How much are the Penalties for Overstaying as a Tourist in the Philippines?

How much is the Overstaying Fee for Tourists in the Philippines?

Most Tourists to the Philippines are allowed to stay for 30 days before needing to apply for a Visa. The first Tourist Visa extension is the initial extension of twenty-nine (29) days, taking the visit up to 59 days.

This is commonly followed by a two month extension, although some Bureau of Immigration offices allow a 6 month extension.

If a person stay in the Philippines without a Valid Visitor Visa, then penalties are applied, and added to the unpaid Visa fees.

These combined penalties and fees can add up over time and can be something like the following figures:

I have calculated the following approximate costs for overstay payments including Visa Fees, ACR cards and Penalties.

Pesos:
4,310 From One day to One Month Overstay (Updated Sept 2017)
6,000 Total for between One and Two Months Overstay (Updated July 2018)
13,000 Total for Up to Three Month Overstay
15,000 Total for Up to Four Month Overstay
17,000 Total for Up to Five Month Overstay
18,000 Total for Up to Six Months Overstay
20,000 Total for Up to Seven Month Overstay
22,000 Total for Up to Eight Month Overstay
24,000 Total for Up to Nine Month Overstay
26,000 Total for Up to Ten Month Overstay
28,000 Total for Up to Eleven Month Overstay
30,000 Total for Up to Twelve Months Overstay
60,000 Total for Up to Two Years Overstay
90,000 Total for Up to Three Years Overstay
120,000 Total for Up to Four Years Overstay
150,000 Total for Up to Five Years Overstay
180,000 Total for Up to Six Years Overstay
210,000 Total for Up to Seven Years Overstay
240,000 Total for Up to Eight Years Overstay
270,000 Total for Up to Nine Years Overstay
300,000 Total for Up to Ten Years Overstay
450,000 Total for Up to Fifteen Years Overstay

Note: These are approximate costs Immigration will determine the exact cost when you visit their office.

A reasonable ‘estimate’ can be made by calculating 3,000 pesos for every month of Overstay. Or about 30,000 for each year.

These figures are approximate calculations based on 2016 fees. They may reduce the cost if they base it on the actual fees dues for older years, which may be less than the 2016 fees.

Charges can also be higher in some cases, such as one example in the comments below:

Pesos:

79,500 For a 19 months overstay.

Financial Penalties for Visa Overstay in the Philippines:

The minimum penalties appear to be:

  • All Visa Extension Fees not previously paid.
  • Fine for Overstaying – (additional) Php 500.00 per month
  • Motion for Reconsideration for Overstaying – (additional) Php 500.00

I have read that the Overstay fee for just a few days would be about 4,000 pesos.

This would be the 3,030 peso first Visa Extension fee + Overstay Fees.  (2015 fees)

If the Overstay is for over one month, but less than two months, then I would guess that the fee would be closer to 12,000 peso, made up as follows:

3,030 pesos – First Visa Extension fee
7,340 pesos – Next Visa Extension fee plus the ACR-i card fee
1,000 pesos – Fine for Overstaying (2 months)
500 pesos – Motion for Reconsideration for Overstaying

If the Overstay is for just over one year, then I would guess that the fee would be closer to 35,000 peso, PLUS possible DEPORTATION.  The fee would be made up as follows (assume figures for 13 months):

3,030 pesos – First Visa Extension fee
22,490 pesos – Six x 2 month Visa Extension fees plus the ACR-i card fee
6,000 pesos – Fine for Overstaying (12 months)
500 pesos – Motion for Reconsideration for Overstaying
plus maybe one ACR-i card renewal fee

That is my guess, based on the actual costs for Normal Visas last year.  If anyone has paid an Overstay Fee, please give details in the comments box below, showing the date and the fee paid and the total days overstayed.  Thank you.

The Official Statement for Visa Extensions is:

Foreigners admitted under Section 9 (a) of the Philippine Immigration Act (PIA) of 1940, as amended, or Executive Order No. 408, as amended, may extend their authorized stay every two (2) months for a total stay of not more than:
– a) Twenty-four (24) months for visa-required nationals; and
– b) Thirty-six (36) months for non-visa required nationals.

The said periods shall be counted from the date of applicant’s latest recorded arrival.

Overstaying Foreigners in the Philippines

Foreigners who have overstayed for twelve (12) months or less but have been in the country beyond the maximum allowable period already may be permitted to update their stay with order to leave the country within fifteen (15) calendar days therefrom and their names may be included in the Bureau’s blacklist upon the discretion of the Commissioner; Provided that, the Commissioner, in the exercise of sound judgment, may allow such foreigners to update and extend their stay taking into consideration their Filipino lineage, medical condition, minority and other analogous circumstances.

Foreigners who have overstayed for more than twelve (12) months regardless if their stay is within the maximum allowable period or those found to be overstaying by virtue to a complaint or Mission Order regardless of the period shall be referred for deportation.

Sourced from: www.immigration.gov.ph/…/234-honorable-secretary

More stories on the Exit Clearance Certificate at:

Extension of Authorized Stay of Temporary Visitors

Extension of Authorized Stay of Temporary Visitors to the Philippines

Tourist Visa holder can stay in the Philippines for either 24 or 36 months without leaving the country according to Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM 2013-003 issued on 23 December 2013.

Foreigners admitted under Section 9 (a) of the Philippine Immigration Act (PIA) of 1940, as amended, or Executive Order No. 408, as amended, may extend their authorized stay every two (2) months for a total stay of not more than:
a) Twenty-four (24) months for visa-required nationals; and
b) Thirty-six (36) months for non-visa required nationals.
The said periods shall be counted from the date of applicant’s latest recorded arrival.

A Long Stay Visitor Visa Extension is now available where the total duration of extension shall be not more than six (6) months from the time of expiration of authorized stay.

Offices of the Philippines Bureau of Immigration that are authorised to do Extension of Authorized Stay of Temporary Visitors

Sourced from www.immigration.gov.ph at May 2015.

  • Intramuros, Manila Main Office
  • Makati, Manila Immigration Extension Office
  • Angeles Immigration Field Office
  • Aparri Immigration Field Office
  • Bacolod Immigration Field Office
  • Baguio Immigration District Office
  • Balanga Immigration Field Office
  • Batangas Immigration Field Office
  • Bislig Immigration Field Office
  • Boac Immigration Field Office
  • Bongao Immigration Field Office
  • Boracay Immigration Field Office
  • Butuan Immigration District Office
  • Calapan Immigration District Office
  • Calbayog Immigration Field Office
  • Cagayan de Oro Immigration District Office
  • Cauayan Immigration Field Office
  • Cebu Immigration District Office
  • Cebu Gaisano  Immigration Satellite Office
  • Cotabato Immigration District Office
  • Dagupan Immigration Field Office
  • Davao Immigration District Office
  • Dumaguete Immigration District Office
  • General Santos Immigration Field Office
  • Glan Immigration Field Office
  • Iligan Immigration Field Office
  • Iloilo Immigration District Office
  • Jolo Immigration Field Office
  • Kalibo Immigration Field Office
  • Laoag Field Immigration Office
  • Legaspi Immigration District Office
  • Lucena Immigration Field Office
  • Naga Immigration Field Office
  • Olongapo Immigration Field Office
  • Ozamis Immigration Field Office
  • Puerto Princesa Immigration Field Office
  • San Fernando Immigration District Office
  • SM North Immigration Satellite Office
  • Sta. Rosa Immigration Field Office
  • Surigao Immigration Field Office
  • Tacloban Immigration District Office
  • Tagbilaran Immigration Field Office
  • Taytay Immigration Field Office
  • Tuguegarao Immigration District Office
  • Zamboanga Immigration Field Office

Updated as of 22 May 2014

Information from Bureau of Immigration FAQ’s

I am a foreign national under a Temporary Visitor’s Visa, I can stay legally in the Philippines for thirty (30) days however I want to extend my stay, how do I go about this?

Foreign nationals who are admitted with an initial stay of thirty (30) days may apply for a visa waiver first, granting an additional stay of twenty nine (29) in the Philippines. Thereafter, you may apply for one (1) month, two (2) months or six (6) months extensions at least one week prior to the expiration of your valid stay.

How long can I extend my in the Philippines?

Under Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM-2013-003, non-visa required national may extend their stay up to thirty six (36) months while visa required national may extend their stay up to twenty four (24) months.
Note: The said periods shall be counted from the date of the applicant’s latest recorded arrival.

http://immigration.gov.ph/faqs/extensionofstay

Philippines Visitor Visa Extension Cost

How Much is a Visa to enter the Philippines as a Tourist

Visitors from most countries are allowed to enter the Philippines Visa Free for 30 days, but if staying longer, then they must get an extension from the Bureau of Immigration.

The cost for this is 3,030 pesos, as shown at www.immigration.gov.ph/…/visa-waiver. Last checked November 2019.

These figures are for Non-Visa Required Nationals.

Fees for the subsequent Visa Extensions are quoted as:

4,400 pesos One Month
4,900 pesos Two Months

A Tourist ACR I-Card is also required after the first 59 days stay, and this has a cost of US$50 + 500 pesos., and is valid for one year.

www.immigration.gov.ph/…/extension-of-authorized-stay-beyond-59-days

Those Visitors wishing to extend for 6 months can do so, at some BoI offices, for the current quoted price of 11,500 pesos.

http://www.immigration.gov.ph//long-stay-visitor-visa-extension-lsvve

One or Two Month Visa Extension Costs

Philippines Visa Charge after 59 days

The Balikbayan One Year Visa

The Balikbayan 12 Month Visa

The Balikbayan program allows certain people to enter the Philippines for a stay of 12 Months without needing any other Visa.

A foreign national spouse and/or child of a Balikbayan may only be given the said privilege if he/she is traveling with his/her Balikbayan spouse or parent.

The following text appears to say, in brief:

A Filipino citizen who has to have been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one year, is eligible for a one year Balikbayan program privilege, which allows a spouse to stay in the Philippines for 12 months without a Visa. [Sec 3(c)]

A Filipino citizen who has been naturalized in a foreign country, may not have this one year period limitation applied.

Whether this is checked at immigration or not is another question, but might explain why some people get refused the 1 yr Balikbayan Visa privilege

The Balikbayan program is detailed under the Republic Act Numbered 6768.

It was amended in 2002 with the Republic Act No. 9174

“Section 1. Balikbayan Program. – A Balikbayan Program is hereby instituted under the administration of the Department of Tourism to attract and encourage overseas Filipinos to come and visit their motherland. This is in recognition of their contribution to the economy of the country through the foreign exchange inflow and revenues that they generate.

“Section 2. Definition of Terms. – For purposes of this Act:

(a) The term “balikbayan” shall mean a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one (1) year, a Filipino overseas worker, or former Filipino citizen and his or her family, as this term is defined hereunder, who had been naturalized in a foreign country and comes or returns to the Philippines;

(b) The term “family” shall mean the spouse and the children of the balikbayan who are not balikbayan in their own right traveling with the latter to the Philippines.

Section 3

(c) Visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one (1) year for foreign passport holders, with the exception of restricted nationals;

Source:

www.immigration.gov.ph/…/balikbayan-previlege

Taking Currency In or Out of the Philippines 2015

How much money can you carry going into or out of the Philippines in 2015

Philippine Pesos:

A maximum of PhP10,000 is allowed to be taken out of or brought into the Philippines. Any figure above that amount must be authorised in advance by the Central Bank of theh Philippines (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas)

March 2015 Section 14 of Rules on Foreign Exchange at the PDF at www.bsp.gov.ph

14. Can a person bring in or take out of the country any amount of Philippine currency?
A person may, without prior BSP approval, import or export, or bring in or take out of the country, or electronically transfer, legal tender Philippine notes and coins, checks, money orders or other bills of exchange drawn in pesos against banks operating in the Philippines in amounts not exceeding P10,000.00. Prior authorization from the BSP, through the International Operations Department (IOD), is required for the export and import of Philippine currency exceeding P10,000

Foreign Currency

An amount not exceeding US$10,000 can be taken into the Philippines without any conditions, but any amount OVER that figure must be stated on the Declaration Form normally given on the airplane for visitors by air.
There is no restriction on the money itself, and this declaration is similar to most other countries who have a similar reporting requirement. Failure to report may result in forfeiture, as again applies in many other countries.

March 2015 Section 15 of Rules on Foreign Exchange at the PDF at www.bsp.gov.ph

15. Is there any restriction or limit in the amount of foreign currency that a person may bring in or take out of the Philippines?
There is no restriction or limit on the amount of foreign currency that a person may bring in or take out of the Philippines. However, any person bringing in or taking out of the Philippines foreign currency, as well as other FX-denominated bearer monetary instruments, (whereby title thereto passes to another by endorsement, assignment or delivery), in excess of US$10,000.00 or its equivalent in other foreign currency must declare such fact in writing and furnish information on the source and purpose of the transport of such currency or monetary instruments using the prescribed Foreign Currency and Other FX-Denominated Bearer Monetary Instruments Declaration Form. The form is available at the Bureau of Customs desk in the arrival/departure areas of all international airports and seaports.
Failure to do so shall subject the violator to sanctions, including confiscation of the foreign
currency or monetary instruments involved.

Customs Declaration Form

http://customs.gov.ph/customs-declaration-form

php1000-from-2010

Can a Former Filipino re-acquire Philippine Citizenship

How to re-acquire Filipino citizenship

A Former natural-born Filipino is able to re-acquire their Philippine citizenship following the changes in Philippine law in 2003.

Until 2003 a Filipino who took on another countries Citizenship lost their Philippine citizenship, as the Philippines did not allow Dual Citizenship.

Republic Act No. 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 is a law passed on 29 August 2003 which grants natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Filipino citizenship through naturalization in a foreign country, the opportunity to retain or re-acquire their Filipino citizenship.  http://www.cfo.gov.ph

Since 2003, A natural born Filipino who becomes a naturalized citizen of another country is deemed NOT to have lost his/her citizenship, and enjoys the benefits of Dual Citizenship.

A Former natural-born Filipino, who lost their Filipino citizenship prior to 2003 must apply for citizenship again, and the information for this is shown at: 

The following is sourced from: http://www.cfo.gov.ph

Filipinos who re-acquire Filipino citizenship under this Act may once again enjoy full civil, economic and political rights under existing laws of the Philippines. Among these are:

right to own real property in the Philippines
right to engage in business or commerce as a Filipino
right to practice one’s profession in accordance with law
right to acquire a Philippine passport
right to vote in Philippine elections under existing laws
other rights and privileges enjoyed by Filipino citizens

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9225 August 29, 2003

This act shall be known as the “Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003.”

Section 3. Retention of Philippine Citizenship – Any provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding, natural-born citizenship by reason of their naturalization as citizens of a foreign country are hereby deemed to have re-acquired Philippine citizenship upon taking the following oath of allegiance to the Republic:

“I _____________________, solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the laws and legal orders promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines; and I hereby declare that I recognize and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto; and that I imposed this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evasion.”

Natural born citizens of the Philippines who, after the effectivity of this Act, become citizens of a foreign country shall retain their Philippine citizenship upon taking the aforesaid oath.

Former Philippine citizens who have been naturalized in another country and wish to retain or re-acquire their Philippine citizenship can check at www.immigration.gov.ph for details on this re-acquisition.
The cost at May 2015 was PHP 3,010 (Last changed March 2014)

A foreign national, whose father or mother was a Filipino citizen at the time of the applicant’s birth, and who wishes to be acknowledged as a Filipino citizen can also apply for Filipino citizenship. Details at: www.immigration.gov.ph/…/recognition-as-filipino-citizen
The cost at May 2015 was PHP 12,550 (Last changed March 2014)

Re-acquire Filipino citizenship overseas

Filipinos married abroad must register the marriage at the Philippines Embassy

Marriages abroad of Filipino citizens must be reported and duly registered.

According to various overseas embassies of the Philippines, all Filipino citizens who marry overseas must report and register the marriage at the local Philippines Embassy.

This is done by submitting a Report of Marriage Form, which can be obtained from the local embassy website. Birth Certificates and passport copies are also needed.

Some embassy websites also state: “A Filipino citizen married outside the Philippines must register the marriage with the Philippine Foreign Service Post (Embassy or Consulate) of the country where the marriage was officiated“.

Sources:

consular.dfa.gov.ph

Philippines Embassy United States
Four (4) original duly-accomplished Report of Marriage Contracted Abroad form… etc

Philippines Embassy Australia
All documents are to be submitted in quadruplicate (4).

Philippines Embassy Norway
Three (3) copies of the duly accomplished Report of Marriage Form, and other documents.
Reports of Marriage may be filed either by mail or in person at the Consular section of the Embassy

Philippines Embassy United Kingdom
Original and three (3) clear copies

 

Netherlands Embassy and Consulate in The Philippines

Netherlands Embassy and Consulate in The Philippines

Netherlands Embassy in Manila

26th Floor BDO Equitable Tower
8751 Paseo de Roxas
Makati City
Metro Manila
Philippines

Tel: 02 786 6666
Mob:
Web: http://philippines.nlembassy.org

Netherlands Consulate in Cebu

The Netherlands Consulate in Cebu CLOSED in June 2014, due to the Consul having retired, and no replacement yet appointed.

The visa desk at the Cebu Consulate Cebu was closed in November 11, 2013.

They have previously been listed as being located at the following addresses:

Metaphil Compound, Tipolo, Mandaue City, Cebu
and
G/F Eduardo Aboitiz Development Study Center, 35 Lopez Jaena Street, Cebu City

Visa Applications for the Netherlands

Visa Applications for the Netherlands should be lodged at:

VFS Visa Application Centre – www.vfsglobal.com/netherlands/philippines

Fruit Picking Jobs for Filipinos in Australia

Fruit Picking Jobs in Australia need a Working Visa.

A website called topjobsportal is currently advertising fruit picking jobs for Filipinos in Australia.

Some people have asked if it is a scam, many Filipinos in the Philippines are wanting to apply for this work.

BUT… it is not that straightforward,  You NEED an Australian Working Visa first.

If you already have a working Visa, then yes, that type of work is available.

This type of fruit picking work is commonly available, and applied for by for by visitors to Australia on a Working Holiday visa.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has previously cautioned overseas Filipino workers (OFW) and Filipino tourists against a new online scam offering bogus fruit-picking jobs in Australia.

Although this relates to a different company, and was in May 2014, the similarities may be close.

Australian Immigration – Working Holiday Visas

Filipinos are NOT normally eligible for the Australian Working Holiday Visa

Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)

The Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) is a temporary visa for young people who want to holiday and work in Australia for up to a year.

This Visa allows you to:

stay in Australia for up to 12 months
work in Australia for up to six months with each employer

Eligibility Includes:

are at least 18 but not yet 31 years of age
have a passport from an eligible country. (This does NOT include the Philippines)

Eligible countries (at 21 June 2022) are:

Belgium
Canada
Republic of Cyprus
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (including British National Overseas passport holders)
Republic of Ireland
Italy
Japan
Republic of Korea
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Sweden
Taiwan (other than an official or diplomatic passport)
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The Work and Holiday (Temporary) visa (subclass 462)

The Work and Holiday (Temporary) visa (subclass 462) is for young people who want to holiday and work in Australia for up to a year.

Eligibility (at 21 June 2022) includes:

are at least 18 but not yet 31 years of age.
have a passport from:

Argentina
Austria
Chile
China, People’s Republic of
Czech Republic
Ecuador
Greece
Hungary
Indonesia
Israel
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Peru
Poland
Portugal
San Marino
Singapore
Slovak Republic
Slovenia
Spain
Switzerland
Thailand
Turkey
Uruguay
United States of America
Vietnam

Australian Fruit Picking Jobs for Pinoys

Special Resident Retirement Visa (SRRV)

As at 2015, over 27,000 foreign retirees from 107 countries have already chosen to live in the Philippines through the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) of the Philippine Retirement Authority.

A Visa for Retirement in the Philippines

The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Republic of the Philippines under the Retirement Program of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) to foreigners and overseas Filipinos. It entitles the holder to multiple-entry privileges with the right to stay permanently/indefinitely in the Philippines.

As at 2015, over 27,000 foreign retirees from 107 countries have already chosen to live in the Philippines through the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) of the Philippine Retirement Authority.

Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) Schedule of Fees

The SRRV allows all its foreign retiree-members to retire and live in the Philippines for as long as they want.

An SRRV holder may come in and out of the country as often as he desires, and enjoy privileges such as

exemption from securing the ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration Immigration Card) from the Bureau of Immigration;
exemption from paying local income tax on your pension and annuities;
exemption from paying the travel tax at the Philippine Airports;
exemption from getting a Study Permit or Student’s Visa for their dependent-children who intends to pursue education in the Philippines.
exemption from Customs Duties and Taxes with regard to the importation of household goods and personal effects up to US$7,000

PRA retiree-members may also use health cards issued abroad in Philippine hospitals/clinics accredited by selected health card companies.

A Principal Retiree must be at least 35 years old to enjoy the above benefits that only SRRV holders are privileged to avail of.

Through the Philippine Retirement Authority, foreign retirees who want to make the Philippines their international retirement destination can now choose from 4 SRRV options:

    1. SRRV SMILE – for active / healthy principal retirees 35 year old and above who would just like to maintain their Visa deposit of US$20,000 in any of the PRA designated banks;
    2. SRRV CLASSIC – for active / healthy principal retirees who would opt to use their Visa deposit of US$10,000 or US$20,000 (50 years old & above) or US$50,000 (35 to 49 years old) to purchase condominium units or use for long term lease of house and lot. The SRRV CLASSIC allows the retiree to convert the deposit into into a Ready For Occupancy condominium or long-term lease of House and Lot. However, the Investment, if converted this way, must be at least US$50,000.
    3. SRRV COURTESY – for former Filipinos (35 years old & above), and foreign nationals (50 years old & above) who have served in the Philippines as diplomats, ambassadors, officers/staff of international organizations. The visa deposit is US$1,500.
    4. SRRV HUMAN TOUCH – for ailing principal retirees, (35 years old and above), who are shown to have medical/clinical needs and services. Under this option, the retiree only needs to have a Visa deposit of US$10,000, a monthly pension of at least US$1,500 and a Health Insurance Policy.

To avail of the reduced visa deposit for those with a pension, they must show proof of monthly pension remitted to the Philippines of US$800 for a single applicant or US$1,000 for married couples)

The Fees for these options are:
Application Fee: US$1,400
Annual Fee: US$360 per year.

Banks listed as at April 2015 that are authorised to hold SRRV deposit funds:

Allied Bank
Banco De Oro
Bank Of China
Bank Of Commerce
Development Bank Of The Philippines
Korea Exchange Bank – Manila Branch
Philippine Business Bank, Inc.
Philippine Savings Bank
Tong Yang Savings Bank Inc.,
Union Bank Of The Philippines

For more details about the SRRV, please click here.

One Year Tourist Visa for Philippines

Is there a 12 month Tourist Visa for the Philippines

There are a number of Philippines Embassies around the world that offer a 3, 6 or 12 month Tourist Visa for the Philippines, but, is it what you first think?

This is copied from the Philippine Embassy in Norway which covers Filipinos in Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Sweden.

C. Below are different types of Entry Visas for Tourists and their respective fees:

Single ENTRY valid for three (3) months (270 Norwegian Kroner or 1,492 Php 14/4/2015);
Multiple ENTRY valid for six (6) months (540 Norwegian Kroner or 2,984 Php 14/4/2015); and
Multiple ENTRY valid for one (1) year (810 Norwegian Kroner or 4,420 Php 14/4/2015)

D. The above-mentioned visas are for ENTRY purposes only. Period of stay (which will not exceed 59 days) will be determined by the immigration officer at the point of entry in the Philippines.

Take special note of the item D: Each Period of stay will not exceed 59 days. You NEED to leave the Philippines before the 60th day, or apply for and get, a normal Visa Extension before the 59th day expires.

This is copied from the Philippine Consulate Los Angeles, USA.

The applicable fees for a tourist visa are as follows:

Single entry valid for three (3) months: US$30.00  (or 1,340 Php 14/4/2015)
Multiple entry valid for (6) months US$60.00  (or 2,680 Php 14/4/2015)
Multiple entry valid for twelve (12) months $90.00  (or 4,019 Php 14/4/2015)

NOTE: The authorized maximum period of stay granted by the Philippine Consulate to all temporary visitor’s visa applicants is fifty-nine (59) days. If the applicant will stay beyond 59 days in the Philippines, an application for extension of stay must be filed at the Bureau of Immigration in Manila, or the Immigration office nearest to the place where the applicant is temporarily residing.

Balikbayan 12 Month Visa

The Balikbayan Program allows visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one (1) year for foreign passport holders, with the exception of restricted nationals.

This normally applies to a foreign spouse of a Filipino citizen who ARRIVES with the Filipino spouse, and effectively gets a 12 month visa at the airport. This allows the holder to stay for the full 12 months, before needing to leave OR apply for another type of visa.

The term “balikbayan” shall mean a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one (1) year, a Filipino overseas worker, or a former Filipino citizen and his or her family who had been naturalized in a foreign country and comes or returns to the Philippines.

The term “family” shall mean the spouse and the children of the balikbayan traveling with the latter to the Philippines.

Schengen Visa from the Philippines

The Schengen Visa

The Schengen Visa is a 90 day tourist visa used for entry into the collective of 26 European countries that have mutually decided to eliminate passport and immigration control at internal borders.

The Schengen area covers the majority of European countries in the European Union [EU], but with some exceptions.

The United Kingdom is NOT in the Schengen Visa scheme.

The United Kingdom is one country that is in the EU, but is NOT a part of the Schengen Visa scheme.
Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Lichtenstein are NOT in the EU, but are part of the Schengen Visa scheme.

A Schengen Visa must be applied for at the Embassy of the main country of your visit.

List of Schengen Visa countries (at April 2015)

  1. Austria – Prince Building, 117 Rada Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City. Tel: 02 817 9191
  2. Belgium – Don Jacinto Building, De la Rosa crn Salcedo Streets, Legaspi Village, Makati City. Tel: 02 845 1869
  3. Czech Republic – Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Tel: 02 811 1155
  4. Denmark – Norway processes visa applications for Filipinos
  5. Estonia – Finland processes visa applications for Filipinos
  6. Finland – Far East Bank Center, Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City. Tel: 02 891 5011
  7. France – Pacific Star Building, Makati Ave, crn Sen Gil Puyat Ave, Makati City. Tel: 02 857 6900
  8. Germany – Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Tel: 02 702 3000
  9. Greece – Sage House, 110 Rufino Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City. Tel: 02 817 4444
  10. Hungary – Belgium processes visa applications for Filipinos
  11. Iceland – Norway processes visa applications for Filipinos
  12. Italy – Zeta Building, 191 Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village Makati City. Tel: 02 892 4531
  13. Latvia – The Netherlands processes visa applications for Filipinos
  14. Liechtenstein
  15. Lithuania – Austria processes visa applications for Filipinos
  16. Luxembourg – Belgium processes visa applications for Filipinos
  17. Malta – Consulate – Megaplaza Building, ADB Avenue crn Garnet Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Tel: 02 687 7245
  18. Netherlands – Equitable Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. Tel: 02 786 6655
  19. Norway – Petron Mega Plaza Building, 358 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City. Tel: 02 886 3245
  20. Poland – The Netherlands processes visa applications for Filipinos
  21. Portugal – The Embassy of Greece processes visa applications for Filipinos
  22. Slovakia – The Czech Republic processes visa applications for Filipinos
  23. Slovenia – Belgium processes visa applications for Filipinos
  24. Spain – ACT Tower, 135 Sen Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City. Tel: 02 818 3561
  25. Sweden – Switzerland processes visa applications for Filipinos
  26. Switzerland – Equitable Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. Tel: 02 757 9001

 

 

Portugal no longer has an embassy in the Philippines although does have a consulate in Cebu, which does NOT process visa applications.

VFS Global process Visa applications from the Philippines for these countries:

Australia
Canada
Denmark – Schengen
Malta – Schengen
Netherlands – Schengen
Norway – Schengen
Saudi Arabia
Spain – Schengen
UK
USA

6 Month Tourist Visa for Philippines

6 Month Visa or Long Stay Visa for Visitors

Those two terms are actually the same thing, but many people think they can apply for this before entering the Philippines. They can’t.

This 6 month visa is an extension visa only, and the visitor MUST have already renewed the initial 30 day to have stayed for 59 days before applying for the 6 month visa extension.

The COST of a 6 month visa extension.

This is a subject that gets many answers, and many of them are different answers.

The OFFICIAL cost is:  11,500 pesos.

My cost, when I got my Six month Visa Extension in April 2015 was 8,250 pesos.

The price I was quoted by Visa Agencies in my area varied between 16,000 and 18,000 pesos, and their charges for doing it for me ranged between 2,000 and 2,500 pesos (included in the previous figure.)

NOTE: These figures are for Non Visa Required Nationals. ie: People who are allowed to get a visa on arrival at the airport etc in the Philippines.

Why was mine cheaper?

I already had an ACR-I card, saving of 2,600 pesos

So that should be down to 8,900 pesos.  still a difference of 650 pesos.

So there are still a few other differences:

The application was 900 and not 910
The certificate fee was 500 and not 510
The Extension fees came to 3,000 and not 3,010
The ECC was 700 not 710

Here is a breakdown of expected costs and actual costs:

Stated Cost Cost breakdown My Cost
PHP 3,010 Monthly Extension Fee PHP 3,000
PHP 910 Monthly Extension Application Fee PHP 900
PHP 1,010 ACR Re-issuance PHP 250
PHP 250 Head Tax PHP 250
PHP 710 Emigration Clearance Certificate PHP 700
PHP 510 Certificate Fee PHP 500
PHP 2,100 I-Card
PHP 1,500 Express Lane Fee PHP 1,500
PHP 1,000 Express Lane Fee(Certification) PHP 1,000
PHP 500 Express Lane Fee (ACR-I card)
Legal Research Fee PHP 50
Visa Sticker Fee PHP 100
PHP 11,500 TOTAL PHP 8,250

 

Actual Cost Quoted in April 2015:

Visa Cost 6 months

Bureau of Immigration – Cebu

Bureau of Immigration Offices in Cebu

Bureau of Immigration – Cebu District Office

2nd Level J Centre Mall,
A.S Fortuna St.,
Bakilid,
Mandaue City,
Metro Cebu 6014

Contact:

Tel: 032 505 4166

Bureau of Immigration – Gaisano Immigration Satellite Office

Ground Floor, Gaisano Mactan Island Mall
ML Quezon National Highway
Pajo
Lapulapu City
Metro Cebu 6015

Contact:

Tel: 032 495 2852

The Old Cebu Bureau of Immigration office.

Bureau of Immigration – Cebu

P.J.Burgos
Mandaue City
Metro Cebu

Contact:

Tel: 032 345 6442

 

Registration for Visitors to Philippines after 59 days

Special Security Registration for Visitors to Philippines

In October 2014 the Immigration department of the Philippines Government created a new policy with the Alien Registration Project (ARP), and the need for a Special Security Registration Number (SSRN).

This very simple means that almost anyone staying over 59 days needs to register with Photo and Fingerprints and about 700 pesos, at almost any Immigration Office in the country.  A personal appearance is required.  You must be dressed in Trousers and Shoes at most offices.  It is NOT possible for a Travel Agent or Visa assistance agent to do this for you,

If you also need an ACR card, then this will be a further 500 pesos + US$50 or US$20 for an ACR-I card renewal.

It also appears that you must also have a mailing address for the sending of the SSRN certificate.

Those visitors who stay over 59 days will now need both the ACR-I card (Photo only) and the SSRN (Photo and Fingerprints).

One report stated: “Foreign nationals who have valid alien registration cards or I-Cards are exempted from the program.  However, the official site states: “Those valid ACR-I-Cards (Except for Tourist ACR-I cards) are exempted from the program.

 

ARP announcement2

Alien Registration Project  2015

The ARP shall be held from 01 October 2014 until 30 September 2015. Aliens may apply at any authorized BI Regional Office

1. Bring a duly filled-out ARP form (form and additional information is available at www.immigration.gov.ph) and any valid identification (e.g. passport, driver’s license).

Registered aliens under this program may be primary beneficiaries of future social integration/legalization programs of the government.

www.immigration.gov.ph

 

Tourist Visa Holders can stay for 3 years in Philippines

How long can a Tourist Visa Holder extend a visa for in the Philippines?

The answer is either 24 months or 36 months depending on the country you come from.

Information from www.immigration.gov.ph states:

Under Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM-2013-003, non-visa required national may extend their stay up to thirty six (36) months while visa required national may extend their stay up to twenty four (24) months.

 

Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM 2013-003

23 December 2013

Services
Honorable Secretary of Justice (SOJ) Leila M. de Lima approved Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM 2013-003 on 23 December 2013 which was recommended by Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Siegfred B. Mison. Said issuance provides for the policies and guidelines on the extension and updating of temporary visitor’s visa (TVV).

Allowable Extensions

Foreigners admitted under Section 9 (a) of the Philippine Immigration Act (PIA) of 1940, as amended, or Executive Order No. 408, as amended, may extend their authorized stay every two (2) months for a total stay of not more than:
a) Twenty-four (24) months for visa-required nationals; and
b) Thirty-six (36) months for non-visa required nationals.

The said periods shall be counted from the date of applicant’s latest recorded arrival.

Foreigners with Derogatory Records

Foreigners included in the Bureau’s derogatory list shall be allowed to extend/ update their authorized stay as temporary visitors; Provided that, their inclusion in the derogatory list is not on the ground of having overstayed in the country.

Restrictions on Extension/Updating

The following applications for extension/ updating, accompanied by a sworn written explanation stating valid grounds and/or justifications with supporting documents, shall require the approval of the Commissioner:
a) Extensions of stay beyond the maximum allowable stay prescribed in Section 2 hereof; and
b) Foreigners who have overstayed for more than six (6) months but not exceeding twelve (12) months regardless if their stay is within the maximum allowable period.

Acquisition of Appropriate Visa/Permit

Foreigners may be granted an extension beyond the maximum allowable period provided that they shall secure appropriate visas/ permits during such extension and have not overstayed in any given period.

Overstaying Foreigners

Foreigners who have overstayed for twelve (12) months or less but have been in the country beyond the maximum allowable period already may be permitted to update their stay with order to leave the country within fifteen (15) calendar days therefrom and their names may be included in the Bureau’s blacklist upon the discretion of the Commissioner; Provided that, the Commissioner, in the exercise of sound judgment, may allow such foreigners to update and extend their stay taking into consideration their Filipino lineage, medical condition, minority and other analogous circumstances.

Foreigners who have overstayed for more than twelve (12) months regardless if their stay is within the maximum allowable period or those found to be overstaying by virtue to a complaint or Mission Order regardless of the period shall be referred for deportation.

Payment

In addition to the extension/ updating fees and other charges, the concerned foreigners shall be required to pay all immigration arrears imposed by Republic Act No. 562, as amended.

Bureau of Immigration: Angeles City – Clark, Pampanga

Bureau of Immigration: Angeles City

Ground Floor
Metro Supermarket
MarQuee Mall
Pulung Maragul
Angeles City
Pampanga

Contact:

Tel. 045 404 0215

Details:

The Clark Bureau of Immigration office moved from Clark to MarQuee Mall in October 2014.
Many visitors to this new office are seen wearing shorts. It appears that the old rule that shorts were not allowed (but revoked early in 2014) is not being enforced now.

This office processes ECC’s and Visa Extensions in a section right next to the supermarket, in what may have previously been some of the food court area. The waiting area is the seating outside the Comfort rooms at the end, to the right of the supermarket.

Emigration Clearance Certificates can be issued the day after application.

Alien Certificate of Registration

What is an Alien Certificate of Registration or ACR-I Card?

Alien Certificate of Registration ACR-I Card

The ACR-I card is a requirement for foreign nationals to hold after a certain period of time in the Philippines. It is also required by those foreign nationals to be able to leave the Philippines, together with an ECC (Exit/Emigration Clearance Certificate) [not instead of].

The ACR-I card is issued at a Philippines Bureau of Immigration office.

The Tourist ACR-I card

The Tourist ACR-I card has a validity of ONE year, and must be renewed annually.

Originally, the ACR-I card had to be handed in at Immigration when leaving the Philippines. This has now changed, and you retain it now, and it is still valid if you come back before it expires.

Common categories of the ACR-I card would be the Permanent Resident, Tourist, Student and Voluntary.  (Full category list is shown at the bottom of this page.)

Application for an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR)

Who can apply for an ACR-I card?

All foreign nationals who are visa holders of Temporary Visitor’s Visa or Tourist Visa who have stayed for more than fifty-nine (59) days in the Philippines, MUST apply for an ACR-I card.

The ACR I-Card application must be submitted together with the application for visa (Visa Extension).

Who MUST apply for an ACR-I card?

Who is required to apply for an ACR I-Card?

All foreign nationals under immigrant and non-immigrant visas including holders of Temporary Visitor’s Visa, who stayed for more than fifty nine (59) days in the Philippines are required to apply for an ACR-I Card at expiry of their first 59 days..
www.immigration.gov.ph/../faqs/acr-i-card

Some websites state: All foreigners who stay longer than 6 month in the Philippines on a Non Immigrant or Resident Visa, must have an ACR-I Card. 

Renewal of an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR)

Who can apply to renew an ACR-I card?

All foreign nationals who are existing ACR I-card holders and whose basis of renewal is any of the following:

Expiration of the one (1) year validity of the card.
– Re-registration of alien upon reaching the age of 14;
– Change of visa status;
– Replacement of ACR as required under the Alien Registration Act of 1950, as amended.

How much does an ACR-I card cost?

USD 50.00 plus Php 500.00

Why is this price in US Dollars ?  No Idea !!!

What is an ACR-I card

ACR-I card FAQ

New ACR-I card Issue

New ACR-I card Issue

ACR-I card Renewal

ACR-I card Renewal

What are the Benefits of an ACR-I Card ?

I liked this one from the Dept of Immigration:

4: Achieves higher revenues for the Bureau and the national government through increase in number of aliens who will register and improved efficiency in collection of fees.

However, they are needed if a foreigner wants to open a bank account.

Some websites have stated that a Tourist cannot get an ACR card, eg:

ACR-I Tourist cannot get an ACR card
From an unnamed website for foreigners in the Philippines

However, they can…

ACR-I card Tourist

Categories of the ACR-i card

Categories of the Philippines ACR-I card

Colours of the Philippines ACR-I card
Colours of the Philippines ACR-I card

Bureau of Immigration: Angeles City – Clark – Marquee Mall

Bureau of Immigration: Angeles City

Ground Floor
Metro Supermarket
MarQuee Mall
Pulung Maragul
Angeles City
Pampanga

Contact:

Tel. 045 404 0215

Details:

The Clark Bureau of Immigration office moved from Clark to MarQuee Mall in October 2014.
Many visitors to this new office are seen wearing shorts. It appears that the old rule that shorts were not allowed (but revoked early in 2014) is not being enforced now.

This office processes ECC’s and Visa Extensions in a section right next to the supermarket, in what may have previously been some of the food court area. The waiting area is the seating outside the Comfort rooms at the end, to the right of the supermarket.

Emigration Clearance Certificates can be issued the day after application.

From Angeles to Clark Bureau of Immigration by Jeepney

A trip by Jeepney from Angeles to the old Clark Bureau of Immigration

[warning]The Angeles Bureau of Immigration has moved from Clark, and is now located on the ground floor at Marquee Mall in the Metro Supermarket section. October 2014[/warning]

This is from youtube, and shows the trip by Jeepney from the Jeepney Station near SM Clark and Fields Avenue in Angeles, Pampanga.

Alternatives to a jeepney are the local taxi at a return fare of 800 pesos, but the taxi driver will wait for you, and bring you back when finished.

On 3rd November, neither of the taxi drivers or Jeepney drivers were aware that the Clark BI had closed the previous month.