13a Visa Requirements

To apply for a Philippines 13A Non-Quota Immigrant Visa (commonly known as the 13A visa), which allows a foreign national married to a Filipino citizen to reside in the Philippines long-term, here are the key requirements and steps:


Eligibility Criteria

  • Marriage to a Filipino Citizen: Must be legally married, with proof of a valid and subsisting marriage.
  • Legal Entry and Stay: Must have entered the Philippines legally and maintained lawful immigration status.
  • No Disqualifications: Must not be on immigration watchlists or have disqualifying criminal records.
  • Financial Capacity: Must show sufficient financial means or support from the Filipino spouse to avoid becoming a public charge.

Required Documents

  • Notarized letter of application from the Filipino spouse
  • Notarized general application form
  • Authenticated birth certificate of the Filipino spouse
  • Copy of applicant’s passport showing current visa and date of arrival
  • Immigration clearance certificate
  • Barangay certificate confirming cohabitation as husband and wife
  • Police clearance from the applicant’s home country (if in the Philippines <6 months)
  • NBI clearance (if in the Philippines >6 months)
  • Payment of fees (approximately ₱20,000)

Visa Types and Duration

TypeDurationNotes
Probationary1 yearInitial issuance; must comply with visa conditions
PermanentIndefiniteCan be applied for after successful probationary period

Where to Apply

  • Applications are accepted at major Bureau of Immigration offices such as
    Manila, Cebu, and Davao.