Fees - when and how do I pay?

[Bron Chase 1]

Hi Everyone,

I plan to file DCF in Manila for a CR-1 spousal visa (I'm the USC). From what I understand I will have to pay the processing fee for the I-130 when I submit it to the embassy ($420). From there I'm a little unsure. I believe there is a fee of $230 to process the visa application. When and how is this fee payed? Does the fee for the visa application have to be payed before I schedule the interview and medical, or do I pay it at the time of the interview, etc.? Can I pay with a credit card, or do I have to bring cash or do one of those bank deposit deals? Thanks for any insight.

- Bron (Makati)

[Leatherneck 693]

The $230 visa fee will be paid after the I-130 has been approved, the fee will be paid in pesos at any BPI branch, not credit cards -- cold, hard cash. The visa fee is paid prior to the interview and medical. Of course, DCF is predicated on the USC meeting the residence requirements.

Note: As of May 14, 2012 the medical fee for adults will increase to $223.35.

Edited May 11, 2012 by Leatherneck

[Bron Chase 1]

The $230 visa fee will be paid after the I-130 has been approved, the fee will be paid in pesos at any BPI branch, not credit cards -- cold, hard cash. The visa fee is paid prior to the interview and medical. Of course, DCF is predicated on the USC meeting the residence requirements.

Note: As of May 14, 2012 the medical fee for adults will increase to $223.35.

Thank you very much for the information. Do you know if I have to pay the $230 before they generate the case number? I believe that's what I need in order to schedule the medical and visa interview, so that's the magic number I want in my hands. I'm staying on a 13A permanent resident visa, I have a job in the Philippines, an apartment, a car, I've lived in the country for over a year, and I'm confident I can prove all of that so hopefully I won't run into any problems with residency.

- Bron (Makati)