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How to apply for a U.S. B1/B2 Visa: New Process

Writer's picture: ARCTICKETARCTICKET

To apply for a B1/B2 (Business/Tourist) visa at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, you will need to go through two main steps: visiting a Visa Application Center (VAC) and the U.S. Embassy for an interview.


Yes, the Visa Application Center (VAC) step is relatively new for U.S. visa applicants in the Philippines. The U.S. Embassy in Manila now requires applicants to complete biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at the VAC before attending their interview at the embassy. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:


Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form

  • Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) and fill out the DS-160 form, which is the online non-immigrant visa application form.

  • Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

  • After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation page with a barcode, which you need to print and bring to your appointments.


Step 2: Pay the Visa Application Fee

  • Pay your Consular visa fee in Cash at any RCBC Branches. Before going to the payment location, please follow below steps.


    Step 2.1

    Log-in to our online appointment system and create a profile. This will ensure the proper amount is paid and activated in timely manner.


    Step 2.2

    Select the “Start Application” option on the left-hand side of your screen, and proceed in answering the questions provided. We advise that you read carefully and respond accordingly to the questions.


    Step 2.3

    On the Payment Options page, read the Disclaimer Notification AND verify that the number and amount of visa fees you are paying for are correct and that they match the number of applicants in your profile and the visa type you are applying for before selecting the “Submit” button.


    Step 2.4

    Print the payment instruction page and bring a copy to RCBC branch. Hand over the copy to RCBC branch and make your consular visa application fee payment.

    After making the payment and before leaving RCBC branch, please check the validated receipt issued by RCBC and make sure the reference number and amount paid matches the details in your payment instruction copy. If incorrect please ask RCBC to have it corrected right away.


    Step 2.5

    Log in to your profile and select “Continue Application” to claim the receipt and proceed to scheduling your appointment..


Step 3: Schedule Your VAC and Embassy Appointments


  1. VAC Appointment: The Visa Application Center (VAC) handles your photo and fingerprint collection (biometrics). You must attend this appointment before your U.S. Embassy interview.

  2. U.S. Embassy Appointment: This is where your actual visa interview takes place.


Make sure to schedule both appointments when booking.


If you scheduled your visa interview before September 28, 2024 (even if the appointment date is after Sept. 28), you do not need to schedule an appointment at the Visa Application Center (VAC) for fingerprints and photo.  Do not go to the VAC.  You should proceed directly to the U.S. Embassy for your visa interview appointment.


Step 4: Attend the VAC Appointment

  • Go to the Visa Application Center (VAC) 

  • Bring the following:

    • Valid passport

    • DS-160 confirmation page

    • Appointment confirmation letter

    • Visa fee payment receipt

  • At the VAC, your fingerprints and photo will be taken. This step does not involve any US visa interview questions.


Step 5: Attend the U.S. Embassy Interview

  • On the day of your embassy appointment, go to the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Bring the following documents:

    • Valid passport

    • DS-160 confirmation page

    • Appointment confirmation letter

    • Visa fee payment receipt

    • Any supporting documents (like a letter of invitation, travel itinerary, or documents showing ties to the Philippines such as proof of employment, financial capacity, or family connections).


    Note: It’s important to prepare for the interview questions, which will likely focus on the purpose of your travel, your ties to your home country, and whether you intend to return to the Philippines after your visit to the U.S.


Step 6: Visa Issuance (If Approved)

  • If your visa is approved, the embassy will keep your passport to insert the visa sticker.

  • You will be notified when your passport is ready for pick-up or delivery (depending on the option you selected when scheduling the appointment).


Key Tips:

  • Timing: Start the process early as it can take several weeks or more to complete the whole process, including scheduling the interview and receiving the visa.

  • Accuracy: Ensure all the information you provide is accurate and consistent across all forms and documents.


This process applies to both B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visa applicants. If you're still unsure where to begin or feeling uncertain about your application, you can book our service at arcticket.com.

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