Information for Applicants

Non-Filipinos are required to secure visas and permits for entry and long-term stay in the Philippines. The visas and permits are obtained from the MECO Consular Affairs Office .

For a list of countries with visa-free entry for their citizens, please visit the Department of Foreign Affairs Visa Section .

Click here to find the kinds of visas and permits that are issued by the MECO Consular Affairs Office.

Click here to download the list of requirements for getting visas and permits and to download application forms for various kinds of visas and permits.

Click here for the recent update on visa requirements (as of April 1, 2009).

 
Our staff at the MECO Consular Affairs Office will make sure your application process goes smoothly.  Please take note of the amount of time needed for processing your application.

Schedule of Release of Visas

If you submit your application form with complete requirements on or before 11.30 a.m., your visa will be ready for release after 5.00 p.m. of the same day.

If you submit your visa application form with complete requirements after 1.00 p.m., your visa will be released after 9.30 a.m. of the next working day.

Schedule of Release of Documents 

Travel documents such as affidavits will be released after three (3) working days.  Documents with the additional Expedite Fee will be released after 5.00 p.m. of the same day.

Helpful Links

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) implements Philippine foreign policy. The DFA has more information on your entry requirements to the Philippines.

For more information on your status of entry in the Philippines or change in status, visit the Bureau of Immigration (BI) .

The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) encourages foreign nationals and former Filipino citizens to invest, reside and retire in the Philippines.