Table of Contents
In this guide, Special Visas Philippines: Your Essential 2024, we explain the often skimmed special visas, which vary from the more common resident visas.
Whether you are planning to work, travel, or invest in the Philippines, understanding the visa landscape is essential.
Let us break it down for you.
We will kick-off with the Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG), your visa if you are creating jobs in the Philippines.
We go over who is eligible and how to apply in greater detail so you can make an informed decision.
Then there’s the Visa Upon Arrival (SEVUA) for easy entry. We’ll take care of the details so that your arrival in the Philippines goes as smoothly as possible.
Are you in offshore banking?
The Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit might be your go-to.
Then there’s the Special Visa under E.O. 226, as amended by R.A. 8756. We explain the legislative changes and walk you through the application process.
But hold on, we are not done yet. Stay tuned for an overview of special resident visas.
The Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) is designed for investors seeking residency.
Thinking about tourist projects? There’s a variant for that too.
And for retirees, the Subic Bay Freeport Residency Visas may be your ticket to a comfortable retirement in the Philippines.
Join us for an in-depth look at these visas, empowering you to make smart choices and breeze through the application process.
Let’s make your Philippine plans not just easy but full of opportunities
Visa Upon Arrival (SEVUA)
The Visa Upon Arrival (SEVUA) in the Philippines is a streamlined process designed to facilitate entry for various individuals.
This visa offers a convenient gateway for foreign investors, athletes, delegates to international events, or an executive responding to government endorsements.
With the flexibility to cater to diverse needs, SEVUA ensures a hassle-free entry process, allowing you to navigate the unique landscapes of business, sports, and international engagements with ease.
Let’s explore SEVUA together, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the specifics of this visa.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
- Foreign investors and businessmen, endorsed by the Board of Investments (BOI), Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), local business councils, or local and foreign chambers of commerce and industry.
- Athletes and delegates participating in sports competitions, conventions, or exhibitions, with the help of dedicated organizers and sponsors.
- Delegates, participants, and resource speakers at international conventions, symposia, conferences, and other similar gatherings who have received the necessary endorsements.
- Foreign investors and their executives engaged in government-endorsed investments, bilateral agreements, or responding to Presidential Invitations for Investments during official trips or State Visits abroad.
- World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and other international development partners officials, accompanied by dependent spouses and unmarried minor children.
- Other foreigners, as determined by the Commissioner, are eligible for the program’s distinctive benefits.
Where to Apply?
You can apply at the Bureau of Immigration, Main Office in Intramurous.
Document Requirements
CHECKLIST OF DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS FOR VISA UPON ARRIVAL (VUA)
Before you start, take a moment to read these simple instructions:
- Letter Request:
- A letter addressed to the Commissioner from the guarantor or sponsoring organization. Include nominee details such as name, place and date of birth, nationality, passport info, residential addresses, flight details, and the purpose of the visit.
- Endorsement Letter:
- If applicable, include an endorsement letter from the appropriate government agency.
- Passport Copy:
- Photocopy of the applicant’s passport bio-page.
- Flight Information:
- Details of the applicant’s flight, including booking reference.
- BI Clearance Certificate:
- Bring along the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Clearance Certificate.
How to Apply?
- Acquire a copy of the checklist of requirements.
- Secure the Order of Payment Slip.
- Complete the necessary immigration fees.
- Obtain the Official Receipt.
- Submit all requirements alongside the original receipts.
- Claim your visa and the approved Order.
SEVUA PROCESSING FEE
| Visa Type | Description | Amount (USD) | Amount (PHP) (Approx.) | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist (30-59 days stay) | VUA / Visa Fee (for additional 29 days admission) | $50.00 | PHP 2,500.00 | Tourists staying for more than 30 days but less than 59 days. |
| Express Fee | PHP 500.00 | |||
| Legal Research Fee (LRF) for each immigration fee | $10.00 | PHP 10.00 | ||
| Business Endorsed (30 days stay) | VUA / Visa Fee | $25.00 | PHP 1,250.00 | Business people endorsed by DTI, PCCI, Current Top 1000 Corporations, and Foreign Chamber of Commerce and Industries. |
| Legal Research Fee (LRF) for each immigration fee | $10.00 | PHP 10.00 | ||
| Single Entry Pro-Investment | VUA / Visa Fee | $25.00 | PHP 1,250.00 | Foreign Investors and Businessmen endorsed by BOI, PRA, PCCI, local business councils or Foreign Chamber of Commerce and Industries. |
| Legal Research Fee (LRF) for each immigration fee | $10.00 | PHP 10.00 | Athletes, delegates, participants, resource speakers in international conventions, and officials of World Bank, ADB, and other partners. | |
| Multiple Entry for Multinational Corporations (Initial) | Visa Application Fee | PHP 5,000.00 | PHP 5,000.00 | Senior officials of multinational corporations with operations in the Philippines, as endorsed by DTI-BOI. |
| Legal Research Fee (LRF) for each immigration fee | PHP 10.00 | |||
| Total | $5,010.00 | PHP 5,010.00 | ||
| VA to Foreign Tour (3-19 pax) | VUA for 3-19 pax | $25.00 | PHP 1,250.00 | Foreign tourists from India or People’s Republic of China in groups of 3-19. |
| VUA for 20 pax | $15.00 | PHP 750.00 | ||
| Legal Research Fee (LRF) for each immigration fee | $10.00 | PHP 10.00 |
Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG)
The SVEG provides a unique opportunity for foreign nationals to reside in the Philippines, offering multiple entry privileges as long as their investments and other requirements are maintained within the country.
Issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) upon endorsement from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), SVEG positions foreign nationals as special non-immigrants with conditional extended stay and the freedom of multiple entries without the need for prior departure.
The Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG) stands as your key to prolonged residence and multiple-entry privileges in the country. Let’s explore the details of the SVEG in more depth.
Who Can Apply for the SVEG Visa?
Qualified non-immigrant foreigners committed to employing a minimum of ten Filipinos in a lawful and sustainable enterprise, trade, or industry.
Where to Apply?
Bureau of Immigration, Head Office
Address: HXVG+R53, Magallanes Dr, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Phone: (02) 8465 2400
What Should You Bring?
- Checklist with complete documentary requirements
- Application Form
Checklist of documentary requirements for conversion to the Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG).
Before proceeding with the completion of the documentary requirements, please read carefully the below-stated instructions.
| No. | Document | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Letter Request |
|
| 2 | Duly Accomplished CGAF (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev 3) | |
| 3 | Photocopy of Passport | Bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay. |
| 4 | For Corporations or Partnerships |
|
| 5 | For Single Proprietorships | Photocopy of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Certificate of Registration of Business Name. |
| 6 | Certified True Copy of the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) | Issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) if the applicant foreign national is elected or appointed to occupy a position in the company. |
| 7 | DOLE Certification | Confirm that the applicant’s business activity, investment, enterprise, or industry has employed at least ten (10) Filipino workers on a regular basis. |
| 8 | Valid Medical Certificate | From the Bureau of Quarantine. |
| 9 | Sworn Statement by the Applicant |
|
| 10 | Valid National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance | If the application is filed six (6) months or more from the date of filing in the Philippines. |
| 11 | BI Clearance Certificate | |
| For Each Dependent: | ||
| 1 | Duly Accomplished CGAF (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev 3) | |
| 2 | Photocopy of Passport | Bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay. |
| 3 | Proof of Filiation with the Petitioner | |
| 4 | BI Clearance Certificate | |
Application Process For The SVEG Visa
- Secure the CGAF from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at BI G/F Main Office or the official BI Website.
- Submit documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or designated Immigration Offices.
- Obtain the Order of Payment Slip (OPS).
- Pay the required fees.
- Attend the hearing (refer to the Official Receipt for schedule and venue).
- Proceed to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) for ACR I-Card application requirements.
- Check the website for visa application approval.
- If approved, submit the passport for visa implementation.
- Upon ACR I-Card approval, claim the ACR I-Card.
Application Process For The SVEG Visa
- Secure the CGAF from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at BI G/F Main Office or the official BI Website.
- Submit documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or designated Immigration Offices.
- Obtain the Order of Payment Slip (OPS).
- Pay the required fees.
- Attend the hearing (refer to the Official Receipt for schedule and venue).
- Proceed to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) for ACR I-Card application requirements.
- Check the website for visa application approval.
- If approved, submit the passport for visa implementation.
- Upon ACR I-Card approval, claim the ACR I-Card.
Fees for the SVEG Visa
| Principal | Dependent Spouse | Dependent Child (Below 16) | Dependent Child (16 and above) | Additional Fee for ACR I-Card (USD) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Php 29,330.00 | Php 29,330.00 | Php 29,330.00 | Php 29,330.00 | + US $250 |
Fees are updated as of 06 March 2014 and may change without prior notice.
Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit
The Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit is a unique visa program catering to individuals engaged in the offshore banking sector in the Philippines.
This visa allows foreign professionals to enter and stay in the country, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the country’s offshore banking industry.
The Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit application process will be discussed in two phases:
- Conversion to Non-Immigrant Visa under PD 1034 and
- Extension of Non-Immigrant Visa under PD 1034.
Conversion to Non-Immigrant Visa of Offshore Banking Unit under Presidential Decree 1034
The Conversion phase is designed for individuals seeking to transition to the Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit
Who Can Apply?
Foreign individuals working in offshore banking units, including executives, professionals, and key personnel essential to the operations of offshore banking institutions.
Where to Apply?
Applications for Conversion can be submitted to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Main Office.
What Should You Bring?
Checklist with Complete Documentary Requirements
- Ensure all required documents are compiled according to the checklist.
Application Form
- Duly accomplished Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit application form.
- Additional information on the Applicant’s children (if applicable)
Before proceeding with the completion of the documentary requirements, please read carefully the below-stated instructions.
CHECKLIST OF DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS FOR CONVERSION TO NON-IMMIGRANT VISA OF OFFSHORE BANKING UNIT (OBU) UNDER P.D. 1034
| No. | Requirements |
|---|---|
| 1. | Letter request addressed to the Commissioner from a responsible officer of the petitioning company. |
| 2. | Duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa. |
| 3. | Photocopy of applicant’s passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay. |
| 4. | Certification by a responsible officer of the petitioning company stating that the person who seeks entry in the Philippines is an employee of the foreign bank and will work exclusively for the petitioner’s OBU; and the applicant undertakes to withhold and remit Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) taxes due on all his/her income. |
| 5. | Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Certificate of Registration, Articles of Incorporation, and General Information Sheet for the current year stamped received by the SEC. |
| 6. | BI Clearance Certificate. |
| 7. | Original or certified true copy of Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance, if applicant is a national of any of the countries listed under Annex “A” of Immigration Operations Order No. SBM-14-059-A who arrived in the Philippines on or after June 2014. |
Checklist of Documentary Requirements for EACH Dependent
| No. | Requirements |
|---|---|
| 1. | Duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa. |
| 2. | Photocopy of passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay. |
| 3. | Proof of filiation with the applicant. |
| 4. | BI Clearance Certificate. |
| 5. | Original or certified true copy of Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance, if applicant is a national of any of the countries listed under Annex “A” of Immigration Operations Order No. SBM-14-059-A who arrived in the Philippines on or after June 2014. |
Application Process For The Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit
- Obtain the CGAF application form from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at BI G/F Main Office or the official BI website.
- Submit the completed application form and necessary documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or designated Immigration Offices.
- Secure the Order of Payment Slip (OPS) for the required fees.
- Pay the prescribed fees.
- Submit a copy of the Official Receipt.
- Attend the scheduled hearing as indicated in the Official Receipt.
- Proceed to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) for biometrics.
- Check the BI website for visa approval status.
- If approved, submit the passport for visa implementation.
- For approved ACR I-Card, claim the card accordingly.
Application Processing Fee
| Category | Amount (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Principal | Php 29,330.00 |
| Dependent Spouse | Php 29,330.00 |
| Dependent Child (Below 16) | Php 29,330.00 |
| Dependent Child (16 and above) | Php 29,330.00 |
| Additional Fee for ACR I-Card | + US $250 |
Fees are updated as of 06 March 2014 and may change without prior notice.
How to Extend the Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit
A foreign national who is an existing holder of a Non-Immigrant Visa of Offshore Banking Unit under PD 1034 and will continue his employment service in the Philippines.
Documents Required
The documents required for the extension phase are the same as those needed in the conversion phase.
Application Processing
- Secure the CGAF from either at the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at BI G/F Main Office or from the official BI Website.
- Submit the documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or to the frontline officer or staff of other Immigration Offices able to process this transaction.
- Get the Order of Payment Slip (OPS).
- Pay the required fees.
- Submit a copy of the Official Receipt.
- After evaluation of the visa application and approval, submit the passport for visa implementation.
Extension Fees
| Category | Amount (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Principal | Php 4,530.00 |
| Dependent Spouse | Php 4,030.00 |
| Additional Fee for ACR I-Card (1 Year) | + US $50 |
| Additional Fee for ACR I-Card (2 Years) | + US $100 |
| Additional Fee for ACR I-Card (3 Years) | + US $150 |
Special Visa under E.O. 226, as amended by R.A. 8756
Explore new opportunities with the Special Visa under Executive Order 226 as amended by Republic Act 8756.
This visa is intended for foreign professionals who work in regional or multinational corporations.
This program is made possible by Executive Order 226, also known as the Omnibus Investments Code of 1987, and Republic Act 8756, which encourages global talent and boosts economic growth.
Now, let’s look at how to obtain this Special Non-Immigrant Visa and extend your stay in the Philippines to take advantage of exciting opportunities.
Conversion to Special Non-Immigrant Visa under E.O. 226, as amended by R.A. 8756
Foreign personnel or executives of regional or area headquarters and regional operating headquarters or multinational companies.
Either the BI Main Office or other Immigration offices aide with the conversion process.
What Should You Bring?
- Complete the checklist TVS-C-VE-2016 with all required documents.
- Fill out the application form TVS-CGAF-VE-2016.
- Include additional information about the applicant’s children if needed.
CHECKLIST OF DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS FOR CONVERSION
| Document Requirements |
|---|
| 1. Letter request addressed to the Commissioner for the grant of the visa by a responsible officer of the company; |
| 2. Duly accomplished CGAF (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev 0); |
| 3. Photocopy of passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay; |
4. Certification by a responsible officer of the petitioner/company that:
|
| 5. Comprehensive bio-data or Curriculum Vitae (CV) of applicant, specifying, among others, his/her educational attainment, work experiences and trainings; |
| 6. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Certificate of Registration and General Information Sheet for the current year of the petitioner stamped received by the SEC; |
| 7. BI Clearance Certificate; |
| 8. Original or certified true copy of Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance, if applicant is a national of any of the countries listed under Annex “A” of Immigration Operations Order No. SBM-14-059-A who arrived in the Philippines on or after June 2014. |
| Document Requirements |
|---|
| 1. Duly accomplished CGAF (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev 0); |
| 2. Photocopy of passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay; |
| 3. Proof of filiation with the applicant; |
| 4. BI Clearance Certificate; |
| 5. Original or certified true copy of Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance, if applicant is a national of any of the countries listed under Annex “A” of Immigration Operations Order No. SBM-14-059-A who arrived in the Philippines on or after June 2014. |
Application Processing Fee
| Category | Amount (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Principal | Php 5,530.00 |
| Dependent Spouse | Php 4,530.00 |
Extension of Special Visa under E.O. 226, as amended by R.A. 8756
Foreign personnel or executives of regional or area headquarters and regional operating headquarters or multinational companies who are existing holders of a Multiple Entry Special Visa under R.A. 8756 and wish to continue to stay in the Philippines under the same reasons of acquiring said visa.
How to Apply:
- Secure the CGAF from either at the Public Information & Assistance Unit (PIAU) at BI Main Office or from the official website.
- Submit the documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or to the frontline officer or staff of other Immigration Offices able to process this transaction.
- Get the Order of Payment Slip (OPS).
- Pay the required fees.
- Submit a copy of the Official Receipt.
- After the evaluation of the visa application and approval, submit the passport for visa implementation.
Cost:
| Principal | Dependent Spouse |
|---|---|
| Php 4,530.00 | Php 4,030.00 |
Fees are updated as of 2014 March 06 and may change without prior notice.
Where to Apply:
BI Main Office or other Immigration offices click here.
What to Bring:
- Checklist TVS-C-VE-2016 with complete documentary requirements.
- Application Form TVS-CGAF-VE-2016.
- Additional Information on Applicant's children (if needed).
Special Resident Visas Overview
Special Resident Visas offer unique opportunities for foreign nationals to reside in the Philippines under various categories.
Each visa type is designed to cater to specific needs, from investment ventures to job creation and retirement.
The following is an overview of some notable Special Resident Visas, including eligibility criteria and application requirements.
| Special Resident Visa | Overview | Eligibility | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) | For qualified foreign nationals who shall invest at least USD 75,000 in existing or new corporations in the Philippines who are in the following categories: | Foreign nationals making significant investments in publicly listed corporations, those in industries included in the Investment Priorities Plan (IPP), and corporations in the manufacturing or service sectors. |
|
| Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG) | For foreign nationals who shall employ at least (10) Philippine citizens in an enterprise, trade or industry | Foreign nationals who will employ at least ten (10) Philippine citizens in an enterprise, trade, or industry. |
|
| Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) | For foreign nationals who are thirty-five (35) years of age with a significant amount of deposit with the designated/accredited bank | Foreign nationals aged 35 years or older with a substantial deposit in a designated/accredited bank. |
|
| Special Non-Immigrant Visas (PEZA) | For foreign nationals/personnel in the following areas: | Foreign nationals working in PEZA-registered enterprises, Board of Investment (BOI) registered enterprises, and oil drilling companies. |
|
| Special Subic-Clark Visas | Applicable Visas under special laws for Subic-Clark region | ||
| Subic Special Working Visa | For a foreign investor with an investment of at least USD 250,000.00 within SBF | Foreign investors with the specified investment | Continuous investment of not less than USD 250,000.00 within SBF |
| Subic Special Retiree’s Visa | Overview of Subic Special Retiree’s Visa | Eligibility for Subic Special Retiree’s Visa | Requirements for Subic Special Retiree’s Visa |
| Special Clark Working Visa | Overview of Special Clark Working Visa | Eligibility for Special Clark Working Visa | Requirements for Special Clark Working Visa |
| Special Clark Investor’s Visa | Overview of Special Clark Investor’s Visa | Eligibility for Special Clark Investor’s Visa | Requirements for Special Clark Investor’s Visa |
| CEZA Visas | Applicable Visas for foreign investors/employees under CEZA | Foreign investors/employees | No engagement in gainful business or employment other than what's registered or approved by CEZA |
| CEZA Investor’s Resident Visa | Overview of CEZA Investor’s Resident Visa | Eligibility for CEZA Investor’s Resident Visa | Requirements for CEZA Investor’s Resident Visa |
| CEZA Working Visa | Overview of CEZA Working Visa | Eligibility for CEZA Working Visa | Requirements for CEZA Working Visa |
| CEZA Dependent Visa | Overview of CEZA Dependent Visa | Eligibility for CEZA Dependent Visa | Requirements for CEZA Dependent Visa |
| Other Nonimmigrant Visas/Permits | Various nonimmigrant visas and permits | Eligibility for each type | Requirements for each type |
| Subic Special Working Visa | Overview of Subic Special Working Visa | Eligibility for Subic Special Working Visa | Requirements for Subic Special Working Visa |
| Special Temporary Permit | Overview of Special Temporary Permit | Eligibility for Special Temporary Permit | Requirements for Special Temporary Permit |
| Special Work Permit | Overview of Special Work Permit | Eligibility for Special Work Permit | Requirements for Special Work Permit |
| Provisional Work Permit | Overview of Provisional Work Permit | Eligibility for Provisional Work Permit | Requirements for Provisional Work Permit |
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking for investment opportunities, new business ventures, or a quiet retirement, the Philippines has a visa path for you.
We have learned about the specefics of several special visas, each created to meet particular qualifying standards and documentation needs. The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) beckons retirees, while the SEVOBU welcomes foreign nationals into the country’s offshore banking landscape.
For personalized assistance and reliable guidance, reach out to 1Dragon Visa Consultancy.
Open the doors to your Philippine adventure; it is a country of friendly people, lively culture, and endless possibilities.
