DMW Orders Immediate Shutdown of Private US Visa Consulting Firm
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has ordered the immediate closure of a private-run US visa consulting firm operating in multiple cities nationwide. The agency’s directive targets Visa to America Manila, Inc., which maintains a main office in Ortigas, Pasig City, and six additional branches across Quezon City, Iloilo City, Cebu City, Davao City, Zamboanga City, and Santiago City in Isabela. The company also has an office abroad in Washington D.C.
DMW personnel personally visited the Ortigas office of Visa to America Manila to serve a formal closure notice, which was prominently posted on the office’s entrance. The agency revealed that the firm operated without the required license from the DMW, putting at risk thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) seeking assistance.
Unlicensed Operations and Questionable Job Offers
The agency’s investigation found that Visa to America Manila was actively recruiting teachers and hospitality workers aiming for employment in the United States. The firm allegedly promised lucrative salaries ranging between $40,000 and $100,000. However, these job offers came with no official sanction from government authorities.
According to sources, the company claimed 31 years of experience in “immigration expertise” and promoted its team of skilled immigration lawyers, financial advisors, and legal experts. Their services included IT support, consultancy, and legal assistance related to immigration matters.
US Visa Application Policy Updates
In a related development, the US Embassy in the Philippines announced changes this year affecting visa applications. Among these is a new requirement for all non-immigrant visa applicants to publicly disclose their social media accounts. This measure aims to enhance the vetting process for identity verification and admissibility screening.
With this backdrop, the DMW’s action highlights the government’s commitment to protect OFWs from unlicensed and potentially fraudulent visa consultancy operations. Stakeholders urge all Filipinos to seek assistance only from accredited agencies to avoid scams.
For more news and updates on US visa consulting firm, visit Filipinokami.com.
