If you’re applying for a US visa in the Philippines, you might have noticed a significant change in the process. Starting this year, the US Embassy in Manila now requires applicants to complete their biometric data collection (fingerprinting and photo-taking) on a separate day from their visa interview. This adjustment has raised questions among applicants, particularly for those traveling from outside Manila.
Why Was This Change Implemented?
The separation of biometrics collection from the visa interview is likely an effort to streamline the overall application process and manage large applicant volumes more efficiently. By dedicating one day solely to biometrics, the embassy can handle interview days more smoothly, focusing entirely on assessing eligibility for visa issuance.
However, this change may also be influenced by operational policies being implemented in other US consulates worldwide, aiming for consistency in procedures.
When Did This Take Effect?
This change began in early 2025. Applicants are now required to schedule two appointments:
Day 1: Biometrics Appointment at the Visa Application Center (VAC) in Manila.
Day 2: Visa Interview at the US Embassy.
This change applies to most non-immigrant visas, including tourist, student, and work visas.
Implications for Applicants in the Philippines
More Expenses for Out-of-Town Applicants
For applicants outside Metro Manila, this change means additional travel and accommodation expenses. Previously, applicants could complete biometrics and the visa interview on the same day. Now, they must return to Manila for the second appointment, effectively doubling their travel costs. This adjustment particularly impacts families or groups applying together, as the costs can quickly add up.
Extended Time for Processing
The separation of appointments also means applicants will need to spend more time planning their trips. Those who cannot stay in Manila between the biometrics and interview days may face significant disruptions in their schedules.
What About Other Countries?
This procedural change in the Philippines prompts the question: does it reflect a broader shift in how the US Embassy processes visa applications in other countries? Here’s how the situation looks in some of the other regions served by US Visa Coach:
China: US consulates in China have long followed a similar two-step process with separate biometrics appointments, so this is already standard practice.
India: Indian applicants also have separate biometrics and interview days at different locations, a practice in place for years.
Pakistan: Pakistanis applying for US visas also follow the two-appointment process, with biometrics collected at Application Support Centers.
Costa Rica: The procedure in Costa Rica typically combines biometrics and interviews into a single day, though changes similar to the Philippines could be introduced in the future.
Vietnam: Biometrics and visa interviews are generally conducted on the same day, but updates may align with other countries.
Indonesia: Applicants in Indonesia still enjoy single-day appointments for biometrics and interviews, but they should watch for potential updates.
Kenya & Zambia: Both African countries currently follow the single-day process, though applicants in remote areas already face logistical challenges.
How Can US Visa Coach Help You Navigate This Change?
At US Visa Coach, we understand how these changes can complicate the visa application process, especially for applicants living far from Manila or consulates in their respective countries. That’s why our US Visa Coach Master Package provides you with everything you need to streamline your application:
- Step-by-step guidance on scheduling your biometrics and interview appointments.
- Tips for efficiently preparing for both appointments.
- Sample itineraries to minimize travel costs for out-of-town applicants.
- A comprehensive list of required documents to avoid unnecessary delays.
Final Thoughts
While the separation of biometrics and interview days in the Philippines may initially feel inconvenient, it reflects an ongoing effort by the US Embassy to streamline processes and manage high applicant volumes. If you’re in the Philippines or other countries where similar changes may take effect, preparation and planning are key to a smooth experience.
At US Visa Coach, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your appointments—whether they’re one day or two. Reach out to us today for personalized assistance and expert advice tailored to your situation.