Philippines — Residency: Permanent Residency

Why this matters

A permanent residency in the Philippines can provide a stable long-term residence permit, which can be beneficial for individuals looking to live and work in the country.

Key facts

• The 13(a) non-quota immigrant visa is issued on the basis of a valid marriage to a Philippine citizen; applicants must show the marriage is recognised under Philippine law, a clean record, good health and financial capacity.
• The Bureau of Immigration says applicants need reciprocity: nationals of countries without a reciprocity agreement with the Philippines cannot apply for the permanent resident visa.
• Typical documents are the PSA marriage certificate (or Report of Marriage), the Filipino spouse birth certificate or passport, police clearance, medical clearance and proof of finances; requirements vary by embassy.
• The SRRV through the PRA requires age 35 or older and a deposit that has varied by version: DFA pages gave USD 75,000 for ages 35 to 49 and USD 50,000 for 50 and over, while newer PRA tiers list lower amounts for older pensioners; confirm with the PRA.
• Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can usually join an SRRV; deposits go to a PRA-accredited bank.

Steps

1. Step 1: Determine Eligibility — The applicant must meet the eligibility criteria for permanent residency, which typically includes having a spouse or parent who is a Philippine citizen. The applicant must also meet certain age requirements and pass a background check.
2. Step 2: Gather Required Documents — The applicant must gather the required documents, including a valid passport, marriage certificate (if applicable), birth certificate, and proof of income or financial resources. The specific documents required may vary depending on the type of residency permit applied for.
3. Step 3: Submit Application — The applicant must submit the application and supporting documents to the Philippine immigration office. The application process and required documents may vary depending on the specific type of residency permit applied for.
4. Step 4: Receive Approval — The Philippine immigration office will review the application and supporting documents. The approval process can take several months to several years, depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the immigration office.