A Filipino's guide to getting a U.S. visa

It usually starts with a spark — a long-time dream to see Times Square, reunite with family in California, or take a road trip to the Grand Canyon.

Whatever your reason, that dream has an important prerequisite: securing a US visa.

If you’re a Filipino applying for a temporary stay in the US — as a tourist, business visitor, or patient — what you need is a nonimmigrant visa. And while it may feel overwhelming at first, don’t worry: this guide walks you through every step like your seasoned traveler friend who’s done it before.

Chapter 1: Why you need a nonimmigrant visa

Not all visas are for people who want to live in the US permanently. A nonimmigrant visa is for people like you — travelers with a clear purpose, a temporary stay, and a life to return to in the Philippines.

The most common type is the B-1/B-2 visa.

• B-1: For business — meetings, conferences, negotiating contracts

• B-2: For pleasure — tourism, family visits, or medical treatment

• B-1/B-2: These are usually issued together

If you're applying for a B-1/B-2, you’re telling the embassy: I have a reason to visit. I can afford my trip. And I will come back.

Chapter 2: Starting the process

Every responsible journey should start with a checklist. Here's yours:

Step 1: Fill out the DS-160 form

Go to the official CEAC website and complete your Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160). Take your time — this is your chance to explain who you are, what you do, and why you're going to the US.

When you're done, save the confirmation page. You’ll need it at every step moving forward.

Step 2: Pay the visa fee

You’ll need to pay the MRV fee (currently $185 USD for B-1/B-2). It’s non-refundable, even if you’re denied, so be sure your documents and intent are solid.

Pay online or at participating banks. Save your receipt.

Step 3: Create your profile and schedule appointments

Go to www.usvisascheduling.com. Here’s what happens:

• You’ll sign up and complete a short eligibility survey

• You’ll find out if you qualify for an Interview Waiver (usually for children or senior citizens renewing visas)

• You’ll book two appointments:

  1. At the Visa Application Center (VAC) for fingerprinting and photo

  2. At the U.S. Embassy for your actual visa interview

Choose your dates wisely — your VAC appointment must come before your embassy interview.

Chapter 3: What to prepare

Think of your interview like a job application, only you’re applying to enter the United States. Preparation is everything.

Bring these documents to both the VAC and the embassy:

• Your valid passport

• DS-160 confirmation page

• MRV fee receipt

• Interview appointment confirmation

At your embassy interview, also bring:

• Proof of income (bank statements, tax forms, business permits, payslips)

• A letter from your employer (if employed) with details on your position, salary, and leave approval

• Your travel itinerary or hotel bookings

• Proof of property or family ties to the Philippines

• Old passports with previous U.S. visas (if any)

• School records or student certification (if you’re a student)

• Medical documents and financial sponsors (if traveling for treatment)

Pro tip: Bring original documents, not just photocopies. The goal is to prove that you're coming back.

Chapter 4: The interview

This is where your preparation matters most.

You’ll be asked simple, direct questions:

• “What is the purpose of your visit?”

• “Who will be paying for your trip?”

• “What do you do for a living?”

• “Do you have family in the U.S.?”

Answer confidently. Be honest. The officer doesn’t need a long story. They want clear, concise, truthful answers. If you’ve prepared well, there’s nothing to fear.

Chapter 5: The outcome

At the end of the interview, you’ll likely hear either:

• “Your visa has been approved.”

• “We need more information.”

• “Unfortunately, your visa has been denied.”

If you’re approved, your passport will be kept temporarily so they can place your visa sticker. You’ll get it back within a few days.

If denied under Section 214(b), it means you didn’t convince the officer that you’re likely to return. Don’t give up. Many applicants are approved the second time around after strengthening their case.