Whether you’re planning to visit the Philippines for a few weeks or settle long-term, understanding visa options is the first step. This updated 2025 visa guide breaks down every visa type, the latest Bureau of Immigration (BI) requirements, costs, and renewal timelines — written specifically for expats, digital nomads, and retirees.
1. Tourist Visas (Temporary Visitor’s Visa – 9A)
Who it’s for: Travelers and digital nomads who want to stay short-term.
Most nationalities can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days, with the option to extend at a Bureau of Immigration office. Extensions can be made up to 36 months total (3 years) before requiring a visa run or exit.
Extension costs (approximate, as of 2025):
| Duration | Cost (PHP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First 29-day extension | ₱3,000–₱4,000 | Includes visa waiver & paperwork |
| 1-month extension | ₱2,000–₱3,000 | For short-term stays |
| 2-month extension | ₱4,000–₱5,000 | Standard for tourists |
| 6-month extension | ₱7,500–₱8,500 | Must be approved by BI main office |
Visa run tip: If you hit 36 months, you must exit and re-enter — usually to Hong Kong, Thailand, or Singapore.
Where to renew:
- Bureau of Immigration (BI) field offices across major cities
- Authorized visa agents such as FilipinoVisa
2. 13A Non-Quota Immigrant Visa (Marriage Visa)
Who it’s for: Foreigners legally married to Filipino citizens.
The 13A Marriage Visa grants permanent residence, work rights, and the ability to stay indefinitely. The process begins with a probationary one-year visa, later converted to permanent status.
Requirements:
- PSA marriage certificate
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statement, employment, or pension)
- NBI clearance & medical exam
- Joint affidavit of cohabitation
Fees (approximate): ₱15,000–₱20,000 (processing + legal assistance)
Renewal:
- Probationary year: Apply for permanent after 12 months
- Permanent: No need for annual renewals, but ACR-I card renewal every 5 years
3. SRRV – Special Resident Retiree’s Visa
Who it’s for: Retirees aged 35+ who meet minimum deposit and income requirements.
Administered by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), this visa allows permanent residency with multiple-entry privileges.
| Type | Deposit (USD) | Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRRV Classic | $20,000 | 35+ | For healthy retirees |
| SRRV Smile | $20,000 | 35+ | For leisure-only, no pension required |
| SRRV Courtesy | $1,500 | 50+ | For former Filipinos or diplomats |
| SRRV Human Touch | $10,000 | 35+ | For retirees with medical conditions & pension |
Benefits:
- Tax-free pension remittances
- Exemption from travel tax
- Access to local health insurance and housing loans
4. Work Visas (9G & 9D)
Who it’s for: Expats working for Philippine-registered companies.
The 9G Work Visa allows employment for foreigners holding an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Steps:
- Obtain AEP (₱9,000, valid 1 year)
- Apply for 9G Visa at BI
- Convert from tourist visa if necessary
Cost: Around ₱12,000–₱18,000 per year.
Renewal: Annual, through employer sponsorship.
5. Student Visa (9F)
Who it’s for: Foreign nationals enrolled in Philippine universities.
Requirements:
- Acceptance letter from a CHED-accredited school
- Proof of financial capacity
- Birth certificate and police clearance
- BI medical exam
Processing time: 4–6 weeks.
Cost: ₱8,000–₱12,000.
6. Retirement & Long-Stay Options for Digital Nomads
The Philippines does not yet have a formal digital nomad visa (as of 2025), but long-stay options include:
- Tourist visa extensions (up to 3 years)
- SRRV for retirees
- 13A Marriage Visa for those married locally
For short-term stays, many nomads mix 30–90 day visas with frequent extensions or border runs.
7. Visa Renewal Locations
Metro Manila: Bureau of Immigration – Intramuros, Manila
Cebu City: J Centre Mall, Mandaue City
Davao City: Gaisano Mall
Angeles City: Robinsons Balibago
Tagbilaran, Bohol: Island City Mall
Check around for the best hotels nearest to visa renewal locations.
8. Immigration Fines & Overstay Penalties
Overstaying beyond your visa validity incurs ₱500–₱2,000 per month depending on duration, plus a ₱10,000 exit clearance fee.
You must secure an ECC (Emigration Clearance Certificate) if you’ve stayed 6 months or longer before leaving the country.
9. Recommended Legal & Visa Services
- FilipinoVisa.com – Specialized in 13A, SRRV, and tourist visa renewals.
- VisaHQ – Online global visa processing with courier service.
- Bureau of Immigration (BI) – Official updates on fees and forms.
- Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) – SRRV applications and investor information.
10. Cost Summary Table (2025)
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost (USD) | Renewable | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9A Tourist | 30 days → 36 months | $50–$200 | Yes | Up to 3 years total stay |
| 13A Marriage | Lifetime | $250–$400 | Permanent | With Filipino spouse |
| SRRV | Lifetime | $1,500–$20,000 deposit | No | PRA-managed |
| 9G Work Visa | 1 year | $250 | Yes | With AEP required |
| 9F Student | Course duration | $150–$250 | Yes | Via university |
| Extension | 1–6 months | $40–$160 | Yes | Multiple allowed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long can foreigners stay in the Philippines without a visa?
Up to 30 days for most nationalities, extendable at immigration offices.
2. Can you work with a tourist visa?
No. You must hold a valid 9G Work Visa and AEP.
3. Is overstaying a crime?
No, but it carries heavy fines and can lead to deportation if unpaid.
4. Can retirees own property under an SRRV?
Yes, under certain programs, especially SRRV Classic with investor privileges.
5. Can I convert my tourist visa to a 13A while in the country?
Yes, conversion is possible without exiting, provided all requirements are met.
