The situation changes frequently, but as of November 11, 2022, all foreigners are permitted to enter the Philippines regardless of vaccination status.
However, the requirements to enter the Philippines differs if you are a US citizen (or one of the 157 countries on this list), returning Balikbayan Filipino, or from a visa-required country.
To get complete details on who can enter and the specific entry requirements, you can read my article on "Can I Travel To The Philippines Right Now?"
Yes. All unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, and fully vaccinated foreigner spouses may enter the Philippines as of October 4, 2022, in accordance with IATF Resolution No. 2. The new resolution allows ALL foreigners, regardless of COVID vaccination status, entrance into the Philippines.
All vaccinated foreign nationals who are married to Filipinos are allowed to enter the country. For citizens of visa-free countries under Executive Order 408 (hint: like the United States), you can enter the Philippines without needing an an EED or entry visa.
For visa-restricted citizens, you can apply for a Philippines entry visa/9a visa from your nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate on the basis of having a Filipino spouse.
However, all foreigners must follow the new Entry Requirements starting November 11, 2022.
Yes, retirees who already hold a valid Special Resident Retiree Visas (SRRV) can enter the Philippines without an Entry Exemption Document (EED).
The PRA has already reinstated the SRRV Visa program as of June 1, 2021. HOWEVER, the SRRV program is only open to retirees 50 years and older. The widely popular SRRV Smile Visa program for retirees 35 years old and up is remains suspended.
Last Official Announcement From the Philippines Retirement Authority
SRRV Update August 2021
October 2020
June 2021
SRRV Update May 2020
February 2021
Brief Overview Of The Philippines Special Resident and Retirees Visa Program
The Special Resident and Retirees Visa (SRRV) is a special non-immigrant visa allowing you to permanently live in the Philippines. This article is a brief overview of the Philippine visa program, benefits, documentary requirements, and visa fees.
To get the complete list of requirements, links to application forms, checklists, and process to retire in the Philippines, read my Guide on How To Get A Philippines Retirement Visa
Can you help me apply for a Philippines visa?
Yes. I've partnered with a Philippines relocation specialist, who has been relocating and moving embassy personnel and corporate expats since 2011. If you don't want to deal with the hassle and complexity of the visa process, they can help.
My partners are visa specialists certified by the Bureau of Immigration, Department of Tourism, and the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) to handle your visa application, document submission, local appointments, and much more. They will simply your immigration process and make getting your visa easier.
This post may contain affiliate links. I may get a commission if you purchase something using my link. Please note, there is NO ADDITIONAL COST to you. For more information, please see my disclosure.
QUICK TIPS- PHILIPPINES
Show a mandatory departure ticket. You cannot enter the Philippines on a one-way ticket if you only have a tourist visa or visa on arrival. You will need a flight ticket with a date leaving the country before your visa expires. Save money by showing immigration you have a cheap onward travel ticket for just $14.
Get help with your visa. The Philippines visa process can get complicated. The rules and regulations change frequently. Avoid the hassle of dealing with the immigration bureaucracy by speaking with a Philippines Visa Specialist.
Learn some basic Tagalog phrases. While nearly everyone speaks some English, learning some basic Tagalog is always appreciated by Filipinos. Get a FREE Language Lesson using the same learning technique used by the US State Department, FBI, and overseas military.
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Get Free Expat Health Insurance Quotes. Your home insurance will not cover you while abroad. However, you can find affordable international health insurance for less than what you would pay in the United States.
How To Find The Cheapest Flights To The Philippines
Other Guides On Living In The Philippines
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What Are The Benefits Of The SRRV?
- You can live permanently in the Philippines. Whether you prefer the bustling capital of Manila, the cooler climate of Baguio, the university small-town feel of Dumaguete, or one of the 7,000+ world-class islands, with the SRRV you can stay as long as you like.
- No more visa runs. You have multiple entry privileges with no minimum stay requirements. You can enter and leave the country as you please.
- Special SRRV Only Exemptions from annual application and renewal of a Philippines Immigration Alien Certificate of Registration Identity (ACR-I Card), paying a travel tax in Philippine airports, applying for a separate work visa, student visa, or study permit.
- Concierge Greet and Assist Program at major Philippine airports
- Free assistance in dealing with other Philippine government agencies
- Potential discounted health insurance premiums when enrolling in PHILHEALTH
- Customs, duties, and TAX-FREE importation of your household goods and personal effects valued up to $7,000 USD
- Special retiree discount privileges and promotions from select PRA-accredited Merchant Partners
- Foreign-sourced pensions and annuities are exempt from income tax
- Enjoy a quality of life with prices 60%+ less than in the United States
- Do not need to show an onward travel ticket when entering the country
- SRRV holders are exempt from COVID-19 health insurance requirements
Four SRRV Visa Types
One Visa with Four Options (Classic, Courtesy, Expanded Courtesy, and Human Touch)
1) SRRV Classic - For healthy retirees over 50 years old. SRRV Classic requires a foreign currency deposit:
- $10,000 visa deposit if you collect a monthly pension or social security of $800+ per month or more
- $20,000 is the requisite deposit if you DON'T have a monthly pension or social security worth at least $800 per month
EDITOR'S NOTE : Investment Opportunity- You don't have to let your required deposit sit in the bank, you can convert your deposit into an active investment.
Allowable investments include:
- real estate investment (purchase of condominium unit or long-term lease of a house and land)
- membership shares into a golf club or country club.
2) SRRV Courtesy - For healthy foreign retirees over 50 years old, who were:
- Former Filipino Citizens
- Foreign Nationals who worked as an ambassador, diplomat, or staff of an NGO in the Philippines. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) recognized list below.
The deposit required for the SRRV Courtesy is only $1,500
- ASEAN CENTRE FOR BIODIVERSITY (ACB)
- ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK (ADB)
- FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS (FAO)
- INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE RED CROSS (ICRC)
- INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT (IFAD)
- INTERNATIONAL FINANCE CORPORATION (IFC)
- INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION (ILO)
- INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND (IMF)
- INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR MIGRATION (IOM)
- INTERNATIONAL RICE RESEARCH INSTITUTE (IRRI)
- SOUTHEAST ASIAN MINISTERS OF EDUCATION ORGANIZATION (SEAMEO INNOTECH)
- SOUTHEAST ASIAN REGIONAL CENTER FOR GRADUATE STUDY RESEARCH IN AGRICULTURE (SEARCA)
- SOUTHEAST ASIAN FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT CENTER AQUACULTURE DEPARTMENT (SEAFDEC)*
- UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (UNDP)
- UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN’S FUND (UNICEF)
- UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR REFUGEES (UNHCR)
- UNITED NATIONS INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION (UNIDO)
- UNITED NATIONS POPULATION FUND (UNFPA)
- WORLD BANK (WB)
- WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME (WFP)
- WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO)*
- WORLD SCOUT BUREAU (WOSM)
Source: Department of Foreign Affairs
3) SRRV Expanded Courtesy - Ideal for US military or any retired foreign member of the Armed Forces from countries with existing military ties and/or agreement with the Philippine Government.
Qualified military veterans with guaranteed monthly income of $1,000+ (social security, military pension, private pension, etc.) can apply for the SRRV Expanded Courtesy with a low deposit of $1500 USD.
As an example as a retired member of any branch of the US military (regardless if you served in the Philippines or not) is eligible.
EDITOR'S NOTE : Former, Retired, or Ex-Military- You only needed to have served, not necessarily retired from the US Military to qualify for the SRRV (showing a valid DD Form 214 works).
Also, this option is not just for US Military. Any foreign military from countries with existing military ties and/or agreement with the Philippine Government are eligible.
4) SRRV Human Touch - This visa category is for ailing retirees over 50 years old, who need medical care in the Philippines, have a $10,000 visa deposit, are guaranteed a pension of at least $1,500 per month, and obtains health insurance accepted in Philippine hospitals.
Deposit amounts above (except for Human Touch) are for the Principal Retiree and two dependents (legal spouse or unmarried children). If you have over two dependents, you will need to deposit an additional $15,000 per dependent. An exemption of additional dependent deposit for SRRV Human Touch and SRRV Courtesy for Former Filipino citizens.
Other Philippine Visa Options
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Philippines Retirement Visa Suspended (SMILE)
October 2021 Update - The SRRV Smile Visa, targeting young expats who retired early and digital nomads 35 years old and over, was suspended on October 2020. The SRRV Smile remains suspended until further notice. Read more about the SRRV Smile Visa here.
However, all other SRRV Visas (Classic, Courtesy, Expanded Courtesy, and Human Touch) are available for any retirees above 50 years old.
US Dollar Deposit Requirements
SRRV CLASSIC- With Pension: $10,000; Without Pension: $20,000
SRRV COURTESY- $1,500
SRRV EXPANDED COURTESY- $1,500
SRRV HUMAN TOUCH- $10,000
*Amounts cover you plus 2 dependents (legal spouse or minor children), except for Human Touch, which only covers 1 dependent.
Amounts must be deposited in a PRA-Accredited Bank
What taxes do I need to pay to the Philippines?
INSIDER TIP : Expat Taxes- If you stay longer than 183 days, many countries will consider you a tax resident. Being an expat may help you save money on your taxes. Talk to a tax professional to see how tax residency applies to you. I partnered with a firm specializing in expat taxes to secure a special deal for Nomadic FIRE readers.
Use the promotion code "Nomadic25Consultation" for $25 off a tax consultation to get you started.
Even better, use their experts to prepare your tax return, and the entire consultation is FREE.
Whether you choose beaches or the city, the SRRV allows foreign retirees to stay in the Philippines indefinitely.
Required Documents To Apply For A Philippines SRR Visa
- 1Financial Deposit Into Approved Philippine Bank- For a list of PRA-Accredited banks and payment instructions, check out our complete guide to Retiring in the Philippines.
- 2Valid Passport- with valid entry visa (9A- temporary visitor's visa or BB- Balikbayan Visa if you were a former Philippine Citizen.
- 3PRA SRRV Visa Application Form - must be typed and completely filled out. Downloadable forms are available in our FREE checklist.
- 4Medical Clearance- A clear medical report no more than 6 months old. The clearance can be done either in the Philippines or from your home country. If from the Philippines, any Department of Health (DOH) Accredited hospital complete a PRA Medical Certificate (RSSC Form No 0012).
If you get a medical clearance from a doctor outside the Philippines, you will need to authenticate, translate, and apostille the certificate to make it valid. Each member of your family will need a clear medical certificate. - 5Clean Police Background Check or Police Certificate - An English translated and apostilled police clearance from your current country of residence or home country. Must not be more than six months prior to the date of filing of visa application.
Expedited US Apostille Made Easy
Get your Police Clearances, Marriage Certificates, or other Official documents authenticated using a convenient online service.
EDITOR'S NOTE : Alternative Documents To A Police Certificate- If your country of origin does not issue Police Certificates or if your current background check is expired or not properly authenticated or apostilled, you have two options:
- A PRA Certified clearance from Interpol; OR
You can receive a waiver for the background check if you are:
- over 70 years old , OR
- have five years of Philippine residency, OR
- Exemptions are also extended to retired Officers of Asian Development Bank (ADB) or any other DFA-recognized international organizations.
- 6NBI Clearance- If you or any member of your family over 18 years old has already been in the Philippines for over 30 days, then you will need to get a clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
- 7Passport Photos- Eight (8) pieces. Size 2" x 2"
- 8*Optional- Legal Proof of Relationship to Principle Applicant- If you include your spouse or a dependent child, you will need to submit Proof of Marriage to a Philippine citizen or Birth Certificate (as applicable). If your documents are from outside the Philippines, your original documents will need to be translated and apostilled.
Get Organized
Get your FREE step-by-step Philippines SRRV Visa application checklist for expats retiring to the Philippines. Organize your application with the checklist. Don't miss any paperwork or forget a step.
Basic Requirements for SRRV
PRINCIPLE RETIREE (YOU)
SPOUSE
DEPENDENT CHILD
Additional Requirements And Application Process
Where do I apply for the SRR Visa?
Application for the SRR Visa can be submitted to the PRA Head Office in Makati, Manila or one of the PRA satellite offices located in Baguio, Clark-Subic, Cebu City, or Davao.
| PRA Office | Manila Head Office | Baguio Satellite Office | Clark-Subic Satellite Office | Cebu Satellite Office | Davao Satellite Office | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Address | 29/F BDO Towers Valero (formerly Citibank Tower) Paseo de Roxas, Makati City 1226 Metro Manila | Unit 8, Bldg.3 Nevada Square, No.2 Loakan Road, Baguio City | 3rd Floor Savers Mall, Best Western Metro Clark McArthur Highway, Angeles City, Pampanga 2009 | Unit 202 Club Ultima Tower II, Crown Regency Hotel & Towers, Jones Ave, Cebu City | Suite A306 Plaza de Luisa Building, Ramon Magsaysay Avenue, Davao City | |||||||
| Phone | +63 2 8848 1412 | +63 91 7575 5605 | +63 917 855 3811 | +63 91 7307 1943 | +63 91 7575 0419 | |||||||
| [email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected] |
Do I Need Health Insurance?
Yes. Most health insurance will not cover you for any injuries sustained outside your home country. You will either need to get PHILHEALTH medical insurance or Expat Medical Insurance. However, PHILHEALTH only provides minimal coverage in overcrowded public hospitals.
If you retire abroad, expat health insurance is a more complete option. Expat Medical Insurance is the "normal" insurance you are familiar with to from home. Coverage is built for expats outside the US and insurance premiums are much cheaper than in the US.
How Much Does A Philippines SRRV Visa Cost?
SRRV Visa Fees
ONE TIME PROCESSING FEE | PER PERSON |
|---|---|
YOU | $1,400 |
SPOUSE | $300 |
DEPENDENT | $300 |
EXCESS DEPENDENT | $300 |
ANNUAL FEE | PER FAMILY |
|---|---|
CLASSIC | $360 |
COURTESY | $10 |
EXPANDED COURTESY | $10 |
HUMAN TOUCH | $360 |
An annual fee of $360 (up to three family members) and $100 for each additional dependent.
Don't Become A Victim Of Government Bureaucracy Get A Free SRRV Checklist
The PRA can process your retiree visa application in as little as 15-days. However, missing documents or an incorrect application form can delay your process indefinitely. The SRR Visa application is filled with paperwork and required documents. To ensure you don't miss a step or form, download our FREE checklist here.
How do I get SRRV?
Read the complete 10-step process flow detailing the application and SRRV approval process.
Can you email me forms to start this process of SRRV?
Sure, use this link to request a copy of our FREE SRRV Checklist, with updated links to the required forms.
FAQs: Philippines SRR Visa General Questions
Complete and properly filled out applications can be processed as fast as 15 to 20 working days, if you apply at one of the main PRA branches. If you apply through a satellite office, processing time can extend to 25 to 30 business days.
Yes. Technically, you complete the SRRV application in the Philippines. However, from the United States, you can start the SRRV process. Once you meet the full SRR Visa requirements, you can send the completed visa application via email to the Philippines Retirement Association. The PRA will petition for an Entry Exception Document (EED) allowing you to enter the Philippines.
Once you arrive in the country, you will complete the remaining requirements for SRRV processing.
As of February 10, 2022, SRRV holders no longer need an Entry Exemption Document (EED) for you to enter the Philippines. All foreigners, regardless of vaccination status, can now enter the Philippines.
Submit your SRRV application and all supporting documents for pre-evaluation to [email protected]. After receipt of application fees, the PRA can request an Entry Exemption Document (EED) for you to enter the Philippines.
NEXT STEPS
If you liked this story, you will enjoy these other posts on life in the Philippines
Question 1 :
I own my company and have monthly income ongoing whether I work or not, but it’s not a pension. I have workers that run the day to day business and our company is doing well, I always get income each month well above $800.00 US dollars the srrv required monthly income minimum.
Would that qualify for the lower $10,000 deposit? Or does it specifically need to be a pension type of monthly income to allow a $10,000 deposit for a classic SRRV?
Do I qualify for the lower $10,000 deposit? or because it’s not actual pension, it’s an owners ongoing monthly salary, is it’s still $20,000.00.
Question 2 :
If in the future if I ever cancel this SRRV visa, is it easily refunded back to me? How hard is it to get that deposit back later if you cancel the SRRV visa in a year or two? Is it required to keep it the srrv for a certain number of years or can you cancel it at any time in future and get your deposit back later ? Example: If I marry a Filipina, she moves to usa, the visa may no longer be needed like before.
Thank You ..
Hi Rick,
Thanks for taking the time to write. For question 1, regrettably, the income limit is a documented pension (government or private) or social security. Business income, even if it’s passive, doesn’t count. Neither does savings for some silly bureaucratic reason. You could show a $1M in your bank account, and the PRA would still ask to see an $800 per month pension.
For Question 2, there is no minimum time to cancel or even downgrade (if you get married and decide to do a 13A spousal visa, for example) your SRRV. However, your visa must have at least two months of validity left (you renew the SRRV annually). If you have less than two months left on your SRRV, you need to pay a pro-rate portion of the annual fee before canceling
Getting the deposit back is usually never a problem, but it does take time. How much time depends on how backup the PRA is. Technically, the PRA’s documented Standard Operating Procedure is 15 to 20 business days, but waiting several months is not uncommon.
Any other questions, please feel free to ask.
Cheers,
Marco
I’m over 50, US citizen. If I apply for a new SRRV Visa will I be able to travel there? Or are they only letting in people with existing SRRV’s? Also do you have to be vaccinated in order to travel there on a SRRV?
Hi DM,
Yes. I met with the PRA last week to address this specific topic.
If you complete an SRRV application, submit your original documents to the PRA, and pay the visa fee, then the PRA will petition to get you an Entry Exemption Document (EED) to allow entry into the Philippines.
I have a new partner in the Philippines accredited with the Philippines Retirement Association to assist expat retirees with the visa process. Reply to this comment, and I can help get the process started.
Thanks Marco,
I’m very interested in starting the process. Any assistance you lend would be great.
Thank you!
I sent you an email. Check your SPAM if you don’t see something from Marco in your inbox.
Hi Marco, I have a small property in the Philippines worth about 1.5 million pesos. Can this be used as the security instead of a $10,000 bank deposit? Thanks. Simon
Hi Simon,
I know you are allowed to use the visa deposit for either a long-term lease of a house and lot or a condominium. I also know the visa deposit can also be used to purchase a condominium, but I don’t believe the SRRV deposit can be used to buy an existing house in the Philippines. Why the PRA specifically differentiates between a home where you lease the land, and a condo where you don’t own the land is out of my content expertise. If you like, I can put you in touch with a local visa specialist who will assist with your unique situation. Leave me a message here if you want me to put you in touch.
Cheers,
Marco
Many thanks for your reply Marco, I would be most grateful if you could provide links to agents who might be able to help me. Simon Pringle
i am not understanding how proceed getting started with srrv in US b4 arriving phl and what i need to do and need i then to am retired military waiting to enter as tourist and then proceed to get SRRV with my girlfriend
Hi Kim,
You cannot currently enter the Philippines with a tourist visa. Since you are not married and unless you have a pre-arranged job with a local company, then your only option to enter the Philippines and reunite with your girlfriend is the SRRV with Entry Exception Document (EED).
Normally you would need to be physically in the Philippines to apply for the SRRV, but due to the pandemic, the Philippines Retirement Association (PRA) added a workaround. You can start the application process in the US before leaving the country. Once you meet the full SRRV requirements and send your documents and fees to the PRA, the PRA will petition for an EED allowing you to enter the Philippines. You will be required to complete the remaining steps of the visa process once you arrive.
The EED is a bit complex and requires coordination from three different Philippine Government agencies. If you want to avoid the headaches of dealing with the Philippine government from the US, I have a local visa specialist who can help.
Any questions, let me know.
Cheers,
Marco
okay please assist me with what help information that u say
pls assist me to begin EED
Sure Kim,
I can help with the EED process. I sent you an email with a few questions to get started. Let me know if you did not receive an email from Nomadic FIRE. Please check your SPAM box, just in case.
Cheers,
Marco
never recieved
i need assistance with EED
My question is if I get a srrv
Will I be allowed to enter the Philippines now.
Can I apply for an srrv outside of the Philippines
Because I am in the United Kingdom at the moment
Hi Gary,
Thanks for reaching out. Please see the answers to your questions below:
Foreigners with an Entry Exemption Document (EED) can enter the Philippines. To request an EED from the Philippines Retirement Authority, you will need to submit an SRRV application to the PRA. For additional information on the EED process, you can read this article.
https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-entry-exemption-document
Yes. You need to start the SRRV application process from your home country, request an EED from the PRA, and then finalize the SRRV application when you arrive in the Philippines.
If you need help with the SRRV and EED process, I have a Philippines Visa Specialist ready to assist.
Any questions or concerns, please let me know. Cheers,
Marco
I’m applying for an SRRV Classic. The instructions on your website say I have to fly to the Philippines to complete the application process. How can I fly there if I don’t already have a visa?
Hi Herrick,
To clarify, you START the process in your home country. Complete all the requirements and submit the application, fees, and deposit to the PRA (Philippine Retirement Authority). The PRA will petition to get you an EED (Entry Exemption Document), which you then submit to your local Philippine Embassy or Consulate for a 9(a) temporary visa to enter the Philippines. Once you are in the Philippines, you COMPLETE the application process in-person with the PRA.
Not complicated at all, right? 🙂
Check this “How To Get An EED" infographic for a step by step explanation.
Or if you would prefer to have a Visa Specialist take care of the hassles of the application process for you, you can speak with one here.
https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-visa-consultation
Thanks for answering my questions.
>>Or if you would prefer to have a Visa Specialist take care of the hassles of the application process for you, you can speak with one here.<<
I've tried that several times, but I never get the email it says I should expect. Yes, I checked my junk folder and my spam filters. Besides your answers here, the only response I've received is when I emailed you directly at [email protected]
Hi Rick,
I emailed you directly. Let’s try to connect that way.
Why does the Filipino SRRV application ask me for my current address in the Philippines? I don’t have an address there yet; I’m planning to buy a condo as soon as I get there. Do I just leave that field blank?
You’ll need the address of where you plan to stay in the Philippines. It doesn’t need to be your permanent address. Your hotel or AirBnb works as well.
On your website it says: “You can receive a waiver for the background check if you are:
* over 70 years old
??????
* have five years of Philippine residency. "
Should that be “and" or “or" where I have typed “??????"
Hi Rick,
To clarify the Police Background Check could be waived and substituted with an Interpol Clearance from the PRA if you are
On your checklist document, it mentions “FIRE Date." What is that? Is “FIRE" an acronym for something?
FIRE- Financial Independence Retire Early
Since the cost of living is cheaper in the Philippines, you can retire years earlier than if you were living in the US.
It’s for people who want to retire in the Philippines before the traditional retirement age.