US Embassy reiterates Philippines not included in restricted country

From Update.Ph (Mar 10): US Embassy reiterates Philippines not included in restricted country

The United States of America Embassy in the Philippines said that the Philippines is not included in the re-drafted Executive Order on ‘Protecting the Nation from Terrorist Attacks by Foreign Nationals,’ just like in the first order.

“Filipinos who wish to apply for immigrant and nonimmigrant visas may continue to do so, as the U.S. visa application process has not changed for the Philippines,” the US Embassy said.

It added that the new order imposes a temporary pause on the entry of nationals from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen subject to categorical exceptions and case-by-case waivers. Iraq which was in the previous order was excluded.

“If you are a national from one of these countries, do not cancel your visa application or your scheduled visa appointment. At this time, we will continue to process visa applications while applying all appropriate screening measures and in accordance with any court order(s),” the US Embassy said.

It also noted that the new Executive Order does not apply to individuals who obtained a valid immigrant or nonimmigrant visa prior to March 16, 2017.
http://www.update.ph/2017/03/us-embassy-reiterates-philippines-not-included-in-restricted-country/15568