Moving to the Philippines from the USA

Checklist for Americans relocating to the Philippines — the Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV), banking, leases in Manila or Cebu, PhilHealth, and your first 30 days.

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Visa & legal right to stay

Pick a route: SRRV (from age 35 with deposit), tourist extensions (up to 3 years), 13(a) spouse visa, or 9(g) work visa
Must
SRRV requires a $10k–$50k bank deposit depending on age and program type
Must
Apply for SRRV through the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA)

Paperwork to gather before you fly

Apostilled FBI background check (under 6 months)
Must
Apostilled birth and marriage certificates
Must
Medical clearance certificate
Must
Passport photos (Philippine size, 2x2 white background)
Pet docs: USDA-endorsed health certificate + BAI import permit

Money & banking

Open a Philippine bank account (BPI, BDO, or Metrobank) once you have an ACR I-Card
Foreign-source income is generally not taxed for foreign residents
Keep US accounts open — many Philippine banks have transfer limits
Must
Use Wise or Remitly for USD-PHP transfers

Housing

Stay in a serviced apartment for 30–60 days
Use Lamudi, Dot Property, or local Facebook groups for long-term condos
BGC, Makati, Cebu IT Park, and Subic are top expat areas
Budget 2 months deposit + 1–2 months advance; 12-month lease standard
Verify backup power (typhoons) and water service

Healthcare

Buy international or Philippine expat insurance (Pacific Cross, AXA, MediCard)
Must
Enroll in PhilHealth (~$10/mo) for emergency hospital coverage
Top private hospitals: St. Luke's, Makati Med, Asian Hospital, Cebu Doctors'

First 30 days on the ground

Get your ACR I-Card from Bureau of Immigration
Must
Tourist visa extensions are done at BI offices — first extension at 30 days, then up to 36 months total
Must
Get a Philippine SIM (Globe, Smart, or DITO) — SIM registration is now required
Use Grab for safe rides; jeepneys and trikes for short hops
Register with the US Embassy in Manila (STEP)

FAQ

Can I just live on tourist stamps long-term?

Many do — Americans can extend tourist stays up to 36 months without leaving. After that you must exit and re-enter or convert to a long-term visa like SRRV or 13(a).

How does SRRV compare to just extending the tourist visa?

SRRV gives permanent residency, multi-entry, no need to extend, and tax benefits — but ties up $10k–$50k as a deposit. Tourist extensions are flexible but capped at 36 months.

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NextLatitude is for organization and guidance only. Visa rules, tax thresholds, and procedures change — always confirm with the relevant consulate or a licensed professional before acting. Last reviewed 2026-06-01.