The WWII Philippines Campaign and “Intent to depart the US”
“I came out of Bataan and I shall return.” That is the full promise made by General Douglas McArthur as he departed the Philippines in 1942. Historians tend to quote only the last part of the vow—historians like things pithy. The general got by with making only a verbal promise that he would return to the Asian islands. A Filipino tourist has to offer hard, verifiable evidence of their “intent to depart the US” once their tourist visa expires.
Numero uno
In spite of the fact that America isn’t too politically popular over a wide portion of the world, she is the numero uno destination for a wide portion of the tourist world. Even with the tough economy, the rise in bankruptcy filings, rocketing foreclosure statistics, inhumane criminal executions, gun and drug violence on her southern borders and in her large cities, the wasteful slaughter of her youth in foreign wars that show little promise of fomenting any real political change, the corrupt bankers and politicians who led the world to financial disaster and got no punishment, and a government that can’t even operate within the parameters of its own constitution—the summer promises a record number of Filipino visitors.
Sight-seeing and shopping
The American landscape presents so many features and attractions for the curious and eager tourist. Top destinations include San Francisco, The Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, New York, Yellowstone National Park, Disneyland, and the list goes on. Fifty-five million people visited the US last year. They spent an estimated $120 billion while staying here. Shopping was their favorite activity. Close to ninety percent of the tourists in 2009 went shopping in the US
The Elusive tourist visa
Yes, your “intent to depart the US” will be a prime consideration as US Consulate Officers decide whether or not to grant you a tourist visa. As these visas become more scarce, a number of considerations come into play. So, how do you get a US tourist visa and what kind of proof must you offer to back up your promise to return to the Philippines?
Personal obligations
If you have a good job or if you have a substantial family in the Philippines, US consulate officials will be inclined to believe you’ll return. Bring evidence such as marriage and birth certificates, pay stubs or a letter from your employer.
Property ownership
If you’re making payments on a home or if you have other properties, this is another indicator that you’ll probably return home. Present hard evidence such as mortgage contracts or property deeds.
Financial obligations
If you have strong financial anchors in the Philippines, you are considered a good risk for a tourist visa. These can range from a hefty savings account or a mortgage, to ownership in a business or an obligation to support a person significant in your life.
Financial strategies
To contribute to the $120-billion tourist shopping industry, you must have cash. Offer your bank statements or loan payment coupon books. If you have three-hundred pesos in a bank account, you might be able to buy the consular official a Starbucks coffee, but don’t expect much in return. Show lots of money.
Itinerary purpose
Draw up a itinerary. Include the cities, sites, and people you’ll be seeing. Is this a business trip for meeting a client, attending a conference, or participating in a seminar? Or is it a leisure trip? Weddings and funerals often demand attendance. Be prepared to offer an itinerary in conjunction with your strategies to cover your expenses.
Oops
Don’t flabbergast the consular officials by stating that the US would be a wonderful place to start a new life. Or about how well-paying jobs are in America. Or how proud you would be if you were a US citizen. These are all noble inclinations, but betraying them will only hinder your quest for a tourist visa. You’re visiting—not homesteading.
Pulling it all together
As you prepare to apply for a US tourist visa, pay attention to these important considerations to help ease your way through the process.
Children under 14 and seniors over 80 years old don’t need to endure the interview aspect of the visa application process
Parents or guardians of children under 14 should accompany them when they make a visa application.
Tourist visa applicants should retrieve and submit Form DS-156 as well as Form DS-157.
Presenting original documentation whenever possible will ensure a more expedient application process.
Presenting fake documents to consular officials doesn’t bother them too much. They just cancel the application and may bar the applicant from every applying again. The better forgeries get, the better US consulate staff members are equipped to spot them.
Getting started
The best preparation for tackling the somewhat difficult job of getting a US tourist visa, is to visit the US Embassy website. Resources such as Frequently Asked Questions, online forms, case examples and other information will prove to be quite valuable as you take your first steps to visiting America. And don’t forget your promise to return.
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Lazaro Law Group, Professional Corporation represents immigrants all over the United States and US Embassy in Manila. The firm’s offices are located in San Francisco, Makati City (Philippines), and Fremont, Union City California. Telephone (415)278-9577. E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; Website: www.LazaroLaw.com.
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This article should not be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. The information is intended to be general and should not be relied upon for any specific situation. This is not meant to create a lawyer-client relationship.
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