The Philippines offers residency through investment (FIV) or retirement (SRRV), with naturalization possible after 10 years. The FIV is a fast-track permanent residency with a low investment.
Citizenship Pathways
FAB-Investor Visa (FIV)
Cost: ~$75,000 fixed deposit
Timeline: 0.0 years
Presence Required: None required
A new fast-track permanent residency program processed under the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB). It has no minimum stay, net worth, or real-estate purchase requirements, and a low investment of US$75,000. Approved FIV residents can live, work, or study anywhere in the Philippines and can naturalize after fulfilling naturalization requirements.
Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)
Cost: US$10,000 fixed deposit (50+ without pension) or US$1,500 monthly pension + US$10,000 fixed deposit (35-49 with pension)
Timeline: 0.1 years
Presence Required: None required
The SRRV is a permanent residency visa for foreign nationals aged 35 and above. It requires a fixed deposit in an accredited bank or a combination of pension and deposit. It grants indefinite stay and multiple-entry privileges, with no minimum stay requirement.
Naturalization
Cost: ~$5,000 - $10,000 in fees
Timeline: 10.0 years
Presence Required: 10 years residency
Standard naturalization in the Philippines requires a minimum of 10 years of continuous residency. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character, a belief in the principles of the Philippine Constitution, and a sufficient understanding of the English or Spanish language, and Philippine history and culture.
: Deposit US$75,000 into an accredited Philippine bank
— 1 week — US$75,000
: Submit application to the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) Authority
— 1-2 weeks — Application fees (approx. US$500-1,000)
: Attend interview and undergo biometric capture
— 1 day — Travel costs
: Receive FIV approval and permanent residency ID card
— 2-4 months — None
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Low investment for permanent residency (FIV)
No minimum stay requirement for FIV or SRRV
Pathway to citizenship after 10 years residency
English widely spoken, making integration easier
Affordable cost of living compared to Western countries
Challenges
Bureaucracy can be slow and complex
Infrastructure challenges in some areas
Political instability and corruption concerns
Naturalization process is lengthy (10 years)
Requirements
Passport copy — Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Police clearance — From country of origin and any country resided in for over 1 year
Medical examination — Certified by a licensed physician in the Philippines
Bank certificate — Proof of investment deposit for FIV or SRRV
Application forms — Duly completed and signed application forms for the chosen visa
Tax System
System: territorial
Residents are taxed on income derived from sources within the Philippines. Foreign-sourced income is generally not taxed unless remitted to the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in the Philippines with an FIV?
Yes, approved FIV residents can live, work, or study anywhere in the Philippines without needing a separate work permit.
Is the FIV investment refundable?
The US$75,000 for the FIV is a fixed deposit, which implies it is held and can potentially be withdrawn upon visa cancellation.
Can my family join me on an FIV?
Yes, the FIV program typically allows for inclusion of immediate family members, though additional fees may apply.