I think the main thing that made the whole visa process scary for myself was not what was required, but the fact I was 7000 miles away from where it all had to happen!
If there were any last minutes issues, taking into account the distance and the time zone difference, something that could be dealt with fairly easily if I was in the Philippines with the missus, could seem so much worse.
Looking back now after we've been through it, the process is fairly straight forward if you follow the requirements. But as I've said, if you're not there yourself it can make you feel pretty helpless at the time!