|
By Katrice R. Jalbuena, Reporter
The American Embassy in Manila has announced an
increase in the medical examination fees for immigrant visa
applicants effective May 2.
The increase was prompted by the Center for
Disease Control’s recent revision of its vaccination requirements
for all immigrant visa applicants. Eight new vaccinations have been
added to the current list, and not all of these vaccines are
currently available in the Philippines.
As a result, the St. Luke’s Medical Center
Extension Clinic (SLMCEC), the Embassy’s accredited medical
facility, will increase the medical examination fee by $30.70 to
cover the costs of administering the currently available new
vaccinations.
The new medical exam fees will cost $213.35 for
adults (15 years and older) and $185.35 for children (under 15 years
of age). More price increases can be anticipated in the coming
months, said the US Embassy.
All visa applicants, regardless of age, need to
complete a medical examination at the St. Luke’s Medical Center
Extension Clinic (SLMCEC) before the visa interview. Applicants are
advised to have their medical examinations done at least one week
before their interview appointment at the US Embassy in Manila.
The SLMCEC does not accept dollar payments. The
fees must be paid in Philippine pesos at the prevailing exchange
rate.
|
