How to stay in the Philippines longer than 30 days?

Extending Your Philippine Adventure: A Guide to Staying Longer Than 30 Days

Embarking on an adventure in the Philippines? While the initial 30-day visa may seem ample, it can quickly pass by amidst the country’s captivating islands, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. To prolong your stay and continue exploring its wonders, it’s essential to extend your visa before it expires.

Bureau of Immigration: Your Gateway to Extension

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is the government agency responsible for visa extensions. To initiate the process, you must submit an application at the BI office nearest to your location. Note that timely submission is crucial, ideally a week before your visa’s expiration. This allows ample time for processing and ensures a seamless transition.

Required Documents for Extension

To extend your visa, you will need to present the following documents:

• Original passport with the current visa
• Photocopy of your passport’s biographical page
• Visa extension application form (available at the BI office)
• Processing fee (as determined by the BI)

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the Bureau of Immigration: Locate the nearest BI office and inquire about the visa extension process.
2. Obtain the Application Form: Fill out the visa extension application form provided by the BI.
3. Submit Documents: Submit the completed application form along with the required documents.
4. Pay Processing Fee: Pay the processing fee as indicated by the BI official.
5. Obtain Certificate of Extension: Once your application is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Extension.

Tips for a Successful Extension

• Apply Early: As mentioned earlier, submitting your application a week before your visa’s expiration is highly recommended.
• Adhere to Formalities: Ensure that the application form is complete and all documents are in order.
• Be Respectful: The BI officials are there to assist you. Approach them with courtesy and respect.
• Control Length of Extension: The BI may not grant an extension beyond the maximum allowable stay of 59 days.
• Visit Other BI Offices: If the BI office near you is overwhelmed, consider visiting another branch with shorter queues.

By following these guidelines, you can extend your Philippine visa efficiently and continue your adventure in this captivating and welcoming country.