Asia – Philippines Visa – Long Stay

1. Do I need a visa to enter the Philippines for an extended stay?

Yes, foreign nationals planning to stay in the Philippines for more than 30 days are required to obtain a visa before entering the country, unless they are eligible for visa-free entry.

2. What types of visas are available for an extended stay in the Philippines?
There are several types of visas available for an extended stay in the Philippines, including but not limited to:
– Tourist Visa (9a): For leisure or travel purposes
– Temporary Visitor’s Visa (9a): For business or social/religious activities
– Pre-Arranged Employment Visa (9g): For employment with a Philippine-based company
– Special Non-Immigrant Visa (47(a)(2)): For investors and entrepreneurs
– Student Visa (9f): For studying at a Philippine educational institution

3. How can I apply for a visa for an extended stay in the Philippines?
You can apply for your visa at any Philippine embassy or consulate abroad before traveling to the Philippines. Alternatively, you may also apply online through the Philippine Bureau of Immigration’s website if you are eligible. The specific requirements and application process may vary depending on the type of visa you need. It is recommended to check with your nearest Philippine embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.

4. How long can I stay in the Philippines with a tourist visa?
A tourist visa allows for a maximum stay of 59 days per entry, with multiple entries allowed within its validity period (usually 3 months). However, travelers who wish to extend their stay beyond 59 days must apply for an extension at the Bureau of Immigration in Manila or any authorized immigration office.

5. Can I work in the Philippines with a tourist visa?
No, it is strictly prohibited to engage in any form of gainful employment while on a tourist visa. If you plan to work in the Philippines, you will need to obtain an appropriate work visa such as Pre-Arranged Employment Visa (9G).

6. What are the requirements for applying for a Philippine visa?
The requirements for a Philippine visa may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. In general, you will need your original passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity, a completed application form, proof of travel arrangements, proof of financial capacity, and any additional documents specific to your purpose of visit (such as an invitation letter or employment contract). It is recommended to check with your local embassy or consulate for the full list of requirements.

7. Is it possible to convert my visa to a different type while in the Philippines?
Yes, in some cases it is possible to convert your visa to a different type while in the Philippines. However, this process can be complicated and may require leaving the country and re-entering with the new visa. It is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or the Bureau of Immigration for assistance.

8. Can I extend my stay in the Philippines after my initial period allowed by my current visa?
Yes, you can apply for an extension at any authorized immigration office in the Philippines before your current visa expires. The length and conditions of the extension will depend on your current visa type and purpose of stay.

9. Do I need to provide biometric data when applying for a Philippine visa?
Yes, most visas require biometric data such as fingerprints and photograph submission during the application process. This is usually done during your appointment at the embassy or consulate when submitting your application.

10. Can I enter other countries using my Philippine visa?
No, visas are specific to each country and cannot be used as entry documents for other countries. You will need to obtain separate visas if you plan on traveling outside of the Philippines.

2. What is the process for obtaining a long-term visa for the Philippines?


The process for obtaining a long-term visa for the Philippines typically involves the following steps:

1. Determine which type of long-term visa you need: The Philippines offers various types of long-term visas, such as the work visa, student visa, retirement visa, and investor visa. Determine which category you fall under and what specific requirements are needed for that type of visa.

2. Gather all necessary documents: Each type of long-term visa has its own set of required documents. However, common documents include a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, completed application form, proof of financial stability or sponsorship, criminal background check, medical certificate, and other supporting documents depending on your chosen visa category.

3. Contact your nearest Philippine embassy or consulate: You will need to apply for your long-term visa at the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country. Contact them beforehand to schedule an appointment and inquire about specific requirements for your application.

4. Submit your application: On the scheduled date, submit your complete application along with all necessary documents to the Philippine embassy or consulate.

5. Pay the fees: A non-refundable processing fee is usually required when submitting your application. Additional fees may also be charged for certain types of visas.

6. Wait for processing: Processing times vary depending on the type of long-term visa you are applying for and other factors such as volume of applications received and completeness of documentation.

7. Attend an interview (if necessary): Some types of visas require applicants to undergo an interview before a final decision is made on their application.

8. Receive approval/denial: Once your application is processed, you will be informed about the status of your visa. If approved, you will receive a sticker or stamp in your passport indicating the validity period and conditions of your visa.

9 . Arrive in the Philippines with valid documents: Remember to bring all necessary supporting documents with you upon entering the Philippines. You may also be asked to present them at the port of entry along with your valid visa.

It is recommended to start the application process at least two to three months before your intended travel date. Requirements and procedures may also vary slightly depending on your country of origin, so it is best to check with the local Philippine embassy or consulate for specific instructions.

3. Can I apply for a Philippine visa online?


Yes, you can apply for a Philippine visa online through the Philippines eVisa portal. This electronic visa application system allows eligible foreigners to apply for a Philippine visa from anywhere in the world, without the need to physically visit an embassy or consulate. However, please note that not all nationalities are eligible to apply for a Philippine eVisa and some may still be required to go through the traditional visa application process at an embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check with your nearest Philippine embassy or consulate before applying for a visa online.

4. How long does it take to get a Philippine visa approved?

It usually takes 5-7 business days to get a Philippine visa approved, but it may vary depending on your embassy/consulate and the number of applications they receive. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel dates.

5. Is there an age limit for applying for a Philippine visa?

Yes, applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Philippine visa. Applicants who are under 18 years old must have their application co-signed by a parent or legal guardian.

6. What type of visa do I need if I plan to work in the Philippines?

If you are planning to work in the Philippines, you will need to obtain an Employment Visa (9G) and a valid work permit from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. You will also need to secure a job offer from a Philippine-based company before applying for the visa.

Here is a general overview of the steps you may need to take to obtain an Employment Visa:

1. Secure a job offer from a registered company in the Philippines.
2. The employer must obtain an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
3. Once the AEP is approved, the employer can then endorse your application for an Employment Visa at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
4. You will need to submit the following documents:
– Completed visa application form
– Passport with at least 6 months validity
– Proof of financial capability
– Medical certificate from an accredited hospital or clinic in your home country
– Police Clearance Certificate issued by your local police department or government agency
5. Pay the necessary fees.
6. Wait for your visa to be processed, which may take several weeks to months.
7. Once approved, you can enter the Philippines and start working with your employer.

It is important to note that there may be additional requirements and steps depending on your specific situation and type of employment in the Philippines. It is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Philippine Embassy/Consulate in your home country for more detailed information and assistance with your visa application process.

7. How much does it cost to apply for a Philippine long-stay visa?


The cost of a Philippine long-stay visa varies depending on the type of visa being applied for. Generally, the fees range from $30 to $60. Additional fees such as document processing and expedited processing may also apply. It is best to check with your local Philippine embassy or consulate for specific fees and requirements.

8. Can I extend my stay in the Philippines on a tourist visa?

Yes, it is possible to extend your stay in the Philippines on a tourist visa. The initial stay period for a tourist visa is up to 59 days, but you may apply for an extension at any Bureau of Immigration (BI) office or designated Immigration field offices.

To apply for an extension, you must submit the following documents:
1. Passport
2. Valid return ticket
3. Proof of financial means (e.g. bank statements)
4. Duly accomplished application form
5. Visa Extension Fee (varies depending on length of extension)

The BI recommends applying for an extension at least one week before your current permit expires to avoid penalties.

It is important to note that extensions are granted at the discretion of the BI and are subject to review and approval based on your purpose of stay in the country. If you wish to extend your stay beyond 59 days or have plans other than tourism, you may be required to provide additional documentation such as a letter explaining your request and supporting documents such as itinerary, hotel reservations, etc.

For more information on visa extensions and requirements, you may visit the Bureau of Immigration website or contact them directly through their official hotline +63(02)524-3828.

9. Are there any specific requirements for obtaining a retirement visa in the Philippines?

Yes, there are specific requirements for obtaining a retirement visa in the Philippines:

– Must be at least 35 years old
– Must deposit at least $20,000 (or equivalent in Philippine pesos) to a Philippine bank as proof of financial stability
– Must have no previous criminal record and obtain a police clearance from the country of origin
– Must submit a medical clearance certificate from a local government hospital or licensed physician
– Must hold proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of stay in the Philippines
– Must provide proof of pension or annuity remittance from home country, if applicable

These requirements may vary depending on the specific type of retirement visa being applied for and can also change over time. It is important to check with the Philippine Embassy or consulate in your home country for the most updated list of requirements.

10. How long can I stay in the Philippines with a student visa?

The length of stay for a student visa in the Philippines depends on the length and type of program you are enrolled in. Typically, a student visa is issued for a period of one year and can be extended as needed to complete your studies. It is important to keep your passport and visa updated and valid throughout your stay.

11. Is it possible to obtain permanent residency through a long-stay visa in the Philippines?

No, permanent residency can only be obtained through other means such as being married to a Filipino citizen, having a valid and continuous immigrant visa for at least 5 years, or investing in the country. A long-stay visa does not automatically grant permanent residency status.

12. Do I need proof of sufficient funds to obtain a long-term Philippine visa?


Yes, proof of sufficient funds is required for some long-term Philippine visas. For example, a Special Resident Retirement Visa (SRRV) requires applicants to deposit at least $10,000 or show proof of a monthly pension of at least $800. Other long-term visas may have similar financial requirements. It is important to check the specific requirements for your visa type before applying.

13. Am I allowed to leave and re-enter the Philippines on my long-term visa without losing it?


Yes, holders of long-term visas, such as work or student visas, are typically allowed to enter and leave the Philippines multiple times without losing their visa status. However, it is important to always check with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration for any specific requirements or restrictions related to your type of visa.

14. Is there an option to convert my tourist visa into a long-term one while in the Philippines?

Yes, it is possible to convert a tourist visa into a long-term one while in the Philippines. This process is called “visa conversion” and can be done at the Bureau of Immigration. However, the decision to grant a long-term visa is at the discretion of the Bureau of Immigration and will depend on various factors such as the purpose of your stay, financial stability, and compliance with immigration laws.

15. What are the restrictions on employment with a non-immigrant work permit?


There are several restrictions on employment with a non-immigrant work permit, including:

1. Limited to specific type of work and employer: Non-immigrant work permits are issued based on a specific job offer from a particular employer in the United States. The individual is only authorized to work for that specific employer in the designated job position.

2. Time limitations: Non-immigrant work permits are typically valid for a specific period of time, usually for the duration of the approved job offer. Once the permit expires, the individual must apply for an extension or change of status if they wish to continue working.

3. No unauthorized employment: Non-immigrant work permit holders are not allowed to engage in any other type of employment outside the approved job position without obtaining proper authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

4. Dependents may not work: Dependent family members, such as spouses or children, who accompany a non-immigrant work permit holder are not authorized to engage in any form of employment unless they individually qualify and obtain their own separate work permit.

5. Changes in employment conditions: Any changes in job position or employer must be reported to USCIS and may require a new application for a non-immigrant work permit.

6. Return home upon expiry: Non-immigrant work permit holders must return to their home country upon expiration of their authorized stay unless they have applied for and been granted an extension or change of status by USCIS.

7. Employer compliance: Employers who hire non-immigrant workers must comply with all labor laws and regulations, including wage requirements and providing safe working conditions.

It is important for individuals holding non-immigrant work permits to carefully follow these restrictions, as failure to comply could lead to revocation or denial of future visa applications or even deportation from the United States.

16 .Can I bring my family members with me on my long-stay Filipino Visa?


Yes, you can bring your family members with you on your long-stay Filipino visa. You will need to apply for their own visas and meet the necessary requirements, such as proof of relationship and sufficient financial support.

17 .What is required when applying for an Investor’s Resident Visa?


When applying for an Investor’s Resident Visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. Completed application form: You must fill out and submit the appropriate application form for an Investor’s Resident Visa.

2. Proof of investment: You must provide evidence of your investment in the country, such as business ownership certificates or shares in a New Zealand company.

3. Proof of funds: You will need to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members while in New Zealand.

4. Business plan: You will be required to submit a detailed business plan outlining your investment intentions and how they align with the goals of the New Zealand government.

5. Proof of good character: You will need to provide police certificates from any country you have lived in for more than 12 months in the past 10 years.

6. Medical clearance: All applicants are required to undergo a medical examination and chest x-ray before their visa can be approved.

7. English language proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may be required to provide proof of your proficiency in English through an acceptable language test.

8. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in New Zealand.

9. Two passport-sized photos: The photos must meet specific requirements set by Immigration New Zealand.

10. Application fee: You will need to pay the application fee when submitting your application.

It is important to note that additional documents may be requested depending on individual circumstances and changes in immigration policies. It is advised to always check with Immigration New Zealand for updated requirements before submitting your application.

18 .Can I change or renew my long-stay Filipino Visa while in the country?


Yes, it is possible to change or renew your long-stay Filipino visa while in the country. You will need to apply for an extension or renewal at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) office nearest to your place of residence in the Philippines. The requirements and procedures may vary depending on the type of visa you hold. It is recommended that you consult with a BI officer or legal counsel for specific information about your situation.

19 .How do I apply for and obtain an Employment Long-Stay Permit?


To apply for and obtain an Employment Long-Stay Permit, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Obtain a job offer: In order to be eligible for an Employment Long-Stay Permit, you must first secure a job offer from a company that is willing to sponsor your work permit.

2. Check the requirements: Once you have a job offer, make sure you meet all the requirements for an Employment Long-Stay Permit. This typically includes having a valid passport, meeting health and character checks, and providing proof of relevant qualifications and skills.

3. Apply online: The application process for an Employment Long-Stay Permit is done online through the official government portal (https://www.e-services.immigration.gov.lk/).

4. Fill out the application form: You will need to fill out the prescribed application form with accurate information and provide all necessary supporting documents.

5. Pay the fees: The application fee for an Employment Long-Stay Permit varies depending on your country of origin and the type of employment you are seeking in Sri Lanka. You can find the fee schedule on the government website.

6. Submit the application: Once you have completed your online application and paid the fees, submit your application along with all supporting documents.

7. Wait for processing: The processing time for an Employment Long-Stay Permit can vary, but it typically takes about 2 – 3 weeks.

8. Receive your permit: If your application is approved, you will receive your Employment Long-Stay Permit via email or through a courier service if requested.

9. Extend your permit: An Employment Long-Stay Permit is usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as you continue to meet the requirements.

Note: It is important to note that immigration regulations are subject to change from time to time, so it’s best to check with Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration (http://www.immigration.gov.lk/web/) for the most up-to-date information before applying for an Employment Long-Stay Permit.

20 .Are there any medical or health requirements for obtaining or maintaining my long-term Filipino Visa?

Yes, there are some medical or health requirements that may be necessary for obtaining or maintaining a long-term Filipino visa. These requirements can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your specific circumstances. Some common medical or health requirements include:

1. Medical Examination: For certain types of visas, such as work or student visas, you may be required to undergo a medical examination by an accredited physician in the Philippines. The purpose of this examination is to ensure that you do not have any serious health conditions that may pose a risk to public health or affect your ability to work or study.

2. Vaccinations: You may be required to provide proof of certain vaccinations, such as for yellow fever or polio, when applying for a long-term Filipino visa. This requirement is in place to protect public health and prevent the spread of diseases.

3. Health Insurance: Some types of long-term visas, such as retirement visas, may require you to have valid health insurance coverage during your stay in the Philippines. This is to ensure that you have access to necessary medical care while living in the country.

4. Tuberculosis (TB) Screening: Depending on your country of origin, you may be required to undergo TB screening before entering the Philippines. This is because TB is still prevalent in some parts of the world and there is concern about its spread.

It is important to check with the Philippine Embassy or consulate in your country for specific medical and health requirements for obtaining a long-term Filipino visa. It is also recommended that you consult with your doctor regarding any potential health concerns before making plans to move to the Philippines.