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COVID-19 pandemic and travel insurance policies in the Philippines Learn more

Travel Tips

Usa travel requirements - documents to prepare this 2022, what are the essential documents for us travel if you are a philippine passport holder.

Travel Requirements to USA from Philippines

Traveling post-COVID calls for more preparation  than we are accustomed to. Requirements from both your place of origin and your destination are subject to change at short notice and transit requirements for each country may differ. Listed below are the documents I prepared for my recent trip to California from Manila (via Tokyo). 

Essential travel documents for flights from Philippines to USA:

1. passport and us visa .

In addition to an active US visa , passports should have at least 6 months validity before the date of departure.

2. Airline Itinerary

Though much more stable than it was during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the travel industry remains somewhat unpredictable. Flights may be canceled, moved, or rerouted. Save yourself the pain of dealing with third party websites who claim no liability. Use aggregators to find the best deals but book directly with your preferred airline.

3. Proof of Vaccination 

Pre-departure COVID-19 testing is no longer a requirement for travel to the USA.

Instead, non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen travelers are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination prior to boarding. Travelers are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after they've received their second dose of a two-series vaccine or their first in A single dose vaccine. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination must have personal identifiers (e.g. Full Name, Birthdate, Passport Number), vaccine manufacturer, dates of vaccination, and name of official source issuing the record (e.g. LGU, authorized vaccine provider). 

I traveled to the United States with both a VaxcertPH printout and my BOQ-issued ICV since I already had them ON HAND but either one will suffice. 

DOH's vaccination certificate portal can be accessed here: VaxCertPH

4. CDC Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to the USA

Though the Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to the United States of America is available at the airport through the airline check-in counter, I prepared one in advance and presented it upon check-in prior to departure. A copy of this document may be downloaded here: Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Non-Citizen and Non-Immigrants Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to USA. 

5. Departure Card

The departure card is the same one all outbound passengers need to fill out when traveling overseas pre-pandemic and is available past the airline check-in counters, before immigration. You don't have to prepare one in advance but having one pre-filled out helps navigating the queue at immigration quickly and seamlessly.

6. Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage 

Although the United States does not require travel medical insurance to enter, it may still be requested at the airline check-in counter or immigration counter in the Philippines.

I booked through travelinsurance.com.ph . You may request a quote through their website and they will send your options through e-mail. My insurance plan covered Php 1,500,000.00 in personal accidents and medical coverage. I didn't need to file any claims, fortunately, but it was a massive relief to know I was covered.

You may request for a USA travel insurance quote here: Request for a travel insurance quote

Travel Insurance from airline company can compliment your primary travel insurance policy

The credit card I used to book airline tickets offered free travel insurance that covered unforeseen flight cancellations and lost luggage. I figured the more coverage, the better, so I called my credit card company to grab the offer. Check your credit card benefits in case you'll be able to avail of the same or similar offer/ reward.

7. Hotel Booking or Invitation Letter

A print-out of your hotel reservation isn't a requirement for entry to the US but you will likely be asked where you'll be staying by the immigration officer at your port of entry. A digital copy or physical print-out of your hotel booking can definitely help a lot in the event you're asked to substantiate your booking. If staying with relatives or friends, an invitation letter including the address you'll be residing in will do. 

Essential document for return to the Philippines

Prior to returning to the philippines, it is advisable to prepare this document in advance:, 8. boq e-health declaration card (e-hdc) , also known as one health pass qr code.

The Philippine government requires all arriving passengers, including children, to complete a BOQ e-Health Declaration Card (e-HDC). Presented at airline check-in prior to departure and scanned upon arrival at BOQ counter in Manila, your BOQ e-Health Declaration Card (e-HDC) should be accomplished up to three days before departure from port of embarkation. Make sure to take a screencap of your  transaction number and OHP QR Code upon registration as the confirmation email may not arrive on time -- or at all (ours didn't). PH-bound travelers without the One Health Pass QR Code will not be allowed to check-in to their flight. 

Won't lie, I was tied in anxious knots before my trip as it was my first time traveling since COVID-19 hit. Getting insurance eased the travel anxiety wrought by whispers of cancelled flights, lost luggage, and sick passengers.

Requesting for a travel insurance quote is easy, simply provide your age, travel duration and destination at travelinsurance.com.ph 's contact page and they will send your options through email.

Navigating the airports was easy and surprisingly fast because I planned ahead and overprepared. So check back with your airline frequently for current travel regulations and requirements , including any stops for connecting flights.

If you are a Philippine passport holder and have an upcoming travel to the USA, preparing these requirements in advance will lead to more convenient airport procedures.

Travel Insurance Info

Annual travel insurance - a guide for tourists from the philippines.

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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 .

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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!!! 🙂

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Philippine Consulate General

The Republic of the Philippines

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

New york, usa.

• Post published: 4 February 2022
• Post category: Advisories / Announcement & Advisories
• Reading time: 3 min(s) read

Public Advisory

009-2022 04 February 2022

ENTRY GUIDELINES FOR US AND OTHER FOREIGN NATIONALS VISITING THE PHILIPPINES FOR TOURISM, BUSINESS PURPOSES

The Philippine Consulate General in New York wishes to inform the public that, per IATF Resolution No. 160-B, fully-vaccinated Americans can travel to the Philippines for business or leisure beginning 10 February 2022, and will no longer be required to undergo facility-based quarantine. 

The new guidelines cover fully vaccinated former Filipino citizens with Balikbayan privilege, including their foreign spouses and/or children traveling with them to the Philippines; provided that they are not restricted nationals; and fully vaccinated citizens of the United States and of countries entitled to stay visa-free for not more than 30 days under Executive Order 408, S. 1960.

Unvaccinated foreign nationals will be denied admission into the country.

When is a foreign national considered fully-vaccinated?

When he has received the second dose in a two-dose series, or a single dose of a recognized vaccine more than 14 days prior to the date and time of departure;

What do they need to present?

• Proof of vaccination;
• A negative RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to departure;
• Valid return-tickets not later than 30 days after arrival in the Philippines;
• A passport valid for at least six months; and
• Travel insurance for COVID-19 treatment costs from reputed insurers, with a minimum coverage of USD35,000.00 for the duration of their stay.

What are considered valid proof of vaccination?

• WHO International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis;
• The national/state digital certificate of the country/foreign government which has accepted VaxCertPH under a reciprocal agreement;
• The vaccination certificate issued by any of the states of the United States, whether digital or physical; or
• The vaccination certificate issued by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, whether digital or physical.

What are the rules for foreign minors traveling with their Filipino parent?

• Unvaccinated foreign children below 12 years of age traveling with their Filipino parent, shall follow the entry, testing, and quarantine protocols of their Filipino parent traveling with them;
• Foreign children from ages 12 to 17 years of age traveling with their Filipino parent, shall follow the protocols based on their vaccination status (i.e., vaccinated or unvaccinated). If the child is unvaccinated, either parent should accompany the child during their facility-based quarantine.

Fully-vaccinated foreign nationals will no longer be required to undergo facility-based quarantine. Instead, they shall self-monitor for any sign or symptom for seven days with the first day being the date of arrival, and shall be required to report to their local government unit upon the manifestation of symptoms, if any.

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Chances of approval for U.S. tourist visa from Philippines

If you’re from the Philippines and you want to visit your fiancé in the United States on a tourist visa, what are the chances of your tourist visa being approved?

Obtaining a U.S. visa in this situation might be difficult. Issues that many applicants face are related to showing strong ties to the Philippines or their home countries. If you are young and single with no assets or property, and no dependents, or stable career in the Philippines, the U.S. authorities might believe that you won’t return to the Philippines, as your reasons for staying in the U.S. outnumber your reasons for returning to the Philippines. If you say you’re going to visit your fiancé, this can be perceived as attempting to circumvent the K1 visa process.

The tourist visa fee is $165 to apply. We can help you with that. Our fee to assist you with a US tourist visa is $149, so if you want to spend $264 to take a chance and find out, it doesn’t hurt a future fiancé visa application. That’s another common question. “If I get denied a tourist visa, is that going to hurt me later for a fiancé or spousal visa?” Absolutely not as long as you’re honest and you aren’t denied because of fraud. So if you want to spend the money and try it, you have nothing to lose except money and time spent attending the tourist visa interview in Manila.

To calculate your chances of approval, please see our tool: Tourist Visa Odds Calculator

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• TRUNK LINE (032) 340-2000
• FAX NO. (032) 340-2267
• E-MAIL ADDRESS [email protected]
• ADDRESS Unit GF03-B Pacific Centre Bldg, 460 Quintin Paredes cor Sabino Padilla Sts., Binondo, Manila
• TRUNK LINE (02) 8244-3500
• E-MAIL ADDRESS [email protected]
• ADDRESS Level 1 Unit 111B-112, Robinson's Cybergate Mall Davao, J.P. Laurel Street, Bajada, Davao City
• TRUNK LINE (082) 287-8200
• FAX NO. (082) 287-8200
• E-MAIL ADDRESS [email protected]
• ADDRESS 1F AN RAE Building T.Chaves corner Rizal Street, Brgy 04 Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Misamis Oriental
• TRUNK LINE (088) 881-8000 / 0917 633 0920
• E-MAIL ADDRESS [email protected]
• ADDRESS Blk 01 G/F Dr. Henry Chusuey International Center, University of San Agustin, Jalandoni St. Iloilo City
• TRUNK LINE (033) 513-2436 / 09176333793
• E-MAIL ADDRESS [email protected]

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Your Trusted USA Visa Agency in the Philippines. Helping You With Your USA Visa Processing.

Are you dreaming of visiting the United States for tourism, work, or to reunite with your loved ones? The first step in turning this dream into reality is to secure a US visa , and navigating the complex and often confusing visa application process can be challenging. That’s where Olvis Visa , a professional and experienced US Visa agency in Cebu City, Philippines , comes into play.

Olvis Visa has over 30 years of experience in US visa processing , Olvis Visa can help you streamline your application, increase your chances of approval, and alleviate the stress associated with the process.

In this blog post, we will delve into the invaluable services that Olvis Visa offers and explain why hiring a professional US Visa agency is crucial for a successful visa application. Whether you’re planning a vacation, pursuing higher education, seeking employment, or reuniting with family in the United States, Olvis Visa is here to guide you every step of the way.

US Visa Services Offered by Olvis Visa

• Visa Consultation and Assessment Olvis Visa begins by providing a comprehensive visa consultation, where their experienced team assesses your eligibility for the specific US visa category you are interested in. They will guide you on the most suitable visa type and the requirements associated with it.
• Completing visa application forms accurately.
• Collecting supporting documents, such as financial statements, employment letters, and travel itineraries.
• Drafting a convincing cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip.
• Ensuring that all documents are properly notarized and authenticated.
• Interview Preparation For many visa applicants, the interview at the US Embassy can be the most intimidating part of the process. Olvis Visa provides expert guidance and mock interview sessions to help you prepare for the visa interview, ensuring that you are ready to confidently answer questions posed by consular officers.
• Visa Application Submission Olvis Visa will take care of the entire application submission process, scheduling your visa interview appointment, and ensuring that your application package is complete and well-organized. This meticulous approach minimizes the chances of rejection due to missing or incorrect documents.

Advantages of Hiring a Professional USA Visa Agency in the Philippines

• Expertise and Experience Olvis Visa’s 30 years of experience in US visa processing ensures that they have a deep understanding of the process and can help you navigate it successfully.
• Tailored Guidance Every individual’s situation is unique. Olvis Visa provides personalized assistance based on your specific circumstances and visa requirements, increasing the likelihood of approval.
• Time and Stress Savings Navigating the visa process on your own can be time-consuming and stressful. Olvis Visa streamlines the process, minimizing potential delays and reducing your stress levels.
• Increased Approval Chances With Olvis Visa’s expert guidance, you are more likely to submit a complete and accurate application, which significantly improves your chances of having your US visa application approved.

Securing a US visa can be a complex and daunting process, but with the assistance of Olvis Visa, a professional and experienced US Visa agency in the Philippines , you can embark on your journey with confidence.

Their personalized services, document verification, interview preparation, and extensive experience in US visa processing make them a trusted partner in your visa application process.

Whether you are planning a vacation, pursuing your studies, or seeking new opportunities in the United States, Olvis Visa is your key to a successful US visa application.

Contact them today to turn your American dream into reality.

Hello Sir/Ma’am have a good day! May I request to your good office to help me get a US visa. Please🙏

Yes we do visa’s for Fiancee , Spouse or alien relative and tourist, we do not do student visas. for further info you may email Nympha at [email protected] or call our cellular hot line at 0927-302-9895 Cordial Regards Mike

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UUWI KA BA? All you need to know: Updated departure rules for Filipinos

The Filipino Times outlines new departure rules for Filipino travelers. Additional documents may be needed at immigration.

The introduction of new guidelines for international travel has sparked a debate among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). While the announcement has been recognized, it has raised questions about whether these guidelines will really protect Filipinos from human trafficking or if they are an unnecessary addition. A subset of OFWs has raised apprehensions regarding the perceived stringent new requirements.

The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has introduced revised guidelines aimed at enhancing efforts to safeguard Filipinos from human trafficking and illegal recruitment.

These updated departure regulations will result in more rigorous procedures for Filipino travelers, especially for first-time travelers, prior to their departure.

Dixie Lao, who works in Dubai, appreciates the Philippine government’s good intentions to protect all Filipinos from human trafficking. However, she pointed out that the extra paperwork needed for first-time travelers might worry people who just want to tour and travel abroad.

“Sa totoo lang maganda ang layunin ng Philippine government na ma-protektahan ang bawat Filipino against human trafficking sapagkat ‘yun ang nais ng nakararami sa atin,” Lao said in an online interview with The Filipino Times (TFT). “Sa kabilang banda, ang additional na mga dokumentong hihingin sa mga first time travelers abroad ay magbibigay ng dagdag isipin at alalahanin ng mga nais lamang pumasyal sa ibang bansa.”

Herman Ataat, a supervisor in Dubai, acknowledges the intent of the revisions but still has some concerns about the recent decision.

“I have some reservations about it because there are tendencies that with the new guidelines, mas lalo lang nila binigyan ng scapegoat ang mga Pinoy immigration officers para mas lalong mang ipit. With the previous situations ito yung susceptible to ‘under the table’ negotiations and corruption,” Ataat told TFT.

Amid discussions about possible impacts on people’s travel rights, the Department of Justice (DOJ) officials have tried to allay worries and explain the reasons for the updates. Initially set to be in effect on September 3, the IACAT has decided to defer the implementation amid public concerns.

“We take this opportunity to remind everyone that the temporary suspension of the implementation of the revised guidelines on departure formalities does not affect existing laws and regulations governing travel and immigration procedures. All existing rules and guidelines remain in place until further notice,” the DOJ said.

In a press briefing last August 24, government representatives emphasized that the new rules don’t add extra difficulties for travelers. Instead, they match the Philippines’ promise to safeguard its citizens and stop the exploitation of those at risk.

“Given the nation’s history of migration as well as the vulnerabilities of many of our countrymen, it becomes essential to have well-defined and easily understandable departure protocols that deter potential traffickers from exploiting vulnerable individuals,” DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said.

Norman Tansingco, Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration, said that the newly introduced guidelines were built upon a framework that has existed since 2012. He assured departing tourists that the revisions were designed to address public concerns and that there was no need for undue worry.

This move to revise the guidelines follows a series of incidents where travelers reported missing flights or being offloaded due to in-depth questioning by immigration officers.

Basic travel requirements

The DOJ highlighted that the majority of travelers, over 95 percent, are required to present only the most basic documents such as a passport valid for at least six months from the departure date, a boarding pass, an appropriate visa (when required), and a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket (when necessary).

According to DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla, additional requirements are predominantly applied to first-time travelers who may appear as tourists but have intentions of seeking employment abroad.

For his part, Atty. John Rio Bautista, Labor Attaché in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, affirmed his support with IACAT in the release of the updated departure guidelines, covering not solely OFWs but all departing Filipino travelers.

“The Migrant Workers Office in Dubai would like to remind and advise all departing passengers from the Philippines, particularly our OFWs, to take note and comply with the presentation of the required documents in order to facilitate their departure and eventual arrival to their worksite abroad,” Bautista told TFT in an online interview.

“The Assistance Center of the Department of Migrant Workers in all international airports will continuously provide departure assistance to all OFWs,” he added.

Financial capacity: When is it needed?

The need to provide proof of financial capacity and employment is largely dependent on specific circumstances.

According to IACAT in-charge Nicholas Felix Ty, these requirements are not standard for all travelers.

“That will only come in if the Filipino traveler is not able to adequately present and prove his purpose of travel, or in more regular parlance, when there are indications of red flags,” Ty stated.

He also noted that immigration officers do not typically request for proof of financial capacity and employment, especially for travelers going to countries that require a visa.

Ty said that such proof is usually established at the embassy level when applying for a visa.

Travelers with a history of trouble-free departures are likely to navigate immigration smoothly without the need for additional documentation.

Supporting documents

In addition to the basic travel documents, an immigration officer may request supporting documents based on the traveler’s circumstances.

Self-funded travelers might be required to present proof of accommodation, financial capacity, source of income, and proof of employment.

On the other hand, travelers whose trips are sponsored by a relative within a first civil degree may need to provide birth/marriage certificates, copies of sponsor’s passport, a valid work visa or residence permit, and Overseas Employment Certificate (for OFW sponsors).

Meanwhile, cases involving sponsors within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity could require a notarized affidavit of support, along with birth/marriage certificates.

For travel sponsored by non-relatives or legal entities, an affidavit of support and a document establishing the relationship between the passenger and sponsor may be requested.

First-time OFWs may need to present an OFW clearance, valid employment visa or work permit, and employment contract.

To ensure smooth processing, primary inspections are expected to last for 45 seconds, while secondary inspections should not exceed 15 minutes unless exceptional circumstances necessitate a longer evaluation period.

The Philippine government aims to strike a balance between protecting its citizens and facilitating their travel experiences with the revised guidelines in effect. While concerns have been voiced, officials emphasized that the changes are rooted in a commitment to combat human trafficking and safeguarding the welfare of Filipino travelers.

Coming home

As OFWs in the UAE prepare for their journey home, they will navigate these updated protocols with the hope of a joyous and meaningful Christmas reunion with their loved ones.

Looking forward, Lao said she is set to come home to the Philippines this September to welcome the ‘ber’ months together with her family. This, amid the revised departure rules.

“Hindi ko man maabutan ang Pasko sa aking pag-uwi, mahalaga pa rin na makauwi ako sapagkat may mga pamilya akong naghihintay sa akin. At sila ang dahilan kung bakit na-eexcite akong umuwi dahil makikita ko na sila at makakausap ng aktwal,” Lao exclaimed.

“Magkakasama na muli kami lalo na ngayong ‘ber’ months sapagkat masaya sa pakiramdam ang pamilyang magkakasama sa nalalapit na Pasko,” she added.

Meanwhile, Ataat still plans to spend Christmas in the Philippines despite his reservations about the recent move, because for him family is the essence of the celebration.

“I have plans to go on vacation on Christmas. Napakahalaga kasi para sa ating mga Pilipino na kasama natin ang pamilya sa Pasko. During this season, dadapuan ka talaga ng lungkot bilang OFW lalo na kapag napapanuod mo sa mga balita kung paano mag-celebrate ng Pasko sa Pinas,” he said.

Tricia Gajitos

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Privacy overview.

Philippines travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Philippines travel in 2024 with official Philippines travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

As restrictions can vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: February 21, 2024. Originally published: October 2020.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *

February 2024:  “Our main requirement for travel to the Philippines was completing an online form within 72 hours of arriving. Our airline reminded us to do the same process before departing the Philippines as well. The form asks for flight info, countries visited in the last 30 days, and whether you have been sick or exposed to someone ‘known to have communicable/infectious disease’ in the past 30 days. We then received a QR code to show at the airport. We did not need to show the QR code upon arrival or departure (airline staff told me it’s actually for Philippine passport holders only). At immigration they had no questions for us on arrival or departure.” – Michelle & Jedd, Intentional Travelers, American digital nomads

Photo credit: Anwar Y January 2024: “I visited the Philippines for 3 weeks in January with visits to places on 4 major islands across the country [Luzon, Bohol, Cebu, and Palawan]. Overall tourism was open and accessible within the country, flights between islands were the easiest, with long overland travel times (due to local-roads / lack of highways). We did not experience any travel restrictions while within the country. There is a pre-arrival form that must be filled out that is used for tracing but really we didn’t find it used much beyond immigration. There were requirements for providing hotels for contact tracing but it was haphazardly enforced, such as only 1 bus company asked for this information. Access to all services is open, we did notice that for many services employees were masked but there was no requirement for tourists to mask. We found covid tests readily accessible and often in vending machines such as in the airport. One thing of note is that people did appear to be sick. My entire group ended up sick (non-covid) but the sinus cold did impede our ability to do some activities (scuba diving).” – Anwar Y of Beyond My Door , American traveler

At the end of the post, we share on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Philippines so you can get a true sense of what to expect. We’re thankful to one of our team members from the Philippines for co-creating this post with us!

Table of Contents

Is the Philippines open for travel? Can I travel to the Philippines right now?

Effective July 2023 , all travelers are allowed entry in the Philippines without restrictions. The following are no longer required to enter the Philippines:

• Proof of Vaccination
• Proof of negative Covid test (for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers)
• Travel insurance

However, travelers must still meet the following requirements:

• As of April 2023, all travelers, including children. are required to register via the Electronic Travel Declaration System no earlier than 72 hours from the intended arrival.
• Passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of arrival.
• Have booked a return or outbound ticket (affiliate link).

U.S. citizens are allowed visa-free entry into the Philippines for 30 days.

See the list of visa exempt countries here.

Philippines travel restrictions  have changed over time, please check back for updates.

Quarantine rules in the Philippines: What happens if I get Covid?

All travelers arriving in the Philippines are not required to quarantine.

Foreign tourists who  test positive for Covid while in the Philippines must continue to isolate and undergo quarantine.

For cases with moderate to severe symptoms or belonging to the immunocompromised category, isolation of 10 days from onset of signs and symptoms is required. Patient may be required to be admitted to a health care facility based on the advice of the attending physician.

For severe cases and immunocompromised cases , isolation is required and may end only upon the advice of their health care provider.

Patients with mild symptoms or asymptomatic are advised to isolate at home for five days or until fever-free for at least 24 hours without using antipyretics such as paracetamol, whichever is earlier.

Foreign tourists may be required to cover the costs of quarantine accommodations or hospitalization.

Recommended Quarantine Hotels in the Philippines:

Bayview Park Hotel Manila – Located at the heart of Manila, near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and US Embassy, Bayview Park Hotel has modern and cozy rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, personal safe, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool and coffee shop with local and international dishes. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $748-$997. Book this hotel >

Hotel Durban – Hotel Durban is located in Makati, Manila. The hotel features air conditioned rooms, restaurant, bar, and free Wifi. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $471-$871. Book this hotel >

Somerset Millennium Makati – Somerset Millennium is a high-end hotel conveniently located in the vibrant business district of Makati City, 30 minutes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The hotel offers elegant rooms with free Wifi, air conditioning, and flat screen TVs. There’s also an on-site restaurant, fitness center, spa, and swimming pool. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $1657-$1888. Book this hotel >

Radissan Blu Cebu – The Radissan Blue is one of Cebu’s top rated five star hotels. It has swimming pool, spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and airport transfers. Rooms come with air conditioning, Wifi, and a fantastic breakfast. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $1022-$1498. Book this hotel >

Can I travel to the Philippines in April 2024? Can I travel to Philippines this Spring?

The Philippines is open to tourists in April. Read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Manila MNL Ninoy Aquino International Airport right now? Philippine Airlines reports p assengers are no longer required to wear face masks, though it is still recommended.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to the Philippines? No. Only travelers who test positive will need to quarantine. See details above.

Does Philippines check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Travelers undergo a passive thermal scan upon arrival in the airport. Hats must be removed, otherwise just walk through.

Does Philippines require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? No. As of July 2023, a negative test is no longer required for travelers to enter the Philippines.

Do I have to undergo a Covid test upon arrival in the Philippines? No. Covid test upon arrival is no longer required.

Does Philippines require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. A proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? Quarantine and negative Covid test is no longer required for travelers.

Is a booster shot required for travel to the Philippines? At this time, booster shots are not required in the Philippines. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

Do I need to provide proof of vaccination or test for domestic flights in the Philippines? Most destinations within the Philippines no longer require a proof of vaccination or test for domestic flights.

However, local authorities may have specific requirements. It is recommended to check with the destination’s local government unit (LGU) through their official website or Facebook page for the latest rules and guidelines.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in the Philippines who get the virus?   Philippine hospitals and clinics are open. Foreign visitors can get PCR or antigen test at  the Philippines Department Of Health accredited testing centers .

Foreign visitors who get the virus would pay out of pocket for medical services. The medical expenses for the treatment will vary depending on the severity of the condition, the hospital where the patient is admitted, confinement duration, and other factors.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in the Philippines? Markets and groceries, which are considered essential businesses, remained open throughout the duration of the community quarantine in the Philippines.

Restaurants are permitted to accept dine-ins. Malls, personal care services, and entertainment establishments are also back in business following health and safety protocols.

More hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments are allowed to operate under different community quarantine classifications and cater to local travelers.

Do I need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter or stay at hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments in the Philippines? Most accommodation establishments in the Philippines no longer require a proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.

It is advisable to visit the hotel website or official social media pages to know their latest guidelines. Additionally, contacting the establishment directly is recommended for any clarifications.

What public gatherings are allowed in Philippines? Public gatherings are allowed but must follow health and safety protocols.

Are face masks required in the Philippines? As of July 2023 , wearing of face masks is no longer required in the Philippines.

Are buses running in the Philippines? Yes. Public transportation is available in the Philippines, including buses, jeepneys, trains, tricycles, and vans.

Will the Philippines impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, the Philippines has imposed nationwide as well as localized COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted the Philippines?

The first case of the Coronavirus was confirmed in the Philippines January 30, 2020 and the country was placed under a State of Public Health Emergency on March 8, 2020.

As a measure to limit the spread of the virus, lockdowns or community quarantines have been imposed since March 15, 2020. Despite implementing strict lockdowns, the country still experienced surges in cases, reporting more confirmed cases and deaths than any other Southeast Asian country.

The onslaught of the virus put the country into recession with mass unemployment. The restriction on travel also affected tourism, which is a large industry in the country. 

Over two thirds of the population has been vaccinated in the Philippines.

In July 2023, the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted throughout the Philippines. All restrictions due to Covid 19 are no longer in effect.

For the current situation in the Philippines, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in the Philippines; and COVID-19 testing in the Philippines, please see the Philippines Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in the Philippines?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are optional but recommended in crowded areas. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Philippine locals and recent travelers say about visiting the Philippines now?

What is it like to visit the Philippines right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

November 2023 – Gladis of Happiness on the Way , Filipina citizen:  “I flew from Frankfurt to Clark International Airport (Philippines) in September and was surprised by the low number of tourists. I’ve traveled around Clark and Manila for a month and most of the businesses like cafes, restaurants and even tours are all back – I love how I was able to see famous spots with less tourists!

Healthcare, testing, and local attractions are fully operational in most cities and touristy towns. Hotels and restaurants provide sanitizers, and staff are vaccinated with open-air setups. Airports in the Philippines have synchronized e-travel for smoother lines. Most popular destinations have maximum tourists now, so booking ahead is advisable to secure your spot.”

June 2023 – Liza of Always in Spain : “I’m in the Philippines for one month (May to June 2023) to visit family and travel around the country.

Tourism in the Philippines is thriving again! Tourist attractions are open without restrictions, tour operators are offering services again, and transportation (air & land) look fully open for domestic travel so it’s easy to get around the country.

Aside from having to complete a declaration upon arrival, things are back to normal in the Philippines. Some people still prefer to mask up (especially indoors) but it’s not obligatory.

Pharmacies are plentiful in the large cities so you have easy access to home testing kits and over-the-counter medication if you need it. If you’re traveling to more remote areas, it’s a good idea to have your own emergency medical kit just in case.”

February 2023 – Kieren of Wales Guidebook , UK traveler:  “My girlfriend and I visited the Philippines for 10 days in February 2023 with a return trip from Bali. Tourism in the Philippines is mostly back to normal. Aside from being asked to wear masks at airports and onboard with some airlines, there were no other Covid requirements or restrictions and I can highly recommend visiting at this time.

Although signage regarding Covid restrictions (such as mask wearing) are still on display across the country, these are rarely enforced. You may still see staff wearing masks in supermarkets and shopping malls. Pharmacies are readily available in most areas frequented by tourists and the level of English is usually enough to get any medicine you need. Chain pharmacies, such as Watsons, are more likely to speak a good level of English.”

October 2022 – Jennifer Terri, Philippines:

September 2022 – Elizabeth, visitor from UK:   “I visited the Philippines for a 3-week trip to explore its top destinations. The locals are still wearing masks, however, it’s a bit more relaxed, especially in the open public area. When you enter an establishment, you will be asked or expected to put on the mask.

Most businesses related to tourism are open or in service such as airlines, hotels, and tour agencies. Locals seems to be getting back on travelling as well, but it seems like the airlines are not well-staffed resulting in long queues, although very little delay.”

July 2022 – Angeline of GoAroundPhilippines.com , resident:  “All tourist destinations in the country are open and locals mostly enjoy them now. It is the best time to visit as there are still few tourists around and you can easily get cheaper rates for hotels and tours as companies need tourists.

The islands and beaches have gone through a bit of a break so they’ve become more vibrant and marine animals are plenty. There are still no long lines or crowds either.”

March 2022 – Camille, resident of the Philippines: “Things are finally the closest it’s been to “back to normal” after two long years of strict quarantine rules. Everything feels much more relaxed and people are happy to go out, dine out, party, and travel. Even though it feels like back to normal, most people still comply with wearing masks almost everywhere so this is something foreigners should expect and be sensitive in following.

Many places still are at limited capacity though, so lines are long and crowds can be packed. As much as possible, we appreciate it when tourists are understanding of any delays or mishaps. There’s a period of adjustment since it’s only been recently that things are as they were before. Many workers have been affected and are now happy to get back to work, so patience and tips are appreciated. At the end of the day, tourism has always played a big part in our economy so you’ll definitely feel welcome.”

July 2021 – Ailene, resident of Manila: “The Philippines does not currently allow tourists to enter the country. Majority of the residents are hesitant to the reopening of the borders to foreign tourists because of the fear that our healthcare system would collapse if there will be a surge in Covid cases. In Metro Manila, people (except children and senior citizens) are free to move within the city as long as the curfew, social distancing, face mask, and face shield rules are observed. Traveling to other places outside Metro Manila is also possible. Travel restrictions are generally being followed. However, there were some instances when people were caught violating the rules such as faking their Covid results, partying, and not following the curfew. Access to healthcare is a little difficult. In some hospitals and clinics, patients without an appointment will not be allowed to enter. But virtual consultation is also available. Getting tested for Covid is easier. People have an option to get tested at clinics, hospitals, drive through testing centers, or at home. Access to local attractions is possible as long as the needed requirements are provided. A negative Covid test is required in some destinations, while a health certificate is enough for some. Right now, the safest and preferred places to travel to are private resorts and outdoor open areas like parks and beaches where interaction with other people can be avoided as much as possible. Restaurants, groceries, and other food service can be accessed easily. Although public transportation is available for travelers, it is safer to travel in private vehicles.”

June 2021 – Tina of https://iwentanyways.com , resident of Philippines: “Many provinces in the country are not yet open to tourism, and those that are already open have requirements that need to be followed. Locals have varying reaction to their place opening up to tourists. Some support the opening due to financial reasons, while those that are not in favor are concerned that these tourists might spread the virus in their place. Travel restrictions are being followed by locals and visitors, but I’ve heard of stories of some people who do not follow it but are able to get away with it. As for the healthcare and testing, most of the hospitals and testing centers are available in the capital cities. Some provinces that have opened for tourism require visitors to register in an app and wait for the approval of their visit before they could travel. This is required for contact tracing purposes.”

Even if you can’t go to the Philippines right now, you can still get started planning your Philippines trip for the future.

Check out our other Philippines travel resources: – Best Places to Visit in the Philippines on a Budget

If you have questions or updates about travel to the Philippines during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below. *Please note that we are not able to advise travelers regarding specific situations outside of the free information provided above. We recommend working with a professional travel agent if you need assistance particular to your trip.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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84 Comments

We have booked a trip to the Philippines next month. We have not been vaccinated for covid19, Earlier it was mentioned that we had to take a corona test to enter the philippines. Last weekend all corona measures in the Philippines were scrapped, see source: https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/pbbm-lifts-state-of-public-health-emergency-throughout-ph-due-to-covid-19/

I don’t want any surprises, Can you please confirm to me if we need to take a corona test to fly to the Philippines (from Madrid) or if it is therefore not necessary anymore now. In addition, I am also asking for more clarity on the inernal movements.

Hello Falko. Since the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted in the Philippines, all rules and restrictions due to Covid 19 are no longer in effect. This means that you are no longer required to present a negative Covid test to enter the Philippines. For traveling within the Philippines, restrictions are also no longer in effect. However, it is still advisable to check your destination’s local government unit (LGU) official website or Facebook page for the latest travel guidelines. You may also check for the latest COVID requirements by destination through this websites: https://www.philippineairlines.com/covid-information-hub/covid-requirements

Hello, I’m a little confused on one issue. I’m a US citizen unvaccinated and would like to fly to the Philippines. I know what tests, etc I need to actually fly to the philippines, but what is not clear to me based on conflicting information is will I be required to take another covid test on arrival if the 24 hour one taken before flight was negative? One thing I don’t want to happen is discover I have to have another one when I arrive as I really hate them since they are so unnecessarily intrusive, and I’ve read some places that you will need a second one on arrival regardless of the results of the preflight test. I would be flying to Cebu. Thank you for your time.

Hello Sam, thank you for visiting our blog. According to the current entry rules , unvaccinated or partially vaccinated “travelers 15 years and older who fail to present a negative pre-departure testing shall be required to undergo a laboratory-based Antigen Test UPON ARRIVAL at the airport.” Therefore, if you can provide a valid and negative pre-departure Covid test when you arrive in the Philippines, then you will no longer have to test upon arrival at the airport.

Thank you for answering my question, that is good news. Just one other question please. Where do I look to find what remotely supervised covid tests are accepted by Philippines government on arrival since I don’t want to take a test in a clinic?

Hello Sam. Unfortunately, we cannot find updated information about remotely supervised tests accepted by the Philippines. It seems like no updates have been published but we’ll let you know if we find updated information regarding this. You may also contact the Philippine Department of Tourism official Facebook page or a Philippine embassy near you to get information about remotely supervised tests.

Is a negative COVID test result required for return travel from the Philippines to the United States?

Hi. Regardless of departure point, test results are not required going to the US, and as of this month (May 2023), noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated either.

I will be on vacation soon in the Philippines and resorts (specifically at Pico de Loro, Batangas and Los Banos, Laguna) still require a certified negative covid-test for stay. Where can I get this certified covid-19 rapid antigen test?

Hello Yeen. Thank you for visiting our blog. You can see the list of licensed Covid 19 testing facilities in the Philippines here: Philippine Department of Health Licensed Covid-19 Testing Laboratories

I am traveling to the Philippines in July 2023. I see that the Philippines currently still requires a negative Antigen Test for entry. Once a traveler has entered the country and wants to travel to different locations (such as Tacloban, Cebu City, Bohol, etc.) does a traveler have to provide a clean test at every domestic airport in the Philippines to board the plane if I stayed at each different location for 3-5 days? I need clarification as the domestic air carriers (Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, etc.) indicate that you need at least a negative Antigen Test to board on their websites. Any comments from recent travelers in the Philippines would be helpful. Thank you

Hi Greg. It is correct that the Philippines still require proof of a negative COVID test for entry if a traveler is unvaccinated or partially vaccinated. For travel within the Philippines, most destination no longer require a negative test for domestic flights. However, please note that some destination may still require a negative test and other documents for domestic travel depending on the local authorities’ regulations. We recommend that you check your destination’s local government unit (LGU) official website or Facebook page for the latest travel guidelines and requirements.

You may also check for the latest COVID requirements by destination through these websites: https://www.cebupacificair.com/pages/travel-info/covid-travel-reminders/travel-document-requirements?lang=en-PH https://www.philippineairlines.com/covid-information-hub/covid-requirements

We hope this helps and thank you for visiting our blog!

Hello, we are scheduled to go to the Philippines February 1st. We will be flying to japan January 27th and then from japan to Manila February 1st. Then from Manila to Boracay on the 2nd of February. We are American us citizens unvaccinated. What are the requirements and regulations for us? Will we be allowed to go with the new covid laws?

Hello Vee. Thanks for visiting our blog. Based on the current travel requirements and your status as an unvaccinated U.S. citizens, the following are the requirements you need:

For travel to Japan, you will need to provide a pre-travel COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours prior to departure from the country/region of origin. You may check the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage or the U.S. Embassy in Japan webpage for details.

For travel to the Philippines, you will need the follwing: – negative Antigen test certificate from a clinic conducted within 24 hours of departure from the country of origin – complete a BOQ e-Health Declaration Card (e-HDC), including children – passport valid for at least six months at the time of arrival – return or outbound ticket to your country of origin or next country of destination.

Once you’re in the Philippines, the requirements to travel to Boracay are the following: – Tourist Arrival Form – Confirmed Boracay Hotel Booking slip/voucher – Passport (for Foreigners)

You may also contact the Boracay/Aklan Tourism facebook page for more details.

Hello, we are Polish Filipino marrige and we are not vaccinated. We are planing to Visit Philipinnes in the middle of January 2024. Do you think it will be still required to do the PCR covid tests before travel? Since I read about Thailand, Laos, Vietnam is already fully open (no covid tests, no vaccinated etc). When they will fully open the Philippines? Regards

Thanks for visiting our blog. We don’t have any special information about the government’s future plans about travel restrictions, however, we will be sure to update this post when we see that anything changes.

Hello there, i am filipino-american citizen. I am unvaccinated and my vacation and my 4yo son to cebu by october. What are the restrictions for us since we don’t want to get vaccinated. From cebu international airport do we have to book a hotel for quaratines that are doh accredited and for how many days? Is it possible to choose our own place to stay while waiting for pcr test? And also does me and my son need a pcr test before we travel to Philippines? And also do we need return ticket or not needed? Hope to hear your response. Thank you

Hi Isabel. Thanks for visiting our blog! The current restriction states that foreign nationals (including Balikbayans) visiting the Philippines without a visa must be vaccinated. Unfortunately, you won’t be allowed entry into the Philippines based on the current rules. The same goes for your 4-year-old son since he will follow the rules that are applicable to you. However, if you will enter the Philippines with a visa or if you have double citizenship (Filipino and American) then it’s possible that you and your son may be allowed entry. We recommend that you contact or visit the Philippine Embassy in your area to see if there are any exemptions applicable to you that will allow you to visit the Philippines. Hope this helps.

Hello hoping to travel to the Philippines but I am unvaccinated are they open for unvaccinated foreign travelers yet?

Hi Mark. You’ll find the answer to that in our post and we’ll continue to update it as rules change.

Please note that on the PAL site ( https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/covid-19/arrivingintheph ) it states that valid return ticket(s) to the original port of origin or next port of destination for not more than 30 days from the date of arrival in the Philippines is/are required. Since I want to go for 3 months can I assume this is now impossible? Please help

Hi Norman! Thanks for visiting our blog. Tourists entering the Philippines visa-free are allowed to stay for not more than 30 days. Thus, the need for a valid return ticket to your country of origin or your next destination dated not more than 30 days from the date of arrival in the Philippines. If you want to stay in the Philippines for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a Philippine tourist visa. You need to contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate near you for information on how to apply for a Philippine tourist visa. I hope this helps.

I am a Filipino citizen with Philippine passport and vaccinated, I will be traveling with my family to Philippines – my husband american citizen fully vaccinated, but my 1.5 yrs old son also american citizen and not vaccinated. We are just planning to stay in the Philippines for 1 week just for my son to meet my parents. My question is, will he/we still need to be in quarantine? Thanks

Hi Camille. Thanks for visiting our blog. According to the Philippine’s quarantine rules, children below the age of 12 who cannot be vaccinated must follow the quarantine protocols of the parents traveling with them. Since you and your husband are fully vaccinated and do not need to quarantine, your son is not required to quarantine as well. You may also contact the Philippine Bureau of Immigration for more information regarding entry requirements.

I heard the quarantine laws recently changed. I am a US citizen fully vaccinated. I have two questions…

1) Do I still have to quarantine? 2) Will I be admitted with a work visa?

Thanks for visiting our blog. If you are traveling to the Philippines from the United States and fully vaccinated, you still need to quarantine at a government approved facility until the result of a RT-PCR test taken on the 5th day of quarantine is released. If the result is negative, you’ll be allowed to continue the quarantine at home until the 10th day. You can check the post for more details about quarantine rules in the Philippines. Regarding your work visa, if it is valid and existing, then you may be allowed to enter the Philippines. We advise that you contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area to get more information and before attempting travel.

Travel to the Philippines My legal wife is an ex-Philippine citizen having been “required” to give it up on becoming a Canadian citizen, more years ago than I’m “allowed to divulge”! I’m a naturalized Canadian citizen originally from the UK, a few years ago shall we say! Am I correct in believing my wife can travel “home” without a pre-authorized but will we granted a “tourist” visa on arrival, and that I may accompany her getting a “balikbyan” visa on arrival?

Vaccine “Combo” Canada considers us “fully” vaccinated against COVID-19 with 1st Dose Pfizer-BioNTech & 2nd Dose Moderna Mrna vaccines, but is this “combo” accepted by the Philippines?

Vaccination-Quarantine I understand that as we are “fully” vaccinated we will be required to “reside” at a hotel for 7 days with a PCR test on Day 5, and if the PCR test is clear we can then shorten the full 14-day period to 10 days? Can the hotel be “of our choice” if that hotel provides such facilities, or are their only “designated” hotels to choose from? At the hotel do we have full access to its facilities such as swimming pool etc if open, or are we “imprisioned” in our rooms for the duration?

Post-Quarantine Travel in the Locale Are there any restrictions for “ALL” in moving around the locale to say attend golf courses if open, and can we travel by public transport. Are there any “AGE” restrictions as we are seniors, although the exact ages are a “closely guarded secret”!

Travel to Provences On arrival into Manila can we “immediately” transfer to the domestic airport for travel to the Provences for quarantine, or do we have to quarantine in Manila before moving on?

Best wishes William & Lourdes

Hello, William and Lourdes, and thank you for visiting our blog. These are important questions you have, and travel restrictions can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. We are only able to track a limited set of scenarios, which we post for free on the blog. To answer specific questions beyond what’s in our post, we would recommend working with a travel agent to ensure your trip needs are met. We’ll also see where we can better clarify some of the information in our post in the coming days. Best regards.

I would like to get a visitor visa for the Philippines as I plan to marry my fiancé who is a Philippine resident in January 2022. Can you guide me to websites so that the visa process for the Philippines can be simplified if that is possible, or inexpensive visa service for the Philippines? Thank you for any help you can provide me. Anthony

Hi Anthony. Thank you for your question. As we do not have personal experience using a visa service ourselves, we can only recommend doing a web search for “philippines visa services” and checking for recent user reviews. Perhaps one of our other readers will be able to chime in with a suggestion in the future.

Hi – Is there a quarantine exception offered for emergency travel from the U.S. (fully vaccinated) such as caring for sick/dying family member?

Thanks for visiting our blog. We are not aware of emergency exceptions at this time. With the many changing rules, we have to focus on those that apply to the majority of travelers, so a travel agent or visa service that specializes in the Philippines may be more help for specific scenarios or exceptions.

Hi! Fully vaccinated foreign travellers who have been in a green list country for at least 14 days are allowed to enter the Philippines without any problems as long as they quarantine 7 days in an approved facility, right? So for me who live in Italy, the only way I can currently access the Philippines would be to travel to Albania (green list country) right after I get my second dose, stay there 2 weeks and then fly from Albania to the Philippines.

Hi Andrea, thank you for visiting our blog. That is a very good question. The Philippines’ green lane was created to lessen the quarantine period of fully vaccinated individuals who are allowed to enter in the Philippines. Therefore, it is important to determine first if you belong to any of the traveler categories who can enter the Philippines. For foreign citizens, you must have a valid and existing Philippine visa. If without a visa, you must be a former Filipino or a family member traveling with a former Filipino. You can check the complete details of who can enter the Philippines here .

If you are one of those travelers who are allowed to enter, fully vaccinated, and traveling from Albania or any of the countries in the Philippines’ green list, the quarantine period would only be 7 days.

Hi Ailene and thank you for your kind reply. I guess I will need a visa and probably an exemption document which I have now idea how to get and if there are any requirements I don’t think I meet them anyway since the purpose of the trip would be to visit my girlfriend hence why I am considered as a mere tourist.

I’m from Arizona currently looking for a way to travel to the Philippines ASAP to marry my fiance. I have my vaild US passport, however found myself needing a tourist visa with a possible certificate of entry as well..would you recommend going through a travel agency, a family member who is Filipino, or waiting for the covid travel restrictions to be lifted? Point me in the right direction or any vaild news will be greatly appreciated. Thanks & God bless.

Hi Chris. Without a valid and existing visa, you would need to wait for restrictions to change. We’ll be sure to update this post as we get more news. In general, we do recommend working with a travel agent who is familiar with Philippine visas to help navigate the ever-changing travel situation these days.

Chris You and so many others are in the same situation. I am looking into flying my Fiance to another country, (Mexico, Columbia or Costa Rica) Getting married there Then fly back together on a Balikbayan Visa.

Hi! We want to visit Philippines in February. If we are vaccinated with 2 doses do we still need to do a covid test? We need to fill out a form before entering the Philippines? but for Boracay? Thank you!

Hello Cristina! Based on the current Philippine travel rules, a booster is no longer required for entry, therefore, you no longer need to provide a negative Covid test. However, you need to register on the Philippines eTravel website and you can register up to three days in advance of your departure. For Boracay, a filled out tourist arrival form, hotel booking, and passport for foreign tourists are required. You can check details here or you may contact the Aklan government through their Facebook page for additional information.

Hi! I was just wondering, are fully vaccinated senior citizen (60 years and older) coming from Canada allowed to enter Philippines? Are there any travel restriction for their age group? Thanks a lot!

Thanks for visiting our blog. We’ve been focusing on requirements primarily for US citizens, as it can vary by country and it’s a challenge to track all the changes. I would double-check with the Canadian State Department and/or a travel agent for more specific guidance. It’s my understanding that the age group restrictions don’t apply for entering the country but rather for going out and about once there – so far this has only been relevant to Philippine residents and will likely change with local vaccination rates eventually.

Hi, thank you for a really good blog. I am fully vaccinated norwegian man, and I wonder if you know anything about when it will be possible to travel to the Philippines. Cebu is a possible destination. If you dont know, because I think no one can know for sure now, what will be your educated guess. I have a close friend I want to visit there.

I’m glad you’ve found our blog helpful. I wish we had more insight as to when things will open up more. Some countries in Southeast Asia have indicated that they may wait until a majority of their own population is vaccinated, so it really is uncertain. We’ll do our best to provide updates here as they come out.

I am a fully-vaccinated US citizen. Do I understand correctly that I can fly into Cebu with no quarantine requirements? What covid-related requirements would I be subjected to (e.g. tests, etc). Thank you!

Hi James. Thank you for visiting our blog. Travelers flying in directly to Cebu don’t have to quarantine at the hotel, provided that they receive a negative test result conducted immediately upon arrival at the airport. Please note that this is applicable only to permitted foreign nationals. We recommend that you contact the local government of Cebu or the Cebu-Mactan International Airport for complete details and requirements. Also, as of today, only US citizens with visa, US citizens who are former Filipinos, and US citizens who are family members and traveling with a Filipino citizen or former Filipino are allowed entry in the Philippines. Please see the Philippine Bureau of Immigration page for complete details. It is also advisable to contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area for more information and before attempting travel.

My daughter was born in Manila in 2020. What do i need to do to get to the philippines? The philippines embassy in los angelas doesn’t replay to my emails and nobody picks up the phones. please help

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. We do our best to provide regularly updated information on this post for free to the public, as our small team does not have capacity to provide individualized advice for everyone who requests. If you’re not able to find what you need in the details of our post or through the official resource links we have provided above, many travelers are finding this type of support through travel agents.

I’m from Canada and I’m also a citizen here. I don’t understand why United States citizen foreigners are allowed in the Philippines but not Canadians when their country is much worse with the current situation with the covid virus. Or are Canadians allowed also? Thank you.

Hello and thanks for visiting our blog. Because the majority of our blog readers are from the US and rules do vary by country and change frequently, we have chosen to focus on restrictions for Americans in this particular post. This does not mean other nationalities are excluded from entering the Philippines. I would suggest checking the Canadian State Department website for details that apply to your home country.

Thanks for all the info! Hoping to head to the Philippines December of this year, of course plans are put on hold until then.

I’m planning a trip in August. Do you think the borders will be reopened? If so, I want to go to Iloilo directly, can I quarantine there instead of Manilla even though I have a 1h change (stopover because of a direct flight with terminal as Iloilo) of plane there? Thank you

Hi. Thanks for visiting our blog. We do our best to keep this post updated as things change, but we don’t have any special insight as to when changes will happen in the future. For advice on specific trip questions that you can’t find in our post, we recommend seeking a professional travel agent. Safe travels.

My American boyfriend planning to come and meet me this coming month of July. He should get a visa in US before coming here in the Philippines or he could get a visa when he landed here in the Philippines then? His destination will be in Kalibo, Aklan. Any idea about the protocols travelling to Kalibo, Aklan? And if he need to be quarantine for 14 days? He’s already fully vaccinated with Moderna vaccine. He is also tested in Covid and had a negative results. Thank you.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Traveling to the Philippines without a visa, unfortunately, that has been temporarily suspended because of the pandemic so he would need to arrange a visa before traveling. You can find details on the Philippine Bureau of Immigration Facebook page . Please note that we are not able to advise travelers regarding specific situations outside of the free information we already provide above. If you’re not able to find answers for your particular trip in our post, we recommend working with a professional travel agent to ensure your personal trip needs are met.

I’M TRYING TO TRAVEL IN JULY IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO VISIT MY FAMILY. I’M AN AMERICAN CITIZEN BUT FORMERLY FILIPINO CITIZEN. FULLY VACCINATED AND JUST GOT SWAB FOR COVID 4 TIMES ALREADY. THANK YOU

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. We do our best to provide regularly updated information on this post for free to the public, as our small team does not have capacity to provide individualized advice for everyone who requests. I hope you’ll find what you need in the details of our post or through the official resource links we have provided above. If you need further assistance, many travelers are finding this type of support through travel agents.

i don’t know how accurate your info is as i work with a filipino here in the US and he watches Philip news online and told me that if you fly into Cebu which is where i go not Manila that you get a temp check at the airport and only have to quarantine for 1 day not 14 like u said, also can you answer this question. I being a American and traveling with a passport the bureau of philippines website said if your traveling to the PI for less then 30 days you don]t need a tourist visa just your passport…any truth to that?? Thanks

Hi Will. As a general rule, a mandatory quarantine of 7-14 days is required for persons traveling to the Philippines. In the Province of Cebu, it is true that quarantine is no longer a requirement as of March 31, 2021. However, this is only for repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and returning non-OFWs. You can visit the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office page for more information about this.

About traveling to the Philippines without a visa, unfortunately, that has been temporarily suspended because of the pandemic. Please check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration Facebook page for information and updates on who are allowed entry into the Philippines at this time.

Thank you so much for the information, that helps a lot….can’t wait to be there, but I know it may get delayed again. Just as long as everyone is safe and protected I can wait. I love the Philippine people, such beautiful souls.

I have rescheduled my trip from USA Arizona to Lapu-Lapu city where I will be staying with my friend who lives there this coming August….4th time rebooking since COVID. I will be there for 3 weeks. I have my COVID vaccination already and got a Hepatitis A vaccine. Do you know what other vaccines are required? Also, will I need to get a Visa since I am on a limited stay? Been trying to get there since last May, but want to be safe for everyone there. I am so looking forward to being with my friend this has been 2 years in the making. Thank you for any information you can give.

Hi Kenneth. I hope your trip will finally come to fruition. As you know, it’s still a difficult time to plan travel and the situation continues to change month to month. According to the State Department, U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter the Philippines for all travel purposes. The best place to find vaccination requirements and recommendations would be through the CDC: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

I am a Physician in Mexico with a Philippine wife. She is returning there on May 2. I am wondering what I need to travel only to Manilla in June or July only to accompany her back to Mexico. I would have no problem staying at motel around Manila for the approximately 30 days that I will be there. Any help on this ?

Hello and thanks for visiting the blog. Your ability to enter the Philippines as the spouse of a Filippino citizen in June/July will depend on whether the suspension is lifted for foreign nationals. We will do our best to update this post as the situation changes. Please refer to our post for other protocols and recommended hotels for quarantine in Manila. For further assistance, you may wish to work with a travel agent.

Planning to come home to the Philippines on May from a very long time (1982) since I left PI.. I am now a Us Passport holder, am I qualified as a Philippine balikbayan? Do I need to get a Philippine visa? Is my husband the same?

Hi Nimfa. Thanks for visiting our blog! Under the Philippines Balikbayan Program , you are considered a “balikbayan”. You can visit the Philippines and stay for 1 year without a visa. Your husband can also get the same privilege as long as he is traveling with you.

However, please take note that traveling to the Philippines has been recently suspended until April 19, 2021. Check our blog for updates on who will be allowed entry in May. We also advise that you contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area for more information and before attempting travel.

With vaccines starting to arrive in PI and some places starting to make roll out plans- Any idea when tourist visas will start to be processed again and citizens will be able to take a trips out of PI?

Hi Dan. Thank you for your question, but I’m afraid we don’t have any special insight about when the Philippines will make changes to travel protocols.

i am now in the us, i left manila last march and coming back in april, do i still need to book a hotel for quarantine? most articles i see are for ofw’s and balikbayans.

also, do you know kung sino sasagot ng food ng magku-quarantine? coz hindi makakalabas yun tao to buy food and water. just wondering.

Hi Cher. Yes, you still need a confirmed booking at any accredited quarantine hotel in Metro Manila for at least 7 days (or 6 nights) from the date of your arrival. This is to accommodate the schedule of your RT-PCR test (which will be on the 5th day) and the release of the result. Your food during your stay at the hotel will be at your own expense. You may also have food from outside the hotel delivered to your room, but you need to check with the rules and regulations of the hotel first if it is allowed.

You may check the Philippine Airlines or the Philippines Travel website for the complete guidelines. I hope this helps.

Hello Is there a list of the hotels like in Manila or Subic that might be quarantine hotels and what the costs would be for the 14 day duration. .

Hi Bob. The current list of accredited hotels by the Bureau of Quarantine can be found here: http://quarantine.doh.gov.ph/facilities-inspected-as-of-february-18-2021/ You would need to look up the costs for individual hotels that interest you.

What is the best website to get Current travel updates for traveling to the Philippines this spring if possible.

Hi and thanks for visiting our blog. We are doing our best to update this post on a weekly basis with current information about travel to the Philippines. Your home country’s State Department website is probably the most reliable source. To get an official answer for your Spring travel, you can contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate (if in the United States).

The Philippine Airlines website is the most up to date regarding travel restrictions.

If one has had a coronavirus vaccine in the US, can one come to the Philippines without the need to quarantine and have the Covid test? I should have my second round of the Moderna vaccine on March 4th. Could I travel to the Philippines shortly after that time if I have a card proving that I had the vaccine?

That is a good question and I think many are wondering the same thing about other destinations as well. We can’t predict when the Philippines will reopen to travelers, nor what they will choose to require in terms of vaccines. From what I’ve read, I would guess that most destinations will continue to require a Covid test regardless of the vaccine since the timeline for immunity after vaccination is still uncertain.

I look forward to the country opening again. It is certainly one of my favorites!

Can I book myself on June or July to go to manila since they ( Department of Tourism ) mencioned that they will reopen the country for international tourism around June so ????

Hi Ricardo. We cannot predict if you’ll be able to fly into Manila at that time. What we personally are doing is making sure any flight we book is fully refundable, or can at least be changed to a later date without change fees if travel is not allowed for our original flight date. This will depend on the particular airline’s terms and conditions.

Do you know when is the date or anything that the Philippine government is gonna let foreigners for tourism cause I’ve been planning this trip for a year and its getting the people so angry that we cant go to the Philippines and nobody can give me a straight up answer.

Hi Clint. Thanks for your question. We know how frustrating it can be to have travel plans up in the air. Unfortunately, most countries do not have set dates for opening tourism yet because so much depends on ever-changing situations, both domestically and internationally.

Covid is spreading rapidly and nobody is vaccinated there stay home and keep you and the Philippines safer

The Philippines has no intention of opening up to tourism any time soon. The president has said that when the country is between 70 to 80 percent vaccinated it will reopen the country it currently is at 19%. So if you want to take a vacation start thinking of an alternative destination or your going to be waiting for at least a year.

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Philippines

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Philippines - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution to the Philippines due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .
• Marawi City in Mindanao due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Reconsider Travel to:

• Other areas of Mindanao due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .

Country Summary : Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.”

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Philippines.

If you decide to travel to the Philippines:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Philippines.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings on land and at sea for ransom, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to those areas.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Marawi City in Mindanao – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Civilians are at risk of death or injury due to conflict between remnants of terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mindanao as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Mindanao – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The Philippine government maintains a state of emergency and greater police presence in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Sufficient space for an entry visa stamp.

No (for tourist travel under 30 days).

Required for travelers from countries with yellow fever.

50,000 pesos/$10,000.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy manila.

1201 Roxas Boulevard Manila, Philippines 1000 Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000  Fax: +  (63) (2) 5301-2017 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency - Cebu City Ground Level, Waterfront Hotel Salinas Drive Lahug, Cebu City Philippines 6000 Telephone:  + (63) (32) 231-1261 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila: + (63) (2) 301-2000  Fax: +(63) (32) 231-0174 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Philippines for information on U.S.-Philippines relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the website of the  Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines  in Washington, D.C., for the most current visa information.

If you remain in the Philippines beyond the “admit until” date stamped in your passport by immigration authorities, you may be subject to fines and detention by the  Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Certain foreigners must apply for an  Emigration Clearance Certificate  (ECC) from BI before they may depart the Philippines.

See the Philippine Bureau of Immigration  (BI)'s website for information about Philippine visas, exit clearances, and Alien Certificate Registration (ACR). 

See the  Philippine Retirement Authority  (PRA)'s website for information about the Special Retiree Resident Visa (SRRV).  

U.S. citizens who intend to work in the Philippines should contact the Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of the Philippines. 

We advise all U.S. citizens against traveling with potentially prohibited items, such as firearms, on their person or in their checked baggage. While at the airport or traveling in country, possession of prohibited items such as live or spent ammunition or firearms, or anything resembling such items -- whether it be a souvenir, gift, or artifact – may subject the traveler to prosecution and stringent penalties by local authorities.  Learn more about how to avoid problems when traveling abroad with firearms.

Check with your airline to determine whether a particular item is allowed for transport, as well as with the appropriate authorities in the Philippines – such as the  Philippine National Police  and  Bureau of Immigration  – as well as the appropriate authorities in any transit countries.

You can find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less-sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens should remain alert to the potential for explosions and bombings as part of pre-planned attacks, as well as the threat of kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.” On August 24, 2020, dual suicide bombings in Jolo, Sulu, Mindanao, killed 15 people and injured 77 others.

For more information, please visit our website  here .

Crime:  Confidence games (con games), pickpocketing, Internet scams, and credit/ATM card fraud are common. Be wary of unknown individuals who attempt to befriend you, especially just after you arrive in country. Do not accept food, drinks, or rides in private vehicles from strangers, even if they appear to be legitimate. Solo travelers have been drugged and robbed by strangers after accepting an invitation to visit a tourist destination.

Kidnappings, physical assaults, murder-for-hire, and other violent crimes occur in the Philippines. Philippine government law enforcement agencies are engaged in a nationwide counter-narcotics campaign that has resulted in a sharp increase in violence between police and individuals suspected of involvement in the drug trade. As part of this campaign, law enforcement is engaged in aggressive search and buy-bust operations that could affect foreigners.

Taxis or ride-sharing applications are the recommended form of public transportation. However, taxi drivers and/or individuals using stolen taxi cabs have committed robberies. Ask the hotel, restaurant, and/or business establishment to call a reliable taxi service for you.

• Do not enter a taxi if it has already accepted another passenger.
• Request that the taxi driver use the meter to record your fare.
• Wait for another cab if the driver is unwilling to comply with these requests.
• Make a mental note of the license plate number of your taxi, or text it to someone, should there be a problem.

When driving in the city, make certain that vehicle doors are locked and windows are rolled up.

Travelers have been stopped and robbed shortly after leaving Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport in a taxi or private vehicle. 

One common form of credit/ATM card fraud involves an illicit electronic device attached to ATM card readers that retrieves and records information, including the PIN, from a card's magnetic strip. Refer to the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) website for more  information .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the Philippines. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting
• Free trip/luggage
• nheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime:   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at the 911 hotline and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(63)(2) 5301-2000. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:   Please check with the  Philippine Department of Tourism  before traveling. The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators, including adventure activities such as diving, are not always met. Sufficient safety equipment may not be provided, and recommended maintenance standards and safety precautions may not be observed. Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts, even if others do not. If appropriate safety equipment is not available, use another provider. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . If you are planning to dive, the  Diver’s Alert Network (DAN)  provides information on diving accident management. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

The judicial process in the Philippines typically is lengthy, extending for years rather than weeks or months, and individuals charged with a crime can be held in indefinite pre-trial detention as their case makes its way through the judicial system. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in the Philippines are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

If a traveler is found to have any amount of drugs on his or her person, or nearby, when arriving or departing from the Philippines, he or she will be charged with trafficking. Trafficking is a non-bailable charge, and the maximum penalty is life imprisonment. If you intend to enter the Philippines with a prescribed controlled substance (e.g., medical marijuana), obtain clearance from the Philippine government first. 

Since June 2016, Philippine authorities have conducted a public campaign against illegal drugs. This has resulted in armed confrontations between authorities and suspected drug dealers and users.

Always carry a copy of your passport in the event that you are asked about your citizenship. You may be questioned by authorities if you take pictures of certain buildings, especially government buildings or military installations. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.

The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) may consider the participation of foreigners in demonstrations or political rallies in the Philippines to be a violation of the terms of admission. Foreign nationals who participate in demonstrations, political rallies, or other activity deemed anti-government in nature may be detained and deported for violating Philippine immigration laws.

In the Philippines, any adult in the company of a minor under 12 years old who is not related within the “fourth degree” may be subject to a severe penalty. U.S. citizens should be aware of this law both to avoid unlawful behavior and to protect themselves against potentially frivolous accusations.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There is no prohibition on entry into the Philippines by LGBTQI+ individuals. Transgender travelers should be aware that immigration officials may require supporting documents if the gender in the traveler’s passport does not reflect the gender expression of a transgender person. According to Philippine law, an individual’s sex must match that assigned at birth as reflected on the official birth certificate, even in cases of post-operative sex reassignment.

Same-sex relationships are not illegal in the Philippines, but they lack legal recognition. No federal law prohibits discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals. Several cities, however, have passed local ordinances protecting LGBTQI+ rights. Despite these legislative efforts, LGBTQI+ individuals continue to face discrimination and harassment.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  Streets, buildings, and public transportation may lack facilities for persons with disabilities. Most public buildings are inaccessible to persons with physical disabilities or mobility impairments.  Government efforts to improve access to transportation for persons with disabilities are limited due to weak implementing regulations.

There are local stores in the Philippines for durable medical equipment (DME) and some pharmacies also carry limited medical supplies and equipment.

• For information regarding disability laws, please visit the Philippines National Council on Disability Affairs website.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in the Philippines, dial 911.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Not all ambulances are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  For more information about TRICARE medical services overseas (a health care program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families), including possible vaccinations, please visit their Tricare-overseas website . 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Philippine Bureau of Customs to ensure the medication is legal in the Philippines.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals  in the Philippines. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
• Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.  
• U.S. citizens have lodged a large number of complaints about unethical business practices, prices, and collection measures against some of the  hospitals in the Philippines. Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.  
• Be aware that some hotels or resorts may have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on medical tourism.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Philippines.
• Although the Philippines has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in the Philippines, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Water Quality:

In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in the Philippines.

Air Quality:

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in the Philippines. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Vehicle traffic is dense and unpredictable. The road system is frequently congested, and drivers are often undisciplined. Consider the risks of driving your own vehicle if you are not used to Philippine road conditions. Avoid driving off the national highways and other paved roads, especially at night. Be extra vigilant when crossing the street. Do not expect vehicles to stop.

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in an accident, contact the local police, and attempt to stay inside your car until the police arrive before engaging with the other driver. Do not attempt to negotiate with drivers until police arrive. Drivers often ignore or do not yield to emergency vehicles, which may delay their arrival to the scene of an accident.

Always have a valid driver’s license and relevant documents with you when driving. Please review the following notices circulated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to avoid scams and requests for bribes from apprehending officers:  List of Traffic Violations and Penalties,  No Contact Traffic Apprehension Policy,   and Procedure in Settling Traffic Violations  The MMDA also publishes guidelines on  what to do during vehicular accidents . 

Public Transportation:  Exercise caution while traveling by inter-island ferryboats or other public transportation. Avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport. There have been 19 major inter-island ferryboat accidents since 2012, two with significant loss of life. U.S. government employees are advised not to use inter-island ferry boat services unless they are the only means of transportation available. There have also been a series of bus accidents due to poor bus maintenance or driver error. While taxis are the recommended form of public transportation, there have been safety issues using taxis. Please refer to our Safety and Security section for more information.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the  Philippine Department of Tourism website , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Philippine’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Philippine’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to the Philippines should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Philippines . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Discover the real Philippines

INDIVIDUALISED TOURS

UNFORGETTABLE HOLIDAYS

Exciting island hopping

Discover The Philippines with Kapwa

WE ARE A PHILIPPINE TOUR OPERATOR WITH A LOVE FOR OUR COUNTRY AND THE DESIRE TO SHARE IT WITH OUR GUESTS

WE ARE A GERMAN-AUSTRALIAN-FILIPINO TOUR COMPANY.

OUR TEAM CONSISTS OF PASSIONATE ADVENTURERS WHO, TOGETHER AND INDIVIDUALLY, HAVE TRAVELLED THE PHILIPPINES COUNTLESS TIMES OVER DECADES.

OUR AIM IS TO USE OUR LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE TO CREATE THE BEST PHILIPPINE TOURS, TAILOR-MADE FOR OUR GUESTS.

OUR SHARED FILIPINO ROOTS IS WHAT BROUGHT US HERE.

ITS LANDSCAPES, PEOPLE AND CULTURE IS WHY WE STAY AND WHY WE RETURN…

EACH TIME WITH MORE FRIENDS AND BETTER ITINERARIES

want to know more about kapwa?

Why visit the Philippines?

Of all the wonderful places the world has to offer, why would you choose to travel the Philippines? The simplest response is “Why not!?” But let’s list some reasons anyway.

Our jaw-dropping scenery

With over 7,000 islands making up this archipelago, the variety of terrain and natural features is staggering. Among them are stunning beaches, magnificent waterfalls, tranquil rice terraces, imposing volcanos, alluring caves and karsts and the magical undersea world

ARE YOU ACTIVE?

ENJOY BEING PAMPERED?

have a massage on the beach or a cocktail on a hammock

ARE YOU A HISTORY BUFF?

visit our historical monuments & sites and learn about our complicated history

GOT A DARING PALATE?

taste some of our bizarre foods… we have Balut, Halo-halo, Dinuguan & so much more!

FEELING BRAVE?

visit a wet market but be sure to cover your nostrils and wear closed shoes

ARE YOU INTERESTED?

in local customs and traditions, would like some social or cultural interaction?

FANCY A RIDE ON LOCAL TRANSPORT?

get on board a banka, tricycle, jeepney, sikad, habal habal… we have them all!

WE ARE SPECIALISTS!

WE CARE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR TOUR

WE ARE LOCAL

YOU WILL LOVE OUR ETHOS

WE ARE EXPERIENCED

WE LOVE OUR COUNTRY AND WE WANT YOU TO LOVE IT TOO

discover the Philippines with us

Our tours range from luxurious to adventurous, active to pampering, cultural to social. We’ve created tours for couples, solo travellers, families, friends and colleagues.

The experiences are all here, just waiting for you!

feeling inspired?

Read more here about the Philippines and our travels through its islands

Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of Alicia Panoramic View in Bohol

by Devie | Apr 15, 2024 | Blog | 0 Comments

Alicia Panoramic Park stands as a burgeoning gem in the heart of Alicia, Bohol, offering an enchanting experience for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure. Located in the eastern part of Bohol, approximately 110 kilometers from the bustling capital of...

Journey to Sustainability: Kapwa Travel’s Path to Becoming a Travelife Partner

Travelife is a certification system committed to promoting sustainable practices in the tourism industry. It equips companies with achievable sustainability targets, along with the tools and strategies to foster positive transformations in their operations and supply...

Savoring Cebu: Unveiling the Top 10 Restaurants and Bars for Epicurean Adventures

by Loloy | Dec 20, 2023 | Blog | 0 Comments

Welcome to the gastronomic wonderland that is Cebu! Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture, this tropical paradise also boasts an array of dining and nightlife options that will tantalize your taste buds and stir your senses. Join us on a culinary journey...

Want to speak with one of our experts?

Kapwa Travel is not your usual Philippine travel agency – we design individual tours that are 100% tailor-made and suited to your needs. We are an inbound tour operator with focus on the Philippine islands. Our tour designers and travel experts are mainly based in the Visayas but we are also active in Palawan, Luzon and Mindanao. We do not only sell our packages directly to clients (B2C) but also work with travel agents and tour operators from all around the world (B2B). If you would like to meet us, then please consider making an appointment at ITB Berlin or one of the other major travel shows like IMEX Frankfurt or WTM London. We are looking forward to get to know you!

11 Best Travel Agencies in the Philippines for Travel Solutions

Exploring the best travel agencies in the Philippines can turn your vacation dreams into reality.

Each agency brings its unique charm, expertise, and services to the table.

As an experienced traveler and outdoorsman, I've handpicked the top 11 agencies to aid your journey.

We aim to provide you with all the necessary details, ensuring your journey is as exciting as the destination.

The Philippines, a country blessed with over 7,000 islands, is a traveler's paradise. Blessed with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and vibrant cityscapes, it provides an unparalleled experience to explorers worldwide.

Join me as we navigate these gateways to unforgettable Philippine escapades.

Table of Contents

Spotlight on Notable Travel Agencies in the Philippines

Travel agencies play a vital role in enhancing your overall travel experience . The Philippines boasts several reputable agencies, each offering unique services and packages. Let's shine a light on some of the travel agencies in the Philippines.

JTB Asia Pacific Phil. Corp.

This corporation is a part of the renowned JTB Group, which has established its presence in the Asia Pacific region. The agency's main focus is to provide quality travel services to customers traveling between the Philippines and Japan.

Services: They offer services ranging from flight and hotel bookings to visa processing, and from MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions) services to corporate travel management.

Tour Packages: Their tour packages span both hotel bookings domestic airline and international destinations, with special packages tailored around events, seasons, and interests.

Why Choose: With a strong parent company and a team of dedicated travel professionals, JTB Asia Pacific Phil. Corp. offers reliable, high-quality service and has a reputation for meticulous attention to detail.

Gazelle Travel and Tours

Gazelle Travel and Tours is a homegrown agency that has established itself as a reliable provider of travel services in the Philippines.

Services: Gazelle offers a broad spectrum of services, from hotel bookings gazelle travel and tours and car rentals to tour packages and travel insurance.

Tour Packages: The agency provides both domestic air travel reservations and international tour packages, with a particular emphasis on Asian destinations.

Why Choose: Gazelle is known for its personalized service and affordable packages. Their deep local knowledge allows them to provide unique experiences for travelers.

Marsman Drysdale Travel

Marsman Drysdale Travel is one of the oldest and most respected travel agencies in the Philippines, having served travelers for over 50 years.

Services: They offer a full suite of services, travel and tours corporation, including flight booking, hotel reservation, visa assistance, and event management.

Tour Packages: Marsman Drysdale provides packages for both domestic and international travel, international air tickets hotel, tour reservations catered to a diverse range of travel interests and budgets.

Why Choose: Marsman Drysdale’s long-standing reputation, wide range of services, and attention to detail make it a top choice for travelers .

Rajah Travel Corporation

Another veteran in the industry, Rajah Travel Corporation has a rich history and a commitment to provide quality travel services.

Services: The corporation offers comprehensive travel services, including flights, visa assistance, airline tickets, accommodations, travel insurance, and cruise bookings.

Tour Packages: Rajah Travel Corporation provides a vast array of tour packages, focusing on both local and international destinations.

Why Choose: With their deep industry knowledge and commitment to service, Rajah Travel Corporation is a reliable choice for any traveler.

Lindela Travel and Tours

Lindela Travel and Tours is a newer player in the market but has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional service and personalized approach.

Services: Lindela offers a variety of tour services, including hotel reservations, international air tickets hotel tour packages, and transportation services.

Tour Packages: The agency provides packages to popular local destinations, holiday vacation packages and offers customized tours tailored to the client's preferences.

Why Choose: If you're looking for a personal touch and customized travel plans, Lindela Travel and Tours is an excellent option.

Rakso Air Travel and Tours

Rakso Air Travel and Tours has established a reputable brand in the Philippines, providing complete travel solutions for both leisure and business purposes.

Services: Rakso provides end-to-end premium travel service provider, including air ticket reservations, bookings, and visa assistance, among others.

Packages: The agency offers a variety of domestic and international travel packages tailored to suit diverse travel preferences.

Why Choose: Rakso Air Travel and Tours is known for its professional service, comprehensive packages, and a well-established network, providing a hassle-free travel experience.

Scorpio Travel and Tours

Operating since 1997, Scorpio Travel and Tours is a trusted travel agency offering customized and innovative travel solutions.

Services: Scorpio offers a wide range of services, including international and domestic air tickets, corporate travel management meetings, hotel reservations, and travel insurance.

Tour Packages: Their tour packages are designed to provide travelers with unique experiences, exploring both famous tourist spots and hidden gems.

Why Choose: Scorpio Travel and Tours is recognized for its personalized service, well-crafted tour package, and competitive pricing.

Vansol Travel and Tours

Vansol Travel and Tours is a dedicated travel agency providing affordable and reliable travel services.

Services: Vansol provides comprehensive travel services, such as hotel reservations, airline tickets, visa processing, and travel insurance.

Tour Packages: The agency offers a variety of local and international travel packages, catering to all types of travelers.

Why Choose: Vansol Travel and Tours is known for its excellent customer service, affordable pricing, and innovative travel solutions.

Skywin Travel and Tours

Skywin Travel and Tours is a highly recommended travel agency in the Philippines, known for its customer-centric approach.

Services: Skywin provides all-inclusive travel services, including flight bookings, airline tickets, hotel reservations, visa assistance, and tours.

Tour Packages: The agency offers an extensive selection of packages, including city tours, educational tour airport transfers, beach holidays, and adventure trips, both domestically and internationally.

Why Choose: Skywin Travel and Tours stands out for its personalized service, creative travel packages, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Travbest Travel and Tour Co.

Travbest Travel and Tour Co. is a full-service agency, committed to offering the best possible travel experience to its clients.

Services: Travbest provides a wide range of services, including airline reservations, hotel reservation Itinerary planning, airline tickets and and visa assistance.

Packages: The company offers various tour packages, including eco-tours, cultural tours, adventure tours, and more.

Why Choose: Travbest is renowned for its excellent service, personalized travel packages, and a team of professional travel consultants providing expert advice.

TruTravels is a unique travel agency known for its emphasis on fun, adventure, and social travel experiences.

Services: TruTravels offers a host of services, including expertly designed itineraries, accommodation, transportation, and local guides. They focus on delivering exciting, well-coordinated group tours that cater to the adventurous spirit.

Tour Packages: Their packages are renowned for their adventure-centric and social nature. They offer a diverse selection of trips throughout the Philippines, including beach getaways, cultural immersion experiences, and eco-tours.

Why Choose: TruTravels stands out with its focus on adventurous, socially immersive travel experiences. Ideal for young travelers or those young at heart, this agency promises not just a trip, but a memorable adventure packed with fun, friendships, and incredible experiences.

Each of these agencies offers something unique, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and travel preferences. Researching and understanding what each one offers can help you make the right decision.

Why Choose a Travel Agency in the Philippines?

Travel agencies play a crucial role in crafting memorable travel experiences. They possess the local know-how, connections, and resources to make your trip effortless and enjoyable. Let's delve into why you should consider a travel agency for your next Filipino adventure.

Benefits of Using a Travel Agency

Time and Effort Savings: The travel agencies take the hassle out of planning. From booking flights and accommodations to arranging transportation and sightseeing activities, they handle it all. This allows you to save time and avoid stress, letting you focus solely on enjoying the experience.

Customized Experiences: Travel agencies can tailor trips according to your preferences. Whether you prefer adventurous outdoor activities or tranquil beach holidays, they can create a personalized itinerary that fits your travel style perfectly.

Insider Knowledge: Travel agencies have in-depth knowledge of the local scene. They can recommend lesser-known attractions, off-the-beaten-track locations, and unique cultural experiences that you might otherwise miss.

Personal Anecdotes or Examples

Let me share a personal experience. On my trip to the Philippines, I enlisted the services of a local travel agency. What struck me was their attention to detail and personal touch. They suggested a visit to the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, an attraction I hadn't heard of before.

The sight of over a thousand symmetrical, grass-covered limestone mounds, turning chocolate brown in the dry season, was surreal. Without the agency's local insight, I would have missed out on this mesmerizing spectacle.

Safety and Risk Management

Travel agencies can also provide peace of mind regarding safety. In unfamiliar territories, unforeseen situations can arise. Whether it's a sudden change of weather at a beach resort or an unexpected closure of an attraction due to maintenance, travel agencies can navigate these disruptions. They have contingency plans in place and can swiftly provide alternative arrangements to ensure your trip remains smooth. This is especially valuable in a diverse country like the Philippines, where each island offers a unique set of attractions, cultures, and climates.

The content herein is based on my personal experiences and insights gained over the years. It's important to remember that each person's travel needs and preferences are unique, and what works for one might not work for another. That's where the versatility and flexibility of travel agencies shine, and why I consider them a valuable ally in my journeys.

Keys to Consider When Choosing Travel Agencies in the Philippines

Tour operators remain responsible for their services. Although their roles sometimes overlap with travel agents, they can market directly to customers. Similarly, travel agents can curate and promote their own packages to clients. Making the right choice of a travel agency can be the difference between a memorable trip and an unfortunate experience. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a travel agency in the Philippines.

Travel Safety

Safety is paramount when traveling. A reliable travel agency should have a strong focus on traveler's safety, providing useful advice, and ensuring that all services, including transportation and accommodations, meet safety standards. They should also have a swift response mechanism for any emergencies that may arise during your trip.

Expertise with Local Knowledge

A travel agency's local expertise is another crucial factor to consider. This includes understanding the best times to visit various destinations, knowing the local customs and culture, and having access to local resources. An agency with strong local knowledge can provide an authentic and enriching travel experience that you might not get by planning the trip on your own.

Convenience

Convenience plays a big role in enhancing your overall travel experience. Look for an travel agent that provides a seamless experience, from inquiry and booking to trip execution. This might include things like an easy-to-navigate website, convenient payment methods, a responsive customer service team, and personalized services that cater to your specific needs and preferences.

Range of Services Offered

The range of services offered by the travel agent is another important factor. A full-service agency that can handle all aspects of your trip, including airfare, accommodation, tours, transport, and even visa assistance, can save you a lot of time and hassle.

Price and Value for Money

While price is an important factor, the cheapest option may not always provide the best value. Consider what's included in the package and assess if it offers good value for your money. A slightly pricier package that includes all services, offers great experiences, and ensures your safety might provide better value in the long run.

Navigating the Online Presence of Travel Agencies

With the internet being a major source of information, it's important to evaluate a travel agency's online presence.

Hotel and Resorts Reservations Vacation Packages to Asia

Check out the agency's online platforms for their vacation packages. Look for details about hotel and resort reservations in the Philippines and other Asian countries. Read through descriptions, check the inclusions, compare prices, and review terms and conditions. User reviews can also provide helpful insights.

International Tour Packages

If you're a resident of the Philippines looking for outbound travel options, check the agency's offerings for international tour packages. An travel agent with a wide range of international tours indicates strong global connections and a broad service range.

International Air Transport Association (IATA)

The agency's affiliation with recognized international organizations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a good sign of credibility. IATA accreditation ensures that the travel agent adheres to industry standards and best practices, providing an extra layer of assurance for travelers.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision while choosing a travel agent for your next adventure in the Philippines.

Travel Agencies and the Impact of COVID-19

The global pandemic has caused a seismic shift in the travel industry. The once-thriving sector faced unprecedented challenges as countries closed their borders and travel restrictions became the new norm. Yet, amidst these adversities, travel agencies in the Philippines have demonstrated resilience and adaptability.

Many agencies pivoted to offer virtual tours, allowing travel enthusiasts to explore new destinations from the safety of their homes. Others have focused on promoting local tourism, encouraging Filipinos to discover the beauty of their own country.

Moreover, travel agencies have elevated their safety measures to ensure the health and wellbeing of travelers. This includes organizing trips to destinations with high health and safety standards, coordinating with suppliers who uphold rigorous sanitation protocols, and providing up-to-date travel advisories to clients.

Pre-trip health screenings, smaller travel groups, private transfers, contactless check-ins, and provision of sanitation essentials have become common features in holiday packages and bespoke services. By adopting these measures, travel agencies are playing their part in restoring traveler confidence and shaping the new normal in travel.

FAQs about Travel Agencies in the Philippines

What is the best travel agency in the philippines, what is the most used travel agency, what is the most famous online travel agency, what is the largest travel association in the philippines, conclusion: finding the right travel agencies in the philippines.

Selecting a travel agency that matches your preferences and prioritizes safety can enhance your journey. We've spotlighted various travel agencies in the Philippines, each offering unique services, from specific trip types to all-inclusive travel arrangements.

Key considerations are safety protocols, local knowledge, convenience, cost-effectiveness, and service variety. Ultimately, the best agency crafts unforgettable experiences aligning with your travel aspirations.

So, research thoroughly, ask necessary questions, and choose the agency that best suits your needs for a safe and memorable adventure.

Wants to visit another country? Then check out our guides to the best travel solutions:

• Top 10 Travel Agencies in Nepal
• The 8 Best Travel Agencies in Hong Kong
• 16 Best Travel Agencies to Thailand

Ovi Tanchangya

Hey there, fellow explorers! This is Ovi Tanchangya , passionate blogger and avid outdoorsman. I want to share my thoughts about my past outdoor experiences, and of course, I will continue to do so. The past is very practical and can't be forgotten. I don't know which is unique about camping, but I can't forget the campfire smoke and the smell of the camp foods. When I am in mechanical society, I try to recall my memories by watching various camp videos and listening to the sound of the forest raining. And this is me.

The Outdoor Insider has information for travel, camping, hiking, and fishing enthusiasts. From in-depth guides to reliable gear reviews, we help you plan unforgettable adventures, explore stunning destinations, and make the most of your outdoor experiences.

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Philippines Tours & Vacations

Vivid green rice terraces, crystalline seas hiding coral wonderlands and mountains tempered with charming villages, the Philippines provides an answer for those in search of a slice of archipelagic Asia.

Trek through the jungles, scale the volcanic landscapes, dive into warm waters and meet the people of the   Philippines ' 7,000 islands for a remarkable and enlightening experience.

Our Philippines trips

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Philippines at a glance

Capital city.

Manila (population 1.65 million)

Filipino (Tagalog), English

(GMT+08:00) Kuala Lumpur, Singapore

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Philippines

Best time to visit philippines.

With a year-round warm climate, expect hot weather when visiting the Philippines at any time of the year. Sea breezes prevail in the coastal regions between November and February, so travel during this time if you wish to take the edge off the heat. January to May are considered the optimum times to visit though, as it is best to avoid the typhoon season which runs from July to October and involves heavy rain, flooding and high winds.

Geography and environment

Consisting of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines archipelago is located in the South-East of  Asia , in between the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea. Being a part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines is home to many active volcanoes and a staggering amount of biodiversity, with thousands of plant, mammal, fish and bird species living on land and in the sea. As a very mountainous country, the Philippines is dotted with numerous peaks, which give way to deep valleys that are often studded with rivers and streams. Tropical rainforest occupies much of the landmass, with most of the population living on the low lying coastal areas.

Top 5 fun festivals of the Philippines

1. ati-atihan.

With a history that dates all the way back to 1210, this flamboyant festival is considered one of the Philippines' best. Think massive ostentatious costumes, loud drumming, floats of parading dancers, riotous crowds and a healthy dose of partying and you've got Ati-Atihan - the Philippines' best shot at Rio Carnaval.

2. Grand Cordillera Festival

Baguio reserves the fourth last week of November to celebrate life and local culture with ethnic songs, dance, costume and food. This festival spreads peace and tolerance and provides an interesting snapshot of the lives of the ethnic people of the northern Luzon area.

3. Dinagyang

Iloilo City gets its chance to party with its own version of Ati-Atihan. City streets are decked out with colourful banners, street stalls sizzle with barbecued pork, and chicken and costumed dancers compete for glory.

4. Feast of Our Lady of Candles

This annual display of epic religious pageantry features a procession of the patroness, fiesta queen and court through the streets and town center of Jaro. Locals carry candles and a statue of the Virgin Mary to the town cathedral, where crowds of people wait. This spirited and vibrant festival is a great introduction to Filipino culture and religious celebration.

5. Obando Fertility Festival

Want to see couples dance through the streets in aid of hopefully producing a child? Each year, the town of Bulacan holds this festival for childless couples who wish to produce children. Couples dance down the street to the local church, dance up the aisle and attend mass in honor of the three local patron saints.

Further reading

Philippines travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Philippines?

PHILIPPINES: Australia: No - not required Belgium: No - not required Canada: No - not required Germany No - not required Ireland: No - not required Netherlands: No - not required New Zealand: No - not required South Africa: No - not required Switzerland: No - not required United Kingdom: No - not required USA: No - not required

Citizens of most countries are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days, provided they hold a valid return ticket.

Is tipping customary in the Philippines?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in the Philippines, but a tip of spare change or another small amount (20-40 pesos) would be appreciated by restaurants, drivers and other service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good.

What is the internet access like in the Philippines?

Large cities and tourist areas have internet access available at cyber cafes, but expect limited internet access in remote and rural areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in the Philippines?

Cell phone receptivity is at a high rate in the large cities, but coverage may be patchy or less reliable in mountainous places, remote areas and on some islands. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in the Philippines?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation whilst in the Philippines. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to although Western style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a…?

Juice from a market stall = 10 pesos Bottle of beer = 30-60 pesos Basic lunch = 100-200 pesos Sit-down dinner = 500-900 pesos

Can I drink the water in the Philippines?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in the Philippines. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found, some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating

Are credit cards accepted widely in the Philippines?

What is atm access like in the philippines.

Travelers will be able to find ATMs that accept foreign cards in the large cities but less so in remote towns and rural areas. Be sure to have enough cash before leaving the city as ATMs may not always be available outside of metropolitan areas.

What public holidays are celebrated in the Philippines?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 28 Jan Chinese New Year*
• 25 Feb 31st EDSA Revolution Anniversary
• 9 Apr Day of Valor / Araw ng Kagitingan
• 13 Apr Maundy Thursday
• 14 Apr Good Friday*
• 15 Apr Black Saturday
• 1 May Labor Day
• 12 Jun Independence Day
• 26 Jun Eid’l Fitr *
• 21 Aug Ninoy Aquino Day
• 28 Aug National Heroes Day
• 1 Sep Eidul Adha *
• 31 Oct All Saints Day Holiday (Additional non-working day)
• 1 Nov All Saints Day
• 30 Nov Bonifacio Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 30 Dec Rizal Day
• 31 Dec Last Day of the Year

*Subject to change

Please note these dates are for 2022. For a current list of public holidays in Philippines go to WordTravelGuide.net

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

France and the Philippines to start talks on a `visiting forces agreement,' French envoy says

The French ambassador to Manila says her country and the Philippines will start talks next month on a proposed defense pact that would allow troops from each country to hold exercises in the other’s territory

MANILA, Philippines -- France and the Philippines will begin talks next month on a defense pact that would allow troops from each country to hold exercises in the other’s territory, the French ambassador said Thursday.

French and Philippine officials will meet in Paris next month for talks on a visiting forces agreement, French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel said.

She said the defense chiefs of both countries agreed in Manila last December to pursue such an accord.

"We will have an opportunity in May to maybe start officially the negotiations or, at least, discuss the modalities,” Fontanel said at a news conference with French Ambassador to the Indo-Pacific Marc Abensour.

The Philippines currently has status-of-forces agreements with the United States and Australis. The agreements provide a legal framework for the entry of foreign forces into a country.

Manila has pursued similar agreements with other countries, including Japan and France , amid escalating disputes with China in the South China Sea. Since last year, Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships and accompanying vessels have been involved in high seas skirmishes which included minor collisions and injuries to Philippine navy personnel near disputed shoals in the contested waters.

In addition to China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan are also involved in the long-running territorial disputes, a potential Asian flashpoint that could bring the U.S. and China into a collision course if disputes escalate into a major conflict.

France has been boosting its security engagements with the Philippines. A French navy ship is joining U.S. and Philippine navy ships in and near the disputed South China Sea as part of largescale combat-readiness exercises by longtime treaty allies Manila and Washington that started Monday.

Abensour renewed France’s commitment to helping maintain freedom of navigation and overflight and respect for the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea in the region.

China has strongly criticized the exercises, saying the Philippines was “ganging up” with countries from outside Asia, and warned that the drills could instigate a confrontation and undermine regional stability.

The Philippine military dismissed China’s criticism, saying the drills are aimed at boosting Manila’s territorial defense and are not directed at any particular country.

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Gilley's claim of Malaysia being 'unsafe' refuted by US travel advisory

Thursday, 25 Apr 2024

Related News

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KUALA LUMPUR: The United States maintains the lowest level of alert for its citizens travelling to Malaysia.

Since July 24 last year, the US State Department's website page has maintained Malaysia at "Level One" and advised its citizens to exercise normal precautions.

Level One is the lowest level out of four.

Earlier this week, US academic Bruce Gilley claimed in a post on X that Malaysia is not safe to travel to.

He said on the social media platform that he had left Malaysia due to safety concerns caused by an “Islamo-fascist mob whipped up by the government there”.

This came after Gilley's talk on Tuesday (April 23), during which he reportedly downplayed Malaysia's ties with the United States.

He also claimed that Malaysia had pushed for a "second holocaust against the Jewish people", which has since drawn massive criticism online.

Tags / Keywords: United States , Lowest Level , Traveling , Travel Alvisory , Bruce Gilley , Maintain , Malaysia ,

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