United States Visa RequirementsFor Philippines passport holders
Filipino citizens must apply for a US visa, with the B1/B2 Tourist/Business visa costing USD 185 and requiring an interview at the US Embassy in Manila.
Philippines passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov. Pay the USD 185 MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee. Schedule an interview appointment through the US Embassy Manila website (ph.usembassy.gov). Required documents: passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, photo, and strong ties to the Philippines (property, employment, family). Interview wait times can be several months; apply early. Approved visas are typically valid for 10 years multiple entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Philippines to United States: What You Need to Know
The United States has one of the largest Filipino communities in the world, with over 4 million Filipino-Americans. The demand for US tourist visas from the Philippines is extremely high. The US Embassy in Manila is one of the busiest visa-issuing posts globally. Processing involves an online DS-160 form, MRV fee payment, and an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Roxas Boulevard, Manila, or at the Consulate in Cebu.
Practical Tips
The Philippines has among the highest US visa issuance rates in Asia. Filipino-American communities are concentrated in California, Hawaii, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Illinois. The USD is the currency. US visa holders can usually also enter Canada without a separate Canadian visa (for air travel). Contact ph.usembassy.gov for current appointment availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Filipinos apply for a US tourist visa?
Complete the DS-160 form online at ceac.state.gov, pay the USD 185 MRV fee, and schedule an interview at the US Embassy in Manila (Roxas Blvd) or the Consulate in Cebu. Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, photo, and supporting documents to the interview.
How long does a US visa interview appointment take to schedule from Manila?
Wait times for US visa interview appointments in Manila fluctuate significantly. During busy periods, waits can stretch from several weeks to several months. Check current appointment availability at ph.usembassy.gov and apply as early as possible, especially if traveling during US holiday seasons.
What documents strengthen a Filipino US visa application?
Strong ties to the Philippines are the most important factor: stable employment with an employer letter, property ownership, a savings account with consistent income, family members (especially young children) remaining in the Philippines, and a clear travel purpose. A previous clean travel history to other countries also helps.
If I have a valid US visa, can I enter Canada without applying for a separate Canadian visa?
Yes, in most cases. Filipino citizens with a valid US non-immigrant visa can transit to or enter Canada by air without a separate Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), as long as the US visa is valid. This is a useful benefit for Filipino travelers combining US and Canadian visits.