For those who are going to the Philippines from the US, it’s essential to be prepared. This includes understanding the local culture, but also having the necessary documents in hand.
Americans need to apply for a visa when traveling to the Philippines.
We have gone through this process in the past and will be more than happy to shed light on what it takes to get a Philippines visa for US citizens.
The visa is going to last for 3 months after it has been approved.
Here are the key details to be aware of.
Application Process For A Philippines Visa As An American
Go To The Philippines Consulate In America
The first step is to locate the nearest Philippines consulate in your jurisdiction.
Each state is going to have a specific consulate that is designated for their area. You are going to have to find the one that is going to work for you.
This is where you are going to go when it’s time to book an appointment and begin the application process.
We recommend filling out the form beforehand.
Submit The Application
When you are ready to move forward with the process, it’s time to focus on the Philippines visa application as a US citizen.
You are going to fill out everything as required.
This includes taking the time to prepare the documents that are going to be requested by the Philippines government. Otherwise, you are not going to be approved.
We also recommend doing the same for anyone who is under the age of 18. It is going to speed things up as required.
Waiting Period
The last step in the process is going to be the waiting period.
The consulate is going to have your contact information and will make sure to reach out to you as soon as the approval comes through.
You will want to take the time to make sure you are prepared for this call. You can then go and pick up the visa as soon as it is approved.
Philippines Visa Fees
Let’s begin with the basic fees.
If you wish to apply for a Philippines visa as a US citizen, you are going to have to pay $30 USD for a 3-month stay. For a longer stay, you are going to be required to pay $60 USD.
It’s important to note that US Green Card holders have to apply for a Philippines visa too. You are not going to be approved automatically.
It’s best to make sure you are clear about why you are visiting during the application process.
It’s also important to note that you are going to have specific financial requirements when going to the Philippines. This means you should have the ability to show at least $1000 when traveling to the Philippines as this is going to be seen as the amount you are going to spend while you are there.
This is often asked about during the visa application process too with the help of proof of financial means.
Processing Time For Philippines Visa
Each case is different.
If we assume your case is straightforward with all of the necessary documentation ready to go, you should have the visa approved within a few weeks.
Some people end up getting their Philippines visa without a few days. This is a case-by-case thing and will depend on your application.
Philippines Visa Requirements For Americans
You will want to be well-prepared when it comes to applying for a Philippines visa as a US citizen.
This is going to include knowing which documents are required.
The Philippines has a strict requirement when it comes to the documents you are going to give to them for the visa. If the documentation is wrong, they will ask for a new submission.
What is required for a Philippines visa?
- Valid Passport
- Proof of Employment
- Flight Ticket
- Philippines Visa Application Form (Completed)
- Proof of Finances
- Application/Visa Fee
- Letter of Invitation (Some Cases)
- Proof of Vaccination
- Birth Certificate
Please have all of these documents ready to go. It will save you a lot of time during the application process and ensure the visa is approved within days.
It’s also important to note that some people are going to be required to show their employment records as mentioned above.
For this to happen, you are going to have to show your business registration certificate (if self-employed) or a letter from your employer.
Preparing A US Passport For A Philippines Visa
In some cases, you are going to have to apply for a passport before the visa application.
This means you need a valid US passport.
In general, it needs to be a valid US passport that is going to be valid at the time of your departure to the Philippines and needs to have two blank pages.
You are also going to have to follow the legal stipulations for the passport photo. This means the photo has to be the standard size that is seen with all US passports.
Final Thoughts
This is what you need to know when applying for a visa to the Philippines from America.
Go through these details and make sure all of your documents are in working order before moving forward.
Getting a visa is an important step. This applies to those getting married in the Philippines and to those who want to move there.
We also recommend reading our guides on Brazilian consulates in America, Chinese consulates in America, Italian consulates in America, and French consulates in America.
Amanda Harper is a travel enthusiast with 10+ years of traveling experience across the planet. Her passion for writing and travel makes her a walking bibliography on modern-day tourism.