My First US Tourist Visa Application - DENIED!

That blue paper they hand you slapping your visa denial right in the face.

I may not be the only one but, unlike most Filipinos, I never really dreamed of going to the US to live the "American dream". I would have rather gone to France, Italy, Japan, or maybe even Korea, to explore more about food and anime. I actually do pretty well as an online freelancer and had no dreams of living in the United States. That was until I met Alex, his family, and his wonderful friends.

I had always thought Americans were very hard to deal with. I've worked at 2 different call centers in the past dealing with irate American callers every single day. But when I met my boyfriend's family and friends, that all changed. Now, I actually want to go the US (particularly WI) so bad just to meet all of them. So Alex and I planned for another vacation here in the Philippines, so he can help me get a US tourist visa. Only to find out that he is not allowed to enter the establishment.

So I did what I had to do. I gathered all the documents needed: DS 160 online application form, passport, 2x2 photo, proof of payment for appointment reservation and some supporting documents. Also asked papa to give us a ride there at 5 am in the morning, because my interview was at 7 am. Alex, papa, and mama could only stay in the car praying I would get approved.

I was allowed to enter the building at 6:45 am. All Non-Immigrant Visa applicants were put into separate lines, arranged into work visa, fiance visa, and other immigrant visa types. In there, you were not allowed to bring any metallic objects or electronics. You will be better off if you only bring your papers in.

According to the signs that you can find almost everywhere, you need to undergo 5 steps:
1. Pre-screening
2. Finger Scanning
3. Consulate Interview
4. Oath Taking
5. Finalizing of Documents