Overview of Visa Options for Long-Term Stay

The Philippines offers a relatively flexible immigration system compared to many countries in Southeast Asia. Foreigners who wish to stay longer than the standard 30-day tourist period have several legal pathways depending on their age, marital status, employment, investment activity, or lifestyle preference. Here’s a quick overview of the main visa types available for long-term residents in 2025:

• Tourist Visa with Extensions: Visitors from most countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days and extend their stay for up to 36 months through successive renewals. Ideal for digital nomads or early-stage explorers.
• SRRV (Special Resident Retiree’s Visa): A popular retirement visa issued by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). Requires a time deposit of $10,000–$50,000 depending on age and pension. Grants permanent residence and multiple-entry privileges.
• 13A Non-Quota Immigrant Visa: Available to foreign spouses of Filipino citizens. Offers permanent residency status after one year on a probationary basis.
• SIRV (Special Investor’s Resident Visa): Requires a minimum investment of $75,000 in qualified Philippine businesses. Grants indefinite stay and multiple-entry rights.
• Work and Employment Visas: Includes the 9G (pre-arranged employment), PEZA visa for tech zone workers, and special work permits. Requires employer sponsorship and valid job offer.
• Student Visa & SSP: For international students enrolled in recognized institutions. SSP (Special Study Permit) is required for short-term language courses.

Each visa type comes with different eligibility criteria, processing times, and long-term benefits. The best choice depends on your personal circumstances and future plans in the Philippines.

Tourist Visa Extensions: How Long Can You Stay?

If you’re planning a long-term stay in the Philippines without committing to permanent residency or work, the tourist visa extension system offers surprising flexibility. Citizens from many countries—including the US, EU nations, Japan, South Korea, and Australia—can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. From there, it’s possible to extend your stay multiple times, allowing you to remain in the country for up to 36 months (24 months for non-visa-exempt countries).

Extensions are processed by the Bureau of Immigration and can typically be done in increments of 29 or 59 days. The initial extension is usually granted for 29 days, bringing your total to 59 days. After that, you can apply for successive extensions at intervals ranging from 1 to 6 months.

What You’ll Need:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity remaining)

• Completed visa extension form (available at immigration offices)

• Payment of extension fees (approx. PHP 3,000–7,000 depending on length)

• An Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR-I Card) if staying beyond 59 days

The ACR-I Card is a government-issued ID for foreigners staying longer than two months. It costs around PHP 4,000–5,000 and is valid for one year.

Important Tips:

• Not all immigration offices process long-term extensions—Cebu City and Manila are the most reliable.

• Overstaying even by a day results in daily fines and penalties.

• You don’t need to leave the country to extend—visa runs are not required.

This option is popular among digital nomads, online entrepreneurs, and retirees testing the waters before choosing a more permanent visa path.

SRRV: The Popular Retirement Visa

The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) is one of the most attractive long-term visa options for foreigners looking to retire—or semi-retire—in the Philippines. Managed by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), this visa provides multiple-entry privileges and indefinite stay without the need for frequent renewals or visa runs.

Who Can Apply?

The SRRV is open to applicants aged 50 and above, although certain SRRV programs are available to those as young as 35, especially for former military personnel or those with certain investment interests.

Types of SRRV and Requirements

There are different SRRV options depending on your income and retirement plans. The most popular are:

• SRRV Classic
  For retirees who want to live in the Philippines indefinitely.
  Age 50+: Deposit of $10,000 + monthly pension of at least $800 (single) or $1,000 (couple)
  Age 35–49: Deposit of $50,000 (no pension required)

• SRRV Smile
  For those under 50 who want to maintain a long-term stay without pension.
  Requires a $20,000 time deposit only

These deposits must be placed in a Philippine bank accredited by the PRA and are refundable if the visa is cancelled.

Key Benefits

• Permanent multiple-entry status

• No annual visa extensions required

• Exemption from exit clearance and re-entry permits

• Option to convert deposits into real estate investments (SRRV Classic only)

• Access to local health insurance and PRA support services

Fees

• Application fee: $1,400 (main applicant), $300 per dependent

• Annual PRA fee: $360

The SRRV is ideal for retirees looking for a stable, low-cost lifestyle in tropical surroundings—with the added benefit of ease of travel and minimal bureaucracy.

Student Visas: Studying Long-Term in the Philippines

The Philippines is a popular destination for international students seeking affordable and English-medium education. If you plan to study long-term—whether in a university, language school, or vocational institution—you’ll need to obtain a Student Visa (9F) or Special Study Permit (SSP), depending on the program’s duration and nature.

9F Student Visa (For Long-Term Academic Programs)

The 9F Student Visa is intended for foreign nationals enrolling in degree programs at accredited colleges and universities in the Philippines.

Eligibility:

• Admission letter from a recognized educational institution

• Completion of documentary requirements (e.g., birth certificate, transcript, police clearance)

Key Features:

• Valid for the entire academic duration, usually renewed annually

• Requires Bureau of Immigration approval

• Allows re-entry during school breaks with proper permits

Steps to Apply:

1. Secure acceptance from a university

2. Apply through the Philippine embassy or convert a tourist visa within the country

3. Submit required documents to the Bureau of Immigration with assistance from the school

SSP: Special Study Permit (For Short-Term Courses)

If you’re planning to enroll in short-term non-degree programs like ESL (English as a Second Language) or vocational training, you’ll likely be issued a Special Study Permit (SSP).

Key Points:

• Issued by the Bureau of Immigration

• Valid for up to 6 months and renewable

• Does not grant permanent residency

• Not convertible to other visa types

• Requires school sponsorship

Most ESL schools, like 3D ACADEMY in Cebu, handle the application on behalf of the student after arrival in the Philippines.

✍️ Tips & Notes

• Students under 18 years old typically need additional requirements (like a WEG permit).

• Parents accompanying minor students may consider Special Resident Visas or Visitor Visas with extensions.

• It’s advisable to start the visa process well before your intended start date, especially for university-level programs.

‍‍ Spousal and Family Visas: Bringing Your Loved Ones to the Philippines

If you’re planning a long-term stay in the Philippines and want to bring your spouse or children with you, there are several visa options designed for families. The right visa depends on your nationality, your legal relationship, and the duration of stay.

13A Non-Quota Immigrant Visa (For Spouses of Filipino Citizens)

The 13A visa is the most common long-term visa granted to foreign spouses of Filipino citizens.

Key Features:

• Available to legally married foreign spouses

• Initial 1-year probationary visa, then eligible for permanent residency

• Allows multiple entry and indefinite stay

• Work allowed with appropriate permits

Requirements:

• Valid marriage certificate (recognized by Philippine law)

• Proof of cohabitation and financial capacity

• NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) or police clearance

Processing Time: 2–4 months
Cost Estimate: ~$300–$500 USD (processing and legal fees)

‍ 13A Derivative Visas (For Minor Children)

Minor children of a foreign parent holding a 13A visa can apply for a derivative visa. Children born during the marriage to a Filipino citizen may also be eligible for dual citizenship.

Temporary Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa with Extensions)

If you’re not married to a Filipino citizen, your spouse and children can enter on a tourist visa and extend it every 1–2 months, up to 36 months in total.

This is common for:

• Families of digital nomads

• Unmarried partners with children

• Long-term ESL students and their family members

Tips:

• Bring original birth/marriage certificates (with apostille)

• Schools may assist in securing visa extensions for children

• Consider long-stay options like SRRV (Special Resident Retiree’s Visa) if one parent qualifies

Important Notes

• The Philippines does not recognize common-law marriage or same-sex marriage for visa purposes.

• Family members cannot work under dependent status.

• School-aged children will need proper documentation for student permits if enrolling long-term.

Working Legally in the Philippines: Work Visas and Permits

If you intend to work in the Philippines during your long-term stay, you must obtain the appropriate visa and permits. The government strictly regulates foreign employment, and working without proper authorization is illegal.

9G Pre-Arranged Employment Visa

The 9G visa is the most common employment visa for foreigners legally working in the Philippines.

Who it’s for:

• Foreigners hired by Philippine-based companies

• Teachers, engineers, managers, IT professionals, and other skilled workers

Requirements:

• Valid job offer from a registered company

• Alien Employment Permit (AEP) issued by DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment)

• Medical exam and NBI clearance

Application Process:

1. Company applies for the AEP (1–2 weeks)

2. Company submits 9G visa application to the Bureau of Immigration (processing: 2–3 months)

3. Visa issued with multiple entry status and valid stay period

Cost Estimate: $500–$800 including fees and medical

Alien Employment Permit (AEP)

All foreign workers must have an AEP before starting employment.

Valid For: 1–3 years (renewable)
Processing Time: 7–15 business days

Exemptions include:

• Diplomats

• Foreigners with PR status (e.g., 13A or SRRV holders)

• Employees of regional HQs (ROHQ)

‍ Freelancers and Remote Workers

The Philippines currently does not offer a formal digital nomad visa. Remote workers typically enter on a tourist visa and extend it. However:

• Working for a foreign employer while residing in the Philippines is generally tolerated.

• No work visa is required if you’re not earning from Philippine sources.

• It’s best to avoid publicly declaring work status to immigration.

Important Tip: Consult a visa expert or legal advisor for long-term solutions (e.g., SRRV or investment visa).

Working Illegally

Working without a valid 9G visa and AEP is a violation of immigration law. Penalties include:

• Fines

• Deportation

• Blacklisting

✅ Summary

If you’re planning to work legally in the Philippines, the 9G visa is the standard path. For digital nomads, a tourist visa with extensions is the practical workaround—though not officially sanctioned. Always stay updated on immigration policies, as rules are subject to change.

Bringing Household Helpers or Nannies to the Philippines

Families relocating to the Philippines often ask whether they can bring domestic helpers or nannies from their home country. While it’s possible in some cases, there are legal, logistical, and immigration considerations to keep in mind.

Can I Bring My Nanny or Housekeeper from My Home Country?

Yes, but only under very limited conditions:

• The household helper must apply for a 9G Pre-Arranged Employment Visa sponsored by the foreign resident (employer).

• You (as the foreign employer) must have legal long-term residency or an official post (e.g., diplomat, executive of a multinational).

• You must prove financial capability and provide a clear employment contract.

This route is often limited to diplomats or high-level expats and can be expensive and time-consuming.

Hiring Local Helpers in the Philippines

In most cases, families opt to hire local domestic help, which is far more practical.

Options include:

• Live-in nanny or yaya

• Daytime-only help (8–10 hours/day)

• Part-time cleaners or cooks

Typical Monthly Salary:

• Live-in nanny: $150–$300

• Cleaner (part-time): $50–$100

• English-speaking nanny: $250–$400

Additional costs:

• Food and lodging (for live-in staff)

• Annual bonus (13th month pay, as per Philippine labor law)

• Optional government contributions (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG)

Common Duties and Expectations

Local helpers are typically trusted with:

• Childcare (feeding, bathing, school prep)

• Light cleaning and laundry

• Grocery shopping and errands

• Some even tutor English or basic math to children

Most Filipino helpers are kind, family-oriented, and adapt well to foreign families. However, clear contracts and respectful communication are essential.

Legal and Cultural Tips

• Draft a written contract with job scope, salary, hours, and days off.

• Respect legal working hours and rest days (at least one day off per week).

• Filipino helpers often become part of the family—consider trust and fairness a priority.

✅ Summary

While bringing helpers from abroad is difficult and rarely necessary, Cebu has a large pool of reliable, experienced domestic workers. Hiring locally is more affordable, culturally enriching, and easier to manage long-term.

Summary and Final Tips

Whether you’re a digital nomad, a retiree, or a family looking to relocate, the Philippines offers a flexible visa system and a relatively affordable lifestyle—especially in places like Cebu. Here’s a quick recap of what you need to know:

✅ Visa Takeaways

• For short stays: Visa-free entry and extensions up to 36 months (for many nationalities).

• For retirees: The SRRV provides a path to permanent stay with investment requirements.

• For families and workers: 9G work visas, student visas, or dependent visas may apply.

• For long-term flexibility: Consider combining a tourist visa with an SRRV application over time.

Final Tips

• Always check the latest visa rules from the Bureau of Immigration or a trusted immigration service.

• Don’t rush—take time to explore Cebu before committing to a long-term lease or school.

By doing your homework and budgeting wisely, living long-term in the Philippines—especially in Cebu—can be a truly rewarding experience.