Philippines Visa Updates

The Philippines has announced updates to its nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application fees. These changes were initially scheduled to take effect on May 30, 2023, but they will now be implemented on June 17, 2023. Furthermore, there will be a temporary suspension of payment services for newPhilippines visafees on June 16, 2023, and services will resume on June 17. During this period, applicants should refrain from attempting to make any visa fee payments.

Fee Increases

Visitor Visas (B1/B2s) and Non-Petition Based NIVs

• The application fee for visitor visas for temporary business or tourism (B1/B2s) and other non-petition based NIVs, such as student and exchange visitor visas, will increase from $160 to $185.

Petition-Based NIVs for Temporary Workers

• The application fee for certain petition-based NIVs for temporary workers, including those in the H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories, will increase from $190 to $205.

Treaty Trader or Treaty Investor (E Category) Visa

• The application fee for a treaty trader or treaty investor (E category) visa applicant will increase from $205 to $315.

Unaffected Fees

While these changes are significant, it's important to note that other consular fees will remain unchanged. This includes the waiver of the two-year residency required fee for certain exchange visitors.

No Additional Fees for Current Applicants

Applicants who have already paid a visa application fee that is currently valid and non-expired, but have not yet appeared for their visa interview or are waiting for their case to be processed, will not be charged additional fees due to this fee increase.

Stay Informed

For the most up-to-date information on fees for visa services, applicants are encouraged to monitor the official Philippines embassy or consulate website.

These updates aim to ensure that the visa application process remains efficient and in line with evolving requirements. Applicants and travelers to the Philippines should take note of these changes and plan their visa applications accordingly.