How do you extend your stay in the Philippines?

Extending Your Stay in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide

As a foreign visitor to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the visa regulations and how to extend your stay if necessary. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to extend your Philippine visa, ensuring a seamless and lawful extension process.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

To be eligible for a visa extension, you must meet the following criteria:

• Your current visa has not expired.
• You have not overstayed your visa for more than six months.
• You have a valid reason for extending your stay.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To initiate the visa extension process, you will need to gather the following documents:

• Your valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
• Completed visa extension application form (available online or at the Bureau of Immigration office)
• Sworn statement detailing any overstay exceeding six months (if applicable)
• Supporting documents (e.g., work permit, certificate of enrollment, proof of relationship to a Philippine citizen)

Step 3: Visit the Bureau of Immigration Office

The Bureau of Immigration office is located at Intramuros, Manila. However, there are also designated offices in other parts of the Philippines. You can visit the Bureau of Immigration website to find the nearest office.

Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees

Once you arrive at the Immigration office, submit your completed application form and supporting documents. You will also be required to pay the applicable visa extension fee.

Step 5: Attend Interview (Optional)

In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview with an Immigration officer. The officer will review your application and documents and may ask you questions to verify the reason for your stay extension.

Step 6: Approval and Issuance

If your application is approved, your visa will be extended for the requested period. You will be issued a new visa sticker in your passport.

Consequences of Overstaying

It is important to extend your visa before it expires. If you overstay your visa for more than six months, you will be penalized and may be subject to the following:

• Fines
• Deportation
• Denial of future entry into the Philippines

Conclusion

Extending your Philippine visa is a straightforward process, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the steps outlined in this article. By ensuring proper documentation and timely submission, you can seamlessly extend your stay in the Philippines for various purposes. Remember, overstaying your visa has serious consequences, so it is crucial to extend your stay before its expiration date.