How To Apply For A US Tourist Visa in the Philippines (Updated)

How To Apply For A US Tourist Visa With Your Philippine Passport

By DAN FORTEZA

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Get your US Tourist B1/B2 Visa ready because you’re going to see what the United States has to offer! Though I understand US visa is probably one of the hardest visas in the world to get but it is all worth it. In this post, I’ll be giving you a step-by-step guide, a list of the requirements, my experience throughout the whole application process, interview questions, and other tips to help you get your US tourist visa!

Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash | Dantravels.org

But again, just like in other visa application blogs I’ve written, no one can give you the guarantee of your US tourist visa’s approval – not me, not even a lawyer or a travel agent. If anyone does, is most likely a scammer!

I know you must have heard tons of horror stories from people regarding their denied US visa applications. Because of the huge number of Filipino illegal immigrants, the US Government is very strict about its immigration laws.

It’s alright to feel nervous. I was nervous, too! But for now, let’s set aside those negative thoughts. Let’s be positive so that that positive energy will radiate to the people around you.. even to the interviewer! =)

Anyway, enough of that and let’s get started!

US VISA B1/B2 FOR TOURISTS

The B1/B2 visitors visa is for people traveling to the United States temporarily for business (B1) or for pleasure or medical treatment (B2)

    • B1 visa is for attending business conventions and educational conferences
    • B2 visa is for tourism, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment

To be granted a US tourist visa, you must be able to prove that:

    • your visit is only temporary
    • you have enough money to cover all your expenses during your stay
    • you have binding ties that ensure your return to your country

WHEN AND WHERE TO APPLY

WHEN: Application shall be made  at least 2 months prior to your intended departure. But since I was on a hurry, I did it all in a month! =) Here is my application timeline:

    • Day 1: Read Blogs
    • Day 5: Book Hostel Accommodations (I need this information prior to submitting the Application form online).
    • Day 6: Get myself an ID picture both digital and hardcopy
    • Day 8: Pay for the Visa Fee
    • Day 9: Submit Application Form Online (I am rushing, I know!)
    • Day 9: Schedule Interview Appointment. Note that I chose the earliest available date which is 21 days away!
    • Day 30: Day of Interview. On this day, you’ll immediately know whether you’re approved or not.

WHERE: Application and personal appearance interview will take place at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines at 1201 Roxas Boulevard Manila, Philippines 1000. Please be at the Embassy gate 30 minutes prior to your interview

GET YOUR US TOURIST VISA IN 5 EASY STEPS

STEP 1: PAY THE VISA FEE

There are 2 ways to pay US Visa Application Fee:

    • Online via BPI website or Bancnet website
    • Directly at the BPI Bank Branches

In my case, I chose to pay it directly to the BPI Bank Branches.

    • Go to the visa info page of the US  Embassy website. As of April 2019, the visa fee is USD160. This is the costliest visa fee I’ve ever paid!
    • Then go to this page. Download and print your $160-deposit slip. Or click HERE to download directly the slip.
US Tourist Visa Bank Option Payment
US Tourist Visa Cash at Bank Payment Option | Dantravels.org

NOTE: There is an expiration date on the deposit slip. Ensure that you pay it before it expires!

US Tourist Visa Bank Deposit Slip
US Tourist Visa Bank Deposit Slip | Dantravels.org

NOTE: Visa Fee are non-refundable & non-transferable.

    • After you have paid the visa application fee, keep the BANK receipt for your records. It cannot be replaced if it is lost. You will not be able to schedule an appointment without your receipt number.

STEP 2: FILL UP THE VISA APPLICATION (DS-160) FORM

If you are a solo backpacker like me, you need to book first your room accommodation. You will need this information to answer the form of where you’ll be staying.

TIP: I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well.  Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels.

Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option. 

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Or try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

To start filling up your own form, click this link (DS-160 Form).

You can access a DS-160 form sample in this link as your reference.

NOTE: Prepare also your 2″x2″ digital photo. This will be uploaded on your application form.

US Tourist Visa DS-160 Form | Dantravels.org

TIP: Be brutally honest when filling up the application form.  The interviewer will base his/her questions on your filled up form. So when he/she caught you lying from something that you wrote in the form, you’re dead! =(

The confirmation number generated after filling up the form is needed to set up appointment. Shown below is my confirmation page, please print this as you’ll be needing this during the day of your appointment.

Confirmation Page | Dantravels.org

STEP 3. SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

After making payment (step 1) and completing the DS-160 Form (step 2), you can now schedule your appointment.

    • Prepare these 3 info:
      • Passport Number
      • Paid Receipt Number
      • Confirmation Number
    • Go to this SITE to schedule your appointment.
US Visa Appointment Site | Dantravels.org
    • Once done, save and print you appointment letter. The appointment letter should look like this – see below.
US Tourist Visa Appointment Letter

STEP 4. PREPARE OTHER SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Once you’re done setting up your appointment online and while waiting for your appointment day, you need to prepare supporting documents. You may ask why? Because in order to support your answer during the interview, the interviewer will most likely ask for proof of documents.

Here are the set of documents I’ve prepared:

    • Old Passport – Not only you need to bring your new passport but also the old one with stamps as this shall prove your travel history. Your travel history will most likely be asked during your interview like ‘Have you traveled before?, Where and When?’.
    • Hostel Booking – I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com.

Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option. 

Or try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I love it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 PHP) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

    • Itinerary of planned tourism activities

I can provide you a copy of mine if you like. Just leave a reply on the comment section below.

    • Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
    • Certificate of Employment
    • Payslips
    • Bank Passbook / Bank Certificate
    • Travel Insurance – Just to be insured while traveling, I highly recommend you guys to get travel insurance. I bought one from the World Nomads where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.

STEP 5: GO TO THE EMBASSY AND KILL THE INTERVIEW!

Visit the U.S. Embassy on the date and time of your interview. You will need to bring a printed copy of the following:

    • Appointment confirmation
    • DS-160 confirmation page
    • One recent 2″x2″ photo ID (in white background)
    • Current passport and all old passports

NOTE: Applications without all of these items will not be accepted.

    • Bring also your supporting documents

There are also things NOT allowed inside the Embassy such as mobile phones, devices with on/off, etc. These pieces of information are stated on your Appointment Confirmation letter, so please read that document thoroughly. 

Interview proper is next. I created a separated blog post from experience during the interview. Click HERE to read. By reading, you’ll know the questions thrown at me during the interview and how I answered them. =)

Believe me, I was nervous during the interview! But I tried to keep my cool and composure. You can do it, too!

After the interview, you’ll know immediately if your visa is approved or denied. If approved, your passport will be delivered in the address specified in your Appointment Confirmation.

By the way, after the interview – I was approved and got my 10-year multiple entry US visa after 3 days!

So I wish you all the best in your US tourist visa application! =)

My US Visa | Dantravels.org

SUMMARY:

    • Visa Type: B1/B2 (Business/Tourism)
    • Visa Validity: 10 Years
    • Entry type: Multiple Entry
    • Visa Fee: USD160.00

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours to justify your tourism activity in the U.S. for visa purposes, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your U.S. itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

(you may choose one or more tours that suit your travel needs)

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well.  Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
    • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

This Post Has 123 Comments

  1. marifel

    last question po, pag apply nyu po ng usa visa ila month bago ang interview?
    in short for 1 month na tapos mo ang application and received the visa within 3 days?

    1. dantravels

      Hi Marifel, You’re right, it took me almost a month for the application process alone. And after 3 days my visa was home delivered! Approved =)

      Here is the timeline of my application:

      Day 1: Read Blogs
      Day 5: Book Hostel Accommodations (I need this information prior to submitting the Application form online).
      Day 6: Get myself an ID picture both digital and hardcopy
      Day 8: Pay for the Visa Fee
      Day 9: Submit Application Form Online (I am rushing, I know!)
      Day 9: Schedule Interview Appointment. Note that I chose the earliest available date which is 21 days away!
      Day 30: Day of Interview. On this day, you’ll immediately know whether you’re approved or not.
      Day 33: I received my visa home delivered.

      1. Ritchel

        Hi poh ask lng poh ako if posible ba makakuha ako ng Us tourist visa ung bf ko kasi gusto nya mag vacation ako sa kanya pru xa ung gagastos ng lahat. Pru my work ako dito sa saudi. Posible ba ako mka kuha ng visa? Thanks

        1. Marife

          Ilang days po bago pakapag PA schedule ng appointment

          1. dantravels

            Hi Marife, the interview took place 21 days after I scheduled my appointment online. I hope this is the one you’re asking. If not, the timeline of my application process is on the “When and Where to Apply” section of my this blog–you may read it again.

          2. Mitch

            Bakit po palagi no valid record can be found for the entered receipt number pag magpapa appointment na for interview?? Bali 3days na po ako nakabayad sa BPI

    1. dantravels

      Hi Dawn, I sent it to you via email.
      Hope it helps!

      Regards,
      Dan

      1. Voltaire

        Penge po travel itinerary

        1. dantravels

          Hi! I would appreciate if you can further explain why you are needing it.

          Thank you! 🙂

      2. Mary

        Sir ako dn po. Ska sir ask ko lng po kinuha po b un passport nyo pra mkta nya kung saan n po kyo nakabisita? Thanks po

  2. Hilda

    Hi Dan, I am also a digital nomad, working online anywhere. Can you please give me hint, how much money do I need in my bank account before I apply for US Visa? Btw, I have a Japan, Korean & Egyptian visa, is this an advantage for applying US Visa?

    1. dantravels

      Happy to connect with another digital nomad! What do you do online?

      With regards to how much money needed on your bank account, I am totally not sure. This is actually NOT a requirement during the application process but I still had brought my bank account/certificates during the interview in case the interviewer asked for it. It has more than 100K Php.

      As long as you are able to explain how does your stream of income come in, you’ll be fine. If your salary is not enough for them, then I guess that’s the time the interviewer will ask how much savings do you have on your bank account. In my case, I was asked more about my personal background and the nature of my work. If you haven’t read my blog about my US Interview experience, here is the link: https://dantravels.org/how-i-got-my-10-year-multiple-entry-us-visa-my-experience-during-application-interview/

      I wish you luck on your application.

      Regards,
      Daniel

      1. Girly

        Good pm po Dan.
        Ano pong requirements makakuha ng tourist visa.
        Sana po matulongan m ako
        Salamat po

  3. Maydee

    Hi, may I request for a copy of your itineraries. I’m working on my ITR at the moment and establishing my savings account as I’m planning to apply for US visa. Would appreciate if you can help me with the travel itineraries. My email add is deekyam@gmail.com. Thank you in advance..

    1. dantravels

      Sure!
      I will send it first thing in the morning! Good night for now!

      UPDATE: sent! For security purposes, NO NEED TO SHOW YOUR EMAIL AD HERE. The email ad you filled up prior to commenting would be enough.

    2. Sarah June

      Hi Dan, very informative blog.
      ???

      Can you please send me a copy of your itinerary?
      Is flight reservation one of the requirements?

      Thanks Dan~

      God bless!

      Keep inspiring us…

      Reading your blog from Vietnam ??

      1. dantravels

        Hi Sarah,

        I just sent it to your email. Check your inbox, please.
        And nope, flight reservation is not a requirement.

        Thank you for your kind words.

        Hugs from Thailand!

  4. Kristine

    Hi Dan! May I ask for your sample itinerary please? Thanks!

    1. dantravels

      Hi Kristine,

      I just sent it to you via email. =)

      Regards,
      Dan

  5. Sheryl

    Dan Travels. How if unemployed po ako may posibilidad kayang maapprove ako?siusupportahan lang kasi ako ng asawa ko na nasa US

    1. dantravels

      Hi Sheryl,

      During the day of my interview, there was one Filipina who was also applying for a US visa. The same case as yours, she was unemployed and was just relying on the remittances of her husband from the US. I was next to her on queue for the interview (so I heard her conversation with the interviewer). She was REJECTED because she has no job here in the Philippines and did not build strong rootedness to the Philippines (that’s what I felt). The interviewer was like “But you have no job. You can’t just rely on the money given by your husband when you’re in the US. The US is not like the Philippines. Blah blah blah”. My observation was, she did not really have proven her rootedness to the Philippines because she has no job. Will she ever come back to the Philippines? What will be BIG the reason for her to come back to the Philippines? I think if you work on that first, you will have a good chance of getting a US visa.

      Just a disclaimer though, it’s all gonna be case to case. The case might be really different on your side. But I hope you work on the gaps you see possible reasons for US visa rejection.

      But anyway if you think you’re ready and you have your husband to sponsor your trip, make it clear that he will pay for your trip and have supporting documents to back that up such as your sponsor’s passport copy, his bank certificates, his employment certificate, hostel bookings. Bottom line is, ensure that you can prove the financial stability of your sponsor. So bring all the documents that can prove and support that.

      Hope this helps.

      Regards,
      Dan

      1. Sheryl

        Tnx dan!!!

        Yeah no problem about sponsors he have work and properties there (own house and lot)and ready syang gumawa ng letter of invitation at sasabihin nyang sya magsponsor sakin… ang kinakatakot ko lang is baka madenied ako hehehe…ayaw nya kasi ako magwork sabi nya wait na lang nya petition ko but while waiting the petition pwede pa rin b ako magtour?

  6. Jean

    What are the requirements for sponsired tourist visa?

    1. dantravels

      Hi Jean!

      If you’re asking for a Tourist Visa B1/B2, then it should be with the same requirements.

      If you have a sponsor, make it clear as to who will pay for your trip and have supporting documents to back that up such as your sponsor’s passport copy, his/her bank certificates, his/her employment certificate, hostel bookings. Bottom line is, ensure that you can prove the financial stability of your sponsor. So bring all the documents that can prove and support that.

      Good luck with your application!

      1. Girly

        Hi po dantravels
        Tnong ko lang po, paano makakuha ng tourist visa puntang US, dto lng ako s pilipinas, nagstop ng trabaho, d ako pna p trabaho noong nagka boyfriendn ako, pro yng bf ko ang ggastos, almost 4 years n p kmi.

        kc nong sya ang my schedule pnta dto, n canceled dhil s pndemya, kya ngayon ako nalang ppnta doon,

  7. dantravels

    Just additional information for those asking how to support their US visa application and to get a good chance of approval.

    According to the U.S. embassy, you need to have strong and concrete proofs that you will come back to the Philippines for you to be granted a visa. With that, here are some factors that could affect your chances.

    1. Travel experience
    If you’re well-traveled, it will be easier to prove that your intention of going to the U.S. is just for tourism. The more countries you’ve visited in the past, the better.

    2. Established career
    Having a great job in the Philippines is another compelling reason to prove that you will return home and you will not be tempted by the possible opportunities in the States (it’s not called the land of opportunity for nothing). Your chances of getting a visa are better if you’ve had a stable job for a considerable amount of years.

    3. Financial capability
    A trip to the U.S. is expensive, and you definitely need to prove that you can afford it. If you have a sponsor, make it clear as to who will pay for your trip and have supporting documents to back that up.

    4. Be truthful
    We cannot stress this enough: Always tell the truth. The U.S. embassy will review your application thoroughly and any discrepancy they find will be a red flag. Be honest about everything that the consul will ask you, be it about your relatives in the States or your itinerary. Applying for a tourist visa means that you’re planning to visit the U.S. for tourism and not for anything else.

    1. Alxandrei Jan

      Good day po, Thanks for sharing your experiance. i came to your blog just to read about the US VISA. I am currently working in Abroad as Secretary in a Group of Companies. Can you share your US itinerary po. Thank you po?

      1. dantravels

        Hi Alexander,

        I sent my itinerary to you. Check your email inbox.

        Regards,
        Dan

  8. anthony castro

    Hi Dan, can u help me for travel itenery plz?sent it to my yahoo avcastro1979@yahoo.com coz me and my wife plan to visit as a tourist in hawaii usa and plz give me an idea that our sponsor there in hawaii provide us a strong proof that they avail or support us for our vacation in hawaii ?and also one of our problem is my wife not much good enough to speak in english what is your advice tnx and gobless

    1. dantravels

      Hi Anthony,

      Sorry but the itinerary I’ve prepared was for California, US; not for Hawaii, US.

      If you have a sponsor, make it clear as to who will pay for your trip and have supporting documents to back that up such as your sponsor’s passport copy, his/her bank certificates, his/her employment certificate, hostel bookings and any financial documents from your sponsor. Bottom line is, ensure that you can prove the financial stability of your sponsor. So bring all the documents that can prove and support that.

      Make sure you have REASONS TO COME BACK to the Philippines (example – you need to return to PH because your work needs you). Same as your wife. This is always the red flag for visa denial.

      As for your wife’s fluency in English, just do the talking. Assuming you’ll apply together and intend to visit the US together, you and your wife will be interviewed together but you can do all the talking. If she is specifically asked by the interviewer, you can help her in translating. (Assuming your wife goes ALONE to the US, she probably would get denied due to her lack of fluency.)

      Hope this helps.

      Good luck with your application!

  9. Dulce

    Hi! May i know what did you put in the point of contact in the US in your D160 form.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Dulce,

      I booked a room accommodation and that is the information I used to fill up the point of contact in DS 160 form. To know more about this, read this blog especially the “STEP 2” where I’ve explained how I normally book my room accommodations.

      The screenshot below is an excerpt from my DS160 point of contact.

      http://prntscr.com/ob8ae9

      Hope this helps.

  10. Ysa

    Hi Dan! Could you please send me your itinerary? Thank you. Here’s my email : ysajoson@yahoo.com

    1. dantravels

      Hi Ysa,

      Email sent. Kindly check your inbox. For security purposes, NO NEED TO SHOW YOUR EMAIL AD HERE. The email ad you filled up prior to commenting would be enough.

      Regards,
      Dan

  11. Marilyn

    Dan Travels. Thank you?is their a chance po ba..kasi wala akong stable work nor gov.employee iam goin to apply want to visit my bf his american citizen..with his help financially also?just reading here some experiences.(my previous question) thank you?

    Ps. My travel experience started 2004 southeast asia..china lang po ang my visa ko.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Marilyn,

      I feel like you will have a lesser chance of approval with your current situation. According to the U.S. embassy, you need to have strong and concrete proofs that you will come back to the Philippines for you to be granted a visa. With that, here are some factors that could affect your chances.

      1. Travel experience
      If you’re well-traveled, it will be easier to prove that your intention of going to the U.S. is just for tourism. The more countries you’ve visited in the past, the better!

      2. Established career
      Having a great job in the Philippines is another compelling reason to prove that you will return home and you will not be tempted by the possible opportunities in the States (it’s not called the land of opportunity for nothing). Your chances of getting a visa are better if you’ve had a stable job for a considerable amount of years.

      3. Financial capability
      A trip to the U.S. is expensive, and you definitely need to prove that you can afford it. If you have a sponsor, make it clear as to who will pay for your trip and have supporting documents to back that up.

      4. Be truthful
      We cannot stress this enough: Always tell the truth. The U.S. embassy will review your application thoroughly and any discrepancy they find will be a red flag. Be honest about everything that the consul will ask you, be it about your relatives in the States or your itinerary. Applying for a tourist visa means that you’re planning to visit the U.S. for tourism and not for anything else.

      If you think you can further improve your situation by filling in your gaps from the above-mentioned factors/criteria, then you would have a bigger chance of getting approved.

      Hope this helps.

      Regards,
      Dan

  12. Rediza

    Hello po, applicable po ba sa akin ang B1/B2 na visa type if papa puntahin ako ni client for training and also para daw ma observe ko ang daily operations dun.. Bookkeeper pala ako nang company..

    1. dantravels

      Yes, assuming it’s for short-term business purposes.

      Take note that the B1 visa is a temporary/non-immigrant US visa that permits visitors to enter the U.S. for business purposes.

      Types of activity covered include:

      -consulting with clients or business associates,
      -conferences, seminars, or conventions,
      -carrying out research,
      -to take part in legal negotiations or proceedings.

      1. Rediza

        Thank you po.. I read your blog po, and I followed your step by step process.. Muntikan na po akong kumuha nang agent para may yumulong sa akin, nung nalaman ko na 25k yung babayaran ko, ang research nlng ako, at sumali sa fb group and luckily nakita ko blog mo.. Very helpful po talaga ito..

        1. dantravels

          Aww thank you so much, Rediza.
          God bless you and your application ?

          1. Rediza Gerez

            hello po, my question ulit ako, paano po if walang middle name ang nakalagay sa DS 160 po? importante po ba na dapat ilagay ang middle name? may nababasa kasi ako na need daw ang middle name. TIA

  13. Czarry

    Hi, Dan! Can you send your itinerary to this email: itsczarry@gmail.com
    thanks. It’ll help me complete my application faster.

    1. dantravels

      Sent. Check your inbox. For security purposes, NO NEED TO SHOW YOUR EMAIL AD HERE. The email ad you filled up prior to commenting would be enough.

  14. Mae Tabinas

    Hi sir good morning po… My fiance was petition sa kanyang father po… F11 po then meron na po siyang appointment and schedule for us visa interview po… Meron PO akung concern sir after fill up po sa ustraveldocs(dot)com meron pong sabi na nagamit na po Yung application nya po Kasi seaman Kasi siya sir … Hindi nami Alam Kung ano Ang dapat gawin.. please po sir I badly need your advice… Salamat po Godbless po

    1. dantravels

      Hi Mae,

      I am not so familiar with your case. Sorry if I am not able to help you.

      Regards,
      Daniel

  15. Jamaica

    Hello Po sir. Tanong ko Lang Po.
    1. Need ko Po ba mag bayad muna before mag fill up Ng D160 form?
    2. Okay Lang Po ba iba Ang mag bayad? Gawa nalang ako Ng authorization letter?

    1. dantravels

      Hi Jamaica,
      1. You can also fill up the DS160 form first, it’s perfectly fine. However, you cannot schedule your appointment without receipt of payment.
      2. I think it’s fine. I am assuming you’ll pay it via BPI over-the-counter. Just ensure that the bank teller is aware that it’s under your name. I remember I was asked by the bank teller to whom the payment is for and I said it was for me.

  16. Tin

    Hi. Your blog is so informative, thanks for sharing it. My fiancée is in between jobs right now but we’re thinking of starting up a business. Will that be a flag for them when approving his visa, you think? Thanks for your time.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Tin,
      I am not sure if I understand the situation well. Starting a business in the Philippines or elsewhere?

      But in general, here are the things that could be a red flag:

      -No international travel experience
      -No established career
      -Not capable to travel financially
      -Having inaccurate information (be truthful!)

      Hope this helps.

      Regards,
      Dan

      1. Tin

        Hi, thanks for the previous reply. Just to clarify what I meant was while he’s looking for the next job, we’re thinking of starting up a business there in the Philippines.

        Will that be sufficient enough to show financial abilities and rootedness there to get approved for a visa? Or should he just wait for a job instead and then apply for visa? Thanks so much for your time.

        1. dantravels

          Hi Tin,
          When you say ‘starting up a business’, it means it is not yet established, right?
          In my opinion, either wait until he has a regular job or wait until the business is already established (like getting revenue, profits, etc). I think that would be a safe timing to apply.

          Regards,
          Dan

          1. Tin

            Thank you, Dan! Very helpful stuff.

  17. Ariane

    Hello! Thank you for this well-written blog. Would it be okay to ask for a copy of your itinerary? Thank you in advance!

    1. dantravels

      Hi Ariane,
      Email sent. Check your inbox.
      Cheers,
      Dan

  18. John Carlo Tolentino

    Kindly share me your itinerary please.

    1. dantravels

      Sure, I sent it. Check your inbox.

  19. Lexa

    Can i have a copy of your travel itinerary po? ?

    1. dantravels

      Sent! Check your email inbox.

  20. Jude

    Pwede po pahingi ng travel itinerary?ty.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Jude,
      Sent, Check your inbox.

  21. Nikko

    Hello sir, sir okay lang kaya na ang ibook ko lang is yung 1st 3 days ng stay ko sa US? Hindi ba magtataka ang consul?
    Gusto ko lang din agad may ilagay akong pupuntahan sa ds160 ko, pero 1st 3 days lang muna para pwede ko pa ma experience ang ibang inns or hostels.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Nikko,

      That’s fine to indicate your first booked hotel in your DS 160 form. However, just make sure you book your room accommodation on your 4th day and so on in case you are asked by the interviewer. In my case, I wasn’t asked by the interviewer to show my booking reservation documents but of course, I came prepared with documents.

      Just to be safe, I advise you to book ALL your room accommodation at booking.com. I have provided my link above for a 10% discount for you. What’s great about booking.com is that you do not need to pay now (you can pay it LATER on your first day at the hostel) and most importantly you can CANCEL it anytime (I believe 3 days before your actual stay is FREE to cancel – depends on each hostel policy). It’s very safe for visa applicants! You can filter your booking by the lowest price if you opt to.

      And then, just be honest. Tell the interviewer you book on other hotels, etc (but only if you were asked, okay?)

      Hope this helps.

      Regards,
      Dan

      1. Nikko

        Sir may I ask for your itinerary for my guide in preparation? nikko.agaton24(at)yahoo(dot)com

        1. dantravels

          Sent, check your inbox.

      2. Nikko

        In your case sir, binook mo na din ang whole trip mo kung saan ka mag stay?

        1. dantravels

          Yes!

          1. Nikko

            Sir additional inquiry, okay lang ba may ipapakita na akong 9 nights na pag stay an ko sa NY at naka declare sya sa ds160, pero wala pa naman ako plane ticket?dapat ba may booked plane flight na?

          2. dantravels

            Nikko,
            Show your room accommodation documents only when asked by interviewer – it’s more of a supporting document. And don’t pay of it yet, again use booking.com to reserve a room so you have option to cancel it later when you opt to.

            But you can declare it on your DS160 since you intend to stay on that specific room/hotel.

            No need for confirmed flight ticket. (Gosh! Mahal din yun! Hehe) They normally won’t ask for confirmed flight tickets but if ever they do, tell the interviewer you will purchase a ticket once your visa is approved.

            Regards,
            Dan

          3. Nikko

            Sir ano pong nilagay niyo sa DS160 regarding sa organization name sa US? wala naman kasi akong kakilala dun

  22. Monica

    Hi sir Kindly help me How to fill up the DS 160
    I can proceed to my application bec i can not find the Location of Utah Usa from the List.

    1. dantravels

      Sorry, Monica. I don’t really understand what you meant. =(

  23. Neri

    Very informative. Thanks for sharing and I would appreciate if you can send me a copy of your travel itinerary. Thank you ☺️

    1. dantravels

      Sent to you, Neri. Check your inbox.

  24. Richard

    THANK YOU I GOT IT…. May i know also which hotel u stayed in LA? thank you

      1. Ritchel

        Ask lng poh my bf want me to visit him in US for vacation. He wilm be pay for all the expenses. But i have work here in saudi if a take my vacation i will try to apply a visa its possible can i get a US visa? Thanks

  25. Sarah

    Hello po sir. what if first timer lang po mag visit visa? Ganon parin ba ng requirements. Wlang old passport pwd Parin ba?

    1. dantravels

      To be honest, I don’t understand your question. You need to have a passport to apply for US Visa – it should at least 6 months valid before your date of departure. My advise – just follow the instructions I laid out in this blog.

  26. Ritchel

    Pahabol poh ilang months ba ung process?

    1. dantravels

      During your interview, you will immediately know whether you’re approved or not.

      Here is my timeline:

      Day 1: Read Blogs
      Day 5: Book Hostel Accommodations (I need this information prior to submitting the Application form online).
      Day 6: Get myself an ID picture both digital and hardcopy
      Day 8: Pay for the Visa Fee
      Day 9: Submit Application Form Online (I am rushing, I know!)
      Day 9: Schedule Interview Appointment. Note that I chose the earliest available date which is 21 days away!
      Day 30: Day of Interview. On this day, you’ll immediately know whether you’re approved or not.

  27. Ritchel

    My bf want me to have my vacation in US. He will be paying for all the expenses its possible can i get a US tourist visa? Im working here at saudi if i will take my vacation i will apply for US tourist visa. Thanks

    1. dantravels

      Yes, you can apply for a tourist visa. If you can’t solely afford it, it can be a red flag though. The US embassy is not really impressed of “boyfriend sponsorship” – it is a red flag to them. So just be careful.

      1. Ritchel

        Okie.can i have any suggstion you can give please if that “boyfriend sponsorship” is not really impressed the us embassy.

        1. dantravels

          Can’t you afford it? It’s a BIG plus if you can! Prepare your bank account certificates and all financial documents. Show the embassy that you can afford to go to the US as a tourist. Simple as that.

  28. tine

    hi, tanong ko lang kelangan ba ilagay ang middle name sa given name or not necessary? thanks

    1. dantravels

      I did not add my middle name.

  29. ciele

    Hi Sir. I’m also planning to apply for US visa for a vacation. Can I have a copy of your itinerary? Thank you!

    1. dantravels

      Sorry for my late reply. I sent it your email just now.

  30. Mbet

    Hi there, my first time to travel to US, just paid for the visa. Appreciate if you can share your travel IT in CA. 🙂

    1. dantravels

      Hi, check your email inbox=)

  31. Eric

    Hi sir ask lang sana ako, gnwan ko kasi visa online c mama kaso nung nag bayad na ako hndi ko na na open online profile kasi nag kamali ng pag open

    Sir pwed pa kaya ma open ung online abk dapat ko gawin my paraan pa ba mabuksan un

  32. camille bulaon

    hello po., pde po maka hingi ng travell itinerary., thanks and godbless., please send to me camillebulaon@gmail.com

    1. dantravels

      Sorry for my late reply. I’m currently traveling around Asia. I hope you now have what you need:)

      Hugs from Sri Lanka,
      Dan

  33. Sarah Castro

    Can you please send me your sample itinerary? Thank you so much. Also, I’m curious if it’s still possible to apply for a tourist visa in the Philippines. I heard they closed the embassy in Manila

    1. dantravels

      Sorry for my late reply. I’m currently traveling around Asia. I hope you now have what you need:)

      Hugs from Sri Lanka,
      Dan

  34. simon

    Trying to get a girl friend of mine to visit u.s.a, for a short time. Say 6 months maximum. We met in phils already and my question is should i apply as her sponsor under b2 visa or let her go it alone?

    She has a steady income of about 35k peos a month and family there.

    she is young like me and may be hard to show return intent. ANY advise helps? am considering getting a travel lawyer

    1. dantravels

      Hi Simon,

      Since she already has a steady income, I’d say no need for sponsorship! Because she needs to show the Embassy that she can afford to travel. Just follow thru my guide and requirements above. Also, it would be better if she had gone to other countries as having a travel history is a plus!

      Question though: what kind of work does she have? Her work can allow her a 6-month leave of absence? That’s a little bit shady on my part whether she’s still coming back to the Philippines.
      And why is it hard to show a ‘return intent’? Having a need to come back or report to her job in the Philippines is enough proof that she will return.

      Hugs from Sri Lanka ?? ,
      Dan

  35. Issa

    I would like to ask if having visited 7 countries would be considered a good travel history? I’ve only started traveling solo for 2 years now, backpacking style. I’ve been to Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, HK, Macau, Japan, Taiwan(twice, one solo & one recently with the family). I’ve noticed that you’ve been to 21 different countries when you applied so im quite hesitant if they’ll consider mine. I work full time and been with the company for more than 3 years. I have enough savings but my problem here is that I plan on going there by myself(the usual), i have no relatives/friends whatsoever in the us. So I’m not sure if that’d be good enough for them. Just wondering if you have any thoughts or suggestions on this?

    1. dantravels

      Hi Issa,

      I think that’s a good travel history already. And fear not, some of the people I know who only traveled one country or two have been approved. And from your statement, I think you have a really good chance to be approved given that you have stable work here in the Philippines and have enough savings.

      I am sorry if it took me some time to reply as I am solo traveling in Asia.

      Good luck with your application and hugs from Georgia!

      Dan

      1. Issa

        Thanks for the response! Also, i was thinking if you can share your itinerary for your US trip? I plan on visiting California as well.

        Anw, have fun in Georgia. Hoping you can write up more blogs about your trip. You’re an inspiration! 🙂

        1. dantravels

          Awww, thanks Issa. That’s really my ultimate goal: “to inspire people to travel, no matter the odds”.
          Anyway, I just sent it to you. But I only used it for the purpose of US visa application.

          Regards,
          Dan

  36. Taylor

    Thanks Dan for your fully details about that matter.
    Im Vietnamese and i have worked in the Philippines for 4 years. I have submitted the form and paid fee. My question is that is it still fine for foreigner apply US visa in the Philippines and you have any specific tips for my case pls
    Thank you

    1. dantravels

      Hi Bay,

      I just sent it to your email.
      Please check your inbox.

      Hugs from Armenia!
      Dan

  37. Ratsckor

    Hello sir! Ok lang ba, salary cert and employment contract ipakita ko, kasi ayaw ako bigyan ng employment cert.

    1. dantravels

      Yep, I think that’s fine.
      I actually only submitted payslips and employment contract when I applied for my Australian visa kasi nahiya na ako kay bossing na hingi nang hingi ng Certificate of Employment haha. The thing is as long as you can prove you have a job and a means to fund your travels, then that’s fine.

  38. Jp

    Hello Dan,

    Any advice anong status ng work ang ilalagay sa form pag freelancer ka? Ano chance ma approve pag freelancer ka? Should I put self employed sa form?

  39. Jec

    pede po pahingi ng iti.. thanks a lot?

    1. dantravels

      Hi Jec, I sent it to your email. Kindly check your inbox.

  40. Elaine

    Hi dan.. may I ask for your sample itinerary please? Thanks!

    1. dantravels

      Hi Elaine, I sent it to your email. Thanks!

  41. Sandy

    Hi, I have sent a reply pala via email. And a question. 🙂 Appreciate if you can enlighten me with regard to declaring someone I know in US. Thank you!

  42. Tine Daguro

    Hi Dan, What are my chances here:

    current employment: homebased via upwork.com since Sept 2017
    salary: 70,000 pesos/ month
    position: Virtual Assistant
    countries visited: HK, Shenzen China, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan
    Marital Status: Married
    reason for going to the US: to celebrate 2020 Thanksgiving with my sister and her family.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Tin, I believe you really have a good chance of being approved. I assume you’re only staying during the Thanksgiving week and will then go back to the Philippines?

      The thing is, just be honest about your intentions and make sure you have a good reason (with proof) to physically come back to the Philippines (e.g., work or business in the Philippines, a family to take care of, a mortgage to pay, etc.)

      Regards,
      Daniel

  43. Scherla

    Hi Dan, very informative blog. Can I ask for your itinerary? I’m planning to apply a visa too.

    1. dantravels

      Hi Scherla, thank you for reading this blog article. Please check your email inbox, I just sent it to you. Hugs from Thailand! =)

  44. Sabrina Santos

    Hi, Dan! I have a stable job and steady income around 50k PHP. I think I’ve got a good bank transaction history, however, I haven’t gone to any other countries as I’ve only always traveled domestically. How soon should I apply for Visa if I’m planning to visit the US in a year (Dec 2022) — my boyfriend is also willing to sponsor for my trip. Another thing, I’ve just transferred to my new company which means I’ll be regularized on the 6th month (Mar 2022), any tips on how should I approach my situation? I was also hoping you could provide me an Itinerary sample 🙂 Thank youuu!

    1. Pauline

      hi dan! we have relatives in the US. do we still need booking confirmation even if we will stay in our relative’s house? and do we also need itinerary? we are a family of 5. Do the 3 kids need to be around during the interview?

  45. Maria Fernandes

    Hi,

    Can I have a copy of your Itinerary? Thanks.

  46. AquaPinay

    What do they look for in your bank statments?
    A certain amount? Consistent deposist? How long do they look back?

    Thanks

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