Residence in Philippines: permits and requirements
Living legally in Philippines is possible through 6 permit types: family, other, retiree, investment, work, permanent. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Immigrant visa by marriage (13A)
Residence type #1 of 6
Permanent residence for spouses of Filipino citizens; 1-year probationary and permanent after proving the relationship (Bureau of Immigration, BI).
Requirements
- Valid marriage to a Filipino citizen
- Legal presence in the Philippines when applying for the conversion
- Good conduct certificate and proof of means
Documentation
- Marriage certificate (PSA) and passport
- Good conduct certificate and BI BICC
- Conversion form
- Fees
Frequently asked questions about residence in Philippines
How many types of residence permits are there in Philippines?
Philippines offers 6 residence permit types, grouped into the categories family, other, retiree, investment, work, permanent. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Philippines last?
Durations vary by permit type: Permanent (1-year probationary period); Permanent; Permanent (with deposit maintained); Permanent (with investment maintained). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Philippines be renewed?
It depends on the type: 2 of 6 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Philippines?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Formulario de solicitud; Certificado de antecedentes penales; Tasas. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Philippines lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 10 years of legal residence. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Philippines.
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Anything to correct or add about Philippines?
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