What is the SSP and how do I get it?

What is the SSP and how do I get it?

Short Answer: The SSP (Special Study Permit) is a legal requirement for all foreign students studying English in the Philippines. It is issued by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration and must be obtained after arrival. 3D ACADEMY will help you with the entire process.

What is the SSP?

The Special Study Permit (SSP) is a mandatory document issued by the Philippine government that allows foreign nationals to study non-degree programs—such as language courses—at accredited institutions like 3D ACADEMY.

Even if you are staying for only 1 or 2 weeks, the SSP is required by law.

It is not a visa, but it is legally required in addition to your tourist visa. Without it, you are not allowed to study in the Philippines, even as a short-term language student.

How Much Does the SSP Cost?

As of July 2025, the SSP fee has been updated:

The SSP is valid for 3 months, and if your study period is longer, it may be renewed.

Who Needs to Get an SSP?

All foreign students who are:

• Studying English or other short-term non-degree programs

• Using a tourist visa (or visa-free entry)

• Enrolled at a language school in the Philippines

Exemptions: Only Philippine citizens and permanent residents are exempt. All other students must obtain the SSP.

Even if you are:

• From a visa-free country (e.g. Japan, Korea, Taiwan)

• Staying less than 30 days

• Already enrolled before arrival

You still need an SSP.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for the SSP, you’ll need:

• ✅ Photocopy of your passport (bio page and latest stamp/visa page)

• ✅ Passport-sized ID photo (white background)

• ✅ Completed SSP application form

• ✅ Enrollment documents from 3D ACADEMY

• ✅ Payment of the SSP fee (12,040 PHP)

Don’t worry—3D ACADEMY will handle all paperwork for you during your orientation week.

How Does the Process Work at 3D ACADEMY?

The good news is: you don’t have to go to immigration yourself. 3D ACADEMY has a streamlined process to make everything easy:

✅ 1. Arrival

You arrive in Cebu with your passport and tourist visa (or visa-free stamp).

✅ 2. Orientation

During orientation (usually Monday), our staff will:

• Explain the SSP process

• Collect your documents and passport copies

• Submit your application to the Bureau of Immigration on your behalf

✅ 3. Approval & Issuance

It usually takes 1–2 weeks for the SSP to be issued. You’ll receive:

• An official SSP certificate

• Receipt of payment (from immigration)

Our staff will notify you once your SSP is ready.

When Should I Apply?

Immediately after arrival. 3D ACADEMY processes your SSP during your first week, and you can attend classes while it is being processed.

You do not need to apply in advance from your home country.
SSP is handled locally in Cebu, and only accredited schools like 3D ACADEMY can sponsor it.

❌ What Happens If I Don’t Get an SSP?

Failing to obtain an SSP while studying is considered a violation of immigration law, and may result in:

• Fines

• Cancellation of your study program

• Deportation

• Future entry bans into the Philippines

That’s why every student must apply, even for short-term stays.

Can I Use the SSP at Other Schools?

No. The SSP is:

• School-specific – valid only at the institution that issued it

• Non-transferable – cannot be reused if you switch schools

• Location-based – processed through the local immigration office in Cebu

If you change schools, you must apply for a new SSP through the new school.

✅ Summary

✈️ Final Note

At 3D ACADEMY, we make the SSP process easy and worry-free.
Our team will assist you from start to finish—so you can focus on learning English and enjoying your time in Cebu.

If you have questions about your visa or SSP before your trip, just contact us.
We’re here to help!

About 3D ACADEMY

3D ACADEMY is an English language school located in Cebu City, Philippines, offering a unique and effective environment for students from around the world to improve their English communication skills.

Founded in 2002, we have welcomed over 20,000 students from more than 25 countries, including Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Brazil, and beyond. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced learner aiming for TOEIC or IELTS, 3D ACADEMY is designed to support your success.

Practical English That You Can Use

At 3D ACADEMY, we believe that the best way to learn English is by using it every day. Our curriculum emphasizes:

• One-on-one (1:1) speaking-focused lessons

• Small group classes to develop listening and interaction skills

• Optional classes tailored to your specific needs (e.g. pronunciation, vocabulary, presentation)

• Real-world English you can use in daily life, travel, business, or exams

Every class is designed to build your confidence, not just your test scores.

International, Supportive Environment

We welcome students of all ages, backgrounds, and English levels—from absolute beginners to advanced learners. Our campus offers:

• A diverse international community where English is the common language

• Multilingual staff (Japanese, Korean, Chinese) who support students in their native language

• Cultural exchange activities, weekend trips, and opportunities to make lifelong friends

Even if you don’t speak any English now, you’ll quickly feel at home.

Safe & Comfortable Campus Life

3D ACADEMY offers both on-campus dormitories and partner hotel-type accommodations, so students can choose the lifestyle that suits them best.

All accommodations include:

• Daily meals (Japanese, Korean, Filipino and international options)

• 24/7 security and support

• Wi-Fi, laundry service, and cleaning

• Nearby shopping malls, restaurants, and cafés within walking distance

A licensed medical doctor visits the campus every weekday, and cashless treatment is available for those with international insurance.

Flexible Courses for Every Goal

Choose from a variety of course options:

• General ESL

• Power Speaking / Intensive Speaking

• Business English

• TOEIC / IELTS Preparation

• Working Holiday Support

• Junior / Parent-child courses

• Add-on optional classes (1:1 or group)

You can start any Monday, with flexible study periods from 1 week to 24 weeks or more.

✅ Why 3D ACADEMY?

• ✔️ Over 20 years of teaching experience

• ✔️ Affordable tuition with high-quality lessons

• ✔️ Excellent location in Cebu City

• ✔️ Support for beginners with zero English experience

• ✔️ Full assistance with visa, SSP, and local life

✈️ Join Us in Cebu!

If you’re looking for a place where you can learn English effectively, make international friends, and experience life abroad safely and affordably, 3D ACADEMY is the perfect choice.

Come as you are—even if you don’t speak any English yet—and grow with us.
We’ll support you every step of the way.