How to Get a Visa for the Philippines
The Philippines is a beautiful island nation and a popular destination for beach holidays, diving, business, and long-term living. Entry requirements depend on your passport, travel purpose, and stay length. Many travellers can enter visa-free, while others must apply for a visa in advance. Long-term stays (study, work, retirement) require special visas or residence permits.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of Australia, USA, UK, EU countries, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and over 150 other countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days (some nationalities get 14 or 59 days). - Visa required:
Nationals of countries not on the visa-free list (e.g., Pakistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, parts of Africa & the Middle East) must apply for a tourist or business visa before travelling. - Long-term stays:
Anyone planning to study, work, retire, or stay beyond the allowed visa-free period needs the appropriate visa or permit.
✅ Check the official requirements: https://dfa.gov.ph
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Free Entry | Tourism for eligible passports | 30 days (some get 14 or 59 days) |
| Tourist Visa (9A) | Tourism, family/friends | 30–59 days (extendable up to 36 months for most nationals) |
| Business Visa (9A) | Meetings, conferences | 30–59 days (extendable) |
| Student Visa (9F) | Full-time study | Duration of course |
| Work Visa (9G) | Employment in the Philippines | 1–3 years renewable |
| Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) | Retirement | Indefinite |
| Transit Visa (9B) | Passing through | Up to 72 hours |
| Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) | Long-term stay for investors | Renewable while investment maintained |
3. Short-Stay Travel (Visa-Free or Tourist Visa)
A) Visa-Free Entry (Most Common)
- If you’re from an eligible country:
- Enter with a passport valid at least 6 months beyond stay.
- Show proof of onward/return ticket.
- Immigration may ask for proof of funds or hotel bookings.
B) Tourist Visa (9A)
For travellers who need a visa or want a longer stay than 30 days:
- Apply at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate
- Complete the visa form (from the embassy website).
- Submit:
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Passport-size photos
- Flight & hotel bookings
- Bank statements/proof of funds
- Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
- Pay the visa fee (single entry ~USD $30–50; multiple entry ~USD $60–90).
- Processing time: 2–10 working days.
4. Extending Your Stay in the Philippines
- Tourists who entered visa-free or with a 9A visa can extend at the Bureau of Immigration:
- Initial extension: to 59 days.
- Further renewals: usually every 1–2 months, up to 36 months total (24 months for some nationalities).
- Extension fees: ~PHP 3,000–7,000 depending on length.
5. Long-Term & Special Visas
Student Visa (9F)
- Requires acceptance from a Philippine school/university.
- Submit admission letter, proof of funds, police clearance, and medical exam at a Philippine Embassy.
Work Visa (9G)
- Employer must apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor.
- Then apply for the 9G visa at the embassy or change status in-country.
Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV)
- For retirees with pension or investment funds.
- Managed by the Philippine Retirement Authority.
- Requires deposit (USD $10,000–50,000) or pension proof.
- Allows indefinite stay with multiple-entry privileges.
Investor Visa (SIRV)
- For foreign investors who place funds into Philippine businesses or stocks.
6. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (single entry) | USD $30–50 |
| Tourist Visa (multiple entry) | USD $60–90 |
| Student Visa (9F) | USD $250+ |
| Work Visa (9G) | USD $300–400 (plus AEP fees) |
| SRRV (Retirement Visa) | USD $1,400 one-time application + deposit |
| Visa Extension | PHP 3,000–7,000 per renewal |
Fees vary by nationality and are non-refundable.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: Tourist visas take about a week; work or study visas take longer.
- Use official channels: Apply through the Philippine Embassy or Bureau of Immigration.
- Have onward travel proof: Airlines and immigration may require it.
- Bring extra photos: Needed for visa extensions.
- Register eTravel: As of 2023, all travellers must fill out the eTravel online form before arrival.
- Plan long stays: You can extend up to 36 months but must visit an immigration office each time.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond stay
- Return or onward ticket
- Completed visa application (if needed)
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Bank statements (if required)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Printed eTravel QR code before boarding