U.S. Embassy in Manila to Open New Visa Application Center and Expand Consular Services
The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines has announced the launch of a new Visa Application Center (VAC), an enhanced visa appointment system, and expanded consular services for U.S.
The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines has announced the launch of a new Visa Application Center (VAC), an enhanced visa appointment system, and expanded consular services for U.S. citizens in the country, effective September 28, 2024.The new VAC, located at Parqal Building 8, Level 3, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay Tambo, Parañaque City, will handle photo capture and fingerprint scanning for both immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants. Starting September 28, all visa applicants will be required to schedule an appointment at the VAC before their interview at the U.S. Embassy on Roxas Boulevard. Scheduling will be done through an updated online appointment system, which will offer a secure, user-friendly interface at ustraveldocs.com/ph.Applicants with visa interviews scheduled before September 28 will not be affected by these changes and should continue with their current appointments at the Embassy.
Key Changes in Visa Services:
VAC Appointment Requirements: Immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants must schedule an appointment for photo capture and fingerprinting prior to their embassy interview.
New Online System: The redesigned online platform will be available from September 28 and will require existing users to log in using their registered email to retrieve previous payment receipts and appointment information.
VAC Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. No appointments are required for passport pickups, document drop-offs, or interview waiver submissions during these hours.
Additionally, the U.S. Embassy will introduce expanded American Citizen Services (ACS) through a new call centre and online platforms. U.S. citizens in the Philippines can reach out for assistance with passport, citizenship, and notarial services via the following consular hotlines: (+632) 7792-8988, (+632) 8548-8223, or (703) 520-2235 (for calls from the U.S.). Further inquiries can also be directed to the dedicated ACS website ustraveldocs.com/ph/en/american-citizens-services or via email at support-acs-philippines@usvisascheduling.com. Non-ACS-related inquiries should still be sent to ACSInfoManila@state.gov.For regular updates on these changes, follow the U.S. Embassy’s website ph.usembassy.gov, Facebook facebook.com/USEmbassyPH, and X account @USEmbassyPH.
