Comparing Long-Term Stay Visas for the Philippines
Last updated: 2026-10-17
A comparison of the main long-term stay options, from tourist visa extensions to the SRRV, spouse visa, and work visa.
If you're considering staying in the Philippines anywhere from a few extra weeks to the long term, the options available to you vary widely depending on your purpose, age, and financial situation. Below is an overview of five representative programs. Before actually applying, always confirm details with the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the embassy, PRA, or a properly registered agent.
Overview
Comparison table
| Type | Eligibility | Approximate cost | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa extension 9(a) | A common extension for those on a short-term stay | Roughly a few thousand to around ¥10,000+ per extension | In increments of a few weeks to a few months | Work is not permitted. Confirm with Immigration or a properly registered agent |
| SRRV Classic | Age 35+, who want to relocate while keeping their deposited assets | Deposit of USD 10,000–50,000 + annual fee | Valid while annual fees are paid | Depending on conditions, the deposit may be converted into an approved investment |
| SRRV Smile | Age 35+, who want a simplified application process | Deposit of USD 20,000 + annual fee | Valid while annual fees are paid | The deposit cannot be converted into an investment |
| 13(a) Spouse visa | Spouses of Philippine nationals | Application fee and document costs | A probationary visa followed by a permanent visa | Proof of marriage is required |
| 9(g) Work visa | Employees of companies in the Philippines | Applied for by the employer | Tied to the employment contract | Requires employer sponsorship |
Preparation checklist
- A valid passport (check the remaining validity period)
- A copy of your current immigration status, entry stamp, and visa
- Supporting documents for your purpose of stay (marriage certificate, employment contract, proof of assets, etc.)
- ID photos for the application
- Funds for application fees, deposits, and similar costs
Frequently asked questions
Can a tourist visa be extended any number of times?
The number of extensions allowed and any upper limit can vary depending on current practice. If you're planning a long-term stay, rather than repeatedly extending, consider switching to a program suited to your purpose, such as 13(a) or the SRRV, and confirm with Immigration.
Are the SRRV and a “retirement visa” the same thing?
The SRRV (Special Resident Retiree's Visa) is a type of long-term retirement visa administered through PRA. Since there are several programs with different age and financial requirements, check the PRA official website for the latest conditions.
Can I apply for a work visa myself?
In principle, the 9(g) work visa application must be filed by the employer (the sponsoring company). It cannot be obtained by an individual on their own, so confirm with your employer's HR or legal department, or with Immigration.
Is a 9(g) visa alone enough to work?
Depending on the role and employment arrangement, a 9(g) visa may need to be accompanied by a work authorization such as an AEP. Do not assume a visa application alone is sufficient; confirm the required process with your employer's HR or legal team and the relevant authorities before work begins.
Can I keep using my visa and work authorization after changing jobs or duties?
Procedures for a 9(g) visa and work authorization such as an AEP can be connected to your employer, role, and employment conditions. If you change employers, assignments, duties, work location, or contract terms, tell your employer's HR or legal team before starting work and check the current BI and DOLE requirements to confirm whether a change or new application is needed.
How should I narrow down the visa options that fit my purpose?
First identify whether your purpose is a short stay, employment, living as the spouse of a Philippine national, or a long-term stay after retirement. Then compare the age, marriage, employer, and funds or deposit conditions in the table to narrow the options. Entry requirements, whether a change of status is possible, and required documents can change, so confirm them with primary sources such as BI, the embassy, and PRA before applying.
Amounts and conditions are subject to change. Before applying, check primary sources at the embassy, the Bureau of Immigration (BI), or PRA.