USA entry requirements for travellers from the Philippines
Visa requirement summary
Philippine passport holders need a US visa to visit the United States. The Philippines is not a member of the Visa Waiver Program, so Filipino nationals must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa before travelling.
The B-1/B-2 covers tourism, visiting family, and short business trips. The application involves a DS-160 online form, a $185 non-refundable fee, and a mandatory in-person interview at the US Embassy in Manila.
Applying for the B-1/B-2 visa
The B-1/B-2 is a combined business/tourism visitor visa. Applications are made online and in person through the following steps:
1. Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov. This is the standard nonimmigrant visa application form. Answer all questions fully — incomplete or inaccurate responses can result in refusal.
2. Pay the MRV fee. The current visa application fee is $185 per person. This is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Payment is made through the local US Embassy’s payment system before you book your appointment.
3. Schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Wait times for interview appointments vary significantly — from a few days to many months depending on the embassy location and time of year. Check current wait times at the US Embassy’s local website before you plan your trip.
4. Attend the in-person interview. Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, appointment confirmation, and your supporting documents. A consular officer will ask about your travel plans, employment, finances, and ties to your home country.
5. Collect your visa or receive a decision. If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker. If additional administrative processing is needed, this can add several weeks.
Key documents to prepare
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
- Bank statements for three to six months showing consistent funds
- Proof of employment — employer letter, pay slips, or business documents
- Property, family, or other strong ties to the Philippines
- Travel itinerary (flight and hotel bookings)
- Invitation letter if visiting family in the US
A large Filipino-American community means many Philippine applicants are visiting family — invitation letters and clear documentation of the family relationship are helpful in these cases.
How long you can stay
The B-1/B-2 visa may be valid for one or ten years at the consular officer’s discretion. CBP officers at the US port of entry determine the actual admission period — typically up to six months for tourism.
Passport validity requirements
Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from the US.
Proof of funds
Bank statements showing adequate, stable funds to cover the cost of your trip.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return flight and a clear travel plan are expected.
Health requirements
No vaccination requirements for Filipino citizens entering the US.
Other entry requirements
You cannot work in the US on a B-1/B-2 visa. Overstaying your admission period is a serious violation.
FAQs
Do Filipinos need a visa for the USA?
Yes. Filipino passport holders must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa — there is no visa-free or ESTA option.
How much does it cost?
$185 non-refundable MRV fee.
Where do I apply?
The US Embassy in Manila handles Philippine visa applications. Check current interview appointment availability on the embassy website.
How do I prove I will return to the Philippines?
Employment, property, family (spouse or children), or business ties are the strongest evidence. An employer letter confirming your leave of absence and guaranteed return to your job is particularly useful.
My family is in the USA — does that hurt my chances?
Not necessarily, but you will need to show stronger ties to the Philippines to balance it. Steady employment, assets, and your own household in the Philippines all help.