Great news! If your B1/B2 visa is up for renewal, you might not need an interview at the US Embassy! With the Interview Waiver Program, you can renew your US visa without an interview. Simply submit your supporting documents and have your new visa delivered via 2GO. This process can help avoid delays in visa issuance and save you time!
As a digital nomad, it’s important to know what to submit when returning home to the Philippines or check what questions might be asked in the US Tourist Visa process. Understanding eligibility, visa regulations, and possible reasons for visa denials can help you avoid common pitfalls.
I understand how things can get pretty rough when dealing with immigration and international travel, and this is what inspired me to write my “The A-Z on Becoming a Digital Nomad” eBook which is the ultimate guide to a good remote working lifestyle. If you’re interested in freelancing or currently working it out, consider grabbing a copy!
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)
Note: Make sure to have a solar power bank and a convertible carry-on backpack for hassle-free travel preparation!
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. Place them in a document organizer to ensure safety during handling.
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 your travel insurance for a more relaxing trip!
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.