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Philippines SRRV Visa Update and Requirements- All Your Questions Answered (2023)

The Philippines SRRV has been one of the best retirement visas for Southeast Asia. Has the Philippines suspended the SRRV program? Are foreigners allowed into the Philippines now? Get the latest information and all your questions answered on the Philippines Special Resident Retiree Visa program.

  Mins Reading Time

Published On: October 15, 2021

Latest Update: September 25, 2024

About the author

Hi, I'm Marco Sison. I worked in finance for Fortune 50 companies before retiring early at 41 years old. I have been an expat for over 10 years, living in over 50 countries to show you the best ways to save, invest, and live in amazing countries outside the USA. I am a trusted resource on personal finance and overseas retirement for US News & World Reports, HuffPost, MSN Money, USA Today, ABC Network, Yahoo Finance, Association of MBAs, the iTunes documentary Seeking FIRE, and the Amazon Best-Seller- Abroad: Expats That Thrive.

Latest SRRV Updates From The Philippines Retirement Authority

Has the suspension been lifted for the SRRV Visa?

Yes. The Philippines Retirement Authority (PRA) started accepting and processing SRRVisa applications as of June 1, 2021. However, the SRRV SMILE Visa program for early retirees over 35 years old is still suspended.

Are foreigners allowed to enter the Philippines now?

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?"

Can I enter the Philippines if I am married to a Filipino?

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

Are SRRV Visa holders allowed in the Philippines?

Yes, retirees who already hold a valid Special Resident Retiree Visas (SRRV) can enter the Philippines without an Entry Exemption Document (EED).

They are changing the laws. Do you know when the Philippines government will reinstate the SRRV Visa program?

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.

ARCHIVE OF PREVIOUS PRA UPDATES

Last Official Announcement From the Philippines Retirement Authority

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.

Save On Moving Costs. Save up to 40% on your international moving costs. Nomadic FIRE has partnered with 10,000+ pre-screened global moving companies to save you time and money. Fill out our 60-second form and get 5 free quotes from accredited moving companies competing for your business.

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

Expat Guide To Living In The Philippines- Costs, Visas, Safety, Pros & Cons (2022)
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2025 Philippines Online Annual Reporting Requirement Guide for Expats
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Foreigner’s Guide To Prenuptial Agreements in the Philippines- Protecting Your Money
A Comprehensive Guide To Philippines Health Insurance For Expats
24 Facts About Healthcare In The Philippines Every Expat Must Know
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An Expat Guide On Where To Eat In Manila [Best Restaurants and Groceries]

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What Are The Benefits Of The SRRV?

  1. You can live permanently in the PhilippinesWhether 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.
  2. No more visa runs. You have multiple entry privileges with no minimum stay requirements. You can enter and leave the country as you please.
  3. 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.
  4. Concierge Greet and Assist Program at major Philippine airports
  5. Free assistance in dealing with other Philippine government agencies
  6. Potential discounted health insurance premiums when enrolling in PHILHEALTH
  7. Customs, duties, and TAX-FREE importation of your household goods and personal effects valued up to $7,000 USD
  8. Special retiree discount privileges and promotions from select PRA-accredited Merchant Partners
  9. Foreign-sourced pensions and annuities are exempt from income tax
  10. Enjoy a quality of life with prices 60%+ less than in the United States
  11. Do not need to show an onward travel ticket when entering the country
  12. SRRV holders are exempt from COVID-19 health insurance requirements

Four SRRV Visa Types

a copy of a Philippines SRRV Visa

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

DFA Recognized NGO and International Organizations  <click to expand>

  • 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.

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

  1. 1
    Financial 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.  
  2. 2
    Valid Passport- with valid entry visa (9A- temporary visitor's visa or BB- Balikbayan Visa if you were a former Philippine Citizen.
  3. 3
    PRA SRRV Visa Application Formmust be typed and completely filled out. Downloadable forms are available in our FREE checklist.
  4. 4
    Medical 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.
  5. 5
    Clean 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:

  1. A PRA Certified clearance from Interpol; OR

You can receive a waiver for the background check if you are:

  1. 6
    NBI 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)
  2. 7
    Passport Photos- Eight (8) pieces. Size 2" x 2" 
  3. 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

SPOUSE
  • Financial Deposit
  • Valid Passport
  • Application Form
  • Clear Medical Report
  • Police Clearance
  • NBI Clearance
  • Passport Photos
  • Marriage Certificate
DEPENDENT CHILD
  • Financial Deposit
  • Valid Passport
  • Application Form
  • Clear Medical Report
  • Police Clearance * 
  • NBI Clearance *
  • Passport Photos
  • Birth Certificate
  • If 18 - 20 years old

Additional Requirements And Application Process

How To Get A Philippines Retirement Visa For As Low As $1500

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 OfficeManila Head OfficeBaguio Satellite OfficeClark-Subic Satellite OfficeCebu Satellite OfficeDavao Satellite Office
Address29/F BDO Towers Valero (formerly Citibank Tower) Paseo de Roxas, Makati City 1226 Metro ManilaUnit 8, Bldg.3 Nevada Square, No.2 Loakan Road, Baguio City3rd Floor Savers Mall, Best Western Metro Clark McArthur Highway, Angeles City, Pampanga 2009Unit 202 Club Ultima Tower II, Crown Regency Hotel & Towers, Jones Ave, Cebu CitySuite 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[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

Is SRRV a permanent resident visa?

Yes, a Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) is a multiple-entry visa allowing expat retirees to live permanently in the Philippines with no minimum stay requirements.

How long does it take to get SRRV visa?

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.

Can I apply for the SRRV visa from the USA?

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.

How do I apply for a travel exemption so I can enter the Philippines?

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.  


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    1. At the present moment, no. The Philippines is closed to tourists. You can get in with an EED, but you need an eligible justification such as work, reuniting with your Philippine spouse, or if you are over 50 years old, for retirement.

    1. Typically, a few weeks. However, there is no definite timeline for when the EED will be issued with the uncertainty around current lockdown rules. An EED requires approvals from the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Depending on how many applications the three agencies are currently processing and the reviewing officers’ availability, it can take a few months.

    1. Hi Bernard,

      Thanks for reaching out. It’s a little confusing. I’ll summarize here, but also leave a link to a step-by-step post at the end that has more detail.

      To clarify, you need both. The EED (Entry Exemption Document) is the first step. However to get an EED, you need a valid reason such as a work contract with a local employer, family reunification with a Philippine spouse, or what most foreigners are currently using, a Retirement Visa. You then submit the EED to your local Philippine Embassy or Consulate for a 9(a) temporary visa to enter the Philippines.

      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

    1. Hi Andy,

      Potentially. The Bureau of Immigration release a message on their Facebook page, but I haven’t seen anything on their official website. However, the news does look promising. I’m waiting for the official announcement to ensure there are no surprises.

      The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced that the country will be opening its borders to the entry of foreign tourists starting February 10.
      In an advisory, BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said that, in compliance with the resolution from the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) issued on Thursday, fully vaccinated nationals of non-visa required countries under Executive Order No. 408 s. 1960 as amended, shall be allowed to enter the Philippines.
      A total of 157 countries are considered visa-free, including the United States of America, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Canada, UK, Malaysia, and Singapore.

  1. What are the requirements for a SRRV permanent visa holder returning to the Philippines after six months of stay in the US
    I am fully vaccinated in the Philippines and booster shot in the US
    Do I need a Covid insurance policy
    Do I need to show a return ticket to the US
    Please let me know what are the requirements for entering the Philippines in April 2022
    thank you

        1. Hi William,

          You’ll need a city with a PRA (Philippine Retirement Authority) office.

          Head Office
          29th Floor, BDO Tower, Valero Condominium Corporation, 8741 Paseo De Roxas Bel-Air, Makati City

          Baguio Satellite Office
          Unit 8, Bldg.3 Nevada Square, No.2 Loakan Road, Baguio City

          Clark-Subic Satellite Office
          3rd Floor Savers Mall, Best Western Metro Clark McArthur Highway, Angeles City, Pampanga 2009

          Cebu Satellite Office
          Unit 202 Club Ultima Tower II, Crown Regency Hotel & Towers, Jones Ave, Cebu City

          Davao Satellite Office
          Suite A306 Plaza de Luisa Building, Ramon Magsaysay Avenue, Davao City

          If you need help with the PRA application, feel free to contact me.

          https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-visa-consultation

          Cheers,

          Marco

    1. Hi Phil,

      Visa-free vs. 9a vs. BB would depend on your citizenship.

      If you are from the US or one of the 157 countries with Visa-Free entry, you can enter visa-free instead of using the 9a.

      https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-visa-policy#countries
      The Balikbayan Privilege is reserved for former Filipino citizens (and their spouses) who were naturalized as citizens of another country.

      If the Balikbayan Privilege applies to you, then that is the best visa to enter the Philippines and begin your SRRV process, as you get the longest initial visa duration.

      Let me know if you have any other questions or need assistance with the application process. Drop me a line, and we can set you up with one of the Visa Specialists who can file on your behalf and reduce the administrative hassles.

      https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-visa-consultation
      Cheers,

      Marco

    1. Hi Mikael,

      For the Philippines Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) (not to be mistaken for the SRRV), you can perpetually renew the special visa allowing you to stay permanently in the Philippines as long as your company is still in business and meets the minimum investment requirements. However, if you end your investment, your visa will be reverted to a temporary visa. You will then need to find a different way to stay long-term in the Philippines (13a Marriage, Retirement Visa, etc.).

      If you need any help with your SIRV application, let us know.

      https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-visa-consultation

      Cheers,

      Marco

      1. I am 68 yr old transman engaged to a Filipina. Deposit is $10,000 for me. Once we marry, can we use the Deposit money to buy a house? Which visa would I apply for? And what kind of health insurance would I need?

        1. Hi Robert,

          Regrettably, the SRRV deposit can only be used for condominium purchases or long-term leases of a house and lot. However, you can look into a 13a Spousal Visa once you are married, which does not require a deposit. However,(this is not my area of expertise), a quick Google search states the Philippines does not recognize transgender marriages. The SRRV might still be your best bet.

          There are pros and cons between the 13a vs. the SRRV. You can read about the 13a visa specifics here.

          Your situation might benefit from speaking with one of our Visa and Immigration specialists.

          If you would like a visa consultation session, you can sign up for one here.

          Cheers,

          Marco

  2. Hello, I’m living in Japan and I am considering applying for a SRRV. Could you please tell me if I can apply from abroad or if I need to be in the Phillipines for the whole process? I am unable to find a clear answer to this question on internet. Thank you

    1. Hi Francoise,

      You apply when you arrive in the Philippines. If you are from the US or one of the 157 visa-free countries, you can arrive by visa on arrival and start the SRRV application here. You will likely need to extend, as the SRRV process is currently taking around 45-60 days to process.

      As a friendly reminder, to enter the Philippines you will need to show health insurance with specific COVID coverage and an onward ticket departing 30 days from your arrival, even if you plan on staying in the Philippines long-term (silly rule, but it is the rule).

      https://nomadicfire.com/travel-insurance-for-the-philippines

      You should start the document gathering process in your home country because while you apply for the SRRV visa in the Philippines, many legal documents (like a police background check, marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.) are easier to get in your country of residence.

      Any questions, let me know. If you would like a consultation with one of our Visa Specialists, you can arrange that here.

      https://nomadicfire.com/philippines-visa-consultation

      Cheers,

      Marco

  3. I currently live in the US. I’m looking at possibly retiring in the Philippines. I receive a monthly veteran disability pay of $1550 a month. Can I use that as a pension towards my srrv visa?

    1. Hi Mark,

      As a veteran, you may qualify for special financial incentives for the SRRV Expanded Courtesy Visa Program. If you were in the US military and are over 50 years old, and

      1. Can show a guaranteed pension income of $1,000+ per month
      2. Then your required SRRV deposit is ONLY $1,500
      3. And your renewal is only $10 per year!

      If you would like visa application assistance to deal with the Philippines Immigration bureaucracy, drop us a line.

      Cheers,

      Marco

  4. Hi there,

    According to PRA Website, if an applicant decided to use the required deposit towards a long-term lease, it is a requirement that the property must be at least )$50,000 USD in value. How long should an applicant lease the property for? What will happen at the end of the lease agreement? Is there a strict rules when it comes to the location of the property? This type of information is not readily available online. Looking forward to hear from you.

    Regards,
    Jeya

    1. Hi Jeya,

      For the SRRV deposit, you can invest in a condominium purchase or the long-term lease of a house and lot. The minimum value for either investment must equal $50,000. For the lease, the lease term must be a minimum of 25-years.

      Your deposit must stay invested for as long as you have the SRRV visa. If at the end of your lease agreement you wanted to stay in the Philippines longer than 25 years, you would need to renew the lease.

      There are no restrictions on the property location.

      I feel your frustration about not getting the information you need online. Spending hours researching the web for outdated answers or getting contradictory information from different sources is infuriating.

      I have Visa and Immigration specialists ready to help cut through the government red tape, simplify your immigration process, and make obtaining your visa easier.

      If we want someone to take the hassle out of the visa process, let me know.

      https://nomadicfire.com/ philippines-visa-consultation

      Cheers,

      Marco

      1. Hi Marco,

        Thanks for your prompt response.

        Are you saying that:

        1. The value of the property must be at least $50,000 USD, then a retiree long-term lease should be minimum of 25 years for the with the total amount of $50,000 USD.

        2. OR the property must be $50,000 in value, retiree can lease it for 25 years using the deposit of $10,000 USD for a retiree with monthly pension of $800 USD (50 yr old above)

        If a retiree is 83 years old, do you think there’s a chance of being denied?

        My other question is can the land owner be paid by the retiree using the deposit funds ( $50,000 USD) to built the house then lease the house and land to the retiree?

        Thanks,
        Jeya

        1. Hi Jeya,

          For situations requesting specific information, it’s easier to jump on a 1-hour call and get all your questions answered. Feel free to sign up below, and we can get you sorted with clear, factual, and concise information and save you the hassles of researching endlessly.

          https://nomadicfire.com/ philippines-visa-consultation

          Cheers,

          Marco

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About the author

Hi, That's me. I'm Marco Sison. I am a survivor of the corporate rat race. I started Nomad FIRE to show you an alternative to the stress and grind of 70-hour weeks to pay off a mortgage, student loans, and countless bills. After getting laid off in 2015, I said screw it all and retired early at 41 years old. I have traveled the last eight years to over 50 countries to show you the best ways to save, invest, and live in amazing countries for 70% less cost than the US. I have been featured in: US News & World Reports, HuffPost, MSN Money, USA Today, ABC Network, Yahoo Finance, the iTunes documentary Seeking FIRE, and the Amazon Best-Seller, Abroad: Expats That Thrive. [view press...]