How long can a foreigner stay in the Philippines if married to a Filipina?

How Long Can a Foreigner Stay in the Philippines if Married to a Filipina?

Marriage to a Filipino citizen offers foreign nationals a pathway to long-term residency and potential citizenship in the Philippines. Here’s an overview of how long a foreigner can stay in the country under such circumstances:

Indefinite Stay

Foreigners married to Filipino nationals can obtain a 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa, which permits them to stay in the Philippines indefinitely. Once granted, this visa removes the need for frequent visa extensions and allows the foreign spouse to reside and work in the country without time limitations.

Steps to Obtain a 13(a) Visa

The process of obtaining a 13(a) visa involves the following steps:

1. Marriage Registration: The marriage between the foreign national and the Filipino spouse must be duly registered with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
2. Petition for Alien Spouse: The Filipino spouse files a petition with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to sponsor their foreign spouse for a 13(a) visa.
3. Visa Application: The foreign spouse submits a visa application to the Philippine embassy or consulate in their home country.
4. Visa Issuance: If the application is approved, the embassy or consulate issues a provisional 13(a) visa, which allows the foreign spouse to enter the Philippines.
5. Registration with BI: Upon arrival in the Philippines, the foreign spouse must register with the BI within 30 days to obtain their Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR).

Benefits of a 13(a) Visa

A 13(a) visa provides the foreign spouse with several benefits, including:

• Indefinite stay in the Philippines
• Eligibility for permanent residency after two (2) years of marriage
• Permission to work and establish a business in the country
• Access to healthcare, education, and other social services

Conclusion

Marriage to a Filipino citizen offers foreign nationals a stable and fulfilling life in the Philippines. Through the 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa, foreign spouses can enjoy indefinite residency and access to various opportunities in the country. By following the prescribed visa application process and fulfilling legal requirements, foreign nationals can secure their long-term future alongside their Filipino partners.