Can a foreigner married to a Filipina live in the Philippines?

Foreign Residency in the Philippines: A Guide for Spouses of Filipino Citizens

Introduction
For those seeking to embark on a life in the beautiful archipelago of the Philippines, marriage to a Filipino citizen provides a viable path to establishing permanent residency. The 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa offers a clear and accessible route to residing within the country, but it is essential to understand the legal requirements and processes involved.

13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa
The 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa is specifically designed for foreign nationals who have entered into a valid marriage with a Filipino citizen. This visa grants the holder permanent residency in the Philippines, allowing them to live and work in the country indefinitely.

Requirements
To qualify for the 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa, the following requirements must be met:

• Valid marriage to a Filipino citizen: The marriage must be legally recognized by the Philippine government and must not be a sham or entered into solely for immigration purposes.
• Documentary proof: Evidence of the marriage, such as a marriage certificate and other supporting documents, must be provided.
• Financial means: The foreign national must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and any accompanying dependents.
• Good moral character: Background checks will be conducted to ensure the foreign national has a clean criminal record and is of good moral character.

Application Process
The application process involves the following steps:

1. Prepare documents: Gather all necessary documents, including the marriage certificate, proof of financial means, and any required certifications.
2. File petition: Submit a petition to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) along with the supporting documents.
3. Interview and processing: Attend an interview with the BI and undergo background checks and other processing.
4. Approval and issuance: Upon approval, the foreign national will be issued the 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa.

Benefits of Residency
Permanent residency in the Philippines offers several benefits, including:

• Right to live and work: The holder can legally reside and work in the country without the need for additional visas or work permits.
• Access to social services: Access to healthcare, education, and other social services is granted, subject to applicable regulations.
• Path to citizenship: After a certain period of time, the holder may apply for Filipino citizenship through naturalization.

Conclusion
Marrying a Filipino citizen opens up the possibility of permanent residency in the Philippines through the 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa. By following the proper requirements and application process, foreign nationals can establish a life in this vibrant and welcoming country alongside their Filipino spouse.