US Immigration from Philippines

About how long are passports taking now? Anyone with recent experience? Our son's came back pretty fast last year, less than a month I think. But how much of a background check can you do on a 3 month old.

Hi, I'm sorry if this isn't the right section to ask in. I just want to ask those who might have had the same experience.

My interview is coming up on May 8, but I haven t scheduled my biometrics appointment at the VAC or my medical exam yet. The passport listed on my DS-260 has already expired (since 2022), and I ve had a renewed passport since then.

The problem is, I called USEM twice, and they just told me to wait for an email because my request to reopen the DS-260 is currently with the Immigration Unit. They said it would take 3 business days, but it has already been almost 3 weeks.

Can I still proceed with my biometrics and medical even if my DS-260 hasn t been updated yet?

Hello,

My wife is registered for her CFO Guidance Counseling Program in Manila. The ID requirements state: Original valid passport and additional two (2) valid IDs. She has a passport and Philippine Identification card. I searched their ID examples and did not come up with much. I have no idea what she could acquire for the other valid ID. It seems like a Passport and Phil. ID would be enough. Are they strict about that 2nd ID? She does NOT have a driver's license or a voter ID. Can you share your experience with the ID's you know have been accepted for the CFO program.

Thank you

This is how I overcame a 221g for joint sponsor using assets. Here is the letter of explanation I used. After 2 months spouses Visa was approved with no further explanation. I qualified on assets, despite my TAXABLE income only being 14,000 dollars. Note:

Even if you've already submitted all the documentation, resubmit it alongside your letter to ensure the officer has everything clearly organized, such as:

• Updated bank/investment account statements.

• Any missing or supplemental evidence that further strengthens your case.

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]

Consular Officer
[Embassy/Consulate Name]
[Address]
[City, Country]

Subject: Response to 221(g) Request Demonstration of Financial Qualification Without Joint Sponsor

Dear Consular Officer,

I am writing to address the 221(g) notice issued on [date], requesting a joint sponsor for my Immigrant Visa application (Case Number: XXXXXXX). I respectfully assert that I qualify fully under the financial requirements outlined in 9 FAM 601.14 using my liquid assets, and as such, a joint sponsor should not be necessary.

Financial Qualification Through Liquid Assets

As per 9 FAM 601.14, I am permitted to meet the Affidavit of Support requirement by demonstrating ownership of liquid or readily convertible assets that exceed the income shortfall by the applicable multiplier (3x for spousal cases). My liquid assets far exceed the poverty guideline thresholds and income shortfall, as outlined below:

1. Required Income (125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines): [$ Amount]

2. My Liquid Assets: [$ Amount]

   • This is equivalent to [X] times the required poverty level threshold.

3. Asset Conversion Calculation:

   • Required Assets (3x the income shortfall): [$ Amount]

   • My Assets: [$ Amount], which exceeds this requirement by a significant margin.

Details of Liquid Assets

• Bank Accounts:

  • [Bank Name], Total Balance: [$ Amount]

  • Documentation: [12 months of statements, bank certification letters]

• Investment Accounts:

  • [Institution Name], Total Balance: [$ Amount]

  • Documentation: [Statements and portfolio summaries]

• Other Assets (if applicable): [Details]

Supporting Documentation

I have attached the following documents for your review:

• Form I-864 Affidavit of Support (already submitted)

• Bank and investment account statements

• Letters from financial institutions verifying balances

• Any additional evidence of asset ownership

Request for Reevaluation

Given that my assets unequivocally meet the financial requirements without the need for a joint sponsor, I kindly request a reevaluation of my case. I hope this letter clarifies my financial eligibility and that my application may proceed without further delay.

If additional information or clarification is required, I am available to provide it promptly. Please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Greeting! My moms case is based in Manila US embassy, I would like to know how long do I get an update on the case after submission of the 221g due to pending medical from St. Lukes, for sure there are several cases like this since there are tons of people who are subjected for sputum test. My mom proceeded with the interview (Feb 11, 2025) even without the results of the test. Everything was good but since the result was not in she got a 221g due to pending medical. March 19 2025 we got an email from St. Lukes that the results were good and got forwarded to the US embassy. So my mom submitted the submission form together with her passport to the VAC (March 21 2025). Visa status check last update was March 25,2025. Any similar case and estimated time you got an answer will help. Thank you!