Philippines Immigration Update. How They Affect You

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

HEIDI CAJES- C&G CONSULTING VISA AND SRRV / 13A INFO cgconsulting.ph/mike

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@jeanpaul5035]

@@TheKingKong3000 you could give a trusted friend power of attorney to sell it and deposit the funds to your bank account. You could also have a trusted friend store it for you.

[@vidong1704]

@@TheKingKong3000 This is why I will just buy an electric bike.

[@pyroactivatorandsensorydev9817]

thank you for this contact!

[@tennesseehillybillyintheph835]

I have been here over 10 years and my #1 priority was my visa. I now have my permanent residence visa and it has to be kept up to date also. Abide by the rules and you should not have a problem.

[@chrismacqueen4891]

Not everyone has an option. I don't qualify for any permanent visa as I'm not 50 yet but retired due to being a disabled combat vet. Only option is a marriage visa but that requires your being married which means need to find someone you actually want to marry. Others may not have the very large sum of money available to hand over for 10 years to one of their banks becoming untouchable. Don't act like its a choice and people choose to just be lazy.

[@Borsia]

I was in immigration doing my visa and a guy basically gave a smart ass comment and the head of the office just picked up his papers tore them in half and tossed them into the trash then told him he was being deported. BE NICE you are a guest here and they have zero obligation to put up with ANY crap from you !!! I've been here for over 12 years and no issues but I make damn sure that I'm polite and the Immigration officers here in Duma are great people.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

it can happen

[@rfbos]

Doubtful that happened that way.

[@vidong1704]

What was the smartass comment?

[@vidong1704]

What did the guy say?

[@Borsia]

@@vidong1704 We, my wife and I, didn't hear the initial comment he made. When we came in he was trying to plead with her to forget his comment that "he didn't really mean it" but it was obvious crocodile tears and she wasn't buying what he was trying to sell as an excuse for being rude to her.

[@CliffordHillman-u5b]

I had mine extended at Santa Rosa immigration office , the whole experience went well , he took my passport and instructed me to come back @ 2 pm , the first month was 27.00 us , next month I asked for a 4 month extension , besides the cost , everything went well . Your right we are in someone else’s country , show respect according !

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for the info

[@johncalder-gx4bf]

Thank goodness I have had my 13A visa for 14 years now. Visit the immigration office at the first of the year, pay my 310 peso and I am good to go.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

that makes life easy

[@Charles-rd6ku]

@@johncalder-gx4bf wow that's cheap

[@jazzpianoman01]

Best way to go; tourist visa doesn’t guarantee your stay

[@bornonjuly7052]

@@Charles-rd6ku wow congrats!

[@davidcogburn6725]

I agree, with my Philippine Spouse Visa, I have had no problems in almost 9 years in the country. I go in to Immigration around mid Feb every year, pay my 310. Now that you can do it on line if your passport is properly recorded, you don't even have to visit the Immigration office, just pay I think it was 810 in Feb 24. I just renewed my US passport so I have to get that into immigration so I can continue to do my annual registration on-line. Thank you BI for updating your system, job well done.

[@liamctoner]

Being able to stay as a “tourist” for 3 years then exit and start again is very unique for anywhere in the world. You are “defacto” resident ! I am not at all surprised they are tightening up on it !

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@jazzpianoman01]

@@liamctoner Exactly, I always thought it was very lenient as most countries don’t allow that and would require exits and visa runs.

[@hnlpharmd]

I don't think it's a coincidence that the BI memorandum came out less than a week after the POGO ban. I suspect the tightening efforts are primarily aimed at those connected with said industry, i.e. Chinese nationals, but of course they will never be singled out in writing.

[@pilotusa]

Just leaving the country for a day at the end of three years and coming back for another tourist visa is really a strange requirement. I would think they would require at least a month out of the country with a stop in your home country before becoming a Philippine "tourist" again.

[@Borsia]

What they are really cracking down on is falsely representing yourself in your visa application. Like working, running a business, or doing other things not allowed on a tourist visa.

[@flinx649]

I think this is more directed to the Chinese in the country.

[@JunBermz]

I agree. Most Chinese working at POGO were tourists. Many of the Chinese tourists are also doing other illegal activities in the country.

[@hansreynders6853]

Yeah, but they can not pick up those Chinese in immigration office because they didn't go there. Most were overstaying big time.

[@SteveLopez-q4o]

Chinese Korean Russian

[@CalmDownClown]

@@SteveLopez-q4o absolutely the top 3 offenders , America is a favored country to the Phils , dont believe all the Tubers most of the American ones are well known shit starters looking to cause Grief and insecurities for Clicks and Views any good KZbinr from America stays as far away from other American as possible the ones who sit in the same Bar or cafe pissing and moaning are usually up to No Good never give them access to your Home , your Money or Your Woman . . . Ever

[@hnlpharmd]

I agree, but China is already engaging in jingoistic behavior toward the Philippines, so the BI would never single out Chinese nationals for fear of causing further escalation.

[@timledbetter1781]

Sorry, this anxiety is why I decided to get my SRRV. I don't need to worry about this😊

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

SRRV is good

[@Charles-rd6ku]

@@timledbetter1781 yeah i got to think of myself i do have a fiance here though we might get a 13a. I'm kind of take up my time on it with her there's no rush to get married at my age

[@mikebreen2890]

Go what?

[@gary_in_the_Philippines]

What happens to the $10,000+ money you have to deposit in their Filipino bank if something happens to you? Do they keep it or release it to a relative? Veterans only have to deposit $1500+ but regulars to have to deposit $10,000 thats allot of money.

[@timledbetter1781]

@samuraigary if you invest in residence, and prove it with deed or lease, they return it to you

[@ricoroger]

YOU keep it simple! Thanks! There is a lot of lot of people saying this and that and making a lot of drama out it. Thanks Mike!!!! YOU put my mind at ease.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

k.i.s.s.

[@FilipinaRandom]

We went through the process about 3 days ago. It was a normal immigration process with a difference that I thought was unique

[@Bruno99520]

Thank you for your good council. You made perfect sense of what the issues are.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

My pleasure!

[@martypoll]

Something similar happened in Thailand. The military took over the government in 2014. A few years later they started enforcing existing regulations. It was a shock to the old timers.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

I worry about being stuck in Thailand

[@martypoll]

@@mikesphilippineretirement stuck how?

[@CalmDownClown]

@@mikesphilippineretirement Yes far to much good food for a guy

[@Steveo_00700]

A developing country like the Philippines enforces its immigration laws much stricter than the US. I wish America would enforce theirs.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes

[@paulgallagher2937]

Not exactly. The official route into the USA is far more strict than Philippines. They just don't protect the border from illegal entry. Not really an issue for Philippines since its an island.

[@HumbleTravels]

if you've ever tried to bring a spouse from a foreign country to the US, you know it's pretty tough to do, and very stressful and expensive.

[@Steveo_00700]

@@HumbleTravels your not kidding. I've been through the meat grinder already.

[@jerichojohnson3219]

The only place with no immigration standards in the communist Democ"rat" run U.S.A. "COME ONE, COME ALL." "WEST SIDE STORY" > FREE 2-5 ***** STAR HOTEL, FREE FOOD, FREE I PHONE, FREE MCDONALD CARDS, FREE LAWYERS, FREE CLOTHES, FREE 2000 A MONTH LOADED DEBT CARD ....>>> ONLY CATCH YOU MUST VOTE FOR K/\MALA H/\RASS-US ( DAUGHTER OF A JAMACIAN SL/\VE OWNERS / J0E ROBINHQQD B!DEN IS B'LIE`DEN & TAMP0N TIMMY W/\LZ, WITH NO BALLZ. STOLEN VALOR SOLD!ER WHO DROVE DRUNK AS A SKUNK AT 95 mph on a city street past 2 schools. HAD one quart of HORSE DN/\, pumped out of his Timmy Tummy [ semen ]. Deserted his /\RMY UN!T .... before being sent into a W/\R Z0NE. *Has a fondness for "Twinks," not the H0ST355 Cake Twinkies. Let's 6-7-8 up year old cut off schl0ngs and become Tr/ s 5exual without their parent's consent. H3 let MPLS burn for 5 long days and 5 long nights .... to appease BLM/ ANTIFA [ CUZ, YOU KNOW ONLY BL/\CK LIEs M/\TT3R ]

[@rustyevolution6298]

It is a good thing that the government is being more proactive in enforcing existing immigration laws. I have traveled on 5 continents and have never had any issues with immigration. Here in the Philippines I always bring all the proper paperwork, neatly organized, I am polite to the immigration officers, wear proper clothing, and fill out the forms properly. It is always quick and easy to get my extention. There are MANY expats here who regularly violate Philippine immigration laws. People like "Reekay" who illegally work while on a tourist visa. People who are clearly living here full time as a resident yet falsely claim they are tourists. It is not that difficult to get a long term visa but many choose to skirt the edges of immigration laws. I am waiting for them to get more serious about cracking down on foreigners violating LTO regulations. Idiots riding around with no helmet and flipflops on their feet should be fined. You are a guest in the Philippines and you should obey ALL local laws while you are here. It is not at all difficult.

[@jimle22]

Then tell them to enforce the laws on the local people too. You can't just target foreigners, it ain't fair.

[@rustyevolution6298]

@@jimle22 Yes, everyone, but guests in a foreign country shouldn't feel it's ok to break the law just because some locals do. There are lots of foreigners here who never rode a motorcycle or scooter before coming here and they have no skills. Motor vehicle accidents are the 7th leading cause of death in the Philippines.

[@CalmDownClown]

@@rustyevolution6298 im surprised it isnt higher , have seen many wild things on wheels in the Phils not to mention the road ways themselves , then again im not so sure the bean counters in the Phils are a lot better than the motorist or the roads . and Yes your right about the respect thing the disrespect in America shown by immigrants would never be allowed in the Phils let alone the gifting of Money , Smart phones , Housing and Yes even Catered Meals in Luxury hotels with out so much as an ID of any kind , just show up and start collecting for unlimited lengths of time , none of which would happen in The Phils , lets hope the American visitors dont Think there going to come to the Phils and act like illegal migrants do in the US and Canada . even Mexico wont allow any of that , they just push them North to the US and Canada who's leaders are doing all this Knowing the People oppose all of it , it is as if they are thinking these are there new Voters .

[@rustyevolution6298]

@@CalmDownClown I knew someone would eventually try to make this conversation about American immigration.

[@rustyevolution6298]

@@jimle22 Yes the laws should be applied equally, but just because others violate the law is no excuse.

[@ozzymick1431]

Some humble tips to make life easier when visiting a BoI office: Forget who you are - a foreigner - and think Filipino. Use some simple Filipino greetings and courtesies such as . "Kamusta po", . "Magandang umaga," . "Magandang araw", . "Salamat po". Check Google translate for meanings. Oh, and smile, drop any arrogance, aloofness and rudeness. Friendly eye contact is helpful, no glaring or staring like an angry bull. Be patient. Ask for clarification, if needed, with a genuine smile. There's a dress code: . Shoes . Collared shirt . Trousers, or business, not beach, shorts . Remove sunglasses. Do this and you're 75% there.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

good points

[@dumaguetedreaming]

Balikbayan Visa is best for those of us married and living in two countries. I have never ever been to the immigration office.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

great

[@LoveyourLife-1970]

Yep, we just take a vacation every year for our anniversary. My wife is a US citizen as well, so we both have Balikbayan stamps.

[@dumaguetedreaming]

@@LoveyourLife-1970 We travel with our teens too, we all get to stay several months without the BI hassle.

[@JamesT65]

Yeah so fortunate to have a good marriage. Balikbayan is the best I wish the UK did the same but they just love capturing you for high tax.

[@jerrymarshall2728]

When I had to personally go into the B.I. (online was down, due to the Microsoft interruption), last month, and the clerk asked me why I was extending my 9A? I told him I was married, and needed the extension so I could apply for my 13A. The questions stopped after his supervisor and I began talking about our Church we both belong to! 😂🤣

[@mikebreen2890]

Oh no! Is this a religious nutter country?

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing Jerry

[@se_amable001]

This is really good. They're starting to get strict to filter out the unwanted tourists for the safety of the genral public.. Heard in Thailand, Japan and indonesia, misbehaving tourists who live there permanently are causing trouble for the country.

[@chocolatecookie8571]

In Indonesia it is mainly foreigners who live in Bali. And yes, many of them cause trouble. They don't behave themselves.

[@se_amable001]

@@chocolatecookie8571 i sympathize with the Indonesians esp Bali, as an asean neighbors, we need to protect our region and learn from each other. We cannot just allow any tourist to disrespect us in any way-- be it by damaging our natural resources, abusing our women, foreigners acting more superior than the locals or letting them talk BS about us on social media. Yes, we benefit from tourism but the long term effects of these problems it causes can be irreversible.

[@tryolegend]

There are always going to be bad people. How much to do is the problem. For example here. Maid mistreatment you hear a few incidents in the news now they have interview for the maids every 6 months. Does the deterrence warrant the effort to try correcting it? I see plenty of abuses in the philippines. Like getting offloaded. They say human trafficking but their own data don’t warrant the offloading. The immigration can already reject visa extensions like the host said. I dunno what this new act does. Does it give them more arrogance to reject extension with their overinflated ego or will they manage it justly. I obviously also remembered during covid when they keep coming out with rules and the enforcers self implement additional rules and no one knows what is going on. Lets just see.

[@driftwoodsmittyasia1286]

I would say I go to the same office every two months and I dress with long pants polo shirt and socks and shoes. And use common courtesy and transaction like business practices. Don't go like you are at the dam beach.... Everyone there is in uniform!!! As a retired military I respect that!

[@ilorskie6900]

if the foreign tourist or visitors here in the pjilippines it's easy and no doubts to comply answering or fill ups the form especially if they are clean or they don't have bad records, but if they had bad back grounds or bad records to hide they are hard to cooperate or comply in the needed requirements

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@spurlworld]

Excellent information, things are getting tight!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Yes they are!

[@T0mThompson]

Thanks for all the help. The changes hearing with your words sounds way less frightened than in my thoughts.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Glad to help. Really nothing has changed

[@ShikokuFoodForest]

Hi Mike, thanks for the reminder to always be polite and courteous. Even here in Japan, the immigration office staff are super strict and can sometimes be suspicious of expats applying to extend their visas. From my experience, it is important to always be polite and cooperate fully answering all questions even if the immigration staff are sometimes very strict and not friendly.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@fisherlord2438]

The Philippines is just doing what most. Countries do. I’d pay an immigration company to do this for me.

[@bhinbayoucity5691]

Most countries...except USA...over in USA they just let everyone in with no limits on stay...😢

[@chocolatecookie8571]

Yes, except Western countries with all those criminal immigrants. They are welcome and are not being deported.

[@richsadventures1889]

@@bhinbayoucity5691 only if you come in illegally.

[@harrysean8687]

@@bhinbayoucity5691 not true

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

you can do it on line

[@chocolatecookie8571]

Being deported is a nightmare. And the longer you have stayed abroad the bigger the culture shock will be when you return to your country of origin. It can even kill you. But those who misbehave fiercly or are a serious danger to society good riddens with bad rubbish!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

culture shock going back plus the cost to start over

[@pilotusa]

I can attest to culture shock on returning to one's home country. I was only gone for 4 years and returned to previous city for a medical procedure and found it difficult to adjust to all the changes in my own neighborhood, but especially the prices! Stayed two months and was very happy to get back to the Philippines.

[@theblackboxpodcastshow1791]

I heard from another blogger basically the same , if you’re honestly coming to the Philippines to stay , fill out the forms correctly and completely, my plan is to come there on a tourist visa, rent a condo and save up for a SSRV smile visa , it should take me about 6 to 8 months to save up to reach 10k plus fees, it will be easier for me to save while living in the Philippines, as the cost of living is so much lower that here , my budget will be 4K a month between my pension and SSi , since the visa has to be fully paid for, that is the reason why I want to do it that way

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

you got a good plan

[@daviddarden1915]

I think it is best to contact JR ASSOCIATES. We are visiting guests.

[@RealGaryGibson]

Great update Mike! Guys need to know what's expected of them for extensions.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks Gary

[@gsaki4839]

Just another avenue for corruption, especially when your extension can be denied at such a low level with no due process for the foreigner.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@chrisedwards1235]

We all have the Chinese to thank for these changes

[@MadamHilas]

I and my German husband just have his permanent resident visa and we went to Bi tacloban theyre nice qlways be polite when ur in immigration

[@Steve-nu4sv]

Saw a great vlog on Filipina Pea she had a visa agent on explaining things. He reached out to contacts at the BOI. As you say nothing has really changed but checks on entry and extensions have been fairly superficial. District offices are being reminded to be thorough. If you travel under the visa waiver scheme and fill out an online visa waiver form. The airline has your data and can pass this to the immigration service in the country you are travelling to. They can do background checks with FBI INTERPOL EUROPOL and other national agencies which will highlight if you are a fugitive, sex offender of have other serious convictions. In the BOI bulletin instances of fugitive status and sex offences were highlighted. Clearly the BOI let some people slip through the net. One example was Paul from World Zoom who was detained and deported when he tried extending his visa in Cebu. There have also been deportations of people caught working on Tourist Visas. If you are honest about your intentions and don't break any rules I doubt you have much to worry about. Foreign visitors bring in a significant source of revenue to the Philippines I doubt they'll want to disrupt that but rather to target people trying to exploit what is in reality a fairly Liberal system.

[@philmcleod111]

@steve-nu4su, Yes Pea did an interview with JR Yesterday, Now many Vloggers will follow her lead,

[@tesssmith8444]

Some visitors carry an attitude...Self Importance... They carry that in other countries they visit too. I regularly watch shows on you tube on Immigration officers conducting the visitors purpose (like Australia, England and Canada airports) and mostly Americans carry the attitude...And of course illegal Chinese with fake birth certificates . At least the Philippines is now paying attention to the visitors and violators abuse.

[@tesssmith8444]

Must not be tolerated. AMEN TO THAT.

[@lastyle7363]

Thailand now 60 day free visa on arrival...Philippines hopefully will match.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

can not compare the two countries

[@theghostofpennsylvania_11]

Really!!?😮

[@johndev2212]

I've been using a Visa agency for 4 1/2 years. Is it likely that I'll have to do the office interview? Additionally, when I did my re-entry after my Visa run to Bangkok in Feb. 23, the BI officer told me "Sir, you've only been gone for 3 days, do you have family or a girlfriend here?" I stated that I did and gave her my GF's name and showed her my follow on exit flight info, she let me in.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

good info

[@newtonlee10]

you explained it much clearer than others

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks

[@Gaza-vu6gl]

We just need to be polite and do what’s requested. The government employees have been told to ask questions. So just answer honestly. 3 year stay is still a remarkable deal for us foreigners

[@emmanuelgoldstein4371]

We have a house in Balakilong, Batangas. The house was built about two years ago. It has no address. We have a tax declaration for the house and a survey of the lot. I found a phone app GPS MAP CAMERA that attaches the GPS coordinates to a photo that you take with your phone. At our house even the phone signal is spotty.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@GeoffsPhilsInfo]

If like many addresses in the Philippines, there is no house number or street name, try to find out the exact GPS coordinates that should suffice surely,?

[@Michael-xp9ln]

I have a rental lot. Filipino workers built me a nice cabin. Anyway my address, when I lived there, was the road name, and lot number, along with island name and zip code. It worked for immigration, until I moved. Still have the rental lot, with my cabin. Great landlord!

[@Gail-yk4rb]

Philippines needs to be strict . the hospitality and kindness is being abused by neighboring countries and other countries . it is its duty to protect its rights , territories and sovereignity starting from now on. or else it will be too late .the entire world knows the country is in crisis on so many ways .

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@isreeramotar3868]

Generally, a lot of foreigner has this entitlement mentally...they just fail to understand that they're in another country and not theirs..attitude like this make things difficult for other people, both at home and abroad. Just try to be truthful, unless you're hiding something, this way you shouldn't have any problems. Good information my friend.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@joneslo5572]

Colonial entitlement on colonial mentalities.

[@CalmDownClown]

Yes, there are more entitled foreigners than just Americans , the bond is stronger with America than that of Russian and Chinese and Koreans , Dont get it twisted , American are possibly the Most welcomed Group and the least Deported

[@DEeMONsworld]

There's still ways to circumvent the system (legally) if you have contacts, not as easy as it was 20 years ago, but there are ways. In Cebu they have really tightened up things since the started putting everything on a central computer bin manila.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@firstnamelastname6717]

I’m glad that the Filipines are updating and improving their systems, etc. , but forget it, too many strick rules and hassles if you’re not a citizen over there, you’re a lost case, and you have no rights, there are other places just as good or better, thanks I’ll past and find another place to visit and stay or vacation in and enjoy myself with more peace of mind. 👌🏼

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for Sharing

[@raphy5438]

Good advise. It only takes one person to screw up for everybody.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes sir

[@stephenstankiewicz6771]

Thanks for the clarification on this subject Mike. I was wondering. I'm getting excited about the the adventure. Oct 20th is coming up fast. I'll be in Manilla and then Boracay. 22days in the Philippines total. ❤

[@knowledgeberakah1728]

Imma just be honest! I love everything about this country and would love to continue to support the locals and have plans to have a wife here

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

good to hear

[@knowledgeberakah1728]

@@mikesphilippineretirement I been wanting to come here since I was 24 years old.ill be 42 in December n had a stroke 2021.I would like to be around peaceful people,love and smiles.Im plantbased and don't eat meat but I'll figure it out.im on SSDI also so I'm go come asap

[@hnlpharmd]

I just did a 2-month extension today and didn’t notice much difference. I’ve been in the Philippines for about a year and a half now, so I am in the “heightened scrutiny” group, but the immigration officer only asked me one question: “what do you do here?” I responded “I’m retired.” He noted “RETIRED” on the form and that was that. I think it helped that I’m under 50, so he couldn’t push me toward the SRRV.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@michaelbeggs2013]

The one best thing about the SRRV visa is that I never have to deal with immigration again unless I leave the country. I check in once per year with the Philippine Retirement Authority and pay $360 and that's it.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

that is a great deal

[@jerichojohnson3219]

Pay $360 .... one time or every year?

[@PrimusMagus]

It's every year​@@jerichojohnson3219

[@David-ng4ut]

$360 Why so much I paid few hundred plus it's good for 2 years now.

[@michaelbeggs2013]

@@jerichojohnson3219 Yes $360 per year. Plus the $20,000 deposit that I made to apply. The $20,000 is refundable if I want to cancel my SRRV . Anyone with military service can get a much better deal for an SRRV, but that is not my situation. If you study retirement visas, it is not a bad deal compared to some countries. About a dollar a day and I pay no income tax unless I earn income in the Philippines.

[@skip2it426-]

Great information this is very helpful for me. Thank you for sharing. ✌🏾

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

welcome

[@woutergijs5246]

Such a nice country. How many countries there are where you can stay so long so easily as a foreigner?

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

true

[@dollarjilt1]

good common sense video, some are using this as scare tactics

[@herbwitt7710]

Hi Mike thanks for the immigration information. Hi Janet 🙋.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

welcome Herb

[@Chris-gi9ch]

Before I listened to this, my immediate thought is we blew it again with our entitlement.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

It might happen someday

[@marierocher4422]

Don’t bring those entitlement in the Philippines. That’s what really hates the Filipinos. They’re color blind, they’re material blind. All are equal and most hated are those privileged brains. Humility is what attracts them.

[@CalmDownClown]

it isnt just the Americans causing the problems alone most know the drill , there probably the lowest on the problem tree Koreans , Chinese , Russian have the same problems but try to Buy there way around issues it is rare that an American will try to Pay Off an Immigration agent or official to other Groups that just Business the lone American expat isnt going to be offering Money to an Official Visa and Immigration people the difference is China Korean and Russians are sent By There Governments , expats just want to get away from there governments but once these New Bases are finished im sure the Phils will be tossing a Lot of The mentioned Govs

[@scottulbrich5376]

@@Chris-gi9ch its not an entitlement, just that some people are just stupid

[@cornelieusspencer1116]

In Manila main immigration office they don't interview you! There are too many people applying for extension. On the application you just give reason for extension that's it.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

if you say so it must be true.

[@koufax174]

I was there for two weeks (less that 30 days) recently and was asked many more questions than before by the airlines and immigration when I left.

[@ABritishGuyAndAFilipina]

Wow really? I been there 3 times recently, 4th time next month, never been asked anything, literally walk off the plane through the airport and on return just walk right back through again lol

[@adonisengineering5508]

@@ABritishGuyAndAFilipina They're just checking the numbers if they got all the money they're entitled to get for your visa. If you overstayed, they'd stop you, demanded to pay out the ransom in full (the penalty for overstaying) plus the visa you were supposed to be paying for, then you get let go to continue on your flight. It is just about the money, no one gives a fuck about anything else. Pay the ransom in advance and it is cheaper or pay it at the airport when you're exiting.

[@ABritishGuyAndAFilipina]

@@adonisengineering5508 I don't really understand your comment, I don't need a visa as my stay is less than 30 days.

[@vidong1704]

@@ABritishGuyAndAFilipina These are spot checks. They ask people at random. Just because they did not ask you, does not mean they do not ask others.

[@ABritishGuyAndAFilipina]

@@vidong1704 Yes I understand that, but why would they ask questions about over staying when you have a date stamp when you entered lol

[@enjoyingCyprus.]

Good info, just be honest to the people and it will be ok

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Good idea

[@jazzpianoman01]

I knew this was coming but I can see why; they are trying to weed out the undesirables; good video and yes, get your proper visa

[@joebloe4374]

The real undesirables don't extend visas

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thank you

[@shawngregg3796]

HAVE NO PROBLEM, HAVE MY 13A PERMANENT RESIDENCY VISA.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

That is great

[@retiredin2015]

Just got mine after 20 years of Balikbayan.. Never a problem with the BI..Took forever to get because of COVID.

[@gonetothefareast]

Good information as always Michael Just got my SRRV card, do the right thing and play by their rules.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

good point. congrats

[@KB-dm7nt]

Thanks Mike - very clearly put. Yup, a visitors visa is just that, nothing more. It is not a resident visa for people who stay longer than a normal vacation. The misuse of this particular 'visitor' type of visa is being 'tightened' because it is being misused. SRRV and 13A are the residential visas you need to apply for if you live as a 'resident' or are married to a Philippina.😄

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks

[@PatrickMcLoughlin-t2e]

No questions at all! Waved right through! Renewed today and absolutely no fuss. I understand the anguish with expats here. I've been here on and off for 8 yrs. So much BS out there... remember vloggers need to sell their product, so are sensational to get views and get paid by youtube. Take everything with a huge pinch of salt. Oh, sorry, a question: Did I have a girlfriend and what was her name. The officer wrote that down and gave me a big smile. Charming.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@budgoble4602]

Go Bucks, love the jersey. I'm from Columbus, been living here with my wife for 15 years.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

great GO BUCKS

[@YourFilipinaGrace]

I think the root cause of the BI being strict with visa extensions is that many Chinese and other Asian nationals related to offshore gaming have been caught overstaying and working without a work permit or the proper visa.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

you could be right

[@karl5536]

Thanks Mike

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

you're welcome

[@boiivilla6327]

Once in a while when we have time to visit Philippines... We obey what ever rules they have...enjoy our vacation and avoid problems.... The sad part...once you get use to the time ...weather....beaches...food and drinks...excursion...enjoying with friends...then you realizes.... Time to go home....you feel the sadness while flying....you miss your old friends....the enjoyment...and everything.... Till next time...as long as we can walk and travel....keep moving.😀😂😊🤗

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@gregorynelson4061]

So my question is: Why is the BI now requiring this information? Are they planning to personally come to us for whatever reason? I'm curious

[@bornonjuly7052]

It is for the betterment and protections of foreign tourists expats and the local with the goals of vetting those entering the country that has no nasty agenda' to damage the country and create chaos, preserving our value, cultures and traditions and protecting our national sovereighty. The legitimate expats with good baclgrounds and the good qualitu tourists has nothing to fear about these strickness.

[@alaskanwhiskey]

And what about the criminals unaliving the Caucasian foriegners in mass every year and kidnapping, shooting, looting, and extorting? Guess we out populate the locals there huh? 😂 maybe foreigners shouldnt be the topic and they focus on local issues like infrastructure, crime, healthcare, and poverty. But what do i know 🤔

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@jerichojohnson3219]

> The one best thing about the SRRV visa is that I never have to deal with immigration again unless I leave the country. I check in once per year with the Philippine Retirement Authority and pay $360 and that's that. Pay $360 .... one time, or every year?

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@brucesmith9206]

Online is fine, BUT the VISA waiver and some periodic extentions DO require an in office interview.

[@lextor4712]

@@brucesmith9206 You can't just do the visa waiver (basically first extension) online?

[@brucesmith9206]

@lextor4712 I have always done visa waivers online and the visa extensions online. However, the requirement for interviews that came into effect July 1st I believe it was, required the waiver and periodic extentions to include an interview. I recently tried to get my 5th & 6th month extentions and it wouldn't do it. So I went for the 5th extention and it took it. I looked up the rules and they pointed out when an interview is a must for online. For my 6th month, I will have to do the interview. Hope that helps...

[@lextor4712]

@@brucesmith9206 Thanks a lot Bruce. It would just surprise me if they would bother tourists that much that even for the first waiver (29 days extension) so that it will require an office visit. When I'm somewhere on an island (staying more than 30 days) it just sounds like such a hassle.

[@brucesmith9206]

@@lextor4712 Yes it is, but at least an interview isn't required for every extention. Supposedly, BI, is officially making their employees do their job. I think that is bullcrap. An interview was never required in the online method. I think it is all about catching people who break the rules the visitors visa has in place such as not working etc. Think POGO workers...

[@jbabb9840]

Two problems with SSRV.. $10000 in overseas bank means additional tax forms ans scrutiny.. SSRV means your paying PH 24/7/365 even if you leave for home or elsewhere..

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

no tax do your homework

[@MichaelSmith-hr3be]

It seems to me that the ACR card renewal time will be the best guide to what to expect for the following 12 months. If the ACR card renewal is approved, it will make no sense for an immigration officer to refuse extensions during the validity of the card unless the foreigner's lifestyle changes in a way that warrants suspicion. Additionally, when the ACR renewal time is near, it would be prudent to do that and the visa extension a month early. That way, if it is denied, one still has time to leave the country on a reasonably cheap ticket, not forced to buy a hugely expensive same-day or next-day fare. If the mother country holds no delights for the traveler, I see Thailand now has a 60-day visa on arrival, with a 30-day extension to a total of 90 days. That should be enough time outside the Philippines to satisfy immigration at the airport upon returning to start the process over again.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

good point

[@mlmontalvo]

Call me crazy but I believe if you live in the Philippines and not a tourist, you should have a permanent resident visa.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@iankeith763]

Far too expensive, $10,000! Be great to do like that, impossible for most of us.

[@wengelder9256]

@@iankeith763 that’s for an SRRV visa only . And if u retire and can’t cough up 10,000 usd , why would a country want you to retire here ? For the generous contribution to the country ?

[@johnbergeron9997]

Knock on wood, 7 years and no problems

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

knock knock

[@CalmDownClown]

Good for You , And that isnt something your going to hear from the Chinese or the Koreans let alone the Russians who for the most part are here on Business and will just send a new body and they Toss major disrespect to Everybody , i think some of these Visa Scares being directed at Americans , From Expat Americans is way Over Blown if you stay within the rules your going to be just fine . The American Expat community if you want to call it that is Very Dog Eat Dog most try to avoid Americans as best they can , But you already know that dont you and You Know why .

[@johnsonjohan7]

Great video!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks

[@HHowardHH]

very good information, thank you. 👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

you're welcome

[@dehuillanddeleveaux5039]

You are so true when i was at inauguration last week i saw to chinese fighting with immigration chap and thank you for the update yes i live in the philippines now with my sweetheart chap. I started coming to the philippines 2013 my hometown is england but i lift a Miami 45 years chap 😊

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@destinationnamibia2658]

Great info Mike

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

welcome

[@floribertosousa2251]

Hi Mike. Great 👍 video with very important information and the rules and regulations of immigration in the Philippines. Thanks and keep up the great work Mike.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Welcome

[@mikimikemike1]

great they should do that for the migrants in u s

[@chocolatecookie8571]

Plus Canada, plus Europe, plus Australia.

[@CalmDownClown]

Those are not migrants there New Voters and Future Soldiers they just havent got the message yet , once they do and try to Buck the system . . . No More Free Ride on Uncle Sam at least the Blacks and Latino's are starting to understand that That is why they vote for the Democrat party even still they see there being Replaced and cant do a dam thing about it just get in line and stay in that line

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@bobjuniel8683]

I believe air travel will become more expensive, and limited due to WEF policies. People will have to declare their place of residence and habitation for tax purposes. This will force many expats to go home. These laws are generally over 25 years old but the application is new. It will keep retirees at home, and stop money moving overseas. Tourists in Europe can rail travel fore 2 weeks annual leave. Tourist profits will survive in Europe, and within the USA.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

what are you talking about

[@FilipinaRandom]

We just did it 3 days ago. It was interesting and different for me.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@brucejohnston3521]

I'm glad i got out all about control now

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@johnevans8328]

Good morning Mike I just went to Davao immigration and they had me fill out a form make a copy of my passport and sit then paid 3030 pesos and sit then received my extension…. Easy process no interview it was me and 1 other guy. All that worry and stress for …..Nothing thanks for your video and advice.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing that John

[@firstnamelastname6717]

Yeah , but if the Filipino’s break the laws in the USA 🇺🇸 they are still protected 😳

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

they can be deported and put in Jail

[@firstnamelastname6717]

@@mikesphilippineretirement Yep, that’s true , but they will still be allowed to to come back in again, etc.

[@MegaTraker]

this is like in Thailandin the 2017 or earlier they were asking all of these information not so bad when it is all clean.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@VirendraPatel-l8f]

If tourist has to extend his tourist visa than better to give address of hotel so they can easily check

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

good point

[@VirendraPatel-l8f]

Thank to understanding

[@fenderbend3r]

Thank God, it is time to make papers move quicker. Time to be more civilized. Come on Filipinos, you can do this! Change is good

[@Jorg-po6oi]

avoid avoid this place. crap culture.

[@fenderbend3r]

You had bad experience in Philippines? Have you been there?

[@alaskanwhiskey]

​@@Jorg-po6oiagreed. Liers, cheats, scammers, and will take you for everything. These dudes have no choice but to stay here best of luck to them.

[@user-ov5nd1fb7s]

Of course, they don't have street names but they will ask for a detailed address. They will make you sit there and draw on a piece of paper where you live. I can come up with many epithets here but i think you could already guess what they are.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

no i would not

[@user-ov5nd1fb7s]

@@mikesphilippineretirement The epithets i was thinking were different synonyms of unintelligent. I could have said it in a different way but i am trying to be diplomatic as possible. Passing laws that don't make sense because they are not enforceable is begging people to call you stupid. And it is stupid on many different levels. Passing the obvious ones like wasting people's time, it undermines your authority because people get used to not following rules.

[@Bandera1909]

Great Job explaining these matters Sir. Atleast someone open minded understood these things and explain to your co-visitors the significance of these matters so everyone can enjoy life the way we should and without causing inconvenience to other people. Keep it up sir! Regarding the Chinese you discuss, yeah most "ILLEGAL THINGS IN THE PHILIPPINES ARE BROUGHT BY THESE CHINESE IMMIGRANTS". with all due respect to those who abide by the rules and follow the old CHINESE WISDOM, I said most and not all. but yeah! "When in ROME, do as the ROMANS do!" Saint Ambrose.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@just_another_bot0110]

The issue is bigger for the younger guys who can't get any other visa besides marriage

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

that is true

[@danielbeumel4165]

I have been going to the embassy here in Panglao since I have been here and they have been doing everything that this is covering, I have to go in 2 weeks I will see if anything is different.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Keep us posted

[@lyndonhenry8127]

Nice informative talk Mike 👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thank you

[@HunkyMan777]

I know in Australia that the airlines provide a full list of all passengers on the flight. Whilst in flight, they run this list through their intelligence systems and are immediately alerted of any red flag passengers. You are vetted before you arrive in flight

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@Charles-rd6ku]

Hi mike! I spent over 15 minutes with them at mine last week the interview guy. Yeah he was asking way more than they've been asking for the last 2 years. I know there's some other stuff pending in the congress right now here to you'd have the google it and see what you see

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

I have Heidi to find out for me

[@davidwike4522]

It looks like it's best to travel to Thailand for a week and then return to Philippines before your one year stay

[@Charles-rd6ku]

@@davidwike4522 i was told at immigration last week that for me i got to take my visa trip pretty soon they told me that a weekends fine i don't know cause i heard from another guy did it was one day and then you know they told me though you know the weekend!

[@taffythegreat1986]

It amazes me how any deliveries or posts ever gets to you. Especially when there’s no street names or numbers in certain areas. Where I live now, it’s on the main through road with 100s of houses and businesses, but no plot or house numbers. Yet I’ll still get my Shopee parcels, I do give a rough idea of some sort of land mark. But when it comes to Phil post or private couriers like fedex, forget it. I’m glad a came across your video 👍👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

they get here. no problem

[@paulcloetens9582]

I have received my 13a visa after 6 months be married with my pinoy . I went in Manila before with 5 tourist visas !!! . Free To move in and out with less problems. I receive my documents 2 days before end of my tourist visa extention 2 months . I need to leave so quickly because family problems To solve . I know the exit procedure for next time. Was ok with the nice help of BI officer .. thanks to her kind help they fell i was a bit desororiented as To pass late security check and very long check in waiting ..after a colputer check. It was ok and receive my exit stamp . Will be very happy To come back To Manila very soon mid October. Happy happy.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@MichaelStewart-y6b]

When the pandemic hit I was asked politely to leave. If war breaks out tourest are a huge liability that's what it about

[@fenderbend3r]

Thank you for another great Video Mike.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

You are very welcome

[@christopherbradley5575]

Maybe they just want more people to use the online extension program. American businesses have been using tactics like that for years.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

maybe

[@hansreynders6853]

To my understanding you can do the online extension up to one year. When you extend beyond one year you have to go in person. The online system will refuse you.

[@christopherbradley5575]

Well.... since I'm American, I don't think I'm in any position to criticize another country's immigration choices 🤣

[@angelodelpasen3090]

Mike, thanks for the update. The honeymoon is over.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

just follow the rules

[@timothycartet8278]

TOO MUCH TROUBLE

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

for you maybe

[@Yayu-c1d]

I was in line with a guy asking for an extension who had overstayed his visa by two weeks. They just renewed it! Your mileage may vary :)

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

2 weeks is just a late fee 2 years is jail. Also if he did not have the money he would have been put in a holding cell

[@JamesBraun-n1p]

I have a permanent 13A visa , I don't worry . I pay my annua fee of about 6 dollars.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

sure enjoy