Cost of Spouse Visa in the Philippines

Disclaimer: The following article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Philippine immigration regulations and fees may change over time, so applicants should always verify the most recent rules and fee structures with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) or consult a qualified attorney.

1. Introduction

A spouse visa, commonly referred to in the Philippines as a 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa (or simply a “spousal resident visa”), grants a foreign national married to a Filipino citizen the right to reside and, in some cases, work in the Philippines. Because this is a residence permit, not a temporary travel visa, it significantly simplifies staying in the country long term. Below is a comprehensive overview of the costs, legal requirements, and processes associated with obtaining a spouse visa in the Philippines.

2. Legal Basis

  1. Commonwealth Act No. 613 (Philippine Immigration Act of 1940) – Establishes the legal foundations for regulating the entry and stay of foreign nationals in the Philippines.
  2. Bureau of Immigration (BI) Memorandum Circulars – Outline specific requirements, procedures, and fee structures for various visa applications, including the 13(a).
  3. Relevant Executive Orders and Other Regulations – From time to time, the President of the Philippines or the Department of Justice (which oversees the BI) may issue updates or directives that affect immigration rules.

3. Types of Spouse Visa Under the 13(a) Category

  1. Probationary 13(a) Visa

    • Usually valid for one (1) year from the date of issuance.
    • Commonly the first step for foreign spouses seeking long-term residence in the Philippines.
    • After the probationary period, you may apply for permanent resident status.

  2. Permanent 13(a) Visa

    • Issued after completing the one-year probationary period, upon compliance with all requirements.
    • Valid for multiple entries and indefinite stay, subject to periodic reporting requirements.

4. Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the 13(a) Spouse Visa, the foreign national must meet these basic criteria:

  1. Valid Marriage to a Filipino Citizen

    • Marriage must be recognized under Philippine law.
    • Foreign divorce (if any) must be recognized in the Philippines if it affects the validity of a subsequent marriage.

  2. No Disqualifications

    • Applicants must not fall under any category disallowed by Philippine law (e.g., convicted criminals, individuals listed as undesirable, persons who may pose a threat to public health or national security).

  3. Demonstrable Proof of Genuine Marital Relationship

    • Documentary evidence (e.g., marriage certificate, joint bank accounts, pictures, affidavits) may be required to prove the marriage is not a sham.

  4. Good Character and No Overstaying Record

    • Having overstayed or violated immigration laws can impact eligibility.

5. Documentary Requirements

While the Bureau of Immigration may adjust or revise its document checklist, a typical application involves:

  1. Duly Accomplished Visa Application Form (BI Form 2013-01 or other prescribed forms).
  2. Joint Letter Request addressed to the Commissioner of Immigration, signed by both spouses.
  3. Marriage Certificate:
    • If the marriage took place in the Philippines, secure an original copy (or certified true copy) from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
    • If the marriage took place abroad, the marriage certificate should be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the country where the marriage was solemnized and reported to the PSA.
  4. Birth Certificate of the Filipino Spouse (PSA copy).
  5. Foreign Spouse’s Birth Certificate (officially translated and authenticated if not in English).
  6. Valid Passport of the Foreign Spouse (must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay).
  7. Photocopies of Passport Bio Page, Latest Entry Stamp, and Visa (if applicable).
  8. Proof of Financial Capacity (e.g., bank statements, employment contract, or affidavit of support if the Filipino spouse is employed and capable of supporting the foreign spouse).
  9. Bureau of Immigration Clearance Certificate (if required).
  10. NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) Clearance or Police Clearance from the foreign spouse’s country of origin, depending on BI’s requirements.
  11. Photographs (passport-size photos, typically with a white background; specific requirements vary).
  12. Additional Proof of Bona Fide Relationship (photos, lease contracts showing joint residence, joint bank accounts, etc.).

6. Application Process

  1. Secure Requirements
    • Gather all necessary documents. Ensure you have original copies plus photocopies.
  2. Submit Documents
    • File the application at the Bureau of Immigration Main Office in Manila or an authorized BI field office.
    • Submit the Joint Letter Request, completed forms, and supporting documents.
  3. Pay Applicable Fees
    • The BI cashier will issue an Order of Payment Slip (OPS) for the relevant processing fees.
    • Pay at the designated cashier and secure the Official Receipt (OR).
  4. Interview and/or Hearing
    • In some cases, the BI might require an interview or hearing to verify the authenticity of the marriage and eligibility.
  5. Additional Clearance or Verification
    • The BI may request additional clearances or documentation (e.g., NBI, medical clearance, CFO certificate if relevant).
  6. Issuance of Probationary Visa
    • Once approved, the foreign spouse will receive a one-year probationary 13(a) visa.
    • The applicant is usually required to secure an ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card).
  7. Conversion to Permanent 13(a) Visa
    • After the one-year probationary period, apply for a permanent 13(a).
    • The permanent visa is typically valid indefinitely, but the foreign national remains subject to annual reporting requirements at the BI.

7. Estimated Costs

Note: Actual costs fluctuate based on current BI rules and regulations, express lane fees, and whether additional clearances or translations are needed. The costs below are approximate figures as of recent practice.

  1. Application Fees and Visa Fees

    • Filing Fee: Around PHP 8,000 – 9,000 for the 13(a) probationary visa application.
    • ACR I-Card Fee: Approximately PHP 2,000 – 3,000, although this may vary depending on the BI’s current schedule of fees.

  2. Legal Research Fee (LRF)

    • Typically an additional percentage (often 1% or a flat rate) on top of the basic fees, usually no more than a few hundred pesos.

  3. Express Lane Fees

    • The BI may offer express lane processing for an additional fee (often around PHP 1,000).
    • This is optional if you prefer faster handling of your application.

  4. Documentary Costs

    • PSA Documents: Minimal fees for birth and marriage certificates from the Philippine Statistics Authority.
    • Notarization / Authentication Costs: Fees for notary services, authentication stamps, etc.
    • Translation Costs: If any foreign-language documents require certified translation.

  5. Additional Clearances

    • NBI Clearance Fee: Typically a few hundred pesos for local applicants.
    • Police Clearance from Home Country: Costs vary by country.

  6. Annual Reporting Fee

    • Once you have a 13(a) visa, you must report each year to the Bureau of Immigration (January 1 to March 1). The annual reporting fee is usually around PHP 300–310 plus a legal research fee.

In total, an applicant might expect to spend anywhere from PHP 10,000 to PHP 15,000 or more for the initial probationary 13(a) visa, taking into account filing fees, the ACR I-Card, possible express lane charges, notarizations, and miscellaneous fees. Costs can increase if you use an immigration lawyer or if you need multiple clearances and translations.

8. Validity, Renewal, and Other Obligations

  1. Validity

    • The probationary 13(a) is generally valid for one year, subject to renewal or conversion into a permanent 13(a).
    • The permanent 13(a) does not expire, but the foreign national must follow annual reporting requirements.

  2. Annual Reporting

    • All foreigners holding immigrant or non-immigrant visas in the Philippines must report in person to the BI each year between January 1 and March 1, and pay the required fee.

  3. Reversion to Tourist Visa

    • If the marriage is dissolved or annulled, or if the Filipino spouse passes away, the foreigner generally loses eligibility for the 13(a). In such cases, the foreign national should notify the BI and may need to convert to another visa category.

9. Common Pitfalls and Tips

  1. Incomplete Documentation
    • Failure to submit a complete set of documents is a frequent reason for delays or denials.
  2. Misrepresentation or Fraud
    • Submitting fraudulent documents or misrepresenting facts can result in outright denial or future blacklisting.
  3. Overstaying Before Applying
    • Overstays can complicate the 13(a) process. Make sure to maintain valid immigration status while waiting for your application to process.
  4. Late Annual Reporting
    • Penalties apply if you fail to complete the mandatory annual reporting on time.
  5. Checking for Updates
    • Fees, forms, and requirements can change. Always consult the official BI website or inquire at BI offices for the latest updates.

10. Conclusion

Acquiring a 13(a) Spouse Visa in the Philippines can be a straightforward process if you carefully prepare the necessary documents and budget for the related costs. The initial outlay for fees (government charges, notarizations, clearances, and potential express lane services) can range roughly between PHP 10,000 and PHP 15,000, though this figure may vary. Once approved, foreign spouses benefit from a path to long-term residency and the convenience of not having to leave the Philippines frequently.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ensure your marriage is legally recognized in the Philippines.
  • Collect and submit the required documents meticulously.
  • Prepare for the one-year probationary period before permanent residency.
  • Stay informed of any changes in BI rules and fees.
  • Maintain compliance with annual reporting and other immigration obligations.

Because regulations and costs can change, it is advisable to regularly check with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration or consult a qualified immigration lawyer to ensure your application proceeds smoothly.

Disclaimer: This content is not legal advice and may involve AI assistance. Information may be inaccurate.

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