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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'No one can guarantee approval': US Embassy warns Filipinos against visa scams

'No one can guarantee approval': US Embassy warns Filipinos against visa scams

Published Jun 26, 2026 01:31 pm

At A Glance

  • The US Embassy in Manila reminded Filipinos to rely only on official sources when applying for U.S. visas.
  • The embassy stressed that no individual, travel agency, or lawyer can guarantee visa approval.
  • It urged visa applicants to report suspected fraud as part of its "#WalangSikreto" campaign.
U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/Facebook
U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/Facebook

The United States Embassy in the Philippines has warned Filipino visa applicants about scammers who claim they can guarantee approval, reminding the public that US visas are issued only after a proper evaluation by consular officers.

In an advisory posted on its official social media pages, the embassy stressed that visa applicants should obtain information only from official US government sources and be wary of individuals offering shortcuts or guaranteed approvals.

"We cannot guarantee visa issuance. If someone guarantees you a visa, it is a scam," the embassy said.

The embassy emphasized that it does not communicate with applicants through Viber or Telegram, endorse travel agencies or lawyers, accommodate special connections or shortcuts, or guarantee the approval of visa applications.

It reiterated that every application is evaluated individually under US immigration laws, and the final decision rests solely with consular officers.

The embassy advised applicants to rely only on its official website, the U.S. Visa Customer Service Center website, and the US Department of State's visa page for accurate information on visa requirements and procedures.

It also reminded the public that official embassy emails end only with the @state.gov or @ustraveldocs.com domains.

The reminder forms part of the embassy's #WalangSikreto information campaign promoting transparency in the US visa application process.

"No Secrets. No Exceptions. No Tolerance for Fraud," it said.

Related Tags

US Embassy Visa application PH-US fraud alert visa scam
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