E-2 visa.

3. Know the US Visa Application Requirements

The requirements listed here are applicable to nonimmigrant US visa applicants. If you’re applying for an immigrant visa, please go here instead.

The consular officer will treat every application as unique. Therefore, the number of requirements that will be requested from you depends on your personal circumstances and the type of US visa you’re applying for.

a. Duly accomplished DS-160 Form or Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application Form (more on this later).

b. A valid Philippine passport . The validity date should be at least 6 months beyond your intended period of stay in the US.

c. One 2″x2″ ID photograph which you are required to upload as part of the online application. You should also bring extra copies during the interview in case the consular officer requests for additional ID pictures.

The photo must meet the following criteria:

• Must be recent or taken within the last 6 months .
• Your eyes must be open and looking straight toward the camera. They should be anywhere between 1-1/8 inches and 1-3/8 inches (28 mm and 35 mm) or about 60% from the bottom of the photo.
• Must show your head from the top of your hair to the bottom of your chin . Hats, head coverings, and eyeglasses must be removed except if used for religious purposes (hats) or if the eyeglasses can’t be removed for medical reasons, in which case a medical certificate/statement must be provided.
• The entire head should be at the center of the frame . It should measure 1-1-3/8 inches (25 to 35mm), filling between 50% to 70% of the photo.
• The background must be either white or off-white . It must be uncluttered with no shadows either in the background itself or across the applicant’s face.
• Your face must show a relaxed and natural expression .
• The photo must be in color . Black and white photos aren’t accepted.
• You should wear normal clothing or something you wear on a daily basis . Uniforms and camouflage attire aren’t allowed except for religious attire that is worn every day.

d. Receipt showing payment of the USD 160 non-refundable nonimmigrant visa application fee (paid in Philippine pesos).

e. Interview appointment letter c onfirming that you’ve booked an appointment with the US Embassy online.

Update: Aside from the general requirements above, the US Embassy now also requires visa applicants to submit their social media information and all of their previous contact information as part of the visa application process. Applicants are required to submit information on social media accounts that they have used in the past 5 years. This will give the US government access to the applicants’ previously shared locations, photos, dates of births, dates of milestones and other information that can be found on social media profiles. Applicants will also be asked to provide all of their previously used telephone numbers and email addresses, as well as all of their previous and current international travel and deportation status. This requirement has been added for the purpose of checking if the applicant or any of his family members has been involved in terrorist activity.

For nonimmigrant US visa applications, supporting documents will provide strong evidence that the applicant intends to go back to the Philippines at the end of the trip.

Not all applicants will be required to present these documents. In most cases, all vital information that the consular officer needs are already provided in the application form and by the interview itself.

However, supporting documents may not be required only on a case-to-case basis. If your application raises some red flags, the consular officer may request some documents to strengthen your profile.

Hence, it’s better to come to the US Embassy fully prepared for the worst.

In general, supporting documents are classified into two categories:

Proof of funds, which will prove to the consular officer that you are financially capable of carrying out the trip; and Proof of strong ties to the country which provides evidence that you’ll go back to the Philippines after the trip and have no intention of overstaying in the US and live there illegally.

Proof of funds

a. For employed

Show that you can afford the trip and you have a job to go back to by providing the following:

• Certificate of Employment/COE (stating your position, salary, and tenure).
• Recent payslips (usually for the past 3 months).
• Income Tax Return (ITR) for the previous year.

b. For self-employed

The consular officer must see that you’re in good financial standing and that your business/freelance job is stable through the following:

• Business permit or a copy of the official business registration .
• Bank certificates/Bank statement/Book of the company and Financial Reports from the past 3 months.
• Tax statements and/or tax-paying certificate.

c. For students or minors

• Certification from the school or educational institution providing the grant (for US student visa), showing the specific details of the scholarship .
• Sponsorship letter from parents/legal guardians with attached proof of their solvency or financial capability to cover the expenses of the trip.

d. For retirees

• Business permits and other requirements for self-employed, if applicable.
• Evidence of pension (e.g., receipts).
• Financial assets and proof of investments.
• Retirement certification.

e. For unemployed

• Sponsorship letter with proof of the sponsor’s solvency.
• Copies of bank statements, bank certificates, and personal credit cards from the past 3 months.

f. Additional proof of funds

If you want to increase your chances of getting approved, you can also try the following suggestions:

• Especially if you’re a freelancer or self-employed, it doesn’t harm to add a sponsor even if you can afford the trip. This sponsor doesn’t necessarily need to cover your expenses. If anything, he/she can serve that role only on paper. The goal, after all, is to strengthen your application in any means possible.
• Provide proof of accommodation by making hotel reservations on websites like Agoda which offer free cancellation. You can also show your return tickets to prove you’re scheduled to go back to your home country after the US trip.

Proof of strong ties to the country

Proof of strong ties shows that you have enough and compelling reasons to return to the Philippines after your trip to the United States.

The US Embassy uses this to prevent the proliferation of illegal immigrants in the United States. Requirements under this category vary depending on the applicant’s financial resources, travel plans or history, and personal circumstances.

• Leave of absence.
• Certificate of Employment.
• A letter from you explaining the reasons why you won’t overstay.
• Business registration .
• Scheduled business meeting or company events that you’ll attend upon return, if applicable.
• Land title and other proof of properties/real estate you own.
• A letter from you detailing the reasons why you won’t overstay.
• School enrollment certificate.
• A letter from you and your parents/legal guardians explaining the reasons why you won’t overstay.

e. For the unemployed

• A contract/job offer from the company you’ll be working for in the Philippines, if applicable.
• A letter from you explaining the reasons why you won’t overstay. Valid reasons may include opening a business, enrolling in a school, etc. (with authentic documents to support them).

Ensure that all documents you’ll bring are authentic. Submitting fake documents will result in permanent ineligibility to apply for a US visa. If confidentiality is a concern, put all documents in a sealed envelope.

While you can’t predict which supporting documents will be asked from you, it’s better to bring as many of them as you can to show the consular officer that you didn’t come unprepared.

Depending on the type of US visa you’re applying for, you may be required to bring other documents apart from those already mentioned above.

For quick reference, here’s a list of different US visas and links to their specific requirements we might have missed:

• Business/Tourist Visa
• Student Visa
• Exchange Visitor Visa
• Transit/Ship Crew Visa
• Religious Worker Visa
• Domestic Employee Visa
• Journalist and Media Visa

All nonimmigrant US visa applicants regardless of age are required to accomplish and submit a Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.

There are two reasons why.

First, you can’t set up an appointment with the US Embassy without the alphanumeric barcode number which is only generated once you’ve completed the DS-160 form.

Lastly, you won’t be allowed to enter the US Embassy for the interview without the printed DS-160 confirmation page. Handwritten or typed applications will not be accepted.

I can’t mention enough the importance of the DS-160 form. As a matter of fact, some Filipinos get rejected by providing incomplete or inaccurate information on this form.

In case you need help in filling out the form, please consult a translator or an immigration lawyer. If you’re ready to complete the DS-160 form, please follow the procedure below.

Prepare the requirements/information that you will need for the completion of the DS-160 form.

• Soft copy of your ID picture (see step 3)
• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (for information regarding your education and employment history)
• International travel history/dates of your last five trips to the United States, if applicable
• Travel itinerary, if you’ve already made travel arrangements
• Other information specific to the US visa you’re applying for. For students and exchange visitors, for example, you will be asked to provide the school address and your SEVIS ID, both of which can be obtained from your I-20 or DS-2019 form.

Access the DS-160 form online

To get to the DS-160 form, go to the Consular Electronic Application Center website.

In case you’re having difficulty accessing the page, try switching your browser to either Firefox or Internet Explorer.

If the page is displaying correctly, go ahead and select your location (i.e., Philippines, Manila), enter the captcha code provided, and click “Start An Application.”

Complete the DS-160 form by providing all requested information

Ensure all your answers are complete, accurate, and written in English.

If you want a preview of the type of questions that will be asked in the application form, click here . Expect the DS-160 form to be comprehensive with questions falling under the following categories:

• Personal information (e.g., name, gender, marital status, address, contact information, passport information, etc.)
• Travel information (e.g., the purpose of your trip, travel companions, previous trips to the US, etc.)
• Family information (e.g., details about your parents, spouse, etc.)
• Work and education history
• Security and background (e.g., any mental/physical disorder or communicable disease you’re currently afflicted with, criminal background, etc.)

Upload your ID photo

Ensure the photo has the right size and follows the specifications required by the US Embassy. For more information, see step 3 of this guide.

Review your application before submitting it.

The system will give you an opportunity to review all the information you’ve provided before submitting the form.

Make sure that they’re all complete and accurate as you won’t be able to change anything once the DS-160 form has been submitted.

If you’re confident about your application, enter your passport number and the captcha code provided. These will serve as your E-Signature.

Finally, click “Sign and Submit Application.”

Print your DS-160 confirmation page

All applicants are required to bring the printed confirmation form to the US Embassy during their scheduled interview. The alphanumeric barcode number located on the upper right corner of the page will enable the consular officer to retrieve your DS-160.

Without this confirmation page, you will not be allowed entry to the US Embassy and your application will be automatically forfeited.

It is also recommended to keep a backup copy of your duly accomplished DS-160 form in case things go awry. To secure a copy, simply hit the “Back” button on your browser and then email yourself a copy of the form in PDF format.

Additional reminders related to the DS-160 form:

• Only use letters in the English alphabet. Hence, if your name contains “ñ” as in the case of “Niña,” you must spell it using the equivalent letter in the English alphabet (i.e., Nina).
• While filling out the DS-160 form, always click the “Save” button or download the unfinished form to your computer. Otherwise, you can potentially lose all the data you’ve provided as the page “times out” after 20 minutes of inactivity.
• Every time you complete a page in the application, it is automatically saved so you don’t have to worry about losing the data when the Internet connection is interrupted. You can also save a partially completed application in case you want to run some errands. To continue where you left off, simply return to the Consular Electronic Application Center website and click “Retrieve an Application.” You will then be asked to enter your application ID number and answer the security question.
• In case you want to take more time, you can also download your incomplete application to your personal computer. Return to the website within the next 30 days and then select “Upload an Application.” Follow the instructions to resume the application.

5. Pay the US Visa Application Fee

At this point, you’re only one step away from scheduling an appointment with the US Embassy for your interview.

To book an interview, you must first pay a non-refundable, non-transferable Machine Readable Visa application fee (or MRV fee).

All US visa applicants are required to pay this fee. This is because the online appointment will ask for the receipt number (proof of payment) before you can move forward.

The amount of MRV fee depends on the type of US visa you’re applying for and the current US dollar to the peso exchange rate. To view the list of US visa types and their corresponding application fees, please go to this page .

As of this writing, the most common types of US nonimmigrant visas like the tourist visa cost $160 whereas petition-based visas like religious and work visas require an application fee of $190 .

Meanwhile, the most expensive US visas are the K visa (Fiancé(e) or Spouse of US Citizen) and the E visa (Treaty Trader/Investor) with application fees amounting to $265 and $205, respectively.

To pay the US visa application fee, you can choose from two modes of payment: Over-the-counter or online transactions.

If you choose this method, you can pay the visa application fee in cash at any BPI (Bank of Philippine Islands) branch near you.

To make a payment, you need to present a printed copy of your US visa application deposit slip. You can find the deposit slip on this page .

Apparently, there’s a unique deposit slip for each application fee. Choose and print the deposit slip that corresponds to the cost of your US visa application fee.

The deposit slip is valid for a single transaction. It also has an expiration date so make sure you make the payment before it becomes invalid. In case it expires, you can generate another deposit slip by returning to the page I’ve mentioned and re-clicking the link to the deposit slip.

After making the payment, ensure you keep the receipt as you’ll be needing the receipt number to schedule an appointment.

For a faster and more convenient way of paying the MRV fee, you can use either the BPI or Bancnet online bill payment services.

If you have an account with either of the two, you can quickly pay the fee without going to the bank.

To make the payment, simply go to the BPI or Bancnet website. For this transaction, you will be asked to provide a reference number:

• 48160628 (for BPI customers)
• 35887923 (for Bancnet customers)

For complete instructions on how to pay the US visa application fee online, please refer to the following guides:

• How to Pay US Visa Application Fee Online with BPI
• How to Pay US Visa Application Fee Online with Bancnet

Avoid making lump-sum payments when paying for your family or a group of applicants. Instead, make the payments individually to generate a unique receipt number for each applicant which is needed to secure an appointment with the US Embassy.

Once the payment has been accepted, you’ll then receive an email confirmation which you need to print and bring to the US Embassy on the day of your appointment.

6. Schedule an Appointment With the US Embassy for Your Visa Interview

After paying the visa application fee, it’s important to know that you can’t schedule an appointment right away.

Depending on the mode of payment you used, it may take anywhere between four hours to a whole day before you can make an appointment.

For over-the-counter bank transactions, you can already book an appointment/interview after four hours from the time of payment.

Online payments, on the other hand, may take longer depending on the time of payment and whether you used BPI or Bancnet for the transaction.

The tables below summarize their processing times and exactly when you can schedule an appointment:

For online payments made with BPI

For online payments made with Bancnet

After the waiting period has passed, you can now schedule an appointment.

There are two ways to secure an appointment with the US Embassy: online via the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website or over the phone with the help of a customer service representative.

To schedule an appointment online, you must first ensure that you have the following information on hand:

• MRV fee payment receipt number
• Passport number
• The ten-digit barcode number in your DS-160 confirmation page

Once you’re ready, go to the  US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website and register/create an account.

After creating an account, log into the system and click “Schedule Appointment” on the left-hand side menu.

On the succeeding pages, you will be asked to provide vital information like the visa type you’re applying for, personal data, DS-160 confirmation number, names of your family members (in case you’re traveling with them), how you prefer to receive the passport, visa payment confirmation, and the appointment schedule.

Take note that you can’t book an appointment unless you’ve already paid the visa application fee and completed the DS-160 form. This is also the reason why I’ve included them in the earlier steps.

Alternatively, you can ask for the assistance of a customer service representative to book an appointment.

The call center is available during weekdays, from 8 AM to 8 PM, except during the Philippine and US holidays. You can talk to the agent either in English or Tagalog, whatever is comfortable for you.

Here are three ways to talk to a customer service representative directly:

• Telephone: (02)5488223 or (02)7928988
• Web call: If you’re using Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari11 or Opera, you can call directly through your browser by clicking the green button on this page .
• Skype: Please add  ustraveldocs-philippines to your list of Skype contacts.

Additional reminders regarding appointment scheduling:

• Choose the earliest schedule to avoid getting stuck in traffic and the long queues.
• Plan your visa application carefully as you’re only allowed to reschedule twice (excluding the initial appointment). If you cancel your second rescheduling attempt again, you’ll be barred from making a new appointment for the next 90 days.

We’ve finally arrived at the most critical part of your US visa application: the dreaded interview.

In this section, I’ll give you an idea what to expect on the day of your appointment.

For tips and strategies to pass the US visa interview, please refer to this guide where I’ve compiled all the insights from some Filipinos who survived the interview and got their visas approved.

Before heading to the US Embassy, make sure you bring all the requirements needed for your US visa application (see step 3 of this guide for the complete list).

Arrive at the US Embassy at least 30 minutes before your scheduled interview. If possible, bring a companion with you who will keep your phone, camera, laptop, and other electronic devices, all of which are prohibited inside the Embassy.

Upon arrival, you will be subjected to initial security checks. Applicants will fall in line to have their bags and requirements checked by the security personnel.

Afterward, you will be directed to another queue where you’ll wait for your turn to undergo the following procedures:

• Pre-Screening : In this step, a consular officer may ask you a few questions regarding your application such as the visa type you’re applying for, the purpose of the trip, and personal data like your name, birthday, and marital status. They may also request additional photos so make sure you have extra copies of your ID picture just in case.
• Fingerprinting : A consular officer assigned in this station may ask you to provide your passport and state your name and birthday. Then, you’ll be instructed to place your fingers on the fingerprint scanner one by one to get your biometrics.
• Interview : The last step is also the most important one. After waiting for your turn, you will be assigned to an interview window where a consular officer will assess your visa application using your answers to the DS-160 form and the interview questions. On average, the interview may last for a few minutes but it can be relatively quick if you have a strong application. For a list of commonly asked questions during the US visa interview, please go to this link.

After the interview, you’ll get an immediate feedback whether your US visa application has been approved or denied.

For successful applicants, expect your passport to be issued after 5 working days.

Passports of approved applicants are released at the chosen 2GO branch. You’ll receive a text message from 2GO once your passport is available for pick-up at the specified 2GO location.

In case you’ve changed your mind and want to pick up your passport at another 2GO branch, you only have until midnight on the day of your interview to update the Documentation Delivery Instructions (see step 6).

To claim your passport, you need to present a government-issued ID.

• All applicants, regardless of age, are required to show up at the US Embassy for the visa interview. Minors (17 years old and below, unmarried) must be accompanied by at least one parent or a legal guardian.
• Only bring original, authentic documents. In the case of government-issued IDs, make sure they’re valid and not expiring anytime soon. Submitting fake documents will not only get your visa application denied but may also permanently ban you from applying for any US visa in the future.
• When it comes to submitting documentary requirements, it’s better to overdeliver. While a lot of applicants who got approved can attest that the consular officer didn’t even bother to ask for supporting documents, remember that visa applications are approved on a case-by-case basis. The more requirements you can bring, the better prepared you will be in case the consular officer request additional evidence to strengthen your application.
• Filipinos who are well-traveled are more likely to get approved for nonimmigrant US visa compared to those who don’t have extensive travel history. By showing your passport stamps, travel tickets, or bookings, you’re making a positive impression to the consular officer that you always come back to the Philippines every time you travel overseas.
• Arrive at the US Embassy 15 to 30 minutes before your scheduled interview. Take note that this applies to all applicants, regardless if you picked an earlier schedule or not. It doesn’t make sense to go there at 6 AM when your schedule is still at 9 AM. Remember, they don’t accommodate applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. The US Embassy prioritizes applicants who have secured an early schedule, not those who arrived at the gate early.
• You have a better chance of getting your visa application approved if you’re applying with your family, especially if you already have previous travel experiences together . While there’s no concrete explanation for this, it is probably because a family of three or four are less inclined to overstay their welcome, especially if all of them have strong ties to the Philippines.
• Pregnant women who will be traveling to the US on tourist visas and with the intention of giving birth so their babies will be granted birthright citizenship will now be treated as foreigners coming to the US for medical treatment. This means that the applicants must prove that they are coming to the US for medical treatment and have the means to pay for it. The new visa restriction is designed to limit the popular practice known as “birth tourism”, which, although considered fundamentally legal, has led to the proliferation of birth tourism agencies, some of which have been arrested for visa fraud or tax evasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

3. my visa application has been denied. what can i possibly do to reverse the decision.

It varies depending on the consul that will be assigned to handle your application. It can be a Single-Entry or Multiple-Entry Visa. Therefore, the validity of the visa ranges from 3 months up to 10 years.

First, fill out a new application form and make sure that all the information you’ve provided is correct. Then, you should call the hotline of the US Embassy where you’ve set your appointment and explain your situation. Provide the application number of the new form that will then replace the old one with errors.

If you’re a minor, then you can use your parents’ credentials and bank statements when you apply for a visa. But if you’re no longer a minor, then your own credentials will be assessed.

Your application will most likely be denied but you can improve your chances by gathering evidence of ties to the Philippines for a couple of years. Once you have done that, then you can apply for a US visa. To increase your chances of getting an approved visa, do the following:

• Get a good job and stay long enough for it to be considered as a long-term job. This is to increase your salary and to prove that you have ties to your country.
• Travel as much as you can to other countries. If you have an impressive travel history, it will increase your chances of getting approved for a visa.

If you really want to apply for a visa now and you’ve been to the US before, as well as other countries, then you can give it a try. To improve your chances and prove that you will definitely come back to your home country, mention future plans like going to graduate school, starting a business, or anything like that.

If your parents will sponsor your trip, you can consult a lawyer and draft an Affidavit of Support that you can present to the consul. Make sure to bring all the necessary documents to support your application like you and your parents’ bank statements and titles.

Unfortunately, your chances are slim if ‘visiting a significant other’ will be your reason for going to the US. All the red flags are there if you are single and have a US citizen partner.

If you’re already engaged, then you can apply for a different visa category instead. On the other hand, if you have a child together, then you can try the Family Reunification approach.

You can increase your chances of getting an approved visa if you have a stable job in your country, have an impressive travel history, and a good amount of savings.

14. The validity of a US visa is 5-10 years. With that said, if I renew my passport , will I still have the remaining years of my visa or not?

Yes, your visa will still be valid even if you change your passport.

According to the US State Department website, you just have to bring your old passport with you when you travel to the US. You can even purchase a passport jacket that can hold both your old and new passports together so it’ll be more convenient to bring them with you during your travels.

You don’t need to look for a reliable agency to process your visa for you.

Getting the services of an agency will not improve your chances of getting approved . The agency’s only role is to apply on your behalf.

In order to increase your chances of getting your visa application approved, you only have to show that you have substantial ties to the Philippines like a stable and high-paying job, properties, investments, money in the bank, and family.

Yes, you can submit your applications together as a family or as a group.

On your ‘Confirmation’ page, click ‘Email Confirmation’. You’ll be redirected to a ‘Thank You’ page where you will see an option to create a family or group application.

Applicable information from your application will automatically be imported when you create a new application. It must be noted that even though it will be a family or group application, you’ll still need to create an individual application for each family member or individual.

Read our other travel visa guides:

How to Get Japan Visa in the Philippines: A Complete Guide for First-Time Tourists

How to Get Korean Visa in the Philippines: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

How to Apply for Schengen Visa: An Ultimate Guide for Philippine Passport Holders

How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa: A Complete Guide for Filipino Tourists 

Written by Luisito Batongbakal Jr.

in Juander How , Travel and Leisure

Luisito Batongbakal Jr.

Luisito E. Batongbakal Jr. is the founder, editor, and chief content strategist of FilipiKnow, a leading online portal for free educational, Filipino-centric content. His curiosity and passion for learning have helped millions of Filipinos around the world get access to free insightful and practical information at the touch of their fingertips. With him at the helm, FilipiKnow has won numerous awards including the Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs 2013, the 2015 Globe Tatt Awards, and the 2015 Philippine Bloggys Awards.

Browse all articles written by Luisito Batongbakal Jr.

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Immigration help for your business

• News & Reports

How to Apply for a U.S. Tourist Visa From the Philippines

Learn how to apply for a b1 or b2 visa for u.s. travel when you’re from the philippines, in this guide.

• Completing the Travel Visa Application
• Visa Appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Manila
• Travel Visa Tips for Filipinos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Information

Are you from the Philippines and planning a trip to the United States? Filipino nationals looking to travel to the U.S. for temporary tourism or business purposes must first obtain a B-1/B-2 travel visa in order to enter the country.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to apply for a U.S. tourist visa from the Philippines, what steps to take, and other helpful tips for Filipino applicants .

Want more information on travel visa costs, processing times, and requirements? We can help. Learn more about what Boundless can do to help.

Start planning your immigration journey today with Boundless.

Learn more today

Filing Form DS-160

The first step in the travel visa process for every Filipino applicant is filing Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application). Form DS-160, filed online, requests basic information about the applicant’s life in the Philippines, their intended trip to the U.S., and any past immigration history.

You can learn more about filing Form DS-160 in Boundless’ guide , including what questions to expect and how the online submission process works.

Travel Visa Costs

When filing the DS-160, all applicants are required to pay a $185 government filing fee. The fee must be paid upfront. Filipino applicants can pay by one of the following payment methods :

• Paying by cash at a bank: Print out a deposit slip, make the $185 payment in a Bank of Philippine Islands (BPI), and save the payment slip/receipt to bring to your visa appointment later in the process.
• Paying online: You can pay the $185 filing fee online if you are a client of Bank of Philippine Islands (BPI) or using the online platform PesoNet .

You can find more details about completing your travel visa application payment on the U.S. government’s website here .

Embassy Information

All nonimmigrant visa applications filed in the Philippines (including tourist visa applications) are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Manila :

U.S. Embassy in Manila

1201 Roxas Boulevard

Manila, Philippines 1000

(+63) 2 5301-2000

Scheduling Your Appointment

After you’ve filed your travel visa application, the next step is to schedule your visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. In order to schedule your appointment, you’ll need your DS-160 confirmation page and fee payment receipt, to prove you have a pending tourist visa application.

Appointment availability at the U.S. Embassy in Manila fluctuates, depending on demand at the time you are applying and the current visa backlog. The embassy recommends that travel visa applicants start the application process well in advance of their intended travel dates to the U.S. to avoid long appointment wait times.

You can calculate your estimated appointment wait time on the State Department’s official appointment tracker . As of March 2023, the current wait time for a B visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Manila is 144 calendar days .

Preparing for the Travel Visa Interview

Once you’ve scheduled your visa appointment, it’s time to prepare for your travel visa interview!

The visa interview can feel like the most stressful part of the tourist visa process, but you don’t have to go through the process on your own. We’ve put together a helpful guide on how to prepare for your travel visa interview with confidence and compiled a list of common interview questions to practice from.

Tips for Tourist Visa Approval

Now that you’ve read up on the travel visa process, is there anything you can do to increase your chances of getting approved? Boundless put together some helpful tips on how to strengthen your B1/B2 application and navigate all of the tricky travel visa requirements. Check them out here !

Travel Insurance

Once your travel visa is approved and you’re starting to plan your trip, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance for your time in the U.S. Healthcare in the U.S. is notoriously expensive, so temporary travel insurance plans can help reduce any emergency medical costs. Travel insurance can also alleviate the financial burden of travel mishaps, such as lost luggage, flight delays, and more.

Flying Into the U.S.

You’ve booked your flight and packed your bags — what’s next? Getting through the U.S. airport smoothly! If it’s your first time flying to the U.S., be sure to read up on what to expect for security protocols, U.S. customs, and required documents before boarding your flight.

Want more U.S. immigration help? Check out Boundless’ Philippines-specific visa guide for everything you need to know.

Yes, Filipino citizens who are issued a B-2 visa are subject to a reciprocity fee . The fee must be paid after the visa is approved but before it is issued. The exact amount can be found on the U.S. Department of State’s website .

Yes, you can apply for a U.S. visa from the Philippines, even if you have been refused in the past. However, it’s important that you understand the reasons for the refusal and address those in your new application.

You must apply at the U.S. Embassy in Manila where visa interviews are conducted. Applicants from any part of the Philippines can apply. However, they will need to travel to Manila for the interview.

If your other citizenship allows for visa-free travel or easier visa application process to the U.S., you might want to use that passport. Otherwise, you can apply with either, but make sure to use the same one throughout the entire process.

Holding a different U.S. visa in the past does not prevent you from applying for a tourist visa. During the application process, you will likely be asked about your previous stays in the U.S.

No time for research? We provide an easy, guided application experience, with 4 anti-rejection checks and a lawyer review. Get started for free .

Article Contents

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US tourist visa application guide: Tips and reminders

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Hi! I’m Jacklynne, 21 years old, not a millionaire, and I have no relatives in the States. Yet, the U.S. Embassy granted me a 10-year multiple entry visa. How? This is my detailed guide. 

It has been my dream to go to New York City ever since I was a child. I want to try their famous dollar hotdogs, visit their museums, and watch a Broadway show. However, I wasn’t born rich, I don’t have a relative in the U.S., and I know that getting a visa will be hard. I have heard a lot of horror stories on getting their visa rejected even when they presented millions of pesos as a “show money.” Because of this, I already accepted the fact that it would take me years to go to the US.

As time went on, I forgot about my NYC dream, focused on another one and that was to visit Europe. Luckily, because of my hard work and dedication, I achieved it at the age of 21. I traveled Europe for 65 days without quitting my 9-6 job. I blogged about How to travel without quitting your job on my website. 

Getting a Schengen visa which allowed me to travel Europe was hard because of all the strict requirements. I am fortunate that I was able to get a multiple-entry visa despite having graduated college less than a year at the time, and a also as a single female. I had all the red flags but I was still granted that visa.

The moment I came back from my Eurotrip, I decided to face my fear and apply for a U.S. visa. Best risk ever as I arrived at the Embassy at 8 in the morning and exited it with an approved visa at 8:45 am! J ust 45 minutes to get a 10-year multiple entry U.S. Visa!

Here’s how!

Note: This guide is focused on how to get a U.S. visa as a tourist. The process is different for work, immigrant, and any other type of visa. 

1.)  Register at the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs

Here, you can fill out your information as an individual or as a family/group, check the available interview date, and verify your payment.

a.) Click New Application/Schedule Appointment and answer the visa type, post, category, and visa class

For the visa type, choose Nonimmigrant visa >> Manila >> Business/Tourism >> B1/B2.

b.) Fill out your personal data

For the DS-160 confirmation number, refer to the latter part of this post.

c.) You can also add your family members if you’re applying together

d.) Finally, choose how you would like to receive your passport.

In this page, you can now see the earliest appointment date. However, you can’t book that unless you’re already paid and you’ve already completed the DS-160 form.

2.) Complete the DS-160 application form

Click this link for the DS-160 form.

a.) Start a new application and take note of your application ID. Be sure to also have a soft copy of your 2×2 photo as you need to have it uploaded here. 

Copy this one and paste it on your Consular Affairs form stated above.

b.) Answer the form

The form consists of your personal details, address and phone, passport travel, travel companions, previous US travel, US contact, family, work / education / training, and security and background. It’s super lengthy but answer it as completely as you can. This is where they base their questions on.

If you can’t answer it in one go, save it and retrieve it once you’re available. Be sure to read your answers more than once before confirming it as once you’ve hit the submit button, you can no longer edit it.

c.) Print the application confirmation

After submitting, you will be directed to this. Print this is at is one of the requirements.

3.) Pay the non-refundable U.S. visa application fee ($160)

One of the things that set people off in applying a US visa is the fee. This $160 or P7,840 (conversion at the time of writing) is non-refundable whether you got approved or denied. It was P7,680 when I applied months ago. Payment depends on the conversion so always check the link provided below for accurate payment.

It’s a risk to take but it will be worth it if you get a 10-year multiple entry visa!

To pay, check first if you are fine with the earliest appointment date. Please take note that the earliest appointment date doesn’t mean that it’s the only option for your interview. You can choose a date different from the one in the sidebar and can only be visible after you paid the fee.

You can pay in cash at a bank counter or do online transaction.

a) Over-the-counter transaction

Go to this link and print the page. Present this to a BPI bank teller and keep your copy. Make sure that it’s in a safe place because it is one of the requirements for the interview.

b.) Online transaction

I paid the fee online as this was easier. You can do this through BPI or Bancnet online payment.

Take note of your reference number that you can find here if you choose to pay via BPI or here for Bancnet customers.

After that, all you need to do is to enroll the U.S. visa for your online bill payment.

Here’s the detailed PDF file on how to do that.

You will receive an email confirmation once this has been completed. Print this as this will act as your receipt to be presented at the U.S. Embassy.

4.) Confirm your payment

a.) Go to this link and enter your receipt number as soon as you paid. 

b) After confirming your payment, you will need to wait a minimum of 4 hours depending on your payment process to book an interview date. Here’s a table on how soon you can book the date:

5.) Choose your appointment date

a.) Go to the bottom of this link to schedule your appointment. You will see a calendar when you book your appointment. Choose a time and date that you prefer.

b.) You will receive a confirmation of your appointment on your email. Print this as it is also one of the requirements on your interview.

6.) Prepare your documents

Here are the requirements to bring on your visa interview.

• Passport valid for another 6 months
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Appointment confirmation
• 2×2 photo

You can bring additional documents that you think could help. Some bring land titles, proof of business, bank statement, and other documents that could prove their tie in this country.

They rarely look at these documents but if you like it could help, then do it. I only brought the requirements along with my Certificate of Employment and Income Tax Return. They didn’t ask for it.

7.) Show up to your interview 15 minutes before your scheduled time

Note: Phones, tablets, MP3 players, USB, and other electronic device are prohibited inside the Embassy.

On your interview date, will have to line up outside the Embassy and there’s no shed or chairs for you to wait so make sure not to arrive too early. There are coffee shops near the place for you to kill time if you prefer. The additional 15 minutes is used for security checks so be on time. Outside the embassy, you will see signage of different interview schedule. Fall in line on the signage that indicates your time.

After that, here are the next steps:

a.) A staff member will ask for your passport and DS-160 form

b.) You will be instructed to go to another staffer where you will presentyour appointment form, passport, and 2×2 picture. They will also attach a sticker on your passport for tracking purposes.

c.) You will then be asked to put your belongings in a conveyor belt

d.) You will be directed to a shaded part with chairs and also snacks. We were instructed to sit there but in less than 2 minutes, they asked us to go straight inside the Embassy.

e.) Get your bags checked manually by the security inside the Embassy

f.) Fall in line for pre-screening. You will just be asked here about your visa type, name, birthday, and marital status.

g.) Finger scanning

h.)  INTERVIEW

This is the most important part of the application process. The interviewer will base his decision on the answers on your DS-160 form and your answer in the interview. Everything went so fast that I was called to go to the booth. Only 5 questions were asked: why I was visiting the US, my work, course in college, the university I attended, and countries that I’ve been to. You can take a look at my story about the interview on my blog, here’s the link .

In less than 2 minutes:  “Approved!”

I arrived at the Embassy around 8:00 am and exited it with a smile around 8:45 in the morning. I read a lot of blogs and they said that they had to wait at least 5 hours to be interviewed. It’s really nice to hear that the US Embassy has a faster process now. In less than 45 minutes, I was given a 10-year multiple entry US visa! As they said, don’t knock it until you try it.

Just prepare your documents that could prove your rootedness here and answer the questions honestly. Smile and don’t be nervous. Besides, if you’re not planning on going there illegally,  there’s no reason to be nervous!

Good luck! – Rappler.com

Follow her on  Facebook  and  Instagram  for your daily dose of self-made Filipina adventures.

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USA Visa Tips for Filipinos (Non-Immigrant B2 Visa)

If you are a Filipino who wants to travel to the United States of America, you will need to get a visa to enter there. Here’s a guide on USA Visa Application Tips for Filipinos .

USA is undeniably in many Filipino’s bucket list. We know at least one person who works or lives in the US; personally, I got relatives who have become US Citizens. There are many good and comforting points in going to the US; language is not hard as we speak English, flights available (some even direct), and big Filipino communities there.

• USA B2 Tourist Visa Applications – 20 Consul Interview Questions You Could Be Asked and How Best to Answer Them
• Rent-a-Flight for Onward Travel Flight Bookings and Visa Applications
• DENIED USA VISA – 7 Most Common Reasons for US Visa Rejections
• What Will Happen if You Overstay in the USA? Consequences of Overstaying with your US Visa
• Guide to B2 Interview Questions – USA Visa Application To Visit Boyfriend or Girlfriend

Many are scared to apply for a US Tourist Visa; we have heard of denial stories, especially being speechless during the interview. Understanding the process of application will be a key, which will be in this article. Read our tips so that you have a closer chance of getting your US Visa!

Table of Contents

1. Know which visa type you are applying

There are two categories of visas – Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas. Types then depend on the purpose of travel: work, vacation, cohabitation, etc. What most Filipinos get are the temporary visitor visas (Category B). Under that are B1 Visas for business, B2 for tourism, and B1/B2 for both. In this article, we will be tackling the B2 US Visas as many visit the US for sightseeing or visiting relatives.

2. Fill up your DS-160 Form Properly

The first step in applying for a US Tourist Visa is filling-up the Form DS-160 or the Non-Immigrant Visa Application. This is very important as the interviewer’s questions will be based on what you have entered. If you are not sure what you have typed, you can save it and go back to it later. Make sure to double-check it before submitting it.

Here’s an article on how to fill up your Form DS-160 .

P.S. You will be uploading also a passport-sized picture, so have it prepared. You’ll also be submitting that during the interview.

3. Pay the Exact Amount

The Visa Application Fee for a US Visa is USD 160. However, the exchange rates may change, so before going to the bank, ready your deposit slip. Pay before the expiration. There’s also an online banking option. You can refer here .

P.S. Take note of the receipt number as you will be using it when you book an appointment. No payment, no appointment.

P.P.S. It’s non-refundable, so you better make sure you will be at the Embassy on the date of your schedule.

4. Book on a date you are comfortable with.

If your DS-160 form is ready and you have already paid, you can book an appointment for the US Embassy interview online . Make sure you are comfortable with the schedule, and you have ample time to collect your supporting documents. Usually, the Embassy is fully booked, so you have to do it in the next months. If there is a vacancy within a week or two, make sure you will be ready with everything by then.

You don’t want to be on your interview and stressing out because your supporting documents are incomplete, baka mablanko ka during interview . If you are not near the Embassy, make sure you are there at least a day before; there may be flight delays, so at least di ka na ma-stress if ma-late ka kasi next day pa yung interview .

5. Prepare Supporting Documents

You might need the appointment letter, your passports, a photograph, and your DS-160 confirmation page are required when you go to the Embassy. But preparing supporting documents will also be a key to getting the US Visa. Some may not be asked, but it’s better to have it rather than saying to the consul, “I don’t have it with me.”

Supporting documents for your application may be Bank Certificate or Bank Statement (your own, if you will be paying for your trip or your sponsor’s if they are paying for you). For those with jobs, then a Certificate of Employment or a No Objection Letter may be asked. Business owners may be asked for a registration and Income Tax Returns. If you have a sponsor, you may prepare an invitation letter , proof of relationship, US passport or residency permit, etc. You may also be asked of Flight Reservations or Hotel Bookings . But it’s not limited to those, marami pa .

What the interviewers ask may differ from applicant to applicant. So better be prepared with everything. I have heard of someone getting denied because he said in his interview that his parents were sponsoring him, but he only bought is Bank Certificate and not theirs. Some weren’t even asked for anything but their passport for travel history and got approved. It really depends on the interviewer, your answers, and how it goes.

6. Get ready for your interview.

One of the crucial parts, if not the most vital, is the interview. Though you have prepared complete documents and filled-up the DS-160 form, you’ll get denied if your answers are not consistent or not the same as the form. What do you have to do to avoid this? Get ready for your interview. How? Well, you can check out these sample questions and answers . Here’s another one for those with partners in the US .

Write your answers and practice them in front of the mirror. So when you are there in front of the interviewer, you will be at ease and confident. Make sure your answers corroborate with what you have typed in the DS-160 form and your supporting documents. If you have a boyfriend and will be meeting him in the US, as per the form, then don’t say you’ll be meeting a relative or nobody. Be honest!

7. Be on time

Don’t be late for your interview; however, don’t be too early either as they won’t let you in the Embassy yet. You can be there 15-30 minutes before your schedule. Ready your documents and make sure you do not wear watches or bring phones as they are not allowed inside. When you’re off to the interviewer, smile, be polite, be honest, and keep positive (and pray). They will tell you that you will be accepted or rejected for your US Visa after your interview.

Those are US Visa Application for Filipinos , and could be useful for foreigners, too! Applying for a US Visas may sound scary, but once you know what to do and what the flow is, you’ll be a step closer to getting one. In case you need help in your application or want to be coached by Ms. Kach, who has helped many clients get their US Visas, you can check this link .

• How to Apply for USA Tourist Visa
• Visa Free Countries with Valid USA Visa on your Philippine Passport
• Consul Interview Questions and How to Answer them for US Tourist Visa Application
• How to Travel and Work in The USA Legally – Complete Guide on Getting J1 US Visa
• 10 USA Visa Denial Rumors – Is it a Myth or Fact for USA Visa Application of Philippines Passport Holders??

About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and fell in love with the journey since. I’m aiming to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, photography, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my  Instagram .​​

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357 thoughts on “ USA Visa Tips for Filipinos (Non-Immigrant B2 Visa) ”

Hello po tanong ko lang po mayroon po akong boyfriend from USA gusto niya po akong pumunta sa kanya ano po ba ang pwede visa po ang pwede kong gamitin papuntang USA at ano ano po ang documents na kailangan,.

Thank you for this! I will try to apply next year to attend a conference. God willing

Meron po ba dito na UAE issued un tourist visa, pero ngfly from PH?

Hi Nicole! I have done this multiple times, visa issued from UAE and traveled from PH. Not only US visa, Korea and Japan as well.

Thank you so much for this article for I lived in the Philippines when I was 15 my father was a pilot near Force I lived in Angeles City.. also known as Clark Air Force Base, that was 1983… I have a lot of friends there with kids and I would like them to visit me so this has been very informative thank you so much I will be getting in touch very soon

Has anyone applied for a US visa after ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) and was approved?

Did the consul ask the same questions as mentioned in this blog?

Is it harder to get a visa because COVID19 is still ongoing?

I would really appreciate if anyone can answer as this will also help other applicants as well. Thank you! ?

By the way, my interview was initially set last March 2020 but got cancelled. I reapplied but the earliest available date is August 2021. Base on my observation, the embassy only caters 5 scheduled appointments per day with 10 applicants per sched. Each schedule is 15 minutes apart. 8:15am 8:30am 8:45am 9:00am 9:15am

Hi, thanks so much for your blog on how to procure a US tourist visa. Very informative indeed. May I just ask, if the person who sponsors me in getting a tourist visa is an american citizen, can I still apply for it?

Hello po,.just wanna ask po kung anong requirements kylangan pag apply ng visa,.im an ofw,we met in korea.pero ngayon po nasa pinas ako at nalipat naman na yung job nya sa hawaii,gusto po nya kong papuntahin sa hawaii para mabisita sya,pano po b gagawin at ano po kaylangang documents para mag apply ng visa o kung anong klaseng visa,before pandemic nakakauwi sya dito sa pinas to visit me pero ngayon nasa hawaii na kasi sya nag work, he’s a civillian working in army base sa hawaii.sana po matulungan nyo ko

Question: How did you prove that you have “strong ties” to the Philippines and that you will return? That seems to be the key and why most applicants get rejected during the interview. However, the embassy officers refuse to explain to me what exactly they consider to be “strong ties”. It seems to be vague and arbitrary, or perhaps it’s a trade secret and they don’t want to say. How did you prove that you have strong ties enough to come back home?

Hello Ann, my name is José, well I am very anxious and I hope you understand me. I met a Filipino girl, going through the internet; and we have fallen in love. I can’t leave the US because I only have a permit to live and work, here; but of course I can support my girlfriend if she comes here, to the US. Do you think it is possible for her to opt for a visa?

Yes, you can. If you need assistance you can avail of our visa application bundle service .

Hi po? Good day. Mayroon po akong mga katanungan 1st question, magkano ba dapat ang bank statement ko as a self sponsor mga two months stay? Kasi susurprisahin ko yung boyfriend ko sa US need ba ng proof or kailangan pa nilang tawagan yung boyfriend ko?

How much money or other documents does a filipino need besides a visa to travel to america

Chances of getting tourest visa: My female friend is a certified teacher but no job at present. She had worked for private school but wants to teach at public. She is assistant to pastor at church and outreach church. She takes care of elderly parents but wants to tour US for a few weeks. She has money saved for trip. She will come back to her country as she has strong ties there. Thank you

mam, i need your suggestion, do I need to book a flight or air bnb before our interview? coz we’re planning to visit US next year, after our son’s graduation, hopefully our visa application get approved before this year end.. i followed ur advice to research on places for a tour, do i need to pre booked all of them? starting from tour and accommodation?

thank you very much and hoping for your response.

Very disturbing the way they rejected my wife for a visa to go to the US. Im a US citizen We have a pending I-130 that takes 8-10 months for her interview. The rejection unfair. I been here three times in the past year once to perpose to her in april of 2019 then came back for three months built an apartment on to her family home Got an extended visa for this for three months. I Left in October 20th an again returned December 5 in hopes of her to come to the US to meet my family. Now I have to return without her. What make me angry is the fact that they rejected her for being not well grounded in the Phillipines. How can this be.? Ahe owns two homes a business and has a church Building Family owned and Some American Who I was not able to question told he she doesnt qualify because she doesnt have strong ties.

It’s because she has a pending petition and the consul might think you’d just “adjust her status” and would not leave the States. Unfortunately, other people are doing it which is the reason why they are stricter with Filipinos and other nationalities.

Thanks for sharing! Tanong ko lng po, nka-visit nba yung American boyfriend mo d2 sa pinas o wala pa? Kasi yung American bf ko hindi pa sya nkapunta dito sa pinas. And married yung status ko pero separated ako sa Korean husband ko 7yrs ago na. But recently nakuha ko na divorce paper ham in sa Korea kaso lng hindi yata valid ang divorce paper nmin sa Korea d2 sa pinas. Sa tingin mo mkakuha kaya ako ng tourist visa to visit my bf po? Salamat sa pagsagot ?

Thank you for sharing! But may i ask. Do they need invitation letter if my relative invites me there? ITR – any substitute to this if i dont have yet. It’s not the same when i was applying to EU visa. I just gave them letter why i don’t have itr (Self-employed)

Hello! Thank you for sharing! ☺ but may I ask, will there be other documents required for a government employee to be submitted other than the above mentioned requirements?

same question, i am working as a government employee. will they ask for additional documents if ever? TIA 🙂

Hi Anne,. Thank u so much for sharing this as I’m planning to visit in US and my friend will sent me invitation to get in there.. This helps us how to get in there and meet.

You said “Before going to the bank, print the applicable US Visa application payment slip and take it to the bank to pay the fee.” where/what site can I see it to be able to print the payment slip?

It will be a big help for me if you answer my question. Thanks a lot!

I read in your reported experience getting a Visa for travel in the USA that you traveled to see your boyfriend, now husband.

We may be wrong, but have only heard that admitting to the US Embassy that you are traveling for the purpose of seeing your boyfriend is a reason that a Visa will be denied !

What type of Visa exactly did you apply for and what did you say to the U.S. Embassy Rep. who interviewed you about the reason for your travel to the USA? Did you say it was to see your boyfriend?

Visiting a boyfriend won’t automatically get you denied! Read our other article here – https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/visit-boyfriend-usa-tourist-visa

did you tell them you have a boyfriend there?

I have question po.

Ung B.certificate ko po kasi. May 2letters po na mali ung name ng papa ko and 1letter po na mali ung name ng mama ko.

Need ko pa po ba ipayos ung b. Certificate ko or affidavit nlang po?

I want to make sure lng po na hndi magkaka problema pagkumuha ako ng Visa. Or chinicheck dn po ba ng US embassy ung b.certificate.

Hi! Good Day! just wanted to ask. When you applied for visa. were you sponsored by your then BF? Hoping for your response. Thank You.

Hi. It was so lucky of you that despite saying that you will visit your boyfriend they approved your visa. I tried last year but was denied. And i was employed anf already a regular employee for 4 years. ?

Do we ned Invitation Letter from relatives or friends when applying for Tourist Visa?

hi! I’m planning to visit my boyfriend this coming October and I’m kinda nervous on the questions they will be throwing at me. I will apply for a tourist visa here in Thailand and hopefully it will be approved. What are the specific questions they asked u in the immigration since we have the same purpose? If my visa will be approved do I still need to book a hotel, but the thing is I will be living with my boyfriend. thanks for the response!

Hi, I am a united states citizen, born and raised. I would like to bring my friend from the phillipines for a few weeks. she is not my relative, am i still able to sponsor her?

Hi, I’M 62 YEARS OLD, WIDOW, AND I’M PLANNING TO APPLY FOR A US VISA TO ACCOMPANY MY FRIENDS MOTHER BACK TO US JUST TO GET HER OTHER THINGS BACK HERE IN THE PHILIPPINES, SHE IS 86 YEARS OLD NOW. I’M A FREELANCE TV PRODUCER, I HAVE NO PROPERTY NOR PROOF OF TAXES, TO SHOW FOR DOCUMENTS. HOW CAN I POSSIBLY GET A ONE MONTH VISA?

Hi. Thanks s blog mo. I just want to know ano dpat kong ipresent na docs? And dpat kong gawin.. I am a Virtual Assistant for my US and UK clients. They can give cert of employment sa akin kaso sa bahay lng ako nagwowork may payslips pero wala akong tax na nababayaran pa or 2316 (maliban nung s bpo pa ko 2 yrs ago) .. Ung bibisitahin ko s US ung younger half sister ko kasi graduation nya s Dec 2019.. Other than that pala married ako per hiwalay na (nagasawa na cya ng iba ata) nsa akin mga anak ko, may sarili akong car at ung bahay na hinuhulugan s pagibig.. Ung magbabayad ng tickets at hotel ung Mom nmin ng half sister ko.. Mom ko from Europe pupunta dn ng US, ako d2 galing s pinas.. 2 weeks ang plan n vacation.. Pero di pa ako nkakatravel outside the country. First time to pagnagkataon. Salamat po

IM PLANNING TO APPLY FOR U S VISA NEXT YEAR 2020. IM SPO4 ROBERT G DELANTAR POLICE NON COMMISSIONED OFFICER RECEIVING MONTHLY SALARY AMOUNTED TO MORE THAN 57 THOUSAND PESOS..31 YEARS IN THE PNP SVC..PRESENTLY ASSIGNED AT ANGELIS CITY POLICE OFFICE..FOR MORE INFO I WAS ALREADY TOURIST IN HONGKONG, MACAU, SINGAPORE, INDONESIA, MALAYSIA, THAILAND, CAMBODIA, JAPAN AND TAIWAN FOR THE PAST NINE YRS …QUESTION… CAN I QUALIFIED TO APPLY FOR US TOURIST VISA COZ I HAVE NO SPONSOR OR GUARANTOR TO INVITE ME..? PLEASE,, I NEED YOUR ADVISE MAM.. THANKS..

Hello. Thank you for this helpful blog. I am planning to apply for a US tourist visa this October since I am planning to visit my cousin on March 2020. I just renewed my passport last year and had two stamps from my Korea and Japan trip. I will be back in Japan this June so, that is an additional stamp. However, all my other stamps from my trips (Thailand, HK, Siemp Reap, Taiwan and my first trip to Japan) were on my old passport, should I bring my old passport during the interview or do I need to give it to the Consul together with my new passport? Thank you very much.

Just bring your old passport with you and only give to the Consul if being asked.

applied for the 3rd time and yet still denied. i was answering honestly all the questions asked. Maybe its not yet time for me.

Ann I would like to k os is it still possible to get tourist visa In Philippines if u have no bank account z let me knoe

I lived in the Philippines as a teenager my father was a pilot in the United States Air Force and the bottom line is all about the money…that’s all there is to it that’s the bottom line have all your documents prepared and have all the money you can conjure up…period !!!

Not really, even if the person has a lot of money – but it’s found out that they are borrowing it – they still can get denied.

Some have been approved with bank accounts less than 200K. It really depends on how you do o

Anne, I have an elderly filipina mother. My dad is deceased. We are moving her in with us to take care of her. She is a US citizen. We would like to look to see about the possibility of getting a visa for one of our nursing care relatives in the philippines to come to the US to help us care for her. Is there a particular way to approach this? Is this a difficult thing to do. The caregiver relative would likely be around 25. He/she would live with us in our home and do full time work as caregiver, paid by us. Please advise.

Thank you so much for your tips! Very helpful sya for me. I was interviewed last monday and got approved. Nakakapanlambot na madami na yung nadeny before me pero I kept in mind yung tip mo na be honest and that I shouldn’t be nervous kasi gusto ko lang magtravel. They just asked me a couple of questions and didn’t ask for any document. I received my passport today and I got 10 yr multiple entry visa! I’m so happy! ^_^

Did you know why are they declined? you said there are plenty ahead of you in the line that was not granted the visa.. i was just wondering.. thanks for the share cheers

good morning,,i want to ask about procedures for senior citizen applying for us visa.. thanx po…

Hi po Ms. Anne,

Thank you for this informative blog.

Ms. Anne, i would like to give you a brief introduction for me and my husband, My Husband is an Indian National and we married for the past 5 years no kid so far. We both are working here in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. My husband is Civil Engineer and working as a Procurement Engineer in his company for more than 2 and half years, but living and working in U.A.E for almost 11 years. I am also working as a Secretary and recently Promoted as Contract Administration Asst. for more than 6 years in my company. We both are earning a good amount to cover our US trip, we been planning to visit New york or Las Vegas, in mid 2019 as we will be having our Anual Leave from our Company. We didnt travel much, i just been in India and now holding an Overseas Citizen of India / Resident permit and U.A.E likewise he has been only in Philippines and U.A.E.

What are our chances on getting DS 160 visa and we are not intending to over stay in US, as we are both contented in our job here in abu dhabi under a reputable company how we can prove it to them in order to pass the interview and one more thing if we apply for family the question or interview is individual or we both are there in the window booth?? just a small confusion.

Hope you can email me back Ms. Anne, looking forward to a positive response from you.

Godbless and more Power

Hi gud evening!

Anyone po pede maka help??

I’m planning po mag apply ng US tourist visa…medyo confused po ako kung isasagot kung yes or no dun sa tanong kung may petition po sa kin… Ang alam koh lng po meron kmi dati yun F4 (sister or brother, ) na pede makasama ang family unless ndi pa kasal ang mga anak at below 21 years old..pero ngayon po ay 27 years old n ako..sa tingin nyo po yes or no?

currently po, nurse dito sa qatar almost 4 years by march..with travel history pong singapore, malaysia, georgia armenia..sa tingin nyo po ma approve kaya ako po? halos lht ng kapatid ng side ng daddy kuh andun po sa US..

and yun daddy ko po possibly mag work din sa US…sa tingin nyo po, better mag apply ako habang wala pa yun daddy kuh dun?

Sorry po super haba and daming tanong…sana po mahelp nyo po aku…

Thank you thank you..

#1 TIP: Just be truthful in all your answers. 🙂

Lahat ng sagot ko sa online application and interview ay totoo lahat 🙂

I got my B1/B2 visa last year and nakavisit ako sa family ko sa US, kahit na may pending petition ako. Malaking bagay din na Canadian resident ako and I have a good job in Canada kaya na approved ang tourist visa.

Also, focus on travel/tour places in the US as main reason ng pag apply mo. Syempre pag tinanong kung i-visit mo ang family mo, just say yes.

Be honest and confident sa lahat ng isasagot mo sa interview.

Kaya mo yan!

Am a Nigerian citizen, kindly advice on what to be prepared from interviewers I wish to do family visa… Any information from you please

Hi Anne, Thank you for the wonderful blog. I was planning to apply for a tourist visa to visit my boyfriend we did not meet yet and freshly together. I have a small business for 15 years now, is business permit ITR and DTI will be enough for the requirements. I will be paying for my expenses. Is it safe to say that I am going to visit my boyfriend and to travel around. Is there a chance that I will get a visa? Please give me some advice a badly needed a reply.

I am planning to travel to Philadelphia, USA next year on 28-29th September 2019 for a conference being sponsored by the company am working for as a Company Secretary. My questions are; 1. How long should I state the as in weeks to stay there? 2. what are the ties I personally supposed to be with?

Hi Sir Vincent! I have few questions about travelling as a family. I hope you don’t mind if I ask you some questions. I would appreciate if you could send me an email.

I’m trying to fill up the DS-160 now… i will visit my bf sa US and he will sponsor my trip. Do I list him as Friend or Others sa DS-160 form? Thanks.. hoping for ur help

Bambi. Did you find the information you requested. Kindly reply to me: [email protected]

Hi, I would like to ask if you ticked friend or other? did u have your visa?

Friend is fine.

Great article here It provides a very good article here for visa and their information

Hi I would like to ask on how I can apply for a visa for my self so I could visit my American husband in the US.what do I need to do and where should I go to apply visa.i have been deny before when I apply a tourist visa but me and my husband are not married yet that time.We get married here in the Philippines and we are now married for almost 3years.he applied for me And my son an immigrant visa butit expires coz we didn’t continue processing it coz of some issues that we have.but now I am planning to visit my husband in US hopefully before our anniversary date so we can celebrate together.i hope you can help me.

hi ..Is it true red flag pag sinabi bbisitahin bf? bat kayo po naapprove namn po visa nyo. pede po ko makahingi ng tips.. mlapit nrn po interview ko po..sponsor ako ni bf..my stable job nmn po ko..nkapagtravel narn po ko asian countirs.. nu pa po ba kulang? pede po bgyan nyo po ko ng advise and more tips? thank you so much. have a nice day.:)

Hi Vincent,

Ask ko lang po kung pwede na ba ako mag apply ng tourist visa after ko makuha ang aking passport?Plan ko kasi mag pwede next May 2019 sa Florida.

Hi Ms. Analyn.

Yup, that should be OK. 🙂

Good day! Me and my wife planning to apply tourist visa on January. We always travel together. I am currently registered at LA Marathon on march 2019. I am newly employed and my salary is about 25k a month. I have my own business before for 10 years and now its closed thats why i am new in the job. I dont have ITR. I have some savings in the bank. Ive been and finished my marathon in singapore, vietnam, cambodia and i have multiple japan visa. Is there a chance to get me and my wife a tourist us visa? Tnx

Hi Everyone.

Anyone here who has experienced doing a family application for a US tourist visa? Me, my wife, 2 kids, and mother-in-law will be scheduled for the interview in the next few days. Any tips? Chances of getting approved? Thanks in advance.

Done with our interview last week – myself, wife, 2 kids, and mother in law, all of us got approved. Waiting for our visas to get delivered this week. If anyone here has any questions on how my experience went, just leave a message here or let me know so I can give you my email add. Thanks.

HI! My mom and I are planning to visit the US by Dec or January of next year. Do you have any tips when applying as a group? And what kind of questions were asked during the interview? Thank you in advance!

We did a family application, I believe a group application is different. Questions asked from me were – What company do I work for?/ What my company does?/ my position?/ how long have i stayed in my current company?/ what company did i work for before my current company? My wife was asked the same set of questions. I was also asked if we always traveled as a family and what countries have we visited so far, purpose of going to US? None of our documents were checked. Let me know if I help you with anything else. Thanks.

hello sir Vincent. Congratulations! I would like to ask if you had an itinerary for your trip?

Hi Sir Vincent,

This is my first time to apply for a visa (US visa). I never have overseas trip.Do you have idea how likely will i be approved.

I have work here. i will visit my bf in the US .

Unfortunately, I can never tell – this will totally be up to the consul. But based on the 1-2 applicants that I heard applying for a fiance visa while waiting for my turn – both of them got denied. On the other hand, there are some I’ve read in different blogs/ forums who applied for a fiance visa and they got approved. “If” the 8k application fee is not “too much” for you, I suggest you go for it and hope for the best.

Hi Vincent, Im Ann, planning this 2nd week of October to apply a us visa tour with my child. Can you help or assist me. Thanks..

Hi Ana Lin,

For starters, you may want to create an account here -> https://cgifederal.secure.force.com/ Once you’ve created an account, you’ll be able to fill up the online application form and schedule your interview. Take note you’ll need to make payments before actually being able to schedule the interview. Please keep in hand your personal information and passport details when creating an account and accomplishing your profile. 🙂

Thanks. Vincent

Hi Ana Lin.

For starters, you may want to create an account here –> https://cgifederal.secure.force.com/ . You’ll be needing your personal information and passport details in creating your account and updating your profile. You can also fill up the online application through this portal. You can schedule your interview on the portal after you pay the application fee in BPI. If you need more information, I can pretty much is discussed on this blog, refer above. 🙂

Hope this helps.

Hi Vincent, Congratulations on getting approved! My dad applied for his VISA a few months ago and I’m not sure if he tries again with my mom and my little brother, they would be approved. What advice would you give if they were to apply for a tourist VISA the second time for my dad, but first time for my mom and my little brother. They’re applying for a VISA so they can attend my wedding. Thanks for your help in advance!

I’m not sure if your dad was provided a letter stating the reason why his application was declined. While we were waiting for our turn for the interview, I’ve seen a number of applicants whose application was declined but was given a letter stating why they were declined. I believe whatever reason was stated in the letter has to be addressed to increase the chances of being approved. I clearly heard a consul asked 2 different applicants “what has changed” since their last application because the applicants got declined on their first application. I assume they will be doing a family application this time. Attending your wedding, for me, seems to be a valid reason to go to the US. They have to prove that they have every reason to come back here after your wedding – through business, properties, etc.

Hello Vincent,

I need your insight lang since depende pa din talaga sa Consul ang final verdict ng US Visa. Plan ko kumuwa ng visa this year for my friend’s wedding tingin mo lang, tingin mo lang sir may chance kaya na maapprove yung visa? Kinakabahan kasi ako iniisip ko pa lang. Ang paranoid ko. Sana mabigyan mo ako ng insight mo regarding dito. Salamat

Hi Vincent! Could I ask you few questions about the B-2 visa application process? My husband and I with our 3 kids are planning to visit my immediate family in LA. Hope you could share your experience. How do I send you an email?

Hi everyone,

Me and my 12 year old niece, and 18 yr old nephew is applying for B2 visa. My sister and her husband gave an affidavit of support and all the supporting documents to the travel I am single and have the same family name with my niece and nephew, could I apply for an interview schedule as a family ?

Can i have you email Address pls. I am currently here in Abu Dhabi, and would like to clarify things please.

Hi sir, My Family is planning to go to Los Angeles, USA to visit my father in law who is already bed ridden. Can you give tips for us to qualify and be able to pass the interview. We are worry that we might not be able to grant visa and will just waste the application fee, Thanks and regards, Richard

Hi., VINCENT

can you please give me some hint bout the question being ask by the consul? and if its ok to apply a US tourist VISA even without traveling to any other country?

Thank you very much for your guide and tips, indeed very helpful. Approved visa for me and my sister, awaiting for our passports with US visa in 5 days. God bless!

wow! thank you for the nice article on how to avail of some Philippine visa and immigration services!

hello im eunice from Philippines. nagmeet na po kame ng boyfriend ko dito sa pilipinas from usa po sya. nagpaplano po kame na mag apply ako ng tourist visa . ok lang po ba na mag apply ako pero wala po akong stable work? nag woworried lang ako baka kase madenied ako dahil wala akong work. pero yung bf ko ang mag sponsor saken. thanks for answering i hope u will read this asap. thank u maam

hello Eunice… any update? nakakuha ka ba Visa? im going to apply din kasi..

Hi Ms Anne, Just want clarification about the “Date of Arrival:” indicated in the DS160 Form… does it refer to the expected Arrival when you come back to the Phil? or the expected Arrival in the US? if given the Visa…

Thank you and good day:-)

Hi Anne, thanks for writing this. 🙂

I’ve already started filling out the online application for a tourist visa to the US. However, I sort of hit a dead end when I got to the purpose of travel. I’m planning to visit my brother (been living there for 2 years pa lang) in the US but the categories/options for the purpose of travel doesn’t include visiting siblings.

I tried calling the helpline at the embassy but I can’t get through.

Also, my other option is to have my mother apply to visit my brother and then I could accompany her (senior citizen). The only problem in that is I don’t think I have enough money in the bank to support both of us. hehe!

I don’t have properties to my name. But I’ve been with my current company for 10 years now and have also traveled to other Asian countries for work. I could get employment certificate easily.

I really want to visit the US and bring my mother there. However, I can’t afford to reapply if I get denied the first time. Haha! So I want to make sure I have higher chances of making it.

What else can I prepare? Thank you so much in advance! 🙂

P.S. If you don’t mind, did you marry the bf you visited? 🙂

Just try ,come what may. It takes 3 to 5minutes interview and most of consul didn’t asked for the supporting documents. Senior citizen has a big chance to get tourist visa.Good luck

Hi, is it easier to get a Canadian VISA rather than US VISA?

Hi! I have a 3 month boyfriend from Chicago and I was planning to visit him this coming January or February 2019. My first travel abroad is on November 2018 which is in Taiwan. I am working for almost 5 years and 2 months. When it comes to savings, I have but not too much. Is there a chance for me to get a tourist visa? Please help me. Thank you so much.

AUGUST 1, 2018 AT 4:47 AM Hi! I have a 3 month boyfriend from Chicago and I was planning to visit him this coming January or February 2019. My first travel abroad is on November 2018 which is in Taiwan. I am working for almost 5 years and 2 months. When it comes to savings, I have but not too much. Is there a chance for me to get a tourist visa? Please help me. And also I dont have any relatives leaving in the US but I have in Canada 🙁

Hi Joyce, gusto ko rin sana visit BF ko sa US. Na approve ka ba?

Hello Ms. Anne,

I am a U.S. citizen who wants a filipina to visit me in the USA with a tourist visa for 1 month. She is employed but doesn’t own property or have a bank account. I will be her guarantor when she is here, but for her proof of assets can I set up a USA Joint Bank Account here so that she can successfully use the Bank Statement at her interview instead of her needing a local individual bank account? A joint bank account is payable to either person, so legally she owns anything in the account.

That would be extremely unwise Donald. What’s to stop her from just withdrawing everything and leaving you holding the bag?

I’m planning to travel to the US with my wife on December and spend some time with my in laws. My wife is a US Citizen and will just stay there for 2 weeks. The trip will be sponsored by my in laws and my wife is staying here with me in the Philippines. How likely will i get approved? Thank you.

Hello. I wanted to solicit opinion from you regarding my 16 year old niece. Her grandma wants to sponsor her to visit US where the grandma leaves. Do you think she can be granted tourist visa? Her mother and younger sister together with her stepdad will also allow her. Are there specific requirements for her being minor? Thank you

The parents must accompany the minor during the interview.. once she get the visa then a different requirement is needed for the airport/ immigration.

Hello po, Magtatanong sana ako tungkol sa tourist visa.. nag fill up ako ng form for ds160 kasi may naka lagay na purpose of travel kaso wala naman travel to visit family (mother and sister). temp.business pleasure visitor, cultural visitor , others( child of a N8 and special.. ) atbp. ano ba dapat ilagay ko don? yon kasi purpose ko sa pag travel to visit my family and tour

waiting for petition napo ako… pero kailangan ko nalang muna mag apply ng tourist visa..

maraming salamat po…

Ms, Kach I would like to ask you about visiting my Aunt in US. She wants me to be there for like at least 1-2 months. we have family business here in Philippines, i have bank acc both dollar and peso. Is there a chance to get Visa Approval? Thank You.

How are you? Hi, Im planning to apply a tourist visa in US maybe this coming august, I would like to ask if i can make my Aunt as my sponsor for my trip coz we are going together if ever i will be approved and she is the one also handling my expenses in US. Im going to apply in US Embassy in Kuwait coz we im living and work here in kuwait and my aunt is a Kuwait Citizen. Looking forward for your answer thank you.

How are you? Hi, Im planning to apply a tourist visa in US maybe this coming august, I would like to ask if i can make my Aunt as my sponsor for my trip coz we are going together if ever i will be approved and she is the one also handling my expenses in US. Im going to apply in Kuwait US embassy coz we are living in kuwait and my aunt is a Kuwait Citizen. Looking forward for your answer thank you.

Hi Ms. Anne! I’d like to ask if you do have any idea about Sponsored US Tourist visa. And if you do, I’d be grateful if you will give me information on how to apply for it. Thank you!

Hello Miss Jewel,

Before anything else I would like to give you some details about me in order for you to understand the whole picture. I’m an OFW based here in Bahrain working as an Accounting Assistant for 2 years and 4 months as of July 2018. My sister is here also and we’re in the same company.

I’m planning to apply for a US tourist visa in the coming months, however I am hesitant weather to declare or not that I have a relative(brother of my Father in NY with his family) there. As much as I want to declare I’m thinking that maybe they will take it against me and think that I will extend my stay or become TNT there since I have relatives. On the other hand what if the consul finds out during their screening that I have relatives there in NY, would that be a big problem and will lead to my rejection since I lied that I don’t have relatives even if I do? PS. we share the same last name and I’m planning to visit New York which unfortunately where they are in also. Please help me.

If the Consul Officer asks you if you have relative(s) in the US then say, Yes if there really is. Usually, the follow-up question is, are you going to visit him/her. This time it’s up to you what to answer… but, remember always answer with honesty.

Me, I said, I have a cousin that I didn’t see for 15 years and no plan to visit him because we don’t have contacts.

But, if your uncle is TNT there that is another story to tell… good luck.

Unfortunately my application has been been denied last August 5, 2018. Below is the detailed transcript of how my interview goes. Please give me advise how to do it better on my application in the future or what went wrong with my answers during my interview.

ACCUPATION: OFW in Bahrain for 2 years and 7 months – ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT COUNTRY VISIT IN 5 YEARS: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Georgia and Taiwan.

P.S. I was told by my Aunt that my Uncle petitioned my Grandpa and Grandma(father side – both deceased) before and that both of my grandparents were green card holder, i was in primary school at this time that i even dont know these facts that during my online application and my interview i said I HAVE NO RELATIVES IN THE US. My Aunt told me that maybe they also traced these records as my grandparents listed before all the names of their children when they migrated in US(during online application you need to fill up the name of you mother and father).

CONSUL: Why you want to go to USA?

ME: For tourism purposes.

CONSUL: What state you wish to visit?

ME: New York.

CONSUL: How long have you been here in Bahrain?

ME: 2 years and 7 months.

CONSUL: What do you do?

ME: Im an Accounts Assistant.

CONSUL: In what company?

ME: *************

CONSUL: Do you have relatives in the USA?

CONSUL: Why you choose this particular hotel?(referring to hotel i put on my online application)

ME: The price is affordable.

CONSUL: So why this hotel?

ME: Its near to restaurants and subway stations.

CONSUL: All Hotels in NY is near to subway stations and restaurants.

CONSUL: What countries have you been to?

ME: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Georgia and just recently Taiwan.

CONSUL: I don’t see that you have strong ties here in Bahrain and you will come back after your US trip. Unfortunately i cannot grant you a US visa for today, in the future you may reapply if you established your self.

Hi. I’ve been planning to apply for a US Tourist Visa because my bf wants me to visit him in the US since he is scared of flying alone and have’t been to outside US just only on a cruise. He also booked a 5 days Cruise for both of us. I only plan to stay there for 2 weeks since i have a business and manage the business of my parents. i also have a 8 year old daughter who is studying here. No bank account since i invested all my money in business. i was advised by relatives and friends not to tell that i have a bf since we haven’t met in person only talked and video call everyday and might end up being denied for a Visa. hope you can advise me if i’ll declare my bf since he will be the one sponsoring my trip for 2 weeks. thanks in advance.

There is No sponsorship allowed for a USA Visitors visa thats only for a fiance or spouse visa, you must prove that you have funds to pay and fund your trip.The 1 most approved applicants that are showing proof that you have work or a business with a sustainable income esp a career job.

Good info u have left thanks for that. But my question is does she need to have any shots to come here….. Thanks in advance

Hello Eddie…who is applying?

I am planning to apply for a tourist visa this Aug. since im planning to go to NY by Nov. Fall (hopefully) to visit my cousins. I am currently employed for 5 years with my current company and have also visited 6 countries for the past 2 years. I am just quite nervous since its a bit pricey to apply for a visa haha do you think there’s a big chance for me to get approved? I am also confused on what to bring. Bank certificate or bank statements. Also, Im planning to stay about 9 days atleast or 2 weeks at most depends on my employer. 🙁 Im hoping to get a response from you! 🙂

Be truthful and confident and go for a shot. Based on your employment track and travel history you’re more than qualified to get visa approval. I suggest that you bring bank statements for at least 3 months. But, if you can support it with a bank certificate it is much better. Good luck.

Hi! I am confused to answer this question, “Have you ever been refused a U.S. Visa, or been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the port of entry?” I was denied before due to lack of evidence such as family ties. Is refused same as denied? Please help me how will I answer the above mentioned question. Thank you in advance, Lovely MAY

Yes po it’s the same.

Hi Ms. Kach! I have plan to spend my vacation in US but this is the first time na magtatravel abroad ako. Do I have a chance na maapproved ang visa ko?

Hello Ms Greta,

Give it a shot

All the best

Hello, Ms. Anne! I am an incoming freshman college student. I’ll be celebrating my 18th birthday this December 2018. Coincidentally, my first cousin’s wedding will be on December too. He is a green card holder and inviting me to attend his wedding as part of the entourage. So, i asked my parents to allow me to go there as my birthday present. My father is working abroad and my mother is a regular housewife. Do i have a chance of being approved if i apply for a tourist visa? Please advise me what to do. Thanks in advance. God bless!

US visa application is mainly based on documentary pieces of evidence plus travel history and means of financial support. But, if you are confident enough then give it a shot.

Hi! I have a question I hope you can answer me 🙂 I just got my visa today in instant! and just less than 2mins hehe thank god. now my question how many days it will take to delivery my passport? then tomorrow is holiday? cos I’m I already book my ticket next week but not in US. I tot I wasn’t able to pass this interview thats why I book. 🙁

I’m kinda worry baka Hindi lang po siya 5days or a week? I read your blog you already receive your Passport days only. my consultant said wait for my visa in a week? is that true?

I just want to ask if you happen to have a Schengen Visa before applying your B2?

Thank you! I hope i could get a reply from you.

Hi,can i ask for assistance, i just want to ask how will i get a guam tourist visa? Thank you in advance.

May I ask your citizenship M’? Thank you

Hi, hoping to receive a reply from you. Do I have a chance getting a U.S. Tourist Visa? Here’s my details.

Single 27 years old Living with Father only With I-130 pending petition (F2B Visa Petition filed by my mother greencard holder) Relatives such as mom, brother, aunt, uncle, grandma, grandpa all living in US Bank Officer Taking Masters Degree (but currently stop for a term) With Savings/Investments With Car Loan under my name

Hello, Jessie! of course You do! everybody does! let me know if you need more help 🙂

Anyone with a pending petition or immigrant visa application has a high chance of denial getting a tourist visa. You can only do one application at a time. Applying for a B2 while on a petition will make them think that you are trying to hasten and skip the immigration process.

Hi Ms Dina!

I just want to ask. In the form it ask if you have friends or family/relatives is the USA.

My question is, I have BUT i’m going there as tourist by myself without asking any help from them.

Do I still need fill-out that part of the form about my friends/relatives information?

Hello, Cathy. Yes you still do.

Hello Miss Ann

Give me some advice please, I’ve been in USA last year for 2months stay with my daughter we came home last year November but its a different visa , than the Visa I am applying right now and we not overstay there in USA. My visa interview schedule will be this coming May 4, B2 visa i am applying this time and i am planning to travel alone to visit my sister that will giving birth to their first child this coming first week of June and i am planning to do some tour too and stay there for 1 month, And my brother in law is my sponsor for my whole trip, my sister status there in USA is still on going AOS. I’ve been in Singapore too last January for tour. My strong ties is i own a business here in Philippines a passenger business car, I am a tax payer, I own a house, and i have my bank account too but i not have a big amount. What else i need to bring? I’ll wait your reply Miss Ann thanks

Hi Ms. Anne,my name is Porsh. I am an online homebased teacher. i would like to ask,is it possible i can get a US Visa even just as a tourist,? how many months will it take to process? Hope to hear from you.

Hello Porsh! Of course you can! I can definitely help you. do you have any more questions?

Hi miss angelica.

I just want to know if i can go and get a visa to see my GF in USA. I’m 22 years old right now and I have 1 year job experience but right now i just resigned and going to have a Homebased Job. I want to visit my GF there but not now cause i dont have enough money but mag iipon naman po ako i just want to know if i can get a visa even if its only a homebased job and also im too young and thats the only reason for my visa to visit my GF? I really want to see my GF there she’s a pilipina but it’s hard for her to go home in philippines because of her mom my edad na and need bantayan yung family nila sa US you think i can pass this VISA or the interview and go to her?

if any one can answer please email me [email protected] Thanks a lot. Godbless please help me. Thanks

Hello po gudam. Tanong lang ,what if yong bf ko low of fenancial? Kc yong pera niya from disability LNG e,. My opinion po ba kayo? Kung my chance po ba na makakuha ako ng visa.salamat

Medyo complicated sya unless you yourself can show proof na you can finance your trip.. Just make sure you have supporting documents!

Is there a required amount po ba? thanks

Hi, I really do encourage about your article. Personally, i tried to seek information through agencies regarding VISA and how to get there in the USA as tourist but when i hear them i was actually discourage. Then i postponed our planned to visit my boyfriend and his family. Now, I just wanna ask something. When you visit your boyfriend before which is your husband now in the USA, have you both met already in person? Either in the Philippines or other country?

Hello Renalgen, I actually have a lot of travel mentoring clients who have never met their boyfriend before but they were able to get a Visa. I usually suggest that you meet somewhere else though!

Check my mentoring here – https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/travel-mentoring-coaching

Don’t lose hope! =)

Dear Ms. Anne

May I consult with you about getting the B2 visa? I am currently is a college student, junior. I have a best friend who is a male and all other friends such as my host family who I met when I used to study in America for 10 moths in my high school era. I am a Malaysian who lives in Japan and have Malaysian passport holder. I actually applied for B2 visa in 2016 when I just got accepted by my university in Japan, which means that I haven’t enrolled in the university yet and I got denied for B2 from U.S embassy in japan. I would like to give my second chance this summer and should I not say that I am going to stay with my male bestfriend during my visit in US? is it risky to apply for 10 year multiple visa than 6 moths single visa entry? When you applied for the visa did you mention that you were visiting your boyfriend? please give me an advice and thank you so much or your time. your blog has given me a light in my dream to visit US.

Hello, me and my siblings are US citizens even my parents so will there be a higher chance of my aunt to be approved for us visa B-2?

Hi Ms. Kach!

Just recently I was denied to travel to Singapore. I worked there for 7 years and now I’m back here in Philippines for good. I was supposed to have my vacation there for 6 days to visit my friends. I showed the officers all the necessary documents to prove that I will be going back to Philippines but to no avail. I just want to check if that would affect my chances of traveling to USA in the future. I have a 10 year Multiple entry Visa to US, I’ve been there once for a vacation. I have plans of going back to USA to visit my friend but too scared that I will be denied again the chance to travel. Appreciate your immediate response. Thank you!

Hi Mam, WE are planning to visit my sister in the US next year but I have some questions 1. I have a 9 year old daughter, do they have the same requirements for applying a Tourist Visa for her? 2. Im travelling with my 68 year old father, do they need documents from a Senior Cetizen?

3. As of me I travelled to Morocco for five days this February 2018.

hi ms. k! been reading all your post and replies sa mga comment regarding applying visa, mine kasi is different sa ibang nag aapply for us tourist visa. last month yung sister ko na nasa us na bigla nya kong sinabihan na mag attend kami ng 1st birthday ng anak nya sa sept. sabi nya siya bahala sa pamasahe namin and kami bahala sa visa. now heres my situation, im a fulltime mom of my 2 yr old daughter and si hubby ko lang ang may work. dati akong ofw sa uae pero nung namatay mom ko last 2013 nag for good na ko ng pinas since walang mag aasikaso ng mga properties namin dito sa pinas kasi yung father ko nasa saudi til now at yung youngest sister ko paalis na din. so ayun, what can you advise po apply na kami for visa and mag set ng appointment this april or do we need to wait muna for ilang months para yung sa bank account namin malagyan namin ng pakonte konte ulit dahil naubos last month dahil sa bday nung daughter ko. basta po ang reason lang naman namin is to attend ng bday nung nephew ko then stay ng 2 to 3 weeks max siguro. thanks po in advance sa pag sagot.

Hello Ms. Anne!

I was searching on how to get US Visa and would like to ask some question. My situation is different from others who had an american BF or husband. I am applying for US Visa to go to Hawaii, I am invited by my Japanese boyfriend to meet him there while he is on his business trip. Please help me what kind of documents I should prepare other than COE, Bank statement, passport, Income tax, insurance, and payslips? You’re reply would be a great help.

Thank you! Angeline

I trust you are well. I would just like your honest opinion and advise regarding my plans to apply for a US tourist visa. My appointment with the US embassy will be on April. Here are the facts about me:

1. Currently living and working in Dubai, UAE for 3 years now (same company) 2. Traveled countries in the last 2 years: – Maldives (once) – Oman (once) – Hongkong (once) – Singapore (once) – Indonesia (once) – Malaysia (once) – Philippines (twice) 3. Residency in Dubai: I can provide an affidavit signed by my cousin here in Dubai that I am renting the other room in their flat along with our other cousin. I will also attach the tenancy contract certified by a lawyer. 4. My bf and I have already met in the Philippines for 18 days last January 2018. Its our first-time meeting. We’ve been together/in a LDR relationship since January 2017. 5. My reason for applying for a US tourist visa: we want to celebrate our bdays together for 2 weeks on August, and for me to finally get to know his family and touring the states with them.

I want to do everything by the book, and since he has already visited me in the Philippines, I believe it’s now my turn to visit him in his homeland country. I have 3 weeks remaining vacation leave for year 2018, and I want to use 2 weeks of that visiting my bf and his family.

Do you think I have a chance of getting that visa due to that reason? Looking forward to your response.

Hi again! Dumaan ako sa agency kasi i cannot upload the photos but after paying i was told sa agency na di rin nila nauupload ang photos and i just need to bring photo sa interview na lang is it true?

Why do you need the agency’s help? Usually you need to bring as well to make sure na you’re prepared.

Hi Ms. Kach Im planning to launch my application this month and my interview aswell, but im not the one who will going to finance my trip , my friend from the US will sponsor my trip .(He is actually my boyfriend but we are afraid that if i we declared that we are bf/gf i might get denied . What should we do ?? Help please . Thanks.

I can definitely help, Kimberly! Check my coaching service here –> https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/travel-mentoring-coaching

Good day, Ms. Kach. I would like to ask you about visiting my boyfriend in the US. He wants me to be there for like at least three months. I said I don’t have money, properties etc to present during my interview. He said he will sponsor me. He will provide everything I need for my stay, as my sponsor. How is that po kaya?I read there are documents that he has to provide and send me to prove that he’ll provide for me. Thank you and God bless.

Hi Ms. Cach Im planning to launch my application this month and my interview aswell, but im not the one who will going to finance my trip , my friend from the US will sponsor my trip .(He is actually my boyfriend but we are afraid that if i we declared that we are bf/gf i might get denied . What should we do ?? Help please . Thanks.

hello po, nagapply na po ko last 2 years ago and na-deny po ako. and plan ko po mag apply next month kaso may question po sa form na have you ever been denied (answer YES) then may next question na EXPLAIN, tanong lang po kung ano dapat na isagot dun?

Salamat po.

Isulat mo dun ung palagay mong dahilan kung bakit ka na-deny! Usually sinasabi sayo, pag hindi then isulat mo ung palagay mong naging mali.

Hi Kach! Can i ask tru Mai’s comment? I am applying kasi for a us visa for the whole family thru an agency and ive been having insecurities now that ive paid 60k plus (sayang if denied kami). We’ve got extensive travel history throughout asia and im applying now for a visit to guam. My agent is hesitant with the 4days stay i wrote in the application baka daw di maniwala si consul but thats our usual itinerary kasi we cant stay long because of the business. My eldest is working, second is unemployed and two youngest graduating jn college and senior high. I have a pending petition but petitioner chose to retire here since 2011 pa. do you think we will get approval?

Wow, why thru an agency? They can’t guarantee na you’ll be approved tapos ang USA visa application naman ay only $160 per person.I even had a pending petition but I got my visa approved so hindi batayan having a petition to get rejected. Make sure you just practice explaining yourselves during the interview po and make sure that your interview appointment is at the same time or as a group/family.

Hi Ms. Kach,

I am currently based here in Dubai and I have a good career here. I have a boyfriend who hailed from the U.S. We are planning to get married this year so I planned to apply for a tourist visa first here in Dubai since most of the people I know advised me to apply for the tourist visa first but my application got denied and the officer informed me that the US Visa application was not strong enough.

Now I want to know because me and my boyfriend have decided that I will apply for a fiance visa. How soon can I apply for a fiance visa? Do I need to wait for 6 months to apply again?

Thanks, Juju

Hi! I would like to ask would it be hard for me to pass the visa application if I will go to the US to visit my bf? I don’t have an employment certificate to show since I am managing our family business. The business had been running for more than 18 years. What kind of documents do you think they will be asking? I’ve always wanted to apply for a visa but I’m scared to get rejected.

Hope to hear from you guys! Thanks so much!

Last night I asked my Aunt when can I visit her in New York, and she asked me to do research on what to do in order for me to visit her. So I look to the web and see your article. im currently working in the Hospital in the province of Bulacan. I dont have any travel history. I dont have any property to declare.

what is the minimum financial statement needed in order for the consul to convince that I can support my travel in US?

I wrote it here po – https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/tips-show-money-bank-visa-requirement

Hi! I would like to ask what are the chances of my daughter getting rejected? I have an existing US Visa and I’m only applying for my daughter. I am still studying and currently on my sophomore year (only 19 years old). Unmarried and I have been to the US before. My daughter’s father is a permanent resident there already. I have been to a few countries before and just recently been to Australia and Hong Kong with my daughter and family. I have no financial capacity and it will be my dad who would be paying for the trip. The only ties I have is that I’m coming back to continue my studies and finish my degree. My daughter will also start school this June. Should I enroll her already for her to have ties as well?

I think your daughter can get the visa esp if her father will provide supporting documents and if he will be the one filing for the application. But if it’s not possible, then I suggest make an arrangement with the tour/ reasons why you’re going to the States with your family and enroll her so you have more proof of ties.

How many months is the minimum visa duration given to a tourist if not given a multiple visa?

Hi. I am not sure if you will be able to answer this but I will try. I got married and is planning to renew my passport using my married name but I am worried that my travel history will not be considered when applying for US visa because I traveled alot before I got married but using my maiden name. Will this affect my visa results?

Hello Anne,

I am planning to renew my B1/B2 visa, and my parents have said that they were not asked to upload documents like ITR, CoE, bank statements, etc for their visa renewal. I am worried because I resigned from my job 3 months ago and I don’t know what to put in my DS 160. I am actively looking for jobs right now and I have been freelancing these past few weeks. I’ve been to the States twice and have been to other countries and I have enough funds in the bank. Is it better if I declare self-employed/freelancer in my DS 160?

Hi I’ve been denied recently due to lack of significant ties. The VO officer only asked about my boyfriend and not about me. He has regular rental income from his properties and he also buy and sell properties. Currently he also applied part time at Macys. Although my boyfriend will not sponsor me because this will be a surprise supposedly. The problem is they didnt even ask for my documents. Im single and with a US citizen boyfriend but I’m a single mom of a 14 yr old kid and an only child. I’m also the breadwinner of the family. All of my family is living here in the Philippines and no relatives in the US. Im currently employed within the same company for almost 13 years and i cant be away from my company and family for too long, I will be lucky enough to get 2 weeks of leave. So I have all the reasons to return. I dont have any travel history outside the country because of lack of time and money before. But now im financially capable to pay for myself and I just want to visit my boyfriend because he cant come to the Philippines next year for his birthday until he settle one of his properties. Can i reapply again asap? Because i really want to be with him on his birthday at least on April. Your immediate response is greatly appreciated

not too soon my dear…you’ll get the same denial…get the chance to get visa from Japan as proof of your purpose as tourist, to travel places…the VO’s thinking is, US is not the only country you can visit, since you are applying for a tourist visa…you need to establish that there has been big changes in your passport and life after getting a denial. just a hint, i did the same thing too 🙂

I am planning to visit my boyfriend in the US, this would be our first time to meet. I do have a stable job here in the Philippines, and I can support myself traveling to US. What is my chance to have an approved visa?

Cathy, I think the comment I left for Charm applies to you as well. Be careful with your documentation, a strong reason to return (where identifying critical documents to prove is important which depends from case to case, I am not a Visa Specialist to guide you on this but don’t go by one rule for all) and most importantly, you shouldn’t be seen as a probable immigrant. As Sid had told me, due to a surge in such incidents, US Govt now is far more vigilant than ever before. Wish you the best my friend, hope you get to meet your BF soon. BTW, having a stable job in Philippines doesn’t carry weight, you got to show through lot other means too.

Hi! I have an American Fiance and we are planning to get married in Florida U.S.A where he is from. An Immigration lawyer adviced him to come to the Philippines and marry me here then we can Go back together as spouses. My fiance cannot leave his work for long. I was a former gov’t employee and I resigned for my purpose of going to US. I have enough funds to support my trip. What is the best solution. Thank you.

Hi there Ms.Anne,

Hope all is well!

Just want to ask, I and my bf are planning to get US Visa here in PH Embassy, my Q is can we go together and get interviewed at the same time? FYI..I have a few travel abroad history (studied in China)My bf had been issued US Visa by his company before but never used it and about to expire soon. (Business Visa). Your response will be highly appreciated. Thank you.

Do you think I’ll pass? Hi! Thank you for this blog. I already booked an appointment and from Iloilo. 25 years old, female and single. I’ve got an invitation from my client and they invite me to go to US for a team building and a speaker for a seminar and business proposal. Will stay there for 1 week. I am a self employed individual working at home (online job) as a market researcher (job title) in this company based in the US for 1 year and half right now. I don’t have travel records outside of the country but has savings account and investments in the bank and stock market. Will be getting a certificate of business registration from BIR soon and professional tax receipt from LGU. For the expense of the trip, my client will pay and book the accommodation for me and for the ticket I will be the one to purchase it and will be reimbursed later.

Questions Is getting a BIR certificate of registration and Professional tax receipt justify my strong ties in the country (for the interview)? Is travel records is a big factor?

Travel stamps is a plus factor

Jam, having the client invitation for a business purpose is by far the best. I feel, you have a good chance, just request your client to mention that they are sponsoring you end to end with no cost on you which includes your round trip travel airfare, accommodation and even your daily travel through Uber will be covered. If they can mention, why your visit is important and how they will be benefited by your visit it will help your case. Always remember, US Visa Officers are not an applicant’s enemy, they are just like us, doing their jobs. All that they would like to see is clarity, purpose and definitely your safety when you are far away from your motherland. There is no need to be frightened is what I learned in my training, and I will tell you, I did feel the same. The talk with my visa officer was pleasant, a lovely handsome young man who was less than 40. Couldn’t ask his name though 🙁 hehe Good luck.

Hey, I am really hijacking Anne’s blog, so let me shutup and let Anne handle. I am on FB, will check intermittently, if I see your message, will answer for sure. Pardon me for the delays which for sure will happen. Will try to get back to your messages soon. Sorry Anne. Good luck all.

Hi Jam! I’m interested sa update ng application mo. I also work from home (online job) and my client from the US invited me to visit them. Was your visa approved? Ano yung mga documents na hinanap ng embassy? Thanks!

Just would like to inquire about US Visa unintentionally got stamped (departure stamped) by immigration officer in the Philippines. Would there be any problem when entering the US?

Tanung ko lng po. Applicable paba para satin filipinos ang invitation letter of support galing sa american citizen? Wla kc akung income. Do u think it would help? I can prove to them I’ll go home after vacation. Its just bka kc ndi na applicable and invitation letter

My husband plan to bring me in his home country which is USA we are married 3 years ago but i never been there in his country since he decided to stay with me here , so now he want me to bring there and visit for 1 month , what are the documents we need to secure aside from passport i have a passport already but i didnt change my maiden name to his name…. thank you and Im waiting for your reply as advice…..

No, it will not help. I’ve already proven. The consul will not even ask for it. The applicant has to prove his capability to support himself financially for the trip.

Thank you for your tips.

I plan to reapply and was denied once. Will it help if i have an invitation from my brother, who’s a U.S. citizen?

Yes, letter of invitation is still necessary.but it also depends from the sponsor if they will provide the rest of the needed documents as the Sponsor

Good evening thanks for the info my husband is a U.S marine and want us to visit him there me and our daughter but how can we approve if you need to prove them that u can support your self financially what if my husband is gonna shoulder everything is it possible to approve or get our visa? Hope you reply thanks

Hi, I happened to stumbled on your blog as i was researching about getting a visa to us. My husband and I were denied of visa way back 2015 we are applying before to attend an annual summit for an organization we are both officers of that organization but we are still denied due to lack of significant ties. We are applying again this month to try our luck to celebrate our anniversary and work promotion. we have 2 sons (4 and 6 yrs old) both studying and we owned a small business. our passport is recently renewed and the only travel history we had are malaysia and brunei . do you think this might increase our chances of getting a visa?

Hi miss Anne I’m single Mom and ofw but I hve Boyfriend stay and do work in Hawaii now his invited me to visit him I just want to ask it’s better I do by myself to process my documents than ask a travel agency to help me to process all my documents..tnx a lot

WHAT if I don’t have a property documents?

Just any proof that you have income. I also didn’t have any properties to declare!

hi! I am a registered nurse here in the Philippines and my family and I are planning to spend the christmas holidays in the US. I’ve been to 6 countries with 5 years multiple entry visa in Japan. Do you think I will get approve? what do I need to do to convince the consul I’m just going there to have a vacation with my family 🙁

HI po Ms Anne,

Upon searching for US visa application tips, I stumbled on your site 🙂 I have several questions po, hope you can advise me.

My & hubbys info: Both working in UAE for 9 yrs Me working for 5 yrs in my present company. Hubby is an IT guy but just recently transferred to another company from Jan 2017 but he’s been working for 9 yrs straight and 8 yrs to his previous company. Will his stay at his current company (which is only less than 6 months) will be a factor for denial?

I have completed the form and we have already scheduled on interview.

Thanks! Tinker

Such a nice information on USA Immigration Services step by step procedures. Thanks for sharing you knowledge with us………………

I wish to ask anybody from this forum: – were going to florida, which airport is better ( JFK or LAX ) – what’s the best mode of transportation around

FLORIDA is very far from JFK (NEW YORK) and also waaaaaay far from LAX. You need to choose a flight to MIAMI or ORLANDO.

Best mode of transportation? Renting your own car or flying (taking flights!)

Which part of Florida are you headed? You should consider a flight directly – ORL, MIA, FLL, JAX, etc. etc. JFK is in the East Coast, LAX is in the West Coast — far from Florida. Best mode of transportation once you’re in FL, either rent a car or take a cab or bus.

hi there! if you actually submitted an online US visa application in September 2016 and have not scheduled an interview yet until April 2017, do you need to do another online application?

Excellent and simple, I always thought applying for US visa is not that easy because people always say it’s a big deal, thanks to make things clear and easy, it really gives me confidence to go ahead.

My uncle a U.S citizen who had a stroke and wheel chair bound, requested me to accompany him for medical appointment. The question is their possibility to passed the interview even though I’m single, 27 years old but i have a permanent job. My intended leave of absence is only for two to three weeks. My intention is to accompany him not to have a vacation in the U.S.

thanks.,i’ll wait for your reply..

Hi im going to apply a tourist visa my question is how long it will takes to buy ticket once visa is approved? Thanks wait for your reply

You can buy your ticket as soon as you have the confirmation that your visa application is approve. Just consider the date when you can get your passport back nefore your travel date ?

Hello, I’m planning to get a visa. My bf is inviting me to visit him,he wrote a letter inviting me and my brother for a 3 months stay with him, he was here last month with us. My question is, will there be a problem if I am still married with my ex but separated for 10 years now? But in my application still it appears married for we are not yet legally separated. Will there be no question about that? Another is I am not employed, but my bf will shoulder all the expenses, and lastly, my old passport was lost my last travel was September 2016 , thanks in advance hope you can answer my queries.

I have the same situation…i’m married but separated for 4yrs now. My bf inviting me to visit at houston texas. Not yet annuled so my question is, will it be a big problem to approve my visa? Pls help me with this. Thanks.

i dont have a travel history this will be my first (if given the chance) . will that be a reason for denial with no travel history?

Applicant’s travel history is one of the things the interviewer will ask and it will be a big advantage if you have previous travels but its not all that. You just need to convince them and prove to them that you have the intention to go back to your home country and will leave US as soon as your permitted stay expires.

Hi. Is it really necessary that my passport need to be active for atleast 6 months ?. I just got it last December and im planning to travel this april, will I be denied coz of that ?

yep. less than 6 months then it won’t be allowed in International travel.

It was indicated on one of the websites I read “Q.1 How long does my passport have to be valid in order to apply for a U. S. visa? You must possess a passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States”

So, another thing pla is that your passport is active for the past 6 months. Meaning you won’t be allowed to get visa or travel internationally if it’s less than 6 months?

Yep and anywhere in the world – always required to have a passport with 6 months validity before you can enter/ travel.

Report ko lang po 🙂

Upon searching for US visa application tips, I stumbled on your site ? I have several questions po, hope you can advise me.

My & hubbys info: Both working in UAE for 9 yrs Me working for 5 yrs in my present company. Hubby is an IT guy but just recently transferred to another company from Jan 2017 but he’s been working for 9 yrs straight and 8 yrs to his previous company. Will his stay at his current company (which is only less than 6 months) will be a factor for denial?

Repost po Sorry

Active as in you have used it? NO. That doesnt matter when you apply for US visa.

Your passport needs to be VALID for at least 6months from the time of tour intended travel.

Hello Rachelle,

No, your passport doesn’t need to be active. What you should be wary about is its expiration because the immigration officers in any country will not allow you to depart when your passport will expire below 6 months.

please help me po I am 22 years old and I have bf for 5 years and he already visited me here for 4 times already 3 consecutive years and next year we decided for me to visit there and see his world but the thing is I dont have bank account but he will be the one to support everything financially. What can you suggest? do you think I can be approved?

by the way he’s in Canada, please I really need help coz I heard agencies will just make money still got chance to be denied

i never traveled outside Philippines, is it a big factor to not get approved?

Its not big factor but it is a factor. Having a travel history is an advantage when you apply for US visa but its not all that.

hi, i have a problem in uploading photo, my photo passed the quality standards but when i continue uploading the photo, lagi nageerror “an error occurred while processing your photo, pls try again later” what dhould i do? thanks.

Hello Miss Anne,bank statement means international account?how about Phil accounts not acceptable and there’s a specific account on it?my friend will do an invitation letter for me there,,is it needful for me?im applying a job there,,

Thank you, Ms. May Anne! Had my interview last friday and just received my passport with multiple entry(10 years)

✓Single ✓21 y/o ✓Unemployed ✓Registered Nurse ✓Freelance tutor ✓Sponsored by mom

Questions asked: 1.Purpose? – To have a tour and visit relatives 2. Work? – Freelance tutor 3. How long? – 6 months 4. Salary? – ***** 5. Travel History? – been to 4 countries

** type lang ng type yung consul habang kinakabahan ako kakahintay kung anong sasabihin niya.

Consul: Congratulations! You will receive your passport after 5 working days. Don’t work there(while pointer her finger on me while smiling). Me: Thank you, Happy thanksgiving! ? Consul: Happy thanksgiving

Scary lang while waiting kasi you can hear a lot of people getting denied even they are qualified enough, Pray lang kay Lord pinganglaban ko ?

Hi! Did you choose “Not Employed” when you filled up your DS-160 form?

Hi Reyy! Were you required to present ITR?

Congratulations on your visa approval.

May I ask though if you can specify the four countries you’ve visited in the past?

Thank you 🙂

Hi Anne! Im going to visit my bf in northeast india for 6 months.. I’m already stressed everyday how I will pass the visa interview. I don’t know whether I will tell them the truth or not. I’m worried I might not get lucky to pass it and the last thing I want to happen is to be denied. Do u have any great tips for me? Do u recommend me telling them the truth or should I just tell them I will do touring and visit my friends? Pls kindly reply to me. I need badly an advice from u. Thank you and God bless ! You’re so lucky to be granted! ?

Hi maam. I badly needed your advice. Im currently here in US. Im filipino married last july 2016 to a us citizen. We already apply for greencard and it was recieved in uscis last october 5th 2016. So im still waiting for it. But due to some circumtances in my family, im planning to go back home this december in Philippines. My question is, am I allow to return here US? Without my greencard yet? Pls advice me. Thank you so much

I already replied to your email! =)

Hi, I like reading your blog about this US tourist visa for filipino. It gives me hope, really! Because I’m planning to apply for tourist visa by next year to visit my Boyfriend in connecticut. I’m just wondering, based on your blog, when the consul ask you “why are u going to the US” then you confidently answered that you are going to visit your boyfriend. And yes during that time you are still working in the philippines. This exactly my situation! 🙂 Which it gives me hope because the consul grant you a multiple visa right after that short interview, just wow! Now, my question. 1. Do you think the consul that will have me interview for my tourist visa will give me approval as i will answered him/her the same way as you did?because i have reason to come back here, i have work for years already. 2. Do you think if i’m going to tell them that i’m going to the US for vacation and visit my BOYFRIEND will not lead them to think that maybe i will just have to get married there and not to comeback in the philippines. (which i would never do that though, going there for visit only) 3. Is it okay to put in the application online that my boyfriend will be the one to shoulder all the expense of the airfare and so as his US home address where i will be staying during my stay?

I’m so nervous when that time come for my interview, hard to imagine if i will get a denial of my visa and wasting 7thousand plus of peso, haha!. i’ll be broke.

I’m looking forward for your response.

Thank you, Jie About

FF question, nameet mo na ba si boyfriend? I am planning to visit him in the US, this would be the first time na magkikita kami…what would be the pros and cons? TIA

It gives me idea already. I was planning too to visit my boyfriend in USA after we meet here in philippines. Now i know what I’m going to do. Thanks so much for sharing us your exprience, it’ll help a lot to those first timer like me.

How long did the complete process take?

It depends on how soon you can schedule your consul interview! Once you got the interview, that’s the time you’ll know when your visa is approved or not.

thank u. very informative and helpful

Hi! I’m currently studying in Australia and I have a student visa in Australia. My partner is American and we are planning to visit USA during Christmas so I can meet his family, Do you have any idea how do I lodge a visitor visa for USA if I am currently living in Oz? Thank you so much!

I only have Filipino citizenship by the way 🙂

could you help me im a B1-B2 visa holder at asa guam po ako right now for business assistance pinadala po kasi ako ng boss ko dito and where hoping na mka acquire po ako ng 10 years multiple visa my mga tips po ba kayo?? kasi first application was 2 months lng single entry pa tpus pina re new nila ako sa majuro sa Marshall islands and nka renew nga po ako bale multiple entry na sya kaso two months ulit after 2 months nag renew po ulit ako sa palau nabgyan pa rin ako ng multiple visa pero good for 6 months lng panu po mka 10 years?? kompleto nmn ako sa documents tulad ng letter of invitation sa guam for business assistance at approval letter from pinas….same company po yung sa guam at pinas na pinag tratrabahuan ko… kailangan ko lng po ng 10 years multiple pra any time na kailanganin ako sa guam d na ako apply ng apply i hope someone could help me

Which is easier to geta tourist visa or fiancee visa to the U.S.?

Is there another to approved your visa without haven’t met with your fiance? Because he decided to get me here, Hope you reply to my comment 🙂

Hi poh! Ano po ba dapat ilagay ko dun Sa online form question n who pay my trip? Kasama ko kc bf ko mg travelled so name ko ba or name Nya? Thanks

good morning, my one and only sister I have, will be celebrating her birthday on Nov. 23 this year in Florida together with her 2 children,wife and grand children,too.She wants me to be there. NOW i do not have work .only savings account in bdo but no big amount .but I have my house and lot title on my hand. This can be possible can be presented for my documents? thank you very much for your responds

Hi, I just want to ask if it is possible to travel two weeks after the interview (if granted visa approval). Interview date is 5 Dec 2016 and travel date is 15Dec2016?

Yes, once you get the visa approved and they returned your passport then you can travel anytime you want!

hi ate katc medina its me jane 1stym q po mgaply xa n0n imigrant visa.ilang days po bgo mlaman ung result for interview at the embasy.worid po ako anu po ung mga tip ng c0nsul na questi0n pa help naman po thanky0u

hi! thanks for your tips! got my 10-year multiple entry visa today!

Hi, kelan po ung travel plan nyo? Coz im solo travel po aq this coming january 2017 to new york or anyone solo travellers want to join me.

hi ms jane solo traveler din po ako how to join you do you have a usa tourist visa already?

Hi…I want to apply..Please help me what shoukd I do???thanks my dream since I’m a kid..till now I want to vis it us..

Hi, this is very helpful. If ever me and my girlfriend appy for a visa, do we need to fill out the application separately and sked the interview as one?

HI! IM WONDERING IF I CAN DO THE APPLICATION FORM ONLINE FOR MY GRANDPARENTS? ME AND MY MOM ARE STAYING HERE IN THE USA. THANK YOU!

yes you can do it online for the application but she needs to attend the interview at the Embassy or check the rules for Senior Citizen! =)

They do allow help… I just did it for my girl friend, there is a section at the end of the online DS-160 where it asks if anyone helped prepare the application… You would just enter the helpers name there

Me and my friends are planning to visit Portland. My one friend has boyfriend there. So, we as friends would want to come as well. Since we are here in Qatar, may I ask of how much should we prepare minimum amount of money to prepare as I guess, it is one of the requirements in obtaining visa.

If you have any ideas to help us for our plan to visit the country, really glad to hear it.

Thank you so much.

Hello Ms. Anne

I am planning to visit my boyfriend in North Carolina on November and he wants me to get Tourist Visa and he will be the one who will pay for everything. He said that I don’t need to open a saving account coz he will be the sponsor. Do you have any idea if what are the requirents and documents that I need to prepare. And about my job as of now it is already end of contract. Please help me on this.

same situation here. I no longer have job last November I know if that would affect when its my bf paying for everything

Any ideas getting a US visa for Filipino passport holders living in the UK?

Hello Everyone, is it possible to get US tourist visa even without travelling to other countries?

My pinay girlfriend of 2 1/2 years is still married in the Philippines. She is working in Taiwan now . I’ve traveled to Phil and Taiwan three times and stayed with her three months each visit . we are working on getting her anullment in Phil . I would like for her to come to the u.s. to meet my family on her vacation from her job . My question is , can she get a tourist visa to come meet my family if she is still married in the Philippines ..any advise will be appreciated thank you

Hello there! Can you help me with some clarifications. I am a holder of tourist visa b1/b2 with Multiple entry valid for 1yr. I am traveling from Manila to Hawaii for 8 days then fly to Hawaii to New York for 2 weeks then back from New York to Manila. Is it okey to have a flight like this? Aren’t the immigration will question me? I hope you can me with this. Thanks a lot

Both of them are States of USA so they won’t question you!

Thanks for responding me Ms. Kach Medina ?. God bless you ??

is this all the requirements are required? what if kulang ka po nun.. possible din po ba na di ka ma approve? sana po masagot niyo mga tanong ko. salamat

Yung ate ko nag kulang ng isang document pero naka pass Lang sya galingan Lang talaga sa pagsagot and be honest

i need some advice lang po.im working as OFW in abu dhabi united arab as HR COODINATOR one year of this December po nag pa appointment po sa january 4 2018 po interview sa Us ambassy of the phillipines ,meron po ako relatives Us sa new jersey po,and i talk with my uncle already that he will provide the imvitation with Red ribbon na mangagaling sa US,sa company ko po ba sa abu dhabi need po ng NOC AT Salary Certificate of the company,and i need some advice po kung ano dapat gawin..meron din po ko properties sa Pinas at bank stantement and also Uae

And we would also need to have pictures and documentation of our conversation as proof that we are in a relationship. There are so much stuffs to be done but I know we can make it 🙂

I see that there are lots of requirements. As per the blog I read, it would be best if all requirements are all being settled out before setting up an appointment in the embassy. I will be getting may passport on the 15th of Sept. As for the bank account I do not have any since may salary is only low. I think I need to open a savings account for this? What do you think?

Hi Ms. Anne

I am planning to go to NY next yearto visit my boyfriend. He’s a Military and its so hard for him to visit the Philippines. He wants me to apply for a tourist visa but I don’t have that big amount of money in my account. Pls help me.

My question would be do you think I will be aapprove of that? Please help answer this question.I thanks

Hi , we have the same situation. Your savings won’t matter if your boyfriend will sponsor you

hi were you able to get your visa when your bf was the one shoulders everything? coz I dont have work and and no bank account but my bf will shoulder everything and we are already 5 years and he came 4 times already here in Philippines and we decided for me to visit there this time. Do you think I will be approved?

Hi, Anne! I would just like to say, thank you!!! Reading this blog helped me be more comfortable and confident during my visa interview this morning.. I got approved and I am now waiting for my passport to be delivered! ???

Hi! What additional documents where asked from you?

Hi Ms. Jhoanna, May I asked po if what particular docs you prepared for the interview and what did the consul asked you? Thanks po..

Hello po..Dito po ako Dubai ngayon work,di po ako legally separated,may boyfriend po ako sa Florida and he want me to come to visit on him.Unfortunately,wala po ako bank accounts and property ow.ned for supporting documents…Possible po ba ako makaaply ng tourist visa?Anu po dapat kong gawin?Thanks po.

Hi Marycile, Dito din ako dubai now. 9months palang ako dito and still very young, 21 yrs old. May boyfriend ako sa Kentucky and he want me to apply for Tourist Visa. Tanong ko lang if kumusta yung application mo? Na approve ka ba?

Hello, my boyfriend is trying to come over here from Cebu. He is lost on what kind of details to put for the application. Would it be smart to put down my address or should he use a relatives address? And he’s a little choked up on what to say for the interview, I know you said to be honest. Would it be good to say that he wants to spend the holidays and his birthday with me? And that he also wants to experience winter? Haha, any of your feedback would be nice!

Hello! I would like to ask regarding the status we have. I’m here in abroad In Dubai and and my boyfriend is inChicago, we never yet met in person since we started chatting. Everyday we skype and exchange messages . His planning me to go Chicago onDecember but we don’t know what are the requirements needed in US embassy in order I can travel to him. Thus he can petition for me as a fiancé?

hello there! I’m not sure if this reply is still useful as the year is not mentioned on the date of your post. US Visa application for filipino (UAE resident) is quite easy. All you need to do is make an appointment online https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/visit/visitor.html . The Consulate is located at the Corner of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road and Al Seef Road, Bur Dubai Dubai, UAE. Provide all the informations required on the form and make sure you get your credit card ready for the payment.

Your passport and UAE residence should be valid at least 6 months prior to your travel. Less than that, there will be a huge possibility that your application will be denied.

As you have mentioned, you haven’t personally met your boyfriend yet although you are regularly in contact online. I personally advise that he should visit you first in the UAE and get to know each other before taking a big step of seeing him in the US. I am not saying that he is a dangerous guy but please consider your safety first before travelling.

Hi Kent, I work and live here in Dubai too, Same situation tayo, never pa nameet yung BF. By the way, Kumusta application mo? Approved ka ba?

Hi! Ms. Ann, My husband and I applied for a US visa about 4 years ago and we were denied but we dont know the reason behind the refusal, we were only told by the consul that he thinks we dont have enough reason to go back to the phils and returned our passports to us without giving us the chance to explain or even for us to ask him a question why he thinks that we dont have enough reasons to go back and we were so confused about such outright refusal that left us not wanting to try applying for a visa again, but as i was thinking bout the interview, i can recall that my husband was asked by the consul about where are we going to stay in the US and my husband confidently answered “In hotels” and then the consul asked again bout the names of the hotels and my husband confidently answered “any hotels” and my heart sank coz in our application,we stated that were going to stay in my aunts house but i couldnt butt in coz i was advised that if the consul is not asking me i shouldnt answer or volunter information, I really would like to know if you think that was the one that caused the refusal,and if so,what can we do to correct it the next time we decide to take our chance for an interview again? and should we bring our two young children ages 5 and 2 with us during our interview or we should apply by ourselves first before we’ll apply for their visas?? thanks!!

Hello Ms. Recalynn! I was also a visitor of this website and I was able to read your comment. I applied for my US Visa last year and fortunately I got approved. I am no in any way related to any US embassy but based on your story, I think that the answer of your husband may be a factor on why you were denied because it is not patterned with your us visa application form. Based from my experience, her questions were mostly based from my application form and i just answered her exactly how i answered my form. Example if i wrote in my form that my salary is 12345 and then they asked me about that i should also reply with the exact number of 12345 and not approximately 12000. So i think the best advice i could give you is to review carefully your application form and answer the consuls honestly and confidently (just do not be over confident hehe). I hope that my comment helped you and good luck on your application.. hoping for positive results 🙂

Hi ,thanks fir given a an idea how to apply us visa actually am working abroad i have only one month holday my problem is within the month i can get my visa ,i have a bf and what am saying wants to visit him for a month and go back where i work how am going to get documents like the income tax since i dint have

Hi Ms. Ann,

I read ur blog and i think its a big help for each of us who have questions regarding visa application.

I want to state my case and hoping u can give me a good advice.

Im 35 yrs. Old i have a 13 yr. Old son im separated from my husband for 4 yrs. Now but not legally separated and currently i have a foreign bf whos from the u.s. he was here last oct. Thats the first time we met in real and he went back to the u.s after 2 weeks and now he is here again in the phils. For 4 months now. He asked me to process my visa, knowing that im still married we cant apply for a fiance visa. So thats y he asked me to file for a visit visa. U think my chance b n ma grant ung visa ko? I have a small business here kaya lng due to my situation its not under my name. And how much money do i need to have in my bank.? Hoping for ur response..

Hello miss grace,I’m rea I’m 39 yrs old I’m married but separated for 5yrs I have 14 yrs old son and I have fireigner bf too his from us…I apply tourist visa and I have my schedule interview on July…I write a comment here coz it’s like we have same situation and wanted to ask how r u now and ur bf..and did u apply already for a tourist visa…hoping for ur reply…thank u n God bless…

hi miss anne. i am a student, currently i am in my last year this coming school year. i’ll graduate in 10 months. My bf wanted me to get a visa after my graduation. i am just kind of worried if what shall i do if i am still unemployed. my intention to fly in the us is spend a vacation (graduation gift) so what shall i do?? should i apply for visa while i am still a student or after i graduate?

Hi, lovely… This is Petra, so I want to ask did you get your visa to visit your bf?? I just finished my interview today and I got denied. So I hope you can share me a bit if you got approved, hope to hear back from you. Thanks 🙂

What is your case? Are you a fresh graduate too? I am applying for a tourist visa soon but I am a bit worried because I am a fresh graduate. This is a graduation gift though. Hope you can share your experience with me.

Thanks, Kim

Hi Anne, I came across ur blog while searching about the US visa application. I actually looking for an answer to my one lingering question before I apply for the visa and from reading ur article I feel u have an answer. I also hope u are still updating ur blog. My question is about the contact person part of the application because I dont have close relatives but I have a friend who invited me to go visit her. I will shoulder all my expenses. We are not lovers but just friends (close friend in high school). I is it ok make her my contact person or is it safer to use relatives as the contact person?

HI there! I have the same reason as what you put on your blog. To meet my boyfriend. But unlike you, unfortunately I don’t have any bank statements and some properties to show as supporting docs. Even a job. Coz my boyfie doesn’t want me to work. Anyway, the only assurance that I will be back in PH is my son. Pls enlighten me. I wanna try. I wanna meet him in person and also his family first before we get married. Do you think it’s possible? Thank you for sharing your story btw.

hi Ms. Anne,

Thanks for your blog… I was also planning to apply for a tourist visa this coming June, I wanted to visit my family there, but mostly I want to meet up with my boyfriend. problem is, we haven’t meet in person, and we just started communicating last year December. would it give me more chance to say that I’m visiting him? If so, does he need to submit any kind of documents? By I’m working in Thailand and I only have cousins here, my family is in the Philippines, so the only strong ties here I have here is my job, and I dont have any properties, but I do have savings in the bank. Do you think I have a chance. Do you have any suggestions for me? Thank you so much for your help. May you have more blessings.

Hi,good day to you!I also want to visit my boyfriend who lives in florid,I’m currently working here in Hong Kong, do you think I need to accomplish those bank statements, too,what if I don’t have big money on my account?I hope you can help me,thank you! More power.

Hi anne, Thank you for your blog.. I’ve learned alot of tips. My husband and i were invited by my sister in-law in US ( my husband sister). We are intended to go on march 2017. My appointment date for interview will be May 4 2016.. All my documents are ready. My husband and i worked in same govt hospital. My question is do i prepare so early or my appointment date is so early for my intended date for visit? Do they asked about intended date of visit?

Hope to hear your response.

hello Anne. Im a physician planning to visit my two siblings in Tennessee and New York respectively. i have strong ties to the philippines and income is enough, i think. my current passport contains my trip to Hongkong and Seoul. but i seem to have misplaced my past 2 passports containing my trips to thailand and singapore. can i present an affidavit of loss and police report for the previous 2 passports lost and bring some pictures from those trips to support my case? thanks mucho.

Hi! I have read your tips and liked it as these tips are clearing all my doubts about US visa. This is my first trip to US so there are much more queries and I would like to go for a trip to China. I am travelling alone and I just want to travel for 1 month, is it possible to get visa?

Hi, Anne! I am planning to apply for a tourist visa to meet my fiancè’s family. We already started the application for k1 visa and it’s already in USCIS. But I think it will take us at least 6 months before it’s approved. Hence, we dont want to wait that long to be with each other. Actually, he visits in the Philippines, but it’s another thing to be able to visit him too in his own place.

But I have a few questions for you:

1. How long did it take you to have been approved of your tourist visa? I mean, starting from your application online, how long did you wait?

2. My work is online, and I am not a typical employee. How will I vouch the embassy of my ties in my country?

3. I wanted to ask how much is the minimum amount of your bank account to be able to cover your expenses during your stay in US when you’re going to stay at your fiance’s house? Lol.

4. What property did you show the embassy? I really wanted to know because I really wanted to go and visit my fiance.

5. Did you use fiancee visa when you moved there? I wanted to know I long it took you to have it approved by the embassy.

Thank you so much for taking time to read my comment and answer my questions! Mwa!

Hi anne.. I love ur blog and read most of it.. I am planning to visit states this september.. I am in a relationship with an american for almost 6 mos. we met last february and spent a 3 weeks with him. I just recently got back from sweden too visit a friend there. Would that help and give me a chance to get approve for another tourist visa in usa? I have relatives who are living in states too and im probably goin to pay them a visit, Do you think i stand a chance getting approve?

Thanks and have a good day! KYLE

Hi Ann, Help muna mn ako Sa tip 2x n ako n refuse visa ko Pero Di parin ako Susuko,ahn Punta kmi Ng bakasyon Kasma Ko. Boyfreind Ko Pero nilagay Ko Sa application I’m the paying my trip.its possible ba un?

Hi Anne, My friend needs to travel to the US to take care of her deceased husbands estate. She doesn’t have much in the bank but her son is in the Philippines. I will help her with the travel expenses. She also has the option of applying for a resident visa because she was married to a US citizen. But she really needs to get the US faster to take care of the estate. I feel like if she shows the letter from the lawyer and a copy of the death certificate that she should have a good chance of getting a visa. What do you think?

Ask ko lang po if maapproved po ba visa ko kahit ala akong mapakita na money on my bank account kase fiancee ko naman gagastos ng lahat? Plano ko po kase mag apply ng tourist visa and ndi po kasi namin mhintay yung fiancee visa at mashado po sya matagal maprocess kaya naisipan nalang po namin na tourist visa nalang ang kuhanin.Is it possible po ba na maapproved ung visa ko kht ala mapakita na money on my bank account? And nag apply dn po ba kayo ng fiancee visa or pwde po ba ikasal sa tourist visa? Thankyou po 🙂

We could also help you with all of your questions on our Visa assistance services, https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/services/

Hi Ms. Anne!

i have something kind of personal to ask you about visas. Is it okay if i can contact you via email? Thanks!

Hi Ms. Anne,

I am planning to go inthe states to visit my friend whom I haven’t met personally, so basiclly it’s the first time that we’ll meet, is there a chance that my application might have more chance in getting denied if I told them that? Aside from visiting, I also want to tour around US.

Hope you’ll get the chance to read this and answer as I am getting anxious if I would go for it or not. Thanks and God bless!

Hi Miss Anne!!! Thanks for the reply… Last question is I have two kids so I need to go back here before June for their school enrolment. My first child is 8years old and second is 4 years old. Is that not enough proof for coming back here in Philippines?

Hoping for your reply…

Im all set for my interview. Gather all of the required documents but I have some questions hope you can reply back. Im scheduled this 28th March for interview.

1. Statements of Account- I have printed my statement of account from Samba website. Is it ok, or do I need to go to the branch and have it stamped by them?

2. Credit Cards- I do have credit cards here in Samba. 2 of them wasn’t used and it has the full amount in them and the 3rd one is almost empty. Do I need to include all of them or it is safe to omit the 3rd one with less balance and show only the 2 credit cards with full amount still not use?

3. Contract Copy. My company give me copy of my contract and there is no company on it. It is dated since 2011 and Im already on my 3rd contract with them. Do I need to sign my re-contract and have my company put stamped on it?

I just want to clarify on the above things. Thank you in advance.

Me and my husband are planning to sponsor my Dad for visitor’s visa In the US, I read about having strong ties in the Philippines to be able to acquire a visa. My question is my dad doesn’t have a bank account or employment. He is 65 years old now and he have a house and a little piece of land under his name. Is this enough for him to qualify for the visa? All expenses will be paid by me and my husband before and after he gets here in the US. I will greatly appreciate any input about my case. Thank you

Hi miss Anne. .. Good day. .. I’m hazel. Ofw of saudi… I’m planning to visit my boyfriend in US for two months.. he will shoulder my expenses during my stay in US including the plane ticket… it is possible for me to get a visa… of course I have my own money.. even my boyfriend will pay everything for my stay in US.

Hi hazel! I’m Kristine from saudi arabia also how’s your plan in going to States please share it with me coz I’m planning to go there too tnx

Hi Anne, the Phil. Passport has as issuing authority: DFA Ncr northeast. In the Ds 160, it’s asking for a city. What do we write? Quezon City or DFA NCR Northeast? Thank you. May I request if you send me an email response too. Thanks

Hi Miss Anne;

Is it allowed to US embassy to get my ticket in Philippines and the departure will start also from Philippines instead to the country that your are applying for US tourist visa.?

Hi miss Anne!

My boyfriend want me to visit him in Portland. I don’t have bank account, or any properties own nor job… He will pay all my expenses and my fare. Then im going to stay there with him for one month. Is it still possible to get tourist visa?

HI Jovelyn, It would be tough for you to get a VISA (even though your bf will cover for all your expenses) as you have to prove that you have enough ties in the Philippines to go back to. Thanks, Anne

Hi, Ms. Anne! 🙂 I’m just wondering if I do have a chance to get a US Visa?

I’m an upcoming 4th year college student from Hospitality industry too and will be graduating on March 2017. I’m planning to apply for a US visa on June and if granted, would be departing here in PH on September and staying in US for 2 weeks only. I still have 2 semesters (bc my school is a tri-sem) by that time to finish my internship and my thesis and of course to grduate. My boyfriend’s dad will be sponsoring my whole trip as an early graduation gift since my parents can only afford my pocket money. And I have been in Singapore and Jakarta before (perks of being an HRM student). Thank you please reply. 🙂

Good day Ms. Ann!Thanks for sharing your experience..My bf is also an American,we are planning to meet up on Oct.in Philippines after my contract here in Riyadh,Saudi Arabia…He is the one who file for my visit visa,is it possible I can go with him back to the US after he’s vacation?or how long it will takes for applying visit visa?

More power..God bless!

HI Maricel, I would say give your self a couple of weeks or a month to prepare all the necessary documents and for the interview. You will be the one to choose for your schedule so it really is up to you. Good luck on your application! 🙂 Thanks,Anne

Hello anne can i ask wat is strong ties u bring in u.s embassy..thanks

I was planning to visit my girlfriend in the US can you tell me what else did the officer asked you? And if possible can i know your answer on those question so i have an idea.. Im very grateful if you response to my post.. Thank you so much! Godblessed! 🙂

HI Bon, Thanks for writing. I have responded to this via PM, but posting here as well for others who can relate:

The consul will mostly like you basic questions such as, what are you going to do in the US, who are you visiting, how long, who’s going to finance for your trip, are you employed, what do you do, how long? The questions will definitely depend on how you’re going to respond. I hope you make it!!! Let me know if you have other questions

Hello Laira, I posted a list of requirements in the blog but please also check US Embassy website for more updated information. Thanks,Anne

Thank you so much for this post. I’m getting married soon to my American fiance. I hope my visa application will be approved..

HI Jessa! Did you apply for a US Fiancee Visa?

I sent you an email. From Joy. We are kinda same reason of applying the tourist visa. But I am applying here in Singapore as am working here. Hope to hear from you.

HI Joy! Thanks for reading and reaching out. Hope you make it! Please let me know!

Hi Anne, Thanks a lot for your information. Like other Filipinos, I do have a plan to visit my friend in U.S. Whom I have not seen for such a long time. Our communication is just through Facebook. I am based in Thailand and I have been teaching here for 9 years already with the same school. I have a few questions regarding the visa thing. 1). Is it necessary for my friend to send me an invitation letter even though I can be able to finance my trip to US? 2). Would it be possible for me to get my visa approved if I would apply here in Thailand ( not in the Philippines)? 3) about the bank statement, may I know what is the minimum of money in my account to prove to the officers that I can finance myself to travel to US?

Thanks a lot Anne. I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

God bless you.

Regards, Hilde

Thanks for the comment and sorry for the late reply. To answer your questions, please see below:

1. An invitation letter from your friend who you’re visiting in the US is nice to have but not necessary. Please check the US Embassy Website for the complete list of requirements. 2. YES. You can apply for your US Visa in Thailand and still get approved, it will all depend on the information you will provide and how your interview will go. 3. There is really no specific amount of money that you need to have for you to get your VISA approved. But you need to have “enough” that can cover your fare, hotel, meals, activities, contingencies etc.

Hope this helps! Good luck! 🙂

🙂 I’m just wondering, how long have you been employed when you applied for your b2 visa?

And how much salary/month do you think they’ll consider you for tourist visa?

Looking forward for yourent reply 🙂 thank you

*you’re

I think I have responded to this question via a personal email 🙂 As I always say, there is really no specific amount of money that you need to have for you to get your VISA approved. But you need to have “enough” that can cover your fare, hotel, meals, activities, contingencies etc. I was employed for at least 3 years when I applied for mine, BTW.

All the best! 🙂

Hello, Ms. Anne! I’d also like to ask how much salary and money in the bank account do you think they’ll consider in order to approve a tourist visa? Thank you! 😀

I’m Filipino and French passport lives in the US for over 5 years, I would like to invite my brother and his 13 years old son to visit me here in the US, My brother used to work in Qatar for couple of years as driver and went back in the Philippines about a year ago, and now working as a private/part time driver in Manila ? My brother does not own any properties and he does not have any permanent work and big amount of money in his account as I guess it is useless to deposit money on his account where I’m capable to give my brother but all I want is to apply for a tourist visa for my brother so that he can visit me with his son to get some bond with him as over 30 years I was not in the Philippines anymore, do our financial status with my husband will satisfied consulate ? and we don;t have any intention to have my brother TNT here as I myself is only a green card holder . Please advice ….

A tourist visa* any thoughts..?

Hey there guys..I have an appointment for interview at US consular here in dhahran saudi arabia on the 28th of this month..I’m expatriate, 31 years old, male and single. I’m a nurse manager in one of the goverment hospital here in saudi and i’ve been in this hospital for 8 years..My annual income is $22,500..I have history of travel..i have been in Bahrain, SIngapore, UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Spain and Italy..What do u think guys is my chance of getting a tourist

Hi! I just want to ask if travel history is a requirement if i want to appyy for u.s tourist visa. I am currently based in saudi, been here for a year only. Thanks.

Hi, I’m getting ready to apply for a visitor visa to the US. I live here in Cebu the last 3+ years, after living in the UK for 2 years with my husband – My husband is British and has a British passport and so does our 3 year old daughter (as well as Filipino passport). My baby boy (14 months old) only has his Filipino passport so I will have to apply for his visitor visa too.

Any advice or feedback would be very appreciated. I am a full time mother/house wife (not working) and my husband works online. My mother in law wants us all to visit them in the US to see the grand kids. They want to pay for our flights and have a big house so we will stay with them the whole trip. So basically the trip will cost us nothing.

Anyone had a similar situation or advice on how to best approach this to make sure me and my baby boy get our visas? My husband and daughter can apply under the ESTA program as they both have British passports.

We rent a house here, but do not own property or have any real ties here, except for my entire family live here and I love the kids being able to see my parents often. So how would I best show my intentions are to return back to Cebu where we have lived for over 3 years?

As this is the whole reason for the interview right? To try and show our intent is too return, not stay!

Anyone interested in applying for a visa visit the US Embassy’s website: http://manila.usembassy.gov/mobile/visas.html . All the information will be there. The process usually starts with scheduling an appointment, then by the time you do show up for it you bring all the required documents and submit it to them. On the day of the interview they will ask basic questions such as what you do for a living, where you’ve traveled before, why you want to travel to the US etc. It pays to have traveled to other countries and to show you have strong ties to the PH that you wouldn’t want to go TNT on them. I think it also really pays to be honest, cause then you wouldn’t even have to make up stories and be nervous during the interview. Hope this helps!

I was not even asked for a single document I brought during the 2 times I got my visa- first a single entry, hte 2nd one a 10-year ME. Pero you really do need to prove you have sufficient ties back to the Philippines. In addition, they check some of the information on your ds-160 form that’s why it’s advised not to bring/print the form. Lastly, I think having multiple travels outside the country helped a lot as during the latter part of those 2 interviews, the consul really opened that topic. Good luck!!!

Thank you for sharing, Chris!!! 🙂

Thanks for getting back at me. Last question, what kind of insurance did you show? It is life or medical?

HI Jewel!! I have my personal life insurance apart from the “coverage” I have from my previous employer. The consulate officer didn’t ask for any of my documents though 🙂

Hi Anne, i am happy that you were given a 10 years visa 🙂 i got denied with my interview last November 30 🙁 My question is that, is it important that i have at least 1 travel abroad? I am planning to have my second interview on January, but i don’t know if i could make it 🙁 i just need some advice on how to make it 🙂 Thank you

HI Kharen! Just getting back to blogging after the holiday festivities, hope you had nothing but a wonderful time! 🙂 While it might help that you have traveled outside your home country, the major deciding factor for the Consulate Officer to grant you a US Visa is still your “strong ties” to go back to in the Philippines. When I applied for my Visa, I have only been to HK, and my passport was really fresh and brand new! Hehe! When I got my US visa, then I started traveling all over the US and Japan. Good luck on your interview!!! Please comment back if you have questions 🙂

I would like to ask fe questions, since it’s not advised to book an air ticket and accomodation prior to the US visa application. In the DS-160 form I can indicate an estimated intended travel date as per Help tips at the right side corner of the form but I got confused what to write about the place to stay in the US, since I don’t have any accomodation arrangement yet. Is it possible to indicate undecided/any hotels or hostels that can fit my budget? Hopefully you could give me some advice about this.. You reply will be very much appreciated.

Thanks a lot!

Could you give me

Thank you for reaching out! Yes, it’s not advisable to book your tickets/hotel without having your VISA being approved yet. And Yes, when you fill out DS-160, I suggest that you put the hotel’s name and address where you intend to stay in the US. Good luck with your application! 🙂

Thank you very much for your reply, and now I got relieved…? Thanks a lot!

You are welcome, Kat!!! Good luck!!! <3

Hi, We want to pass the tourist visa to be able to visit my husbands sister and to have vacation. My husband had hes ‘s early retirement. And we don’t know what are the documents that we should prepare to pass the interview. Please help. Thanks.

HI Raquel, Please read the article as I have indicated there the documents you need to prepare before your interview. You should also check US Embassy’s website for further information.

http://manila.usembassy.gov/niv-application.html

Hi. If you just applied for a tourist visa, how come you got a 10 years visa with multiple entry, is it stated on your application? My boyfriend lives in VA and I’m hoping to meet him again when I get back. I’m wondering how? Thank you

HI Mariko, They won’t tell you after the interview if you’re getting a 10 year-validity VISA but you shall be able to see it indicated on your passport when it’s delivered a few days after your interview. Good luck to you! 🙂

Hello Anne, I have a 10 year multiple US visa issued in 2007 and will expire 2017, my last trip to the US was in 2007. Can I still travel to the US? And if yes, up to when would be the best time to travel before my visa expires?

Hi Mon Tim, Wow! Good for you! If your VISA says its valid til 2017, then you should be able to use it from now til then 🙂 Start planning your trip, US is HUGE and there are a lot of things to do here!

Incase of some advise,thanks.. [email protected]

HI Richard,

I am posting my reply here so other readers with possibly similar situation can see. When you begin to apply for your VISA and process the DS-160 online, you will be asked information about who you are going to visit in the US, where in particular you are staying, how long etc. You should also be able to have clear answers to these questions when you get interviewed by a consulate officer. The amount of money you need to bring with you depends on your duration of stay, the cost of your hotel/lodging etc. As first step, I suggest that you try to get more information about your father and start from thereon. Hope this helps. Good luck on your journey!

hi Anne .. my boyfriend wants me to apply a us visa.. how can i possibly get one.. I’m a full time mom with my 7 months old daughter and i don’t have job so he will sponsor my travel in Us.. how can i possibly get one? and I havent travel outside of the country..

I do have some questions. My father is in the us,for about 30 years up to now.. he left me since birth,im 30 y/o right now. And i’ve seen and talk to my father last 2006 in the phil when he came back for he’s mother burial or my lola’s burial. Then we talk about my visit in us,but after he live we never talk again,i dont know why. My mom and my father was not married,but i do have my father surname on my birth certificate,last month i have talk to my father’s brother or to my uncle,he said he’s gonna help me by go to us by talking to my father,but he dont have my father contact number. Until now nothings happen,and right now im in saudi arabia,working. My questions are,what am i going to do if i would like to go to us or to see my father?is that possible for me to go to us w/o my father’s contact number?if yes,how am i going to do that?do i need also a lot of money if im planning to go us?thanks a lot if anyone answered. 🙁

If any of your parents is living in the US they will deny you immediately because of family ties even you are not petitioned. The consul will always presume that you are not coming back even your intentions are honest. No good to apply if they are judgemental all the time but for those people who most likely not returning more often they are given a visa so rediculous. Maybe it’s about time to change their policy. How about putting a bond like 1 million and withdawable in a certain period like 6 months for me that is a very appropriate move to insure equal assessment to people who wants to travel and if ever they will not return within that period the said bond will be forfeited. Does this sounds fair to everyone?

Wow! Lucky you got approved with your reason of visiting your boyfriend. When I was interviewed, the lady next to me was also going to the US to visit her boyfriend and she got declined! I have already visited my boyfriend twice in the US but my reason is always to visit friends, which is also part of my vacation. If you dont mind, i have something kind of personal to ask you about visas. Is it okay if i can contact you via email? Thanks!

Sure, please email me at [email protected] Can’t wait to hear from you!

Hi, i hope you are well. I was also planning to apply for a visa not until my parents applied me and my sister for petition. They said i now have lesser chances for being approved since an existing petition is already in process. Is that true? I just dont want to waste money in case i really have low chances. Thanks.

HI Arnel, How long ago since your parents filed for you and your sister’s petition? I know someone with similar situation as yours who got his US Tourist Visa approved while the petition was ongoing. You may be right, it might be tough to get approved, but its definitely not an IMPOSSIBLE case. Good luck! Anne

I have some questions:

1. On the 10 years validity of your visa, for how long can you only stay in the US?

2. How much money do you need to prepare? Or better how much money per day do you need to have and what they can consider enough?

3. Do you need to have flight and hotel reservations at hand prior to the application?

(1) When you arrive at the First Port of Entry in the US, you will have to go through their Immigration and the Immigration officer will decide on how long you can stay via the passport admission stamp. I was given up to 6 months stay as a Tourist. (2) There is no standard on how much money you need to have for your VISA to be approved. And by experience, I didn’t have a fat bank account when I applied, but I think I was able to convince them that I have enough ties (family, property,insurance and employment) in the Philippines and I must go back promptly after my proposed trip. (3) No. Its not advisable to book your flights and hotel without your VISA being approved yet.

Are you scheduled yet for your US VISA interview? Good luck and please update us!!! 🙂

I am looking for Nanny,Caregiver.Do write me via private email address if Interested with the Said Job Position as soon as Possible.salary per month: $4000 Nanny.Location: (United States)Florida. Age: 6years Old Boy his name is (Alan) Contact Email: roberthandersonhall500 (at) gmail.com

Expect your RESUME if Interested.

Hello,I’m so lucky enough and had a chance to read your email and your looking for a nunny or caregiver who are willingly or happy to accept this job.well, I’m so happy n blessed to apply this job because I love kids.Ive been working care of newborn baby since they were born till adulthood for 30 yrs.im 63 yrs old now, and this is the nature of my living.presently I’m in Manila working ng for 10 yrs to one of the family with 2 kids n now studying at ISM..I’ll be interested to apply with you,f you re interested on me..thank you n godbless you.

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Applying for a Visa

Procedure to Apply for Visa

Please confirm whether or not you need to apply for a visa. If you are a citizen of any Visa Waiver Program participating country, or already hold a valid U.S. visa, you may not need to apply for a new U.S. visa.

If you do need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa, please follow the steps below.

How to Apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa

Step 1: Pay the MRV application fee. ( Payment help and fee information .)

Step 2: Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.

Step 3: Return to this website after you pay your MRV application fee and schedule your Consular interview . You will need to provide three pieces of information in order to schedule your appointment:

• Your passport number
• The date you paid your fee (either online or at a bank branch)
• The 10 digit barcode number from the DS-160 confirmation page

Note: Applicants under the age of 20 must attend their visa interview with at least one parent. If the child is an orphan, or both parents are outside the Philippines, a legal guardian must accompany the child.

Step 4: Visit the U.S. Embassy, Manila on the date and time of your visa interview. You will need to bring your printed appointment letter, DS-160 confirmation page, one recent photograph , current and all old passports, and the original fee receipt. Applications without all of the above will NOT be accepted.

Step 5: Your passport and visa are returned to you by courier. ( Track my passport .)

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Entry Requirements for Children and Minors Traveling to the Philippines

If you’re planning a trip with children, you need to be aware of specific requirements for infants to travel to the Philippines .

In this post, you can find key information on:

• visa types and requirements for kids
• which documents you need for your trip
• how to complete the e-Travel form for children

Do Kids Need a Visa To Travel to the Philippines?

Whether your child needs a visa to visit the Philippines depends on their nationality and how long they’ll stay. Children and adults from over 130 countries can enter the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa . Visa-exempt countries include all EU countries, the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and Japan.

To find out more about if your child needs a visa for the Philippines, check the visa requirements and information about how to make your child’s visa application.

Philippines visa on arrival for children

Children from almost all countries can get a visa on arrival for a fee , which allows them to stay in the Philippines for up to 59 days.

Not all countries are eligible for the Philippines visa on arrival. Check the visa types and requirements for the Philippines for more information.

Other visas and permits for minors traveling to the Philippines

If your child is not eligible for visa-free entry, they need to apply for another type of visa or permit for entry.

There are a number of other Philippines visa types available for children , including:

• non-immigrant visas
• immigrant visas
• special permits

Consult your local embassy for specific information about your which is the right visa for your child.

What is the Philippines eTA visa waiver for children?

The Philippines eTA visa waiver is an electronic travel authorization . With an eTA, eligible travelers can visit the Philippines without a visa from an embassy or consulate.

It’s currently only available to citizens of Taiwan , including both adults and children .

When applying for an eTA to the Philippines for a child, parents and guardians can complete the online form on their child’s behalf and make a payment using a credit or debit card.

Most applications are processed quickly. You’ll receive your approved eTA for kids by email . Travelers can enter the Philippines by presenting their eTA at the border, along with their passport.

Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration for Children

Before arriving in or leaving the Philippines, all travelers must complete an Electronic Travel Declaration form , also known as an eTravel form. This applies to passengers of all ages , including children.

In this section, you can find out what the Philippines eTravel for minors is, who needs to complete it and how to apply.

What is the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration for kids?

The One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration allows Philippine authorities to collect information about your travel plans and health data. It is not a visa or travel authorization .

The Electronic Travel Declaration replaces the formerly used e-Arrival cards, One Health Pass, and paper departure cards.

It’s the only required health form for children and minors entering or leaving the Philippines.

Do children need their own Electronic Travel Declaration for the Philippines?

All travelers entering or leaving the Philippines , including Filipino children, must complete the Electronic Travel Declaration. This includes visitors, as well as Filipino citizens and residents.

Children and infants must have their own Electronic Travel Declaration to travel, which can be completed by parents or guardians.

How can I complete the Philippines Electronic Travel Declaration for my child?

It’s easy to complete the Electronic Travel Declaration for the Philippines online.

You’ll be asked to give some information about your child and their health status, as well as some details about your travel plans and accommodation.

Once you’ve submitted the requested details, a QR code will be generated. You’ll need to show this QR code with your other travel documents when you travel in or out of the Philippines with your child.

It’s important to note that the Electronic Travel Declaration QR code is for one-time use .

If the child enters or leaves the country at another time, you’ll have to complete the form again.

Certifications Required for Children Traveling to the Philippines

In addition to visa requirements and the Electronic Travel Declaration, some additional documentation may be required for your child to fly to the Philippines. This depends on who they are traveling with .

Do you need a birth certificate to fly with a child to the Philippines?

Children and babies traveling to the Philippines need to have the following documentation with them:

• birth certificate

Legal guardians or parents accompanying children traveling to the Philippines must also have a valid passport.

Both adult and child passports must be valid for 6 months longer than the planned visit to the Philippines.

Minors traveling with one parent to the Philippines

If your child is traveling with only one legal guardian or parent, they may need to carry a parental travel clearance signed by the other parent or guardian. This depends on custody arrangements between parents or guardians.

If a child is traveling with both parents or legal guardians, no parental travel clearance document is required.

Children traveling unaccompanied to the Philippines

Foreign children traveling to the Philippines unaccompanied or without either of their legal parents or guardians require additional documentation.

This includes a completed Waiver of Exclusion Ground application for minors under the age of 15.

Your local embassy or consulate can provide personalized information about travel requirements for children to the Philippines.

Do children require vaccination certificates to enter the Philippines?

Children over the age of nine months require a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter the Philippines if they are traveling from a yellow fever endemic country . If you’re traveling from a country where yellow fever is not endemic, you do not need to show a vaccination certificate.

There are no other required vaccines for children entering the Philippines. Some vaccinations are recommended for children visiting the Philippines. Your doctor can provide individualized advice on vaccinations.

Related Posts

Philippines Soft-Launches e-Visa Application for Chinese Citizens

Philippines Travel Restrictions

Philippines eTA Visa Waiver for Taiwanese Citizens

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You are here: Home / Apply for an Expedited Appointment

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Qualifications

How to apply, more actions.

If you have an unforeseen travel need as per one of the criteria listed below, you may qualify for an expedited appointment depending on availability at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate. It is important to ensure you meet all the criteria, because applicants are only allowed to create one expedited appointment request.

Before you apply for an expedited appointment, you must ensure that you have documentary evidence to prove the urgency. If it appears during your visa interview that you misrepresented the reasons for expedited travel, such facts will be noted on your case file and may adversely influence the outcome of your visa application. All applicants requesting an expedited appointment are required to first pay visa fees for a regular visa appointment. Applicants who are granted an expedited appointment but subsequently refused a visa or who or missed their interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate will not be allowed to utilize this option to obtain another expedited appointment.

The following types of travel do not qualify for an expedited appointment: attending weddings, attending graduation ceremonies, assisting pregnant relatives, attending cultural exchange events, attending business training, participating in annual business/academic/professional conferences, and enjoying last-minute tourism. For such travel, please schedule a regular visa appointment well in advance.

Medical Needs

Purpose of travel is to obtain expedited medical care, to accompany immediate family member (mother, father, brother, sister, child, grandparent, or grandchild) for expedited medical care, or to visit immediate a family member (mother, father, brother, sister, child, grandparent, or grandchild) suffering from an immediate, life-threatening medical condition.

Essential documentation:

• A letter from your doctor in the Philippines describing the medical condition and why you are seeking medical care in the United States.
• A letter from the physician or hospital in the United States indicating that they are prepared to treat the case and providing the approximate cost of the treatment.
• Evidence of how you will pay for the cost of the treatment.

Funeral/Death

Purpose of travel is to attend the funeral of or make arrangements for repatriating the body of an immediate family member (mother, father, brother, sister, child, grandparent, or grandchild) in the United States.

• A letter from the funeral director stating the contact information, the details of the deceased and the date of the funeral.
• You must also present evidence that the deceased is an immediate relative.

Urgent Business Travel

An expedited appointment would be appropriate when the purpose of travel is to attend to an urgent business matter where the travel requirement could not be predicted in advance. Attending training, sales meetings or conferences is not considered urgent business travel.

• A letter of invitation from the corresponding company in the United States attesting to the urgency of the planned visit, describing the nature of the business and explaining why the applicant’s presence is essential.

Students or exchange visitors

The purpose of travel is to return to the U.S. to attend classes or resume working in a timely manner. We expect students and temporary workers to make every effort to schedule regular appointments during their planned stays in the Philippines. However, in limited cases, the Embassy will consider expedited appointments for these types of travel. A list of documentary requirements for students and temporary workers can be found on the U.S. Embassy Manila website .

• Original Form I-20 or DS-2019 indicating start date of program within 60 days.
• Evidence that you have paid the SEVIS fee (when applicable).

ESTA Denied   You may request an expedited visa appointment if you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program partner but have received notice that you are no longer eligible to travel to the United States under that program. Such travelers include those who are dual nationals of Iraq, Iran, Sudan or Syria, or those who have travelled to Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Yemen, or Somalia after March 1, 2011.  Your travel must be imminent to qualify for an expedited appointment. Please include in your request the date and purpose of your travel.

A copy of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection message you received regarding your ESTA status.

Pay the visa application fee .

Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form .

Schedule an appointment online for the earliest available date. Please note that you must schedule an appointment before you can request an expedited date. At the time you schedule your appointment, you will see an onscreen message showing the earliest available appointment date, which includes expedited appointments. Accordingly, you may find that it is not necessary to request an expedited appointment because there are regular dates available. If you wish to proceed with requesting an expedited appointment, then complete the Request Form or contact the call center to request assistance. Please be sure to note the criteria you believe qualifies you for an expedited appointment. Once you have submitted your request, please wait for a response from the U.S. Embassy/Consulate, which will come via email.

If the U.S. Embassy/Consulate approves your request then you will receive an email alerting you to schedule your expedited appointment online . Please understand that the call center cannot schedule your expedited appointment for you, but agents are able to assist you if questions arise. Should the U.S. Embassy/Consulate deny your request for an expedited appointment, you will be notified of the denial by email and you should keep your existing appointment.

Note: The email confirming or denying your request will come from [email protected] . Some email applications have rules which filter unknown senders into a spam or junk mail folder. If you have not received your email notification, please look for the message in your junk and spam email folders.

Visit the U. S. Embassy/Consulate on the date and time of your visa interview. You will need to bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your DS-160 confirmation page, one recent photograph, your current passport and all old passports. Applications without all of these items will not be accepted.

• Schedule an expedited appointment
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• Download your visa application
• Cancel your appointment

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When to File Your Adjustment of Status Application for Family-Sponsored or Employment-Based Preference Visas: June 2024

Are you seeking to adjust your status and become a U.S. permanent resident under a family-sponsored or employment-based preference immigrant visa? If you have not yet had a relative or employer file an immigrant visa petition on your behalf, please learn more about the Adjustment of Status Filing Process . If you already have a petition filed or approved on your behalf, you may have to wait for an available visa in your category (if applicable) before you can file your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status . This page will help you determine when to file your adjustment of status application.

When to File

Use the Visa Bulletin charts below to determine when to file your adjustment of status application.

To use the charts:

• Find your visa type in the first column (on the left) of the appropriate chart (Family-sponsored or Employment-based).
• Stay in that row and move directly to the right to find the corresponding date under the country of your birth (as listed in the boldface columns across the top).
• If the date on the chart is current (“C”), or your priority date is earlier than the date on the chart, you may file your adjustment of status application, if otherwise eligible to do so.
• “U” means unauthorized; for example, numbers are not authorized for issuance.

Your priority date is generally the date when your relative or employer properly filed the immigrant visa petition on your behalf with USCIS. If a labor certification is required to be filed with your immigrant visa petition, the priority date is the date the labor certification application was accepted for processing by the Department of Labor.

About the Visa Bulletin

DOS publishes current immigrant visa availability information in a monthly Visa Bulletin . The Visa Bulletin indicates when statutorily limited visas are available for issuance to prospective immigrants based on their individual priority date.

On Nov. 20, 2014, the Secretary of Homeland Security directed USCIS to work with DOS to:

• Ensure that all immigrant visas authorized by Congress are issued to eligible individuals when there is sufficient demand for such visas, and
• Improve the Visa Bulletin system for determining when immigrant visas are available to applicants during the fiscal year.

Additionally, in July 2015, the Administration issued its report on Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st Century (PDF) . This report included detailed recommendations to revise and update the monthly Visa Bulletin to better estimate immigrant visa availability and provide needed predictability to nonimmigrant workers seeking permanent residency.

USCIS, in coordination with DOS, revised the procedures for determining visa availability for applicants waiting to file for adjustment of status. The revised process will better align with procedures DOS uses for noncitizens who seek to become U.S. permanent residents by applying for immigrant visas at U.S. consulates and embassies abroad.

This revised process will enhance DOS’s ability to more accurately predict overall immigrant visa demand in determining the cut-off dates for the Visa Bulletin. This will help ensure that the maximum number of immigrant visas are issued annually as intended by Congress, and minimize month-to-month fluctuations in Visa Bulletin final action dates. Additional goals are outlined in the White House report, Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st Century (PDF) .

New Visa Bulletin Charts

The Visa Bulletin will now have two different charts because of the revised procedures. DOS will post two charts per visa preference category in the DOS Visa Bulletin. The charts are:

• Application Final Action Dates (dates when visas may finally be issued); and
• Dates for Filing Applications (earliest dates when applicants may be able to apply).

When USCIS determines there are immigrant visas available for the filing of additional adjustment of status applications, the Dates for Filing Applications chart may be used to determine when to file an adjustment of status application with USCIS. Otherwise, the Application Final Action Dates chart must be used to determine when to file an adjustment of status application with USCIS.

In coordination with the DOS, USCIS will monitor visa numbers each month and post the relevant chart on this page under When to File.

Determining Visa Availability

USCIS considers several factors to determine if there is a greater supply of visas than the demand for those visas. To determine visa availability, USCIS will compare the number of visas available for the remainder of the fiscal year with:

• Documentarily qualified visa applications reported by DOS;
• Pending adjustment of status applications reported by USCIS; and
• Historical drop off rate of applicants for adjustment of status (for example, denials, withdrawals and abandonments)

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UAE Blue Residency visa: What it is, who can apply, and how to apply for it

Living in uae.

All you need to know about the UAE’s 10-year Blue Residency visa

Dubai: On May 15, the UAE Cabinet approved a new long-term residency visa – the ‘Blue Residency’, for individuals who have made contributions in the environmental field. The new visa reflects the UAE’s aim to enhance climate action and redouble environment conservation efforts in the country.

• UAE announces new 10-year Blue Residency Visa for environment heroes

What is the Blue Residency visa?

The Blue Residency visa is a 10-year residency granted to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to environment protection, whether in marine life, land-based ecosystems, or air quality, sustainability technologies, the circular economy, or related fields.

The Blue Residency aims to amplify and maintain the UAE's Year of Sustainability efforts, which was extended from 2023 to 2024.

Who can apply for the Blue Residency visa?

“The Blue Residency will specifically be granted to supporters of environmental action, including members of international organisations, international companies, members of associations and non-governmental organisations, global award winners, and distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work,” the UAE Cabinet announcement said.

How to apply for the Blue Residency visa

According to the announcement, advocates and experts interested in the visa are invited to submit their applications directly to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), or through nominations by competent authorities in UAE.

Why is the Blue Visa being introduced?

The visa aims to attract global environmental leaders to contribute to the UAE's sustainable economic and social development.

What other types of long-term residency visas are available?

In the UAE, there are two other types of long-term visas: - Green visa – which is a five-year residency permit for skilled professionals, freelancers and entrepreneurs. - Golden visa – this is a 10-year r esidency permit for different categories of applicants, including investors, entrepreneurs, doctors, and accomplished students.

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Money blog: Gary Neville's hotel named among best places for hospitality jobs

A magazine has released its annual list detailing the top picks for hospitality jobs. Read about this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog - and leave a comment or your money problem in the box below.

Friday 17 May 2024 19:16, UK

• 'Good news' as major drop in household energy bills predicted
• 'Seismic shift' as number of bank branch closures passes 6,000
• The 'top places to work' in hospitality - including Gary Neville's hotel
• New Greggs stores to open in these locations
• Drivers hit by 'unfairly high margins' on fuel

Essential reads

• Lowest buy-to-let mortgage rates revealed
• Is more expensive steak better for you?
• The rise of Michelin starred 'fast food'
• Basically...  What is PIP - and what could government changes mean?
• How to make sure your car passes its MOT
• Cheap Eats:  Michelin-star chef reveals his top steals in London - including an unbeatable sub sandwich
• Money Problem: My workplace wants to pay us by the minute - what can I do?
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Ask a question or make a comment

The Body Shop’s administrators are to launch an auction of the chain after concluding that an alternative restructuring of one of Britain’s best-known high street retailers was not viable.

Sky News has learnt that FRP Advisory, which has been overseeing the collapsed business since January, is to begin formally sounding out potential buyers in the coming weeks.

The move raises the prospect of new owners taking control of The Body Shop, which was founded nearly half a century ago.

Read more here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling - in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end", according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

Published today, the list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

While the combined wealth of the list's 350 wealthiest individuals amounts to more than £795bn - larger than the GDP of Poland - the guide's compiler says time will tell what impact a drop in billionaires could have.

"This year's Sunday Times Rich List suggests Britain's billionaire boom has come to an end," Robert Watts said.

"Many of our home-grown entrepreneurs have seen their fortunes fall and some of the global super rich who came here are moving away."

Top of the list is British-Indian businessman Gopi Hinduja and his family, whose wealth of £37.2bn is the largest fortune in the ranking's history.

But other familiar names in the list saw their riches fall, with Sir Richard Branson's total dropping by £2.4bn, which is back to his 2000 level.

Last year's top climber Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who bought a stake in Manchester United this year, fell two positions with a decline of £6.1bn.

Euan Blair, Tony Blair's eldest son, made the list for the first time, as did Sir Lewis Hamilton.

It comes as the UK continues to deal with a cost-of-living crisis, with new figures this week revealing a record 3.1 million food bank parcels were distributed over the course of a year.

The top 10:

• Gopi Hinduja - £37.2bn
• Sir Leonard Blavtanik - £29.2bn
• David and Simon Reuben and family - £24.9bn
• Sir Jim Ratcliffe - £23.5bn
• Sir James Dyson and family - £20.8bn
• Barnaby and Merlin Swire and family - £17.2bn
• Idan Ofer - £14.9bn
• Lakshmi Mittal and family - £14.9bn
• Guy, George, Alannah and Galen Weston and family - £14.4bn
• John Fredriksen and family - £12.8bn

A group of social media influencers have been charged in relation to promoting an unauthorised investment scheme.

The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) original cast member Lauren Goodger, 37, former Love Island star Biggs Chris, 32, and Celebrity Big Brother winner Scott Timlin, 36, also known as Scotty T, are among seven TV personalities alleged to have been paid to promote the scheme to their combined 4.5 million Instagram followers.

The others charged by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) include former Love Islanders Rebecca Gormley, 26, Jamie Clayton, 32, and Eva Zapico, 25 and TOWIE member Yazmin Oukhellou, 30.

The UK's financial watchdog brought the charges in a crackdown on "finfluencers" who use their online platforms to offer advice and information on various financial topics.

It alleges that between 19 May 2018 and 13 April 2021 Emmanuel Nwanze, 30, and Holly Thompson, 33, used an Instagram account to provide advice on buying and selling investments known as contracts for difference (CFDs) when they were not authorised to do so.

The watchdog said CFDs were high-risk investments used to bet on the price of an asset, in this case the price of foreign currencies.

It previously warned that 80% of customers lost money when investing in CDFs.

Mr Nwanze has been charged with running the scheme. He faces one count of breaching the general prohibition of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, and one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

Ms Thompson, Mr Chris, Mr Clayton, Ms Goodger, Ms Gormley, Ms Oukhellou, Mr Timlin and Ms Zapico each face one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

All nine will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 13 June.

The FCA asked anyone who believed they had sustained a loss due to the scheme to contact its consumer contact centre.

A hotel part-owned by Gary Neville and other ex-Manchester United legends has been named one of the best places to work in hospitality. 

Each year, The Caterer releases its top 30 best places for employees in the sector, with the top six featuring some familiar names.

The list is compiled via anonymous employee survey - with no input from managers or owners. 

Hotel Football, the only hotel with a rooftop five-a-side pitch, was among the top six venues selected by employees across the UK. 

The hotel's benefits package was particularly well-praised by those who work there - given that it "prioritises the financial wellbeing of employees during the cost of living challenge".

Management at the hotel, which is situated next to Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium, was also praised for enhanced maternity, paternity, parental and adoption leave policies and a strong belief in diversity and inclusion. 

The other five to make up the top six are The Biltmore in Mayfair, Cycas Hospitality (which has 18 locations across the UK), Dalata (which boasts some 1,000 employees), Gleneagles Hotel in Edinburgh and Nobu Hotel in Shoreditch, London. 

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a leading thinktank has said. 

Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap to rise again slightly in October, before falling again in January next year. 

Reacting to the news, Uswitch said the predicted drop was "clearly good news". 

"The future still remains uncertain, and with the price cap changing every three months – currently expected to rise in October before falling slightly in January –  it's crucial not to be complacent," Richard Neudegg, director of regulation, said. 

However, "a predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years", he said. 

He also urged  households who want to lock in rates for price certainty to run a comparison to see what energy tariffs are available to them.

"There are many 12-month fixed tariffs available at rates cheaper than the current price cap, and even some that are 2% below these new predicted July rates," he said. 

Cristiano Ronaldo has topped Forbes' list of highest-paid athletes for the fourth time in his career.

Ronaldo became the world's highest-paid athlete after his move to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr and Forbes said the 39-year-old's estimated total earnings were around $260m (£205m) - an all-time high for a football player.

His on-field earnings amounted to $200m (£158m) while off-field he earned $60m (£47m) thanks to sponsorship deals where brands make use of his 629 million Instagram followers.

Spanish golfer Jon Rahm took second place following his switch to Saudi-backed LIV Golf.

Rahm earned $218m (£172m) and joins Ronaldo as the only two athletes to earn over $200m.

Third on the list is record eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi, who switched to Major League Soccer team Inter Miami, which helped the Argentine World Cup winner earn $135m (£107m).

The 36-year-old earned $65m (£51m) in on-field earnings but $70m (£55m) off it from deals with major sponsors such as Adidas and Apple.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James came in fourth at $128m (£101m), while fellow NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks made fifth with $111m (£88m).

France football captain Kylian Mbappe dropped down to sixth with $110m (£87m).

French striker Karim Benzema, who also moved to Saudi Arabia, is eighth on the list with $106m (£84m), followed by Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry with $102m (£80m).

Lamar Jackson is the only NFL player on the list, in 10th place with $101m (£80m), thanks to the signing bonus negotiated into his new Baltimore Ravens contract last year.

The number of new pupils joining private schools has fallen by  2.7% since last year, according to the latest figures.

Data from the Independent Schools Council (ISC) shows families are now paying more than £18,000 a year on average to send their children to private school.

This is an 8% rise in school fees for the 2023-2024 academic year compared with the year before.

But as fees soar, figures show a 2.7% drop in the number of new pupil applications - this is the biggest fall since the ISC started collecting data in 2011.

Every Friday we get an overview of the mortgage market with independent experts from  Moneyfactscompare.co.uk . Today, finance expert Rachel Springall outlines what's been happening within the buy-to-let market…

A handful of lenders moved to tweak the fixed rates they charge on buy-to-let mortgages over the past week. 

Paragon Bank launched some new "portfolio" and "green" fixed mortgages, and Aldermore pulled its limited edition five-year fixed rates, max 65% loan-to-value. 

Buckinghamshire Building Society also launched new deals onto the market, and Claire Askham, head of mortgage sales said: "The decision to increase our BTL lending to 80% represents a positive move for the sector as we continue to see landlords appraising their portfolios through divesting, refinancing and taking advantage of a variety of property-related opportunities as they arise."

Week on week, there has been minor moves to the overall average fixed buy-to-let rates, with the two-year remaining unchanged at 5.62% and the five-year falling by 0.02% to 5.59%.

This week the lowest two-year fix for buy-to-let customers at 75% loan-to-value comes from Metro Bank, priced at 4.19%, which charges a percentage booking fee of 5.00% of the mortgage advance and is available to second-time buyers and remortgage customers borrowing a maximum of £2m. 

There is another option from the same lender which carries an incentive package just for remortgage customers, but it has a lower maximum advance of £1.5m.

If you are looking to borrow more, then Suffolk Building Society has the lowest two-year fix for buy-to-let customers at 80% loan-to-value priced at 4.79% for second-time buyers and remortgage customers. 

The deal charges a percentage completion fee of 3.00% of the mortgage advance as well as a flat £199 booking fee.

Remortgage customers will receive a free valuation and free legal fees incentive.

A five-year fixed buy-to-let mortgage may be more appealing for you to guarantee your monthly repayments for longer. 

If you looking to borrow at 75% loan-to-value, HSBC has a deal for remortgage customers priced at 4.33%, which carries a free valuation and free legal fees incentive package but charges a flat £3,999 product fee.

If you are looking to borrow more, then Furness Building Society has the lowest five-year fixed buy-to-let deal at 80% loan-to-value priced at 5.39% for second-time buyers and remortgage customers. It charges a booking fee of £995 and includes an £250 cashback incentive. 

Remortgage customers will also receive a free valuation. This deal also happens to be a Best Buy for a five-year fixed deal at 80% loan-to-value.

Best Buy alternatives

The lowest buy-to-let rates may carry both a flat product fee and an arrangement fee which is based on a percentage of the mortgage advance, so a Best Buy package may be more suitable if you are looking to save on the upfront cost of any deal. 

You might also want a deal to cover a valuation or legal fees. A Best Buy buy-to-let mortgage could be the most cost-effective choice in this instance, but it's worth seeking advice before entering any arrangement.

This week the top packages on a two-year fixed buy-to-let deal at 75% loan-to-value comes from HSBC, priced at 4.69%, which comes with a free valuation and charges a £3,999 product fee and is available to second-time buyers. 

If you want a loan with a lower upfront fee, then HSBC also has a Best Buy deal priced at 4.94% at 75% loan-to-value, which carries a free valuation and charges a £1,999 product fee and is available to second-time buyers.

If you are looking to borrow more, then Furness Building Society has a Best Buy two-year fixed buy-to-let deal priced at 5.73% at 80% loan-to-value for second-time buyers and remortgage customers. It charges a fee of £995 and includes a £250 cashback incentive. Remortgage customers will also receive a free valuation.

A five-year fixed buy-to-let mortgage may be more appealing for you to guarantee your monthly repayments for longer. If you looking to borrow at 75% loan-to-value, HSBC has a Best Buy deal priced at 4.39%, which carries a free valuation and charges a £3,999 product fee. 

If you want a loan with a lower upfront fee, then HSBC also has a Best Buy deal priced at 4.64% at 75% loan-to-value, which carries a free valuation and charges a £1,999 product fee.

If you are looking to borrow more, then Furness Building Society has a Best Buy five-year fixed buy-to-let deal priced at 5.39% at 80% loan-to-value for second-time buyers and remortgage customers. 

It charges a booking fee of £995 and includes an £250 cashback incentive. Remortgage customers will also receive a free valuation. This deal also happens to be the lowest rate on a five-year fixed deal at 80% loan-to-value.

By James Sillars , business reporter

A lack of strong corporate updates did for the FTSE 100 on Thursday.

A flat end to the day has been followed by a flat end to the week, with the index falling almost 0.1% to 8,433 in early deals on Friday.

Very little around for investors to ponder.

Developments this morning included pharmaceutical firm GSK saying it had raised £1.25bn from selling its entire remaining stake in Haleon.

The consumer healthcare firm was spun out of GSK almost two years ago.

One other announcement of note came from Sainsbury's.

It revealed a five-year strategic partnership with Microsoft that will see generative AI used to boost personalised shopping experiences for consumers, improve search functions and make staff working practices more efficient.

The financial terms were not disclosed. Its shares were 0.4% higher.

Away from the equity markets, it's worth taking a quick look at how oil is finishing the week.

Brent crude is trading above $83 a barrel on evidence of rising demand.

Prices at these levels should not have an impact at the fuel pumps but small recent declines in average costs could be reversed if the upwards oil price trend continues.

Greggs will open eight stores in the next few weeks, as the company continues its expansion plans 

The bakery said it would open a total of 180 new branches before the end of this year. 

We were told earlier this year that the famous sausage roll-seller would open new stores in London, Cambridge and Sale, but Greggs has now revealed where its next eight new branches will be. 

Here are the locations of the eight new sights, revealed by the bakery to The Sun:

• Saffron Walden, Market Place, England
• Bangor, Carnarfon Road, Wales
• Birmingham Prime Park, England
• Brierley Hill, Merryhill, England
• Consett Delves Lane Drive Thru, County Durham, England
• Edinburgh, 60-61 Seafield Road, Scotland
• Glasgow, Argyle St, Scotland
• Porth, U3C Geilligron IE, Wales

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