Renewing your U.S. visa may be easier than you think. Depending on your visa type and eligibility, some applicants may qualify to renew without attending an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. For many B1/B2 visa holders, the interview waiver process can help simplify renewal by allowing documents to be submitted through the required application channels instead of scheduling a visa interview. Requirements can vary based on your visa history, expiration date, and current embassy guidelines, so it’s important to review the latest eligibility requirements before applying.
Understanding the renewal process ahead of time can help you prepare the right documents, avoid delays, and make your next trip planning a little smoother.
A non-immigrant visa under the Interview Waiver Program is the B1/B2 US Visa. Business or tourism is the usual purpose of a B1/B2 Visa.
Please note that this article is for the renewal of those visas only. New applicants will have to schedule a visa interview appointment at a U.S. Consulate.
Eligible for the Interview Waiver Program
You must be able to answer “yes” to all the criteria below. If you answer “no” to one, you may need an in-person interview.
- Have a previous B1/B2 visa, and you wish to renew it
- The last visa was issued after July 1, 2007
- Your previous visa was valid for a minimum of 5 years
- It expired within the last 12 months or is still valid
- You are a Filipino citizen
- No “Clearance Received” or “Travel with Employer” on your old visa
- You still have your passport with the B1/B2 visa
- No changes needed on your old visa details (e.g., name, gender, date of birth)
- Your visa was issued on or after your 14th birthday
- The last time you applied for a B1/B2 visa, you got approved
Requirements for Renewal of B1/B2 Visa
- Current Valid Passport
- DS – 160 Application Form
- Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter
- Old passport with previous B1/B2 Visa
- 2 pcs of 2×2 Colored Photos with white background, taken within the last 6 months
- Visa Fee – USD 160 in its peso equivalent
- Required documentation as per U.S. Embassy guidelines
- Fingerprint scan (maybe required in some cases)
Step-by-Step Guide in Getting your B1/B2 Visa
STEP 1: Pay Your Visa Application Fee
Through RCBC Bank:
Go to this webpage for instructions on how to pay, as well as the Peso equivalent of your payment. Print the slip. (Please take note of the expiration date, as you will have to reprint in case you pay beyond the date.)
Proceed to the nearest RCBC Bank and pay the visa application fee. Keep the receipt for the reference number.
Through Online via PesoNet:
Click this link for instructions. Your reference number will be used in your visa application and added to the account number.
STEP 2: Complete your DS-160 Application Form or the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application form. You can read the instructions here. Make sure your DS-160 Confirmation number is ready.
STEP 3: Create an account in the Registration Website.
You will need to have your DS-160 Confirmation Page Number as well as your payment reference number. Answer all the required details.
On Step 7, your eligibility for the Interview Waiver Program will be checked. Enter the address where your passport will be delivered and your receipt number.
If all are accepted, then you can print your Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter.
STEP 4: Prepare all documents needed for delivery. Include a copy of your receipt.
STEP 5: Submit Your Documents via 2GO. Visit the nearest 2GO branch (check their webpage for available locations). Avail the Interview Waiver Service at 2GO; they will forward your application to the U.S. Embassy.
STEP 6: Congratulations! If approved, your renewed B1/B2 visa will be delivered back to your provided address. Processing times may vary, so check for updates in the Visa validity period to avoid unnecessary delays.
And that’s it! You now have a renewed U.S. Visa and are ready for your next adventure!
However, keep in mind that applying does not guarantee approval. U.S. immigration officials and border protection authorities still review each application carefully.
If you’re planning more trips in the future, don’t forget to get comprehensive travel insurance for your next international trip for added peace of mind while traveling.
Also, staying updated with the U.S. Embassy website and our blog will help you navigate any visa regulations and processing times, and avoid issues at the port of entry.
Safe travels, and happy adventures ahead!
FAQ
The Visa Fee is USD 160, but you will pay in its peso equivalent. Please read this link to know more about the current exchange rate as well as the instructions.
The U.S. visa application process is the same whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa. However, if you have previously been issued a U.S. visa that you would like to renew, you may not be required to personally appear for an interview.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have observed USCIS waives some green card interviews. It appears that USCIS is approving more green card applications without an interview.