Visa Extension in Bohol: How-To

For many foreign visitors, Bohol is more than just a vacation spot—it’s a place where you might want to stay longer, whether for diving in Panglao, exploring chocolate hills, or enjoying the island’s slow-paced lifestyle. If you’re a tourist in the Philippines, your visa has a limited validity, and extending it is often necessary if you want to remain legally in the country. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about extending your visa in Bohol, from the requirements and process to tips for making the procedure smooth and stress-free.

Understanding Tourist Visas in the Philippines

Most foreigners arriving in the Philippines are granted a 30-day visa-free entry (for eligible nationalities). Some may get shorter or longer initial stays depending on their passport. If you plan to remain longer than this initial period, you must apply for a visa extension.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) handles all immigration matters, including tourist visa extensions. Bohol, being a popular tourist destination, has its own field office where foreigners can process their extensions without needing to travel to Cebu or Manila.

Where to Extend Your Visa in Bohol

The Bureau of Immigration Tagbilaran Field Office is the main office that handles visa-related matters on the island.

Location:

• Bureau of Immigration Bohol Field Office

• Galleria Luisa Building, Gallares Street, Tagbilaran City, Bohol

This office is accessible if you’re staying in Panglao or Tagbilaran, as it’s just a short drive from both areas. Always check for updated office hours, but generally, the BI office operates during weekdays (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with a lunch break).

Visa Extension Options

When applying for an extension, you typically have the following options:

1. First Extension (29 Days)

   • Extends your stay from 30 days to 59 days total.

   • Straightforward process with fewer requirements.

2. Subsequent Extensions (1 to 2 Months at a Time)

   • After 59 days, you can apply for additional extensions.

   • The BI allows up to 36 months (for visa-required countries, up to 24 months) of continuous stay for tourists, provided you renew on time.

3. Long-Stay Visitor Visa Extension (LSVVE)

   • Grants 6-month extensions at once.

   • Available after your first extension.

Requirements for Visa Extension in Bohol

While requirements are relatively simple, it’s important to prepare them before heading to the office:

• Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay).

• Completed application form (available at the BI office).

• Photocopy of passport bio page and latest entry stamp.

• Visa extension fee (varies depending on the length of extension and whether you’re applying for ACR-I Card).

Fees and Costs

Visa extension fees vary, but here’s a general breakdown (subject to change):

• First Extension (29 Days): around PHP 3,000–3,500

• 1–2 Month Extensions: PHP 2,500–3,500

• 6-Month LSVVE: PHP 7,000–11,000

If it’s your first time staying longer than 59 days, you may also need to apply for an ACR-I Card (Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card), which costs around PHP 2,600. This card is valid for one year and is mandatory for longer stays.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Go to the BI Office in Tagbilaran

   • Arrive early to avoid long lines.

   • Dress appropriately (avoid beachwear; a casual but neat outfit works best).

2. Request an Application Form

   • Fill out the form with accurate details.

   • Attach photocopies of your passport pages as required.

3. Submit Your Application

   • Hand over your documents to the immigration staff.

   • They will review and confirm the extension you’re applying for.

4. Pay the Fees

   • Proceed to the cashier and pay in Philippine pesos.

   • Keep the receipt for future reference.

5. Wait for Processing

   • Some applications are processed on the same day, while others may take a few days.

   • You’ll be given a claim stub or advised when to return.

6. Collect Your Passport

   • Once approved, return to collect your passport with the updated visa stamp.

How Long Does It Take?

• Same-day processing is possible for simple extensions, especially the first 29-day extension.

• 1–3 working days may be required for subsequent or longer extensions.

• During peak tourist seasons (December–April), allow extra time as the BI office may be busier.

Tips for a Smooth Extension Process

• Bring exact photocopies in advance to avoid delays (some photocopy shops are near the BI office).

• Carry sufficient cash, as card payments are not always accepted.

• Check your passport validity before applying. If it’s expiring soon, extend your visa only up to the valid period.

• Apply early, ideally a week before your visa expires, to avoid overstaying penalties.

• Keep receipts and stubs as proof of legal stay.

What If You Overstay?

If you accidentally overstay your visa, don’t panic. The BI office will still process your extension, but you’ll need to pay overstay fines (around PHP 500–1,000 per month, depending on the duration). However, repeated or prolonged overstays may affect your future travel to the Philippines, so it’s best to avoid this situation.

Alternatives: Visa Runs and Other Options

Some foreigners prefer to leave the Philippines and re-enter (commonly called a “visa run”) instead of extending. For example, flying from Bohol to Hong Kong, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur, then returning, resets the tourist visa. However, immigration officers may question frequent visa runs, and there’s no guarantee of re-entry without scrutiny.

Visa extension within the Philippines is usually the safer and more convenient option, especially if you plan to enjoy Bohol long-term.

Living in Bohol Long-Term as a Foreigner

If you fall in love with the island and want to stay even longer, consider alternatives beyond tourist visas:

• Retirement Visa (SRRV): For retirees with pensions or investments.

• Work Visa: If employed by a local company.

• Marriage Visa (13a): If married to a Filipino citizen.

These require more paperwork but offer greater stability compared to constant extensions.

Final Thoughts

Extending your visa in Bohol is a straightforward process if you know where to go and what to prepare. The Tagbilaran BI office makes it convenient for foreigners to remain legally on the island without needing to fly back to Manila or Cebu. By preparing your documents in advance, applying early, and keeping track of your extension dates, you can enjoy a worry-free stay in Bohol—whether for a couple of months or even several years.

FAQ:Visa Extension in Bohol: How-To

What types of visitors can extend a stay in Bohol?

Tourist (9(a)) visa holders who entered the Philippines visa-free or with a tourist visa can apply for extensions at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Tagbilaran Field Office. Holders of other visas (e.g., work, student, spouse) follow different rules and should consult BI for their specific conditions.

Where do I process a visa extension in Bohol?

At the Bureau of Immigration Tagbilaran Field Office in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. It serves residents and visitors staying in Panglao, Tagbilaran, and other Bohol towns. Office hours are typically weekdays during business hours; bring a government-acceptable ID and your original passport.

How early should I apply before my allowed stay expires?

Apply 7–10 days before expiry to avoid queues and potential overstay penalties. If you are traveling around your expiry date, apply even earlier so you are covered while on the move or if an unexpected delay occurs.

What extensions are available for tourists?

Common options include:

• First 29-day extension (to reach a total of 59 days).
• 1–2 month regular extensions after 59 days, repeatable up to the BI maximum continuous stay limit.
• Long-Stay Visitor Visa Extension (LSVVE) for a 6-month block (available after your first extension, subject to eligibility and office availability).

What documents do I need to bring?

Bring your valid passport (with at least six months validity recommended), photocopies of the bio page and latest entry stamp/visa, a completed application form (available at BI), and sufficient funds for fees. Some applicants may be asked for proof of onward travel or accommodation details, so keep those handy.

Do I need an ACR-I Card?

If your authorized stay exceeds 59 days, you will generally be required to obtain an ACR-I Card (Alien Certificate of Registration). The card is typically valid for one year and may involve a separate fee and biometrics capture. If you already hold a valid ACR-I Card from previous stays, bring it along.

How long does processing take?

Simple first extensions can be processed the same day, depending on office volume. For subsequent or 6-month extensions, processing can take 1–3 working days. Peak travel seasons (e.g., December to April and major holidays) may extend waiting times, so plan accordingly.

What are the typical fees?

Fees vary by extension type and whether an ACR-I Card is required. Expect higher costs for 6-month LSVVE and for first-time ACR-I Card issuance. Always budget extra and bring cash in Philippine pesos, as electronic payment options may be limited or temporarily unavailable.

Can someone else (an agent) process my extension?

Accredited visa assistance providers may help with filing. If you use one, verify accreditation and keep copies of all receipts. Even when using an agent, you might still need to appear for biometrics or to sign documents, especially for ACR-I Card applications.

What should I wear and how should I behave at the BI office?

Dress respectfully (no beachwear). Be polite, patient, and follow posted instructions. Prepare your documents ahead of time, keep photocopies clipped, and write legibly on forms. Turning up early usually shortens wait time.

What happens if I overstay?

Report to BI as soon as possible. Overstays can generally be regularized by paying fines and fees, plus completing an extension. The longer you overstay, the higher the penalties and the greater the risk of complications with future entries. Do not leave the Philippines without clearing an overstay with BI.

Can I exit and re-enter instead of extending (visa run)?

Technically possible, but there is no guarantee of re-entry and frequent visa runs may invite additional scrutiny. Airline check-in staff and Philippine immigration officers can ask for proof of funds, onward travel, and intent to comply with stay limits. Extensions in-country are usually simpler and more predictable if you plan to remain in Bohol.

Will I be asked for an onward or return ticket?

You may be asked at airline check-in or at immigration control upon arrival. While BI in Bohol typically does not require it for an extension, carrying proof of onward travel is a good practice and may be requested in certain circumstances.

How do I track my allowed stay and extension dates?

Keep a digital calendar reminder for your expiry and set alerts 14 days and 7 days in advance. Save photos of your latest entry stamp, receipts, and extension sticker or annotation pages. Double-check that the new permitted-until date is correct before you leave the BI office.

Can I convert to another visa type while in Bohol?

Some conversions (e.g., to a spouse, work, or retirement visa) may require additional documents, clearances, and processing at specific BI offices. Start by consulting the BI Tagbilaran office for current procedures, eligibility, and whether your case must be handled in a larger BI branch (e.g., Cebu City or Manila).

What if my passport is nearing expiration?

BI typically cannot grant an extension beyond your passport’s validity window. If your passport is expiring soon, renew it first at your embassy/consulate (often in Cebu or Manila) and then proceed with your extension. Always maintain at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay.

Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa?

No. A tourist visa does not authorize employment or income-generating activity in the Philippines. Even unpaid volunteering may require specific permissions depending on the organization and activity. If you intend to work, speak with BI or a qualified immigration professional about appropriate visa categories.

Is health insurance required for extensions?

Not typically for standard tourist extensions, but travel medical insurance is strongly recommended. Bohol has hospitals and clinics, but comprehensive care or medical evacuation can be expensive. Keep your policy details and emergency contacts accessible.

What if my circumstances change (lost passport, illness, flight cancellations)?

Report issues immediately. For a lost passport, file a police report, contact your embassy for a replacement, and inform BI. For illness or travel disruptions that affect your extension timing, visit BI as soon as you can with supporting documents (medical notes, airline communications) to minimize penalties.

Are there blackout days or times I should avoid?

Avoid late afternoons, paydays, and days adjacent to public holidays when queues can be long. Mondays are often busier. Arrive early, ideally at opening, and bring snacks and water in case you need to wait.

What details go on the application form, and any tips for filling it out?

Provide your personal information exactly as in your passport, your local Bohol address (hotel, apartment, or resort), contact number, and the requested extension period. Write clearly, avoid corrections when possible, and check that dates, passport numbers, and signatures match. Keep a phone photo of the completed form for your records.

Do minors or families follow different rules?

Parents or legal guardians typically file for minors. Bring the child’s passport, copies, and any relevant guardianship documents. Families can apply together, but each traveler has their own application and fees. Allow extra time when processing multiple passports.

How often can I extend while staying in Bohol?

You can extend repeatedly up to the maximum continuous stay allowed for tourists, provided you remain compliant and apply on time. If you plan to stay long term, consider whether a long-stay block (LSVVE) or a different visa class (e.g., retirement or spouse visa) would reduce trips to BI and overall costs.

What proof do I receive after approval?

Your passport will be annotated with a new permitted-until date (stamp or sticker), and you will receive official receipts. Verify that your name, passport number, and dates are correct before you leave the counter. Keep the receipts clipped inside your passport for future visits.

Any quick checklist before I go to BI Tagbilaran?

• Original passport + photocopies (bio page, latest entry/visa page).
• Completed application form and a pen.
• Cash in PHP for fees (bring a buffer).
• Local address and contact number.
• Calendar reminders for your next deadline.

If in doubt about requirements or timing, ask the BI officer at the information window before lining up to pay.

Final reminder and disclaimer

Philippine immigration rules and fees can change, and local office practices may vary. The information above is a general guide to help you plan your extension in Bohol. For authoritative and current requirements, confirm at the Bureau of Immigration Tagbilaran Field Office or consult official BI communications before you apply.

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