Hi Robert, you actually use the same type of form for both the 13a probationary and permanent. You can download a copy of the visa application forms here. If you would like help with your 13a visa application, let me know.

I am a US citizen married for 12 years to a Filipina citizen with USA Dual citizenship. I would like to get permanent residence, leading to Philippine citizenship.

Our plan is for me to stay here full time, developing property we purchased into a resort, with occasional trips out to receive medical attention from the VA. My wife will be spending time at our home in Alaska, working to pay for the project, until such time as she can return permanently. Is she required to be here full time, or how long each year, in order to achieve our goals?

What are the steps needed to accomplish this plan?

Hi Leonard, if you are both in the US, apply for a 13a visa at the Philippine consulate with jurisdiction in your state. Alternatively, as a US veteran, you are eligible for the Special Resident Retirement visa. Both the 13a and SRRV have their pros and cons; which one is better for you will depend on your circumstances.
Once either visa is granted, you will have residency in the Philippines and can enter, stay, and leave the Philippines whenever you like. You may find it easier to have your wife in the country when purchasing your property, but she doesn't need to be in the Philippines for you to live there. If you would like additional help deciding which visa is best for you, reach out and contact me.

I am Malaysian. I have been married to a Filipina since 1995. I have been staying in the Philippines since my marriage. I have a SRRV (Smile) visa at present but i want to change to the 13a visa. What is the procedure to convert my SRRV to 13a?

Hi Khai, there isn't a process to "convert" to the 13a.You would need to apply for the 13a, then withdraw from the SRRV program. Curious, why are you switching to the 13a over the SRRV?

My Dad (US citizen) is married to a Filipino national and is trying to obtain a spousal visa. He goes to visit at the end of May on a Visa Waiver. He only stays for 30 days or less. Can he still apply for a 13-A visa while he is there or should he obtain a tourist visa before he travels? Would it be easier to obtain a tourist visa or visa extension in the Phillipines? Also, he is not in the best of health-diabetes is not under control. Have you ever seen a visa get denied due to medical reasons?

Hi Rebecca, As a US citizen, the easiest option would be for your father to

1. Enter the Philippines visa-exempt for 30 days
2. Apply for a probationary 13a spousal visa in the Philippines
3. Extend his visa, until the 13a probationary visa is granted
4. Convert the 13a probationary visa to a 13a Permanent visa after one year

Sorry to hear about your father's health, but no. I have not heard of a 13a being denied for medical reasons. If he needs help with his visa application, we can help.

Thank you very much for all the information!

You're welcome.

how to apply for a 13A visa and how long does it take to claim the 13A?

Hi Troy, the steps and the duration depend on where you are going to be applying from. Will you file in the Philippines or in your home country?

Hi Marco, would I be able to enter the Philippines on a one way ticket if I only have a Probationary 13a Visa? I am aware that you need to show a return flight to your country of origin when using a tourist visa or only a passport, I am hoping that I do not need to show a return flight to the U.S. if my 13a Visa is not converted to Permanent yet. Thanks in advance.

Hi Taylor, the onward ticket requirement is only for foreigners without a valid visa (i.e folks arriving visa-free/visa on arrival). If your probationary 13a has not expired, you should be okay.

What Are the Requirements for 13a visa ?

Hi Aiyen, the 13a requirements depend on where you will be applying. Are you currently in the Philippines or in your home country?