Philippines Residency
Guide to Philippines residency options. SRRV retirement visa and other options for long-term stay.
The Philippines offers affordable living, English-speaking population, and several visa options for long-term residents.
Visa Options
SRRV (Special Resident Retiree's Visa)
The main long-term residency option for most foreigners.
| SRRV Type | Age | Deposit Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| SRRV Smile | 35+ | $20,000 |
| SRRV Classic | 35+ | $10,000-50,000 (depends on pension) |
Benefits: - Indefinite stay - Multiple entry - Can be used as proof of residency - Relatively low cost
Requirements: - Age 35+ (SRRV Smile) or 50+ (Classic with pension) - Clean criminal record - Health clearance - Deposit in Philippine bank (returnable upon cancellation)
13(a) Marriage Visa
For those married to Philippine citizens. Leads to permanent residency.
SIRV (Special Investor's Resident Visa)
Investment of $75,000 in Philippine securities or business.
Tourist Visa Extensions
Can stay up to 3 years with continuous extensions, but doesn't provide residency status.
Tax Considerations
Philippines tax residency is based on 180+ days of presence.
For tax residents: - Philippine-source income: Taxed at progressive rates (up to 35%) - Foreign-source income: Generally NOT taxed (territorial system for individuals)
This territorial treatment makes Philippines attractive for remote workers with foreign income.
Important: The tax treatment of foreign-sourced income can be complex. Consult a Filipino tax professional.
Cost of Living
| Location | Monthly Budget |
|---|---|
| Manila (nice area) | $1,500-3,000 |
| Cebu | $1,000-2,000 |
| Provincial areas | $800-1,500 |
The Philippines offers very low costs, especially outside Manila.
Pros & Cons
Pros: - Very low cost of living - English is widely spoken - Friendly, welcoming culture - Territorial taxation (foreign income not taxed) - Beautiful beaches and nature - Large expat community
Cons: - Infrastructure can be challenging - Traffic in Manila is notorious - Typhoon season - Internet reliability varies - Safety concerns in some areas - Bureaucracy can be slow
Philippines + US LLC
The Philippines' territorial tax system works well with a US LLC:
- Your US LLC income from foreign clients = foreign-source income
- Not taxed in Philippines (for individual tax residents)
- Not taxed in US (assuming you're not a US person and it's not US-source)
This can provide effective 0% tax on your business income while living in a very affordable country.
Caution: Tax rules can change. Always verify with a local tax professional.
Who Is Philippines For?
- Budget-conscious entrepreneurs
- Those who value English-speaking environment
- Beach/island lovers
- Anyone who doesn't mind rustic infrastructure
- Retirees (SRRV is accessible)
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