Good or bad idea?

[SteelFaithU2 3]

Thanks for the help and info! I'm having trouble finding much info about getting a tourist visa here in the US with the PHI Embassy though. Some people say you need to go to their office directly to get the visa, but when I look at their website or hear their recorded info on the phone concerning the visa, it doesn't mention a requirement to come to the Embassy/Consulate for an interview.

[let-it-be 36]

Thanks for the help and info! I'm having trouble finding much info about getting a tourist visa here in the US with the PHI Embassy though. Some people say you need to go to their office directly to get the visa, but when I look at their website or hear their recorded info on the phone concerning the visa, it doesn't mention a requirement to come to the Embassy/Consulate for an interview.

I think you can get the extension or visa waiver in NAIA. Call them to verify if you get it from them.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport T-I, II, & III

Bureau of Immigration,Pasay City

Benito G. Se Jr. - Chief BI NAIA

Tel. # 852-2936 | Fax: 879-6081

Just wanted to throw it on here as information for others.

EXTENSION OF STAY

How can aliens admitted under E.O. 408 (non-visa required nationals admitted for 21 days) extend their stay in the Philippines beyond 21 days?

Aliens admitted under E.O. 408 (non-visa required nationals admitted for 21 days) may extend their stay in the Philippines beyond 21 days by applying for a visa waiver which will entitle them to an additional valid stay of 38 days. This will allow them to stay in the country for a period of 59 days.

What is the maximum extension of stay that can be granted?

Foreigners holding temporary visitors visa pursuant to Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 and aliens admitted under E.O. 408 may extend their stay in the Philippines every 2 months for a total stay of 16 months. Extension of stay after16 months, up to 24 months need the approval of the Chief of the Immigration Regulation Division. Extension of stay after 24 months need the approval of the Commissioner. (MCL Memorandum dated 31 July 2007)

Link: http://immigration.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=207&Itemid=80

Edited August 22, 2012 by let-it-be

[smithmm 1]

I've applied for the 38 day extension at the Philippine Consulate General in NY for my long visits. Usually it's cheaper ($30 money order) & fast by mail (no need to appear in person, unless you're unwilling to let your passport out of your sight). The last extension (Oct 2011) was in my hands in under 2 weeks from sending the application first class (with SASE enclosed). Some helpful links:

General Visitor 9A Info

Visa Extension PDF

[Hank_ 9,173]

I waited until I received the MNL # then I flew out within the week, we relaxed and visited with family for over a month after her visa was approved before we flew back together. I don't see any issue with flying before the NOA2 as you seem prepared for an RFE if it happens. Go be with your fiancee... enjoy!

I did the extended visa while there, it was a couple hours and some paperwork.

Edited August 22, 2012 by Hank_

[SteelFaithU2 3]

Thank you Smith!

[smithmm 1]

You're welcome. Please remember to point out to the Immigration officer at NAIA after disembarking the page in your passport with the extended tourist visa so that the correct expiration date is entered on your entrance stamp. Otherwise you're liable to get just a 21 day notation on another page. If you need more time, you'll need to visit a Bureau of Immigration office as listed in other posts (usually a week before expiration is fine).

[LSnBigBear 61]

I would just wait and go to Immigration before your 21st day in the country and just pay for the extension. First extension is for 59 days which will cost you about $45-$60 if memory serves me correct. If you do it in advance in the USA, the Philippine Consulate will want alot of financial data on you to show them you will not be a liability. Many just go themselves to immigration prior to their visa expiring. It is easy and takes about an hour or less. Go first thing in the morning lines are shorter. Make sure you wear pants and decent shirt. I have seen them not allow foreigners wearing shorts. Be respectful and you will be okay.

BTW you can stay up to one year on a tourist visa by just going in and paying money to get a stamp extension. If you stay one year it cost about $400. So just do the math to back it up to what you will pay per month or 60 days.

Good luck

[smithmm 1]

It's up to you what to send the Consulate General for evidence of financial capacity. I simply sent a copy of my latest paystub the last time with no problems. It's true that no financial evidence (other than cash on hand to pay the fees) is needed at the BI office. I didn't send a copy of the airline ticket, just the itinerary with the eticket number (record locator). With the passport they can see your travel history so that should answer most of their concerns without you having to supply more than the minimum requirements. I've done it both ways (staying up to 11 months my first visit) and I find the Consulate General approach the most convenient for me.

Edited August 22, 2012 by smithmm

[SteelFaithU2 3]

I did get my 3 month visa in less than 3 days - I couldn't believe how fast it was, but I did use overnight mail there and back

I was curious if you knew what forms of ID my mother should provide if she is going to be a co-sponsor? She is gathering all her required documents for the Affadavit of support, but I need to know if she needed to provide anything additional. She doesn't have a passport, so is her birth certificate and driver's license enough? Is there anything else she might need to provide?

Thanks again everyone!