Guide to Residency in Philippines

Obtaining a residency visa in Philippines is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Philippines gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Determine the type of visa required for your purpose
  • Visit the Bureau of Immigration website for detailed information on different visa types.
  • Common visa types include Temporary Visitor's Visa, Special Non-Immigrant Visa, and Immigrant Visa.
• Prepare the required documents
  • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
  • Duly accomplished visa application form (available on the Bureau of Immigration website).
  • Passport-size photos with specific requirements.
  • Proof of financial capability (e.g., bank statements, employment certificates).
  • Other supporting documents depending on the type of visa applied for.
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Visit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) website for detailed information.
  • Fill out the BIR Form 1904 and submit it to the BIR office with jurisdiction over the applicant's residence or place of business.
  • Present a valid ID and other required documents.
• Secure a clearance from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA)
  • Visit the NICA office to apply for clearance.
  • Bring a valid ID, passport, and other required documents.
• Submit the visa application
  • Submit the application at the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate if abroad.
  • If in the Philippines, submit the application at the Bureau of Immigration.
  • Pay the corresponding visa fees.
• Attend the interview (if required)
  • Some visa types may require an interview.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your application and purpose of stay.
• Wait for the decision on the application
  • Processing times may vary depending on the visa type and volume of applications.
  • Check the Bureau of Immigration website for updates on processing times.
• Register with the Bureau of Immigration upon arrival (for those who applied abroad)
  • Present your passport and approved visa to the Bureau of Immigration.
  • Pay the corresponding immigration fees.
• Apply for an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) I-Card
  • Visit the Bureau of Immigration website for detailed information.
  • Submit the application form and required documents.
  • Pay the corresponding fees.
• Report to the Bureau of Immigration annually
  • All foreigners with immigrant or non-immigrant visas are required to report annually.
  • Submit the application form and required documents.
  • Pay the corresponding fees.

Additional Information

It is recommended to consult with a legal professional or an immigration consultant to ensure a smooth application process. Immigration laws and policies may change, so it is important to stay updated through the official websites of the relevant agencies.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Philippines?

"Visiting the Philippines generally requires a visa for travel. Depending on the type of visa and the duration of the stay, requirements may vary. To apply for a visa, travelers visiting other countries in the region, such as Singapore or Malaysia, may apply for a 'Visa On Arrival' through the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines. Those who need to stay a longer period may apply for a Tourist Visa at a Philippine Consular Office near their residence. The application usually requires a valid passport, two photos, a filled-out Visa application form, and any applicable fees. For those wishing to reside in the Philippines, obtaining a visa requires more extensive requirements. To be eligible for a residency visa, the applicant must be sponsored by a resident of the Philippines, a branch or subdivision of a Philippine company, or an embassy. The applicant must also apply for a Resident Immigrant Visa at a Philippine Embassy with the necessary documents such as a valid passport, medical exam, letter of request from the sponsor, birth and marriage certificates, and police clearance. The visa application also requires a paid processing fee," commented one member living in Philippines.

"Most passports are given a three month visa on arrival and one can arrange longer stays through the many visa agents found in most hotels," mentioned one expat living in Philippines.

"A residency permit can be obtained through a yearly quota system or if you are married to a local person- on the basis of the marriage. Foreign visitors upon their arrival in the Philippines are granted a free tourist visa for 30 days, which may be extended to 59 days through the immigration. Before the expiry of the 59 days visa the foreign visitor may extend his/her visa to 60 or 180 days more. The tourist visa maybe further extended up to 3 years," said an expat in Philippines.