U.S. VISA RENEWAL
DROPBOX PROGRAM
IN THE PHILIPPINES
Updated: Sept. 3, 2025

Here’s the latest on the U.S. Visa Renewal Dropbox (Interview Waiver) Program in the Philippines, particularly important if you’re planning to renew soon:

Key Updates (Effective September 2, 2025)

1. Dropbox Eligibility Greatly Reduced

The U.S. Department of State has sharply narrowed the eligibility for interview waivers:

Most nonimmigrant visa categories—including H-1B, L-1, F-1, J-1, M-1, O-1 will no longer qualify. You will now be required to attend an in-person interview.
Former age-based exemptions (for applicants under 14 or over 79) have been fully eliminated.

2. Limited Exceptions Remain

Only these categories may still be eligible for interview waiver (Dropbox):

Diplomatic or official visas: A-1, A-2, C-3 (not for servants/attendants), G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, TECRO E-1
B-1/B-2 Visa or Border Crossing Card renewals, but only if ALL the following are met:
- Renewal is within 12 months of the previous visa’s expiration
- Prior visa was full-validity and issued when applicant was 18 or older
- Applying in the country of residence or nationality
- No history of visa refusal or ineligibility

Even if you meet these criteria, consular officers still retain full discretion to require an interview.

3. Background on How We Got Here

Pre-pandemic: Dropbox eligibility allowed renewals within 12 months across same visa categories.
During COVID-19: Window was expanded to 48 months with some flexibility across visa categories.
February 2025: Reverted back to the 12-month rule, same visa classification only.
September 2025: Tightened further. Age exemptions removed, most visa types excluded.

What This Means for Applicants in the Philippines

If you’re renewing a B-1/B-2 visa (or Border Crossing Card) and meet all eligibility criteria, you may still apply via Dropbox.
If you’re renewing any other visa category (e.g., F-1, H-1B, J-1), Dropbox is no longer an option. You must schedule an in-person interview.
Given the expected spike in interview-needed applications, appointment slots may fill up quickly. Planning ahead is essential.

What You Can Do At a Glance

Step	What to Do
1	Verify your visa category: B-1/B-2 or other classification.
2	Check if you meet all Dropbox criteria (within 12 months, same classification, no refusals, etc.)
3	Visit the U.S. Embassy Philippines visa page for updated instructions and availability
4	Start DS-160 early, pay the MRV fee, and book your slot ASAP either Dropbox (if eligible) or interview
5	Prepare for delays: gather documents early and be ready for possible interview
6	Consider options like legal consultation, especially if travel or work schedules are tight

Summary

Dropbox is now narrowly restricted: only for B-1/B-2 (or Border Crossing Card) renewals that meet strict criteria, or certain diplomatic categories.
All other applicants including students, workers, exchange visitors must appear in person.
Plan ahead now to avoid delays or disruptions.

PREVIOUS PROCEDURE NO LONGER VALID:

The U.S. visa renewal dropbox program, also referred to as the Interview Waiver Program (IWP), enables eligible applicants to renew their U.S. visas without needing to attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Below is an overview of the process and requirements for renewing a U.S. visa through the dropbox in the Philippines:

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the visa renewal dropbox in the Philippines, you generally need to meet the following conditions:

1. Previous Visa: You must have a previous U.S. visa of the same category that is still valid or expired within the last 48 months. As of certain recent policy updates, this window was extended from 24 to 48 months, but it’s best to check the current status on the U.S. Embassy website.

2. Same Visa Class: The renewal must be for the same visa class. For example, if you previously held a B1/B2 visa, you can renew a B1/B2 visa.

3. Philippines Residency: You must be a resident of the Philippines.

4. No Visa Refusal: You should not have had any prior visa refusals unless they were overcome, and you were later issued a visa.

5. No Ineligibility: You must not have any ineligibility for the visa category or other restrictions (e.g., criminal records, immigration violations).

6. Children Under 14 and Seniors Over 79: These age groups are generally eligible for dropbox renewal if they are applying for certain visa types.

Renewal Process

1. Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the DS-160 form online. Be sure to save the confirmation page with the barcode.

2. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee. You will receive a receipt which you need for scheduling your dropbox appointment.

3. Schedule a Dropbox Appointment: Log in to your profile on the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services website, and choose the “Schedule Appointment” option. The system will automatically determine if you are eligible for a dropbox appointment. If eligible, you will be provided with a drop-off location for your documents.

4. Prepare Your Documents: Gather the required documents, which typically include:

•Valid passport with at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

•A copy of the previous visa.

•DS-160 confirmation page.

•Visa fee receipt.

•One recent 2×2 inch photograph.

•Any additional documents relevant to the visa category being renewed.

5. Drop Off Your Documents: Submit your documents at the designated dropbox location. This could be a U.S. Embassy/Consulate or a designated courier service office.

Processing Time

•The processing time varies but typically takes about 7 to 10 business days. However, it can take longer depending on the case and current embassy workload.

Collecting the Passport

•After processing, your passport and visa will be returned to you via courier service to the location you selected or you may pick it up at the designated collection location.