Starting September 28, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Manila has implemented significant changes to the USA visa application process for Filipino applicants. These updates aim to streamline procedures and accommodate the increasing number of visa applicants from the Philippines. For many Filipino parents dreaming of visiting their children or family in the U.S., understanding these new steps is essential to avoid delays, wasted trips, and confusion.
Understanding the New USA Visa Application Process
Key changes in the USA Visa application process
1. Separate Biometric Appointment at the Visa Application Center (VAC)
Applicants are now required to schedule a separate appointment for biometric data collection—photo capture and fingerprint scanning—at the newly established Visa Application Center (VAC) located at Parqal Building 8, Level 3, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay Tambo, Parañaque City. This step must be completed before attending the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy on Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
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2. Redesigned Online Appointment System
A new, secure, and user-friendly online appointment system has been launched at ustraveldocs.com/ph. Applicants with existing accounts should log in using their registered email addresses to access their profiles, including payment receipts and appointment information.
3. VAC Operating Hours
The VAC operates from Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. No appointment is needed for applicants picking up passports or dropping off interview waiver applications and other required documents during regular weekday hours.
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Implications for Filipino parents
For parents planning to visit or join family members in the U.S., it’s essential to note that the new process requires two separate appointments: one for biometrics at the VAC and another for the visa interview at the embassy. This change may necessitate additional planning, especially for those traveling from outside Metro Manila, as it could involve extra travel and accommodation expenses.
Steps to apply for a USA visa
- Complete the DS-160 FormBegin by filling out the DS-160 form online, which is the standard application for non-immigrant visas.
- Pay the Visa Application FeeThe visa application fee varies depending on the visa category. For example, the fee for a visitor visa (B1/B2) is $185. Payment can be made through various methods as outlined on the ustraveldocs.com/ph website.
- Schedule AppointmentsAfter payment confirmation, schedule two separate appointments: one at the VAC for biometrics and another at the U.S. Embassy for the visa interview.
- Attend VAC AppointmentVisit the VAC at the scheduled time for photo capture and fingerprint scanning.
- Attend Visa InterviewProceed to the U.S. Embassy on the appointed date for your visa interview.
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Additional support
The U.S. Embassy has also launched a call center to assist with general, non-emergency American Citizen Services (ACS) inquiries, including passport services, citizenship applications, and notarial services. U.S. citizens can contact the consular hotlines at (+632) 7792-8988 or (+632) 8548-8223, or (703) 520-2235 for callers in the United States.
The updated USA visa application process aims to enhance efficiency and security for all applicants. Filipino parents planning to apply for a U.S. visa should familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure a smooth application experience. For the most current information and to begin the application process, visit ustraveldocs.com/ph.
