Question 1

Which Philippine visa is best for retirement?

Accepted Answer

For most retirees over 50 with a documented pension of USD 800+/month, SRRV Classic with the USD 15,000 deposit is the lowest-friction path. Under 50 or no pension means a higher deposit (USD 25K–50K). If you are married to a Filipino, 13(a) is almost always better than SRRV.

Question 2

What is the minimum age for SRRV?

Accepted Answer

The Philippine Retirement Authority lowered the SRRV minimum age from 50 to 40 effective 1 September 2025. Deposits are higher for the 40–49 tier than the 50+ tier.

Question 3

What is the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)?

Accepted Answer

A 1-year visa (renewable once) for foreigners 18+ with USD 24,000/yr in foreign-sourced income, from a country that has a reciprocal DNV agreement with the Philippines. Foreign income is not taxed in the Philippines under DNV.

Question 4

Can I work in the Philippines on a tourist visa?

Accepted Answer

No. The 9(a) tourist visa does not grant any work rights. For employment by a Philippine company you need a 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, which the employer sponsors and DOLE issues an Alien Employment Permit (AEP). For short engagements, a Special Work Permit (SWP) lasts up to 6 months.

Question 5

How long can I stay on a tourist visa?

Accepted Answer

Visa-exempt nationals (US, EU, UK, AU, CA, JP, KR, most ASEAN) get 30 days on arrival and can extend in chunks up to 36 months cumulative. Visa-required nationals are capped at 24 months cumulative. Year-1 cost of extensions is PHP 40,000–55,000.

Find the right Philippines visa for your situation.