Immigrant visa applicants should take note of a significant change in requirements at the U.S. Embassy. Beginning May 19, those who arrive without all necessary original documents will not be permitted an interview and will need to reschedule. It's important for applicants to be aware that the next available appointment might not be for several months.
The essential documents that must be presented include a passport valid for at least 60 days beyond the intended travel date, original civil documents, and a Philippine police clearance for applicants aged 16 and above. Additionally required is a foreign police certificate for any country where the applicant worked or lived for 12 months or more.
Financial documentation is also required, such as an Affidavit of Support (I-864) and financial/tax documents from the petitioner or joint sponsor, along with the DS-260 Confirmation Page and the Interview Appointment Letter. Other documents that may be necessary include the NBI AKA for those with aliases or nicknames, the petitioner’s original birth certificate in specific cases, and original proof of termination of marriage for those with previous marriages.
The embassy stresses the importance for all immigrant visa applicants to be fully prepared with their documents to avoid causing significant delays. "Applicants who do not bring all the required documents create significant delays in our process and decrease the number of visa applicants we can interview."
It is highly recommended to carefully review the document checklist available at travel.state.gov before attending an appointment. For further information on immigrant visas, ph.usembassy.gov/visas/ is a useful resource.