How can I get visa to stay longer in the Philippines?

Extending Your Stay in the Philippines: A Guide to Visa Options

Planning an extended stay in the Philippines? Whether you’re an adventurer seeking to explore its vibrant islands or a professional looking to establish a longer-term presence, there are two primary paths to securing a visa that meets your needs.

Applying at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate Abroad

If you’re applying for a visa from outside the Philippines, the first step is to visit the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate in your country. The process typically involves submitting the following documents:

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
• Proof of financial means, such as bank statements or employment contract
• Supporting documents specific to the type of visa you’re applying for, such as a certificate of enrollment for student visas or an employment contract for work visas

The processing time for a visa application varies depending on the embassy or consulate and the type of visa being applied for. It’s advisable to start the application process well in advance of your intended travel date.

Converting a Tourist Visa to a Longer-Term Visa

If you’re already in the Philippines on a tourist visa and wish to extend your stay, you can convert it into a longer-term visa at the Bureau of Immigration (BI). The following types of long-term visas can be obtained through conversion:

• Special Resident Retiree Visa (SRRV): For foreign retirees over the age of 50
• Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) visa: For non-Filipino employees working in Philippine Economic Zones
• Special Temporary Resident Visa (STRV): For certain individuals with special skills or expertise

To convert your tourist visa, you must submit the following documents to the BI:

• Completed application form
• Original and photocopy of your passport and tourist visa
• Proof of financial means
• Relevant supporting documents for the specific visa type you’re applying for
• Payment for the visa fee

The BI will typically process your application within 15 working days. If approved, you will receive a new visa that allows you to stay in the Philippines for an extended period.

It’s important to note that the requirements and procedures for obtaining a visa may change periodically. Always consult the official website of the Philippine embassy or consulate or the Bureau of Immigration for the most up-to-date information.