U.S. citizens may enter the Philippines without a visa for short tourist stays, which can be extended once in the country. Consular visa work in the United States therefore covers third-country nationals, longer stays, and the categories for work, study, retirement and marriage.
Quick facts
Immigrant and non-immigrant classes are decided under Philippine immigration law, and several of them are completed or converted inside the country rather than at a post abroad.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary visitor visa | Consular schedule | Single or multiple entry |
| Work, student and other classes | Higher tariffs | With sponsor documentation |
| Extensions inside the Philippines | Immigration fees there | Paid to the bureau of immigration |
| Apostille of supporting documents | $3–$25 per document | Secretary of State |
| Payment method | Money order at several posts | Confirm before attending |
Fees are not refunded if an application is refused, and posts do not discuss a decision in advance of the appointment.
How to apply
- Check whether your nationality needs a visa at all for a short visit.
- Identify the class that matches your purpose and how long you intend to stay.
- Gather the sponsor, employment or enrolment documents, apostilled where they are U.S. public records.
- Book an appointment at the post covering your state.
- Attend with originals and copies, and pay by the accepted method.
- Collect the passport with the visa and, if required, complete registration with immigration after arrival.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months beyond the stay, with blank pages.
- Completed application and photographs to specification.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Return or onward ticket and evidence of funds.
- Sponsor, employer or school documentation by class.
- Marriage or birth certificates where the class is family-based.
Where to apply
At the embassy or consulate general covering your U.S. address. Outreach missions handle a narrower range of services.
Philippine Honorary Consulate - Colorado & S Wyoming
View details →ChicagoConsulate General of the Philippines
View details →HonoluluConsulate General of the Philippines
View details →HoustonConsulate General of The Philippines
View details →Los AngelesPhilippine Consulate General, Los Angeles
View details →New YorkConsulate General of the Philippines
View details →San DiegoPhilippine Consulate General
View details →San FranciscoPhilippine Consulate General in San Francisco
View details →WashingtonEmbassy of the Philippines Consular Section
View details →Additional notes
Dual citizens do not need a visa
Anyone recognised as a Philippine citizen enters on a Philippine passport and has no visa requirement, which is one of the most valued practical effects of the dual citizenship route.
Extensions
Tourist stays can usually be extended at an immigration office in the Philippines, which is often simpler than applying for a longer visa in advance.
Balikbayan privilege
Former Filipinos and their families travelling together may qualify for a longer visa-free stay on arrival. Confirm the current conditions before relying on it.
Working needs a permit
A visitor class never authorises employment. Work requires the corresponding visa and the related permits from the labour authorities.