Ages below 14 and over 79

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Overview

Applicants under 14 years old and over 79 years old generally do not have to appear in person at the U.S. Embassy for the visa interview or when renewing their visa.

Qualifications

Under 14 years old - To qualify for personal appearance exemption, either or both parents of the applicant must have a valid B1/B2 visa, and the applicant must be physically present in the Philippines at the time of the application.

 

Above 79 years old - Follow the interview waiver application process (Steps 1 to 5). at https://ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-niv-visarenew.asp.

How to Apply

Step 1

Pay the visa application fee. http://www.ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-niv-paymentinfo.asp.

 Step 2

Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form. After completing the form, print and save your confirmation page. 

Step 3

Register an account on https://cgifederal.secure.force.com/SiteRegister?country=Philippines&language=en_US

Additional requirements for applicants under 14 years old: 

  • Original Birth Certificate issued by Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA);
  • Photocopy of valid B1/B2 U.S. visa of either or both parents.

 If you qualify for Interview exemption, you will receive an confirmation letter containing a document checklist. Print two copies of the letter (one for your records and the other to be submitted with your application).  Drop off your passport along with the listed documents mentioned on the Confirmation letter at any of the 99 LBC branches - click here.  Please remember to include the following:

  • Confirmation Letter;
  • Current and old passport with previous B1/B2 visa;        
  • Two (2) photos, size 2”x2” inch on glossy paper, in color, in white background, unretouched, taken within the last six (6) months, in neutral facial expression, and with both eyebrows and ears exposed. Photo guidelines can be accessed at http://www.ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-niv-photoinfo.asp. PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT THE SAME PHOTOGRAPH THAT APPEARED ON YOUR PREVIOUS VISA. Failure to submit a valid photograph will delay the processing of your visa application.

 Please be sure that all of the above items are included in your Interview Waiver application.  Failure to include all requested items – including a new photo and DS-160 application - will result in returning your application via courier. 

 Step 4

Please submit your documents at any of the 99 LBC branches. For list of LBC branches and outlets, please click here.

 Step 5

If your application is approved, your passport and visa will be delivered to the address you provided on your Atlas profile.

Please Note: Using the exemption process does not guarantee visa issuance.  In some cases, you may be required to appear for a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy.  If you submit an incomplete and/or inaccurate application, or if you do not meet the criteria listed above, we will return your application via the courier, and you will be asked to schedule an interview.  You should submit your application well in advance of your planned travel, to allow for the possibility that a visa interview will be necessary.