On August 2, 2011, the U.S. Embassy in Manila established its Visa Reissuance Program (VRP) to expedite tourist visa renewals for those who previously have been issued multiple entry visas to the United States valid for five years or longer.
Under this program, a Philippine citizen holding a valid tourist visa can apply for re-issuance within 12 months of its expiration date. Visa reissuance applicants will be given a priority appointment date. They only need to appear at the Consular Section of the Embassy at the designated appointment time to submit a valid passport and application confirmation page, and to have their fingerprints digitally scanned. No interview will normally be needed. The applicants can expect to receive their passports with the new U.S. visa within a week of application.
Below are the requirements to be eligible for the visa reissuance program:
- Philippine passport holder
- Previously been issued a B1/B2 visa good for five or ten years
- Visa is still valid or has expired within the last twelve months
- In possession of all passports covering the entire period of time since that most recent full-validity visa
- Have not been refused a U.S. visa in the last twelve months
- Visa is not annotated “clearance received”
- Have not stayed in the U.S. longer than 6 months straight (even if the CIS approved an extension)
- Have not ever been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime, even if subject of a pardon
- Can provide the visa control number from the visa
If you have any questions, please fill out the free consultation form below, and we will respond as soon as possible privately.
Question: What about for first time application of B1 B2 Visa – I am working for Holland America Line for 8 years and we have a privilege to go on a cruise once a year – i could not use it due to not having the proper visa – kindly advise. thank you.
Unfortunately the visa reissuance program is for those seeking renewals, who have not violated the terms of their status. So for first time applicants, they’d have to go through the typical process of applying for a tourist visa.
my b1/b2 visa expired while i was here in the unuted states.can i renew my visa here?it expired last june 20,2012.
Rodrigo, thank you for your email. You can renew your B1/B2 STATUS here in the US through filing a Form I-539 with supporting documents, BUT, you cannot renew a B1/B2 VISA here – has to be in the Philippines. Note the difference between visa and status. Visa is a document that would allow you to enter here. Status is determined by the I-94 expiration (usually 6 months on B1/B2) and any subsequent approval notices you possibly have on a change of extension of status. Hope this helps.
what about other visa categories like J-1? can they avail for VRP too in Manila?
Just B1 / B2 at this point, unless their policy changes.