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• HOME › Visa

ADVISORY ON RESUMPTION OF PRE-PANDEMIC VISA PROCESSES BEGINNING 01 APRIL 2022

Pursuant to Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) Resolution No. 165 dated 24 March 2022, all COVID-19 restrictions on visa issuance are hereby lifted, and all pre-pandemic visa processes are hereby reinstated beginning 01 April 2022, subject to the existing health protocols and requirements prescribed by the IATF, as follows:

I. Visa Application Process

Beginning 1 September 2022, the Philippine Embassy in Seoul will be following a new procedure for accepting visa applications for 9(a), 9(b), 9(f), 9(g), 47(a)(2) and 13(a). The procedure may be found here: www.philembassy-seoul.com/ann_details.asp?id=14014
The visa application process for 9(c) (seafarer/crewlist) and 9(e) (diplomatic/official business) visas remain the same, and the applicants or their representatives may personally submit their applications at the Philippine Embassy from 09:30 A.M. to 12:00 N.N.; P.M., Sundays to Thursdays.

II. General Requirements

Please make sure to bring all the required documents, as listed in this Advisory. The Philippine Embassy reminds all foreign nationals that additional documents may be required if and when deemed necessary by the visa officer.
A Philippine visa is an endorsement by a consular officer on a travel document (e.g. passport) denoting that the visa application has been examined, and that permission is requested from Philippine immigration authorities at ports of entry to allow the bearer to enter and stay in the Philippines for a specified period of time. A visa is not a guarantee that the holder will be automatically admitted into the country as admission of foreign nationals into the Philippines is a function of the Bureau of Immigraton (BI). Philippine visa holders are, therefore, subject to regular and discretionary immigration control at ports of entry. The BI may deny entry of any visa holder for any valid reason.
Entry Exemption Documents (EEDs) will no longer be required beginning 01 April 2022 from foreign nationals entering the Philippines, provided they comply with all the visa requirements, immigration entry and departure formalities, and other health protocols required by the Government of the Republic of the Philippines. Nevertheless, all foreign nationals with valid and subsisting EEDs issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Republic of the Philippines prior to 01 April 2022 shall still be allowed entry into the Philippines.
A properly filled-out application form is required from all visa applicants. These forms may be downloaded at www.philembassy-seoul.com/forms.asp. However, 9(a) visa applicants must preliminary submit their applications through the Philippine Visa Online Portal at www.visa.gov.ph
All photos must conform to the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation, as follows:
1. All applicants are required to wear decent clothing for passport photo capture.
2. When having their photos captured, applicants may smile, but without showing their teeth and gums.
3. Eyeglasses and colored contact lenses should not be worn.
4. As much as possible, both ears of the applicant should be visible.
5. Any accessories (e.g., earrings, necklaces) should be removed prior to photo capturing.
All documents required below must be presented before the visa officer. Please print all documents using an A-4 sized paper.
Personal appearance is required from all visa applicants, except for 9(c) seaman and crew list visa applicants who may submit through their legitimate agents through an authorization letter.
Non-Korean nationals must submit the original and valid passport, as well as the original and photocopy of their Alien Registration Card (front and back).
All foreign national minors below 15 years old and planning to enter the Philippines unaccompanied by parents must have a Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG). Under Section 29(a) (12) of the Commonwealth Act No. 613 or the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, alien minors who are below fifteen (15) years of age who are unaccompanied by or not coming to a parent, are classified as excludable. In order for them to be admitted into the Philippines, they must secure what is known as a Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) from the BI. They may be allowed admission upon the approval of the WEG application by the Commissioner of the BI.
1. To obtain a WEG from the Philippines, please visit the BI website at immigration.gov.ph/faqs/waiverforexclusion-ground and at immigration.gov.ph/images/FORMS/Checklist/9Others/2.%20Waiver%20of%20Exclusion%20Ground.pdf
2. Alternatively, parents based in South Korea may also follow this procedure:
  1. Submit the following documents at the Philippine Embassy:
    1. Three (3) original duly accomplished Affidavit of Support and Guarantee with Consent to Travel for WEG, to be signed in person by the child's parent/legal guardian at the Embassy;
    2. Valid passport of the minor and two (2) copies of the data page;
    3. Valid passport of the minor's travel companion and two (2) copies of the data page;
    4. Valid passport of the parent/legal guardian who executed the affidavit (2 copies of the data page);
    5. Submit the minor's English Family Registration Certificate [영문 가족관계증명서] if the child is registered at the Korean City Hall; and
    6. Payment for the acknowledgement of the Affidavit of Support and Guarantee with Consent to Travel. Please note that this payment is separate from the WEG fee that will be paid at the port of entry (to be explained below).
  2. Upon arrival in the Philippines, the travel companion will file the application for the WEG Order before the BI at the port of entry with the following documents/payment:
    1. Duly-filled up WEG application form signed both by the parent and the travel companion. A copy of the WEG application form may be found here: www.philembassy-seoul.com/forms.asp
    2. Original copy of the Affidavit of Support and Guarantee and Consent to Travel notarized by the Philippine Embassy and the minor's English Family Registration Certificate [영문 가족관계증명서] if the child is registered at the Korean City Hall;
    3. Photocopy of the return ticket of the minor child;
    4. Photocopy of the passport of the travel companion;
    5. Photocopy of the passport of the minor; and
    6. Payment of PHP3,120 (Philippine pesos) for the processing and approval of the WEG. Please note that BI fees may vary.
All foreign national minors 15 to below 18 years old and planning to enter the Philippines unaccompanied by parents, an Affidavit of Parental Consent and Guarantee of Financial Support and parent's proof of employment/ business must be submitted to the Philippine Embassy.

The following are the visa types which may be issued by the Philippine Embassy:

Visa-Free Entry	For nationals of countries listed in E.O. 408, as amended
9(a)	Temporary Visitors
9(b)	Foreigners in Transit
9(c)	Seaman or Crew list
9(e)	Foreign Government Officials
9(f)	Students of Long-term Regular Academic Programs
9(g)	Pre-Arranged Employment
47(a)(2)	Special Non-Immigrant
13(a)	Spouses' Visa

Applicants of the Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) may directly submit their applications to the Philippine Retirement Authority at www.pra.gov.ph

III. Visa-Free Entry

Nationals of the countries listed below who are traveling to the Philippines for business or tourism purposes are allowed to enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days, provided (i) they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or to their next port of destination, and (ii) their passports are valid for a period of six (6) months beyond their contemplated period of stay in the Philippines.
1. Nationals of Israel and Brazil are visa-free for a period of fifty-nine (59) days from entry, pursuant to existing bilateral agreements with the Philippines.
2. Upon arrival in the Philippines, citizens of the below-listed countries who wish to stay longer than thirty days can apply for an extension at the nearest BI office. Alternatively, they can submit an application for a temporary visitor's visa at the Philippine Embassy prior to their departure in South Korea.
3. All other foreign travelers with passports issued by countries not listed below need to secure an appropriate visa before traveling to the Philippines.
Effective 13 April 2015, nationals of India travelling to the Philippines as a temporary visitor may be granted a visa-free entry for an initial stay not exceeding fourteen (14) days, provided they possess the following:
1. Either a valid Australian, Canadian, Japanese, Singapore, UK, U.S. visa or permanent residence permit;
2. A national passport valid at least six months beyond the contemplated stay in the Philippines;
3. Return or onward ticket to the next country of destination; and
4. No derogatory record with the BI, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), and the International Police (INTERPOL).
The 14-day visa-free entry may be extended by an additional seven (7) days for a maximum of twenty-one (21) day stay. This type of admission cannot be converted to other types of visa categories.
The following are allowed to enter the Philippines for pleasure and recreation purposes (as tourists or to visit friends or relatives), and/or business (of commercial, industrial or professional character) of a temporary nature without a visa for a stay not exceeding seven (7) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination and their passports are valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay:
1. Holders of British National Overseas (BNO) passports;
2. Holders of Macao-Portuguese passports; and
3. Holders of People's Republic of China passports coming for tourism purposes only and with either a valid Australian, Canadian, Japanese, Schengen, or US visa.
The following are allowed to enter the Philippines for pleasure and recreation purposes (as tourists or to visit friends or relatives), and/or business (of commercial, industrial or professional character) of a temporary nature without a visa for a stay not exceeding fourteen (14) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination and their passports are valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay:
1. Holders of Hong Kong Special Administrative (SAR) passports; and
2. Holders of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) passports.

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IV. 9(a) Temporary Visitors' Visa

Beginning 15 March 2022, all foreign nationals who wish to apply for 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s visa must file their visa applications via the DFA Philippine Visa Application Portal through the following link https://www.visa.gov.ph.
The following basic requirements must be submitted through the online portal and presented to the visa officer during the selected interview schedule:
1. Printed online portal application form;
2. 2x2 passport size photo (similar to the uploaded photo in the online portal);
3. Round trip ticket (open-ended and one-way tickets are not accepted);
4. Itinerary with details
5. Proof of hotel accommodation or lodging; and
6. Valid passport for at least six (6) months from the date of visa application and copy of passport data page.
7. Filled out Letter of Guarantee form (available at www.philembassy-seoul.com/forms.asp), including copy of guarantor’s valid passport. If the guarantor does not have a valid passport, a copy of a valid Korean government-issued ID may suffice. If the guarantor is a foreigner, a copy of his/her valid passport and Korean Alien Registration Card (front and back) are required. Please note that the guarantor cannot be an individual traveling with the applicant.
8. Beginning 13 June 2024, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) informs the public that Chinese nationals applying for 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s Visa at Philippine Foreign Service Posts will be required to submit their Chinese Social Insurance Record Certificates.
  
  The submitted Certificate must be registered for at least six (6) months at the time of the submission of the visa application. Exceptions to the abovementioned visa requirement will only apply to Chinese nationals currently enrolled in primary, secondary, or college education who will be required to submit proof of enrollment, and retirees above 55 years old.
The following supporting documents must also be submitted to the visa officer during the selected interview schedule. These supporting documents should have been issued within one (1) month from the date of visa application.

Visa Category	Type
9(a-1)	Business Visitors For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for scientific, commercial, industrial, professional and business purposes, who will not receive any compensation from a company/entity in the Philippines for services rendered in the country. A. For Business Owners Letter of guarantee from the company confirming the applicant’s employment, purpose of visit to the Philippines (i.e., short business related trip and shall not be employed nor service income in the Philippines), and financial support while in the Philippines. The letter must have the official company seal and/or employer’s signature. Guarantee letters from family members, friends or company co-workers are not allowed. The guarantee letter should have been issued within two (2) weeks from the date of visa application. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines confirming the purpose of visit of the visa applicant and the duration of stay of the visit (must match the dates in the flight ticket), with a guarantee that the applicant will not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company. The letter must have the official company seal and/or employer’s signature, and should have been issued within two (2) weeks from the date of the visa application Proof of business operations/income (e.g., business permit, license or registration, bank statement of the last six [6] months or tax payments). B. For Employees Letter of guarantee from the company confirming the applicant’s employment, purpose of visit to the Philippines (i.e., short business related trip and shall not be employed nor service income in the Philippines), and financial support while in the Philippines. The letter must have the official company seal and/or employer’s signature. Guarantee letters from family members, friends or company co-workers are not allowed. The guarantee letter should have been issued within two (2) weeks from the date of visa application. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines confirming the purpose of visit of the visa applicant and the duration of stay of the visit (must match the dates in the flight ticket), with a guarantee that the applicant will not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company. The letter must have the official company seal and/or employer’s signature, and should have been issued within two (2) weeks from the date of the visa application. Certificate of Employment in a managerial level or higher. C. For Dependents Letter of guarantee from the company where the family member of the dependent applicant is currently employed. The guarantee letter must mention the confirmation of the family member’s employment; relationship of the dependent applicant to the family member employed; and purpose of the visit to the Philippines (e.g., to reunite and support his father/mother/husband/wife); and financial support while in the Philippines. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines where the family member of the dependent applicant is employed, confirming the family member’s employment; relationship of the dependent applicant to the family member; purpose of the visit to the Philippines (e.g., to reunite and support his father/mother/husband/wife); duration of stay of the visit (similar to the dates in the round-trip e-ticket) and guarantee that the dependent applicant shall not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company. Employment Certificate of the family member who is currently employed. English Family Registration Certificate issued in the applicant’s name. Affidavit of Parental Consent and Guarantee of Financial Support and parent's proof of employment/ business.
9(a-2)	Tourism or Leisure Visitors Foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for pleasure or touristic, leisure, religious, recreation, or amusement purposes, or to visit family, relatives, or friends, and staying for a predetermined amount of time. A. General Tourism or Leisure If employed, employment of certificate with remuneration for employed. If self-employed, copy of business registration and income. Proof of financial capacity, such as bank statement of the last six (6) months. If invited by a friend residing in the Philippines and staying at the friend’s residence, an invitation letter written by a resident of the Philippines (there is no prescribed form, but the inviter’s name, travel period, and residence address are required) and a copy of the inviter's ID card issued by the Philippine government. If the inviter is not a Filipino national, submit a copy of the inviter’s Philippine visa and passport. An inviter who is also traveling to the Philippines or does not have a valid visa cannot issue an invitation letter. Other documents proving ties to the home country/country of residence, such as employment certificate and property documents, school records for students, and Alien Registration Certificate. If the applicant is a minor, a copy of the student's school registration, and the guarantor’s employment certificate or business registration, and original bank certificate. B. Visiting Filipino Spouse Letter of invitation from the Filipino spouse stating the purpose of the visit in detail, period of visit (should match with the dates of the flight ticket), address where applicant will be staying, and full name and passport information of the applicant and the Filipino spouse. The letter must be signed by the Filipino spouse. Copy of the Filipino spouse’s valid Philippine passport. The passport must be signed before making a copy. If the Filipino spouse does not have a valid Philippine passport, a copy of any Philippine government-issued identification card (e.g., driver’s license, SSS, GSIS) and NBI clearance are required. Original bank certificate for proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in the Philippines. The bank certificate must be under the applicant’s name and with sufficient balance. If employed, employment of certificate with remuneration for employed. If self-employed, copy of business registration and income. If unemployed, the guarantor’s employment certificate or business registration, and original bank certificate. Letter of guarantee and copy of the valid passport of the guarantor. If the guarantor does not have a valid passport, a copy of the Korean government-issued ID. The guarantor must be a Korean adult living in Korea and must be employed. If it is impossible to get a Korean guarantor, then an adult foreigner living in Korea and employed can be a guarantor. Copy of the English Family Registration Certificate (for Korean nationals), or Korean Alien Registration Card or copy of the US Military ID (for non-Korean nationals). Original or colored copy of the family photo. Original and photocopy of the Marriage Certificate from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), or For Korean nationals: Two (2) originals and photocopy of the Detailed Marriage Certificate officially translated in English, notarized and apostilled. The foreign Marriage Certificate must state the full name of the Filipino spouse in proper order (Surname → Given Name → Middle Name, or Given name → Middle Name → Surname). For Non-Korean nationals: Two (2) originals and photocopy of the Marriage Certificate or Marriage License issued from the country of the foreign spouse, officially translated in English, notarized and apostilled. The foreign Marriage Certificate or Marriage License can only be apostilled from the State issuing the same (not the foreign Embassy). The foreign Marriage Certificate or Marriage License must state the full name of the Filipino spouse in proper order (Surname → Given Name → Middle Name, or Given name → Middle Name → Surname). Original or printed clear scanned copy of documents of any supporting document proving that the Filipino spouse is currently in the Philippines (e.g., Philippine immigration arrival stamps, certification issued by the local municipality/barangay where the Filipino national resides, or duly notarized employment certificate). C. Visiting Filipino Minor Child Letter of invitation from the Filipino spouse stating the purpose of the visit in detail, period of visit (should match with the dates of the flight ticket), address where applicant will be staying, and full name and passport information of the applicant and the Filipino spouse. The letter must be signed by the Filipino spouse. Copy of the Filipino spouse’s valid Philippine passport. The passport must be signed before making a copy. If the Filipino spouse does not have a valid Philippine passport, a copy of any Philippine government-issued identification card (e.g., driver’s license, SSS, GSIS) and NBI clearance are required. Original bank certificate for proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in the Philippines. The bank certificate must be under the applicant’s name and with sufficient balance. If employed, employment of certificate with remuneration for employed. If self-employed, copy of business registration and income. If unemployed, the guarantor’s employment certificate or business registration, and original bank certificate. Letter of guarantee and copy of the valid passport of the guarantor. If the guarantor does not have a valid passport, a copy of the Korean government-issued ID. The guarantor must be a Korean adult living in Korea and must be employed. If it is impossible to get a Korean guarantor, then an adult foreigner living in Korea and employed can be a guarantor. Copy of the English Family Registration Certificate (for Korean nationals), or Korean Alien Registration Card or copy of the US Military ID (for non-Korean nationals). Original or colored copy of the family photo. Original and photocopy of the PSA Birth Certificate of the Filipino minor child. The visa applicant’s name must be indicated in the father or mother section. Original and printed clear scanned copy of any supporting documents proving that the Filipino minor is currently in the Philippines (e.g., immigration arrival stamps, certification issued by the local municipality/barangay where the Filipino minor resides, school enrolment record). The documents must be issued under the Filipino minor’s name. Original or printed clear scanned copy of documents of any supporting document proving that the Filipino spouse is currently in the Philippines (e.g., Philippine immigration arrival stamps, certification issued by the local municipality/barangay where the Filipino national resides, or duly notarized employment certificate).
9(a-3)	Medical Treatment Visitors For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for medical treatment purposes or health reasons, including their escorts. Acceptance letter or confirmation of treatment or appointment from a Philippine medical or wellness institution. Proof of medical condition, such as medical abstract from the sending medical or wellness institution. Proof of financial means, such as bank statements of the last six (6) months, payslips for the latest 6 months or employment certificate with remuneration, pension statements of the latest six (6) months (for retirees), receipt/confirmation of advance payment or deposit made for the treatment, and letter of guarantee from the sponsor with proof of financial capacity Health insurance policy, if any. For guardian/escort, letter from the sending medical or wellness institution assigning the foreign national to escort the patient.
9(a-4)	Yachtsmen/Sailors For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily on board a private yacht/sailboat; provided that such temporary visit will not entail an employer-employee relationship with a company/entity in the Philippines or the payment of any compensation in the Philippines. Letter from the owner/captain indicating the following: Port or area of entry Date of entry and period of stay List of crew and passengers Particulars of the vessel (type, name, registration call sign) Boat insurance policy Cargo manifest Character reference/shipping agent in the Philippines, if any
9(a-5)	Filmmaking Visitors For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for movie or documentary filliming purposes; provided that such temporary visit will not entail an employer-employee relationship with a company/entity in the Philippines or the payment of any compensation in the Philippines. Letter of request addressed to the International Press Center Background of film outfit Curriculum Vitae of the filmmaker, including a shortlist of work credits Synopsis/storyline of the film List of members of the crew with designations, if any Employment certificate or contract from the film outfit List of equipment with certification from the film outfit that said equipment will be re-exported at the end of the trip to the Philippines
9(a-6)	Journalism Visitors For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for news and journalism purposes; provided that such temporary visit will not entail an employer-employee relationship with a company/entity in the Philippines or the payment of any compensation in the Philippines. Letter of request addressed to the International Press Center Background of media organization, or of contracting media organization (for freelance journalists) Curriculum Vitae of newsman/journalist, including a shortlist of work credits Copy of one published article/work of journalist Synopsis/storyline/purpose of the news List of members of the crew with designations (if any) Employment certificate or contract from media company List of equipment with certification from the media organization that said equipment will be re-exported at the end of the trip to the Philippines
9(a-7)	Athletic and Performing Arts Visitors For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for athletic and performing arts purposes; provided that such temporary visit will not entail an employer-employee relationship with a company/entity in the Philippines or the payment of any compensation in the Philippines. Letter of request from the applicant’s team, group or organization Invitation letter from the organizer of the event Endorsement letter from the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Games and Amusement Board, or a national sporting association duly organized by the said Philippine authorities (for athletes) Endorsement letter from the local government unit where the venue of the event is located (for performers) Contract or agreement with the organizer, including promotional materials Proof of financial means or letter of guarantee from the sponsor List of members of the crew with designations (if applicable) Employment certificate of crew members (if applicable) List of equipment with certification from the group that said equipment will be re-exported at the end of the trip to the Philippines (if applicable) Letter of permission from a parent/guardian (for minors)
9(a-8)	Other Purposes For foreign nationals visiting the Philippines temporarily for purposes other than those cited above; provided that such temporary visit will not entail an employer-employee relationship with a company/entity in the Philippines or the payment of any compensation in the Philippines. Proof of financial capacity Documents relative to the purpose of the visit If going to the Philippine to attend a short-term English language course in the Philippines: Letter of Acceptance issued by English language school. For purposes of validating the purpose of travel to the Philippines, the English language school should also send to the Philippine Embassy by email (visa@philembassy-seoul.com) an official letter signed by an authorized official of the school the letter or acceptance or a list of accepted students indicating the name of the visa applicant, passport number, inclusive dates of the course duration plus a copy of the school’s valid license to operate. Copy of the valid business license from the relevant English language training institution. School documents issued by the Philippine Immigration Service (English document name: Immigration order). Affidavit of Parental Consent and Guarantee of Financial Support and parent's proof of employment/ business. English Family Registration Certificate issued in the applicant’s name. If staying in an accommodation provided by the school, the detailed information of the accommodation, name, address, period of dates, room type/number must be indicated in the Letter of Acceptance issued by the English language school. Employment certificate and bank certificate of individual; if a minor, may present the employment and bank certificates of the parents or guardian.

V. 9(b) Non-Immigrant for Foreigners in Transit

Per Memorandum Circular RSDJR-12-018 dated 12 October 2012, for visa-required nationals without 9(b) visas (transit visas), the passenger/s shall be under airline custody, disallowed from leaving the vicinity of the airport. They shall remain in the airport transit lounge until their actual date and time of departure.
Foreign travelers originating from one country coming to the Philippines as a transit point for another final destination country may avail of a transit visa valid for up to 72 hours upon presentation of the basic requirements together with the following:
1. Original passport and copy of its data page. The passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines;
2. Duly accomplished non-immigrant visa application form with visa applicant's signature;
3. Passport-size color photograph of the visa applicant, taken within the last three (3) months, pasted in the designated box in the application form; and
4. Confirmed onward ticket showing flight details of travel from country of origin to destination country via the Philippines.

VI. 9(c) Seaman or Crew list Visa

For individual seaman, the following documents must be presented:
1. Original passport valid for at least six (6) months from the date of departure from the Philippines;
2. Copy of the passport data page and must have the applicant's signature on the original passport before making a copy;
3. Original Seaman's Book;
4. Copy of the seaman's book bio/information page;
5. Filled-out application form with picture taken with picture taken not more than six (6) months from the date of application;
6. Copy of the electronic ticket;
7. Letter of Guarantee from the employer confirming the applicant's purpose of visit to the Philippines, indicating the name of the vessel to be joined and the place where the application will join the vessel. The letter must also indicate the date or arrival of the vessel to the Philippines, date of arrival of the crew, date of embarkation and date of vessel leaving the Philippines. The letter of guarantee must be issued within two (2) weeks from the date of visa application;
8. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines confirming the applicant's purpose of visit to the Philippines, the duration of stay of the visit, indicating the name of the vessel to be joined, and the place where the application will join the vessel. The letter must also indicate the date or arrival of the vessel to the Philippines, date of arrival of the crew, date of embarkation and date of vessel leaving the Philippines. The letter of invitation must be issued within two (2) weeks from the date of visa application; and
9. If applying through a representative, the representative must bring his/her copy of passport, Korean government-issued identification card and business card, English Employment Certificate or English Business Certificate. The Representative can only be an employee of the same company or a travel agent.
For a crew list visa, the following documents must be presented:
1. Copy of the Vessel Register showing the vessel's name, official number (IMO) and specification particulars;
2. Copy of the passport of all crew members. The passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the date of departure from the Philippines;
3. Copy of the Seaman's Record Book of all crew members. The copy of the Seaman's Record Book/maritime credentials record must show the page with the latest disembarkation and embarkation log entry. The copy of each crew members' Record Book must be printed in separate pages, and the latest disembarkation of the previous vessel and embarkation of the latest vessel are properly ordered;
4. Signed letter from the vessel owner naming the Vessel Master/Captain (full personal data from Passport and Seaman Book), identifying the authorized ship agent (with contact details), and requesting entry crew list visa for the vessel's foreign crew members. This letter should also state the total number of foreign crew members, and indicate the name of the port of entry and the date of disembarkation. If the disembarking crew members are less than five (5) people, please indicate their full personal data from the Passport and Seaman Book; and
5. Crew list visa application form and list of foreign crew members. The application form (excel file, not PDF) and all the documents required must be emailed at visa@philembassy-seoul.com and all information must be filed-out (N/A or TBA is not allowed).

VII. 9(e) Foreign Government Officials Non-Immigrant Visa

Under the PH-ROK Visa Waiver Agreement, the following Korean diplomatic and official/service passport holders may enter the Philippines under the following terms:

Type	Entry Remarks
Assigned to the diplomatic mission and consular offices in the Philippines, both for entry and duration of assignment/mission	Visa-free
Coming for temporary visits (tourism, pleasure, attend seminars, conferences, meetings and negotiations)	Visa-free; any desired period for the national

Other eligible foreign nationals include officials of the United Nations (UN) and its specialized agencies who are traveling to the Philippines on business of the UN or at the request or invitation of the Philippine government; officials of institutions duly accorded the status of official international organizations, such as the Asian Development Bank; and officials coming to the Philippines for training, study, or as exchange professors. For this type, the following procedure shall be observed:
1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or the Head of the Diplomatic Mission or International Organization which has direct authority over the concerned official, may send a note verbale to the Philippine Embassy to request for the issuance of a 9(e) visa for a qualified government official at least thirty (30) days in advance of expected travel to the Philippines. The Note should state:
  1. the particulars of the visa applicant;
  2. his/her official designation in the mission/consular office in the Philippines;
  3. his/her expected departure date from the country of origin;
  4. expected duration of assignment in the Philippines; and
  5. the complete name and designation of the official he/she is coming to replace (or if he/she is an additional official being deployed in the Sending State's mission/consular office in the Philippines).
  6. In the case of qualified dependents: that the visa applicant is traveling to the Philippines to join and live with the principal for the duration of the principal's assignment.
2. Duly filled-out application form;
3. One (1) colored photo, 4" x 4", taken within six (6) months before the date of application with white background, pasted in the designated box in the application form;
4. Clear copy of the visa applicant's diplomatic/service/official passport;
5. Declaration or Itinerary; and
6. Supporting documents to establish family ties, marital union, employee-employer relations, etc. as may be deemed necessary, in order to properly ascertain appropriate visa type per existing rules and regulations.

VIII. 9(f) Student Visa

Student visa applicants must be a foreign national who is at least eighteen (18) years of age who seek to enter the Philippines temporarily and solely for the purpose of taking up a course of study higher than high school at a university, seminary, academy, college or school, permitted by the BI to accept foreign students.
The student applicant must directly apply for admission to his/her Philippine educational institution of interest. The accepting Philippine school shall forward the application package to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for approval. Once approved, the application package shall be endorsed by CHED to the DFA. Prior approval from the DFA is required prior to issuance of a visa under this category.
The following basic requirements must be submitted:
1. Original passport and copy of its data page. The passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines;
2. Duly accomplished non-immigrant visa application form with visa applicant's signature; and
3. Passport-size color photograph of the visa applicant, taken within the last three (3) months, pasted in the designated box in the application form;
4. Original and photocopy of the accepting Philippine school's Notice of Admission (NOA);
5. Original and photocopy of the Certificate of Admission and Eligibility (CAE) issued by the CHED, if enrolled in courses/programs where restrictions exist due to shortage of facilities (i.e. medicine, dentistry);
6. Original and copy of apostilled police clearance issued by the Korean police authorities and translated in English; and
7. Original medical health certificate accomplished by a General Practitioner. The medical certificate must also include the x-ray results with CD, laboratory reports, etc. The medical exam must be taken within one (1) month from the date of visa application.
Within seven (7) days upon arrival in the Philippines of the foreign student who obtained a 9(f) visa from the Philippine Embassy, he/she must report to:
1. the admitting school/university/college/Higher Education Institution (HEI), for purposes of enrolment and competency level assessment; and
2. the BI Student Visa Section, for registration and processing of his/her Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) i-Card application.
The Philippine Embassy does not endorse applications for admission to any school in the Philippines. Please refer to the admitting school authorities for specific details of their foreign student admission programs.
Foreigners traveling to the Philippines to participate in short-term (approximately 3 to 6 months), non-degree courses in the Philippines (i.e. language proficiency, computer courses, and other special interest subjects) must apply for a temporary visitor's 9(a) visa and submit proof of acceptance to the course offered in the Philippines, through a duly-signed letter/certification issued by the accepting Philippine-based learning institution.
1. Upon arrival in the Philippines and acceptance by the learning institution, the foreign national should apply for a Special Study Permit at the BI's Student Desk. Details about the required documents by the BI for the issuance of the Special Study Permit can be found at their website at: immigration.gov.ph/services/special-permits/special-study-permit

IX. 9(g) Non-Immigrant Visa Requirements for Pre-Arranged Employment

Foreign nationals proceeding to the Philippines to engage in any lawful occupation be it for wages or salary, or other forms of compensation where bona fide employer-employee relations exist fall under this category of entry visa. Applicants may range from various professions, inclusive of medical practitioners, nurses, professors, technical experts, scientists and other skilled professionals for banking, commercial, industrial, agricultural, business, and similar enterprises.
Prior approval from the DFA is required prior to issuance of a visa under this category.
To apply for a 9(g) visa, the following procedure must be completed:
1. The employing corporation in the Philippines shall file the application for a pre-arranged employment visa under category 9(g) of the Philippine Immigration Act, and submit the necessary documents to the BI;
2. After assessment and evaluation of the submitted documents, approved applications are communicated by the BI to the DFA; and
3. The DFA gives authority to the corresponding Philippine Embassy for the issuance of a 9(g) visa abroad.
Once the authority is received, the following documents must be submitted to the Philippine Embassy:
1. Original passport valid for at least six (6) months from the date of departure from the Philippines;
2. Copy of the passport data page with signature of the applicant;
3. Filled-out Application Form with picture taken not more than six (6) months from the date of application;
4. Round trip e-ticket (open-ended tickets are not acceptable);
5. Letter of guarantee from the employer confirming the applicant's employment, purpose of visit to the Philippines (i.e., short business related trip and shall not be employed nor service income in the Philippines), and financial support while in the Philippines. The letter must have the official company seal and/or employer's signature. Guarantee letters from family members, friends or company co-workers are not allowed. The guarantee letter should have been issued within two (2) weeks from the date of visa application;
6. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines confirming the purpose of visit of the visa applicant and the duration of stay of the visit (must match the dates in the flight ticket), with a guarantee that until the applicant obtains the 9(g) working visa from the BI, the company guarantees that he/she will not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company and will financially support the applicant. The letter must have the official company seal and/or employer's signature, and should have been issued within two (2) weeks from the date of the visa application;
7. Colored copy of the employment contract;
8. Colored copy of the receipt for the 9(g) visa fee from the BI;
9. Colored copy of the Philippine Alien Employment Permit ID;
10. Original and copy of apostilled police clearance issued by the Korean police authorities and translated in English; and
11. Original medical health certificate accomplished by a General Practitioner. The medical certificate must also include the x-ray results with CD, laboratory reports, etc. The medical exam must be taken within one month from the date of visa application.
For visa applicants who are dependents of 9(g) visa holders, the following documents must be submitted to the Philippine Embassy:
1. Items 37(a) to (d) above;
2. Letter of guarantee from the company where the family member of the dependent applicant is currently employed. The guarantee letter must mention the confirmation of the family member's employment; relationship of the dependent applicant to the family member employed; and purpose of the visit to the Philippines (e.g., to reunite and support his father/mother/husband/wife); and financial support while in the Philippines;
3. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines where the family member of the dependent applicant is employed, confirming the family member's employment; relationship of the dependent applicant to the family member; purpose of the visit to the Philippines (e.g., to reunite and support his father/mother/husband/wife); duration of stay of the visit (similar to the dates in the round-trip e-ticket) and guarantee that the dependent applicant shall not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company;
4. Colored copy of the employment contract of the family member currently employed;
5. Colored copy of the receipt for the 9(g) Visa Fee from the BI;
6. Colored copy of the Philippine Alien Employment Permit ID of the family member currently employed; and
7. Original and copy of English Family Registration Certificate issued in the applicant's name;
8. Original and copy of apostilled police clearance issued by the Korean police authorities and translated in English; and
9. Original medical health certificate accomplished by a General Practitioner. The medical certificate must also include the x-ray results with CD, laboratory reports, etc. The medical exam must be taken within one month from the date of visa application.

X. 47(a)(2) Special Non-Immigrant Visa

A special non-immigrant visa is issued to qualified foreigners coming to the Philippines as professors, scholars, trainees, fellows, students, technical personnel, volunteers, and other participants of certain entities and programs under the auspices of particular institutions, agencies, foundations, and corporations recognized by the Philippines.
For foreign nationals covered under the above category, the Philippine-based employer shall lodge the application before the Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). The DOJ and/or PEZA shall then convey approved applications to the DFA, which will grant corresponding authority to issue visas to the concerned Philippine Foreign Service Post.
1. For more information, please visit the DOJ website at www.doj.gov.ph/visa_application.html and the PEZA website at www.peza.gov.ph/documents/visachecklist.pdf
Once approval is received by the Philippine Embassy from the DFA, the applicant must submit the following documents:
1. Original passport and photocopy of the data page. The passport must bear the applicant's signature before making a copy. It must also be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines;
2. Duly accomplished non-immigrant visa application form with visa applicant's signature;
3. Passport-size color photograph of the visa applicant, taken within the last three (3) months, pasted in the designated box in the application form;
4. Original and copy of apostilled police clearance issued by the Korean police authorities and translated in English; and
5. Original medical health certificate accomplished by a General Practitioner. The medical certificate must also include the x-ray results with CD, laboratory reports, etc. The medical exam must be taken within one month from the date of visa application.
6. Colored copy of the employment contract;
7. Roundtrip e-ticket (open-ended tickets are not allowed);
8. Letter of Endorsement from the relevant Philippine government agency;
9. Original Letter of Guarantee from the employer confirming the applicant's employment, purpose of visit to the Philippines (i.e., short business-related trip and shall not be employed nor derive income in the Philippines until the appropriate visa is obtained from the DOJ), and financial support while in the Philippines. The letter of guarantee must have the official company seal/employer's signature and a guarantee from family members, friends or co-workers are not acceptable. The letter of guarantee must have been issued within 2 weeks from the date of the visa application.
10. Original or colored copy letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines confirming the purpose of the visit of the visa applicant and the duration of stay of the visit, with a guarantee that until the applicant obtains the 47a(2) visa, the company guarantees that he/she will not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company. The duration of stay of the visit should match the dates in the flight ticket. The letter of invitation must be issued within 2 weeks from the date of the visa application.
For visa applicants who are dependents of 47a(2) visa holders, the following documents must be submitted to the Philippine Embassy:
1. Items 41(a) to (c) above;
2. Letter of guarantee from the company where the family member of the dependent applicant is currently employed. The guarantee letter must mention the confirmation of the family member's employment; relationship of the dependent applicant to the family member employed; and purpose of the visit to the Philippines (e.g., to reunite and support his father/mother/husband/wife); and financial support while in the Philippines;
3. Letter of invitation from the company in the Philippines where the family member of the dependent applicant is employed, confirming the family member's employment; relationship of the dependent applicant to the family member; purpose of the visit to the Philippines (e.g., to reunite and support his father/mother/husband/wife); duration of stay of the visit (similar to the dates in the round-trip e-ticket) and guarantee that the dependent applicant shall not be employed by nor derive income from the Philippine-based company.;
4. Employment contract of the family member who is currently employed;
5. Original and copy of English Family Registration Certificate issued in the applicant's name;
6. Original and copy of apostilled police clearance issued by the Korean police authorities and translated in English; and
7. Original medical health certificate accomplished by a General Practitioner. The medical certificate must also include the x-ray results with CD, laboratory reports, etc. The medical exam must be taken within one month from the date of visa application.

XI. 13(a) Spouse or unmarried child of Filipino citizen

The Philippine Embassy may issue a permanent residence visa (specifically the 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa) to the qualified non-Filipino spouse of a Filipino citizen. The applicant must be married to a Filipino citizen or unmarried children under twenty-one (21) years of age of a Filipino citizen, if accompanying or following to join such citizen.
The 13(a) visa is issued only to nationals of countries listed below. The 13(a) visa is not issued to nationals NOT included in the preceding list.
- Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Botswana, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Canada, Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt (visa applicant must be a male and married to a female Philippine citizen), El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, Fiji, France, Gabon, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Iraq, Ireland, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea South, Latvia, Lesotho, Libya (visa applicant must be a male and married to a female Philippine citizen), Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau SAR, Malaysia, Malta (provided that the marriage took place before 24 April 2001 or the couple has been married for at least 5 years), Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Montenegro, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Northern Mariana Island, Norway, Oman (visa applicant must be a male and married to a female Philippine citizen), Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, Saudi Arabia (visa applicant must be a male and married to a female Philippine citizen), Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, Uruguay, USA, Venezuela.
Applicants may submit the following documents to the Philippine Embassy:
1. Two (2) original filled-out application forms;
2. Joint letter request addressed to the Commissioner of the BI from the applicant and the petitioning Filipino spouse/parent;
3. Applicant's passport, with validity of at least one (1) year at the time of filing;
4. Two (2) copies of the data page and latest immigration admission stamp in the Philippines;
5. Passport of the petitioning Filipino spouse/parent, with validity of at least one (1) year at the time of filing, and two (2) copies of the data page. The Filipino spouse/parent should maintain his/her Filipino nationality;
6. Four (4) passport-size (2x2) ID photos;
7. For spouse, original and 2 copies of the PSA-issued Marriage Certificate. If married abroad, a Report of Marriage duly issued by the PSA. For unmarried children, original and 2 copies of the Birth Certificate which should contain the applicant's name and his/her parents;
8. Original and copy of apostilled police clearance issued by the Korean police authorities and translated in English;
9. Original medical health certificate accomplished by a General Practitioner. The medical certificate must also include the x-ray results with CD, laboratory reports, etc. The medical exam must be taken within one month from the date of visa application;
10. Original and 2 copies of proof of sufficient financial capacity to live in the Philippines, such as, but not limited to bank statement, at least three (3) months, employment certificate from the employer indicating position and salary, or certificates of stocks, or proof of business registration for self-employed;
11. Original and copy of English Family Registration Certificate issued in the applicant's name;
12. Original or printed clear scanned copy of other supporting documents proving that your Filipino spouse or parent is currently in the Philippines (e.g., Philippine immigration arrival stamps, certification issued by the local municipality/barangay where the Filipino national resides, or duly notarized employment certificate); and
13. If traveling with the Filipino spouse/parent, original and copy of the round-trip or one-way e-ticket for the Filipino spouse/parent traveling on the same flight.