Updates from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI)

1. Applicant/Marketer remits deposit requirement to a shortlisted bank in Manila
2. Bank credits funds to Special Time Deposit account in the name of applicant
3. Shortlisted bank sends PRA certification under oath of inward remittance of applicant’s deposit
4. Applicant/Marketer secures Medical and Police Clearance from place of origin to be authenticate by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate
5. Applicant enters the Philippines as tourist
6. Applicant/Marketer submits all documents to PRA in Manila
   1. • a.    PRA application
      • b.    Valid passport
      • c.    Medical and Police or National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)
      • d.    Certification of bank deposit
      • e.    Photographs
      • f.    Marriage Certificate if spouse is joining
      • g.    Payment of application fee(If Medical or Police Clearance are not secured from place of origin, PRA assists applicant to secure the same in Manila in three (3) working days)
7. PRA evaluates and, if complete, endorses application to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for issuance of SRRV
8. Applicant is issued SRRV by (BI) within five(5) working days upon completion/submission of all requirements

Source: Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) Official Website

The Philippines: A Haven for Retirees

It is great being a foreign retiree in the Philippines.  Aside from the fact that the Philippines is richly blessed with natural beauty and a warm climate, the country may be described as retiree-friendly in many other ways.

For starters, the visa required is called the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa or SRRV which is indeed special.  It is specifically for foreign nationals who would like to live permanently in the Philippines.

Upon being granted this visa, the foreign retiree also becomes entitled to many benefits such as exemption from having to secure exit and re-entry permits; one time exemption from custom duties and taxes when the visa holder brings his or her personal belongings into the country; the privilege to live, study and set up a business in the country; and the privilege to own certain types of properties.

(Read More)………

Three of the Best Places to Retire in the Philippines

The Philippines has become one of the favorite retirement destinations in Asia.  This comes as no surprise because the climate is warm, the people are also warm and hospitable, and the cost of living is low.  An expat with a modest income can live very comfortably in a nice neighborhood, complete with a driver and a live-in housekeeper.  Retirees can enjoy their so-called “twilight years” by visiting the many beautiful places in the Philippines and still afford to stay in first class resorts.  Filipinos speak English so communicating will not be a problem and their willingness to help, especially foreigners, will make it easier for you to get settled.

Below are three of the most ideal places to retire in the Philippines:

1. Laguna – this province lies south of Manila and is a popular weekend getaway place for Manilenos.  Tourists enjoy shooting the rapids at the world famous Pagsanjan falls, swimming and relaxing in the numerous hot springs and rivers, and trekking in the mountains of this richly blessed province.

(Read More)………