Philippines•Asia13(a) Immigrant Visa by Marriage
At a Glance
Processing Time
60-90 days
Application Fee
Free
Stay Duration
Indefinite
Renewable
Varies
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Not Specified
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Non-quota immigrant visa for foreign nationals married to Filipino citizens. Leads to permanent residency after probationary period.
The 13(a) Immigrant Visa is issued to foreign nationals who have contracted a valid marriage with a Filipino citizen recognized under Philippine law. The foreign spouse's country must have reciprocity with the Philippines. After initial 1-year probationary period, the visa can be converted to permanent residency status.
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Requirements
Personal
Criminal Record Policy
Clean record required
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
Valid at least 1 year from filing date
Police clearance
From country of residence
Medical examination
Health exam confirming no dangerous diseases
Passport photos
Recent biometric photos
Sponsor Documents
Joint Letter Request
Addressed to BI Commissioner
Marriage certificate
Issued by PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority)
Birth certificate
PSA-issued birth certificate of Filipino spouse
Proof of residency
Showing Filipino spouse resides in Philippines
Financial capacity
Bank statements showing capacity to support family
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Advantages
- Path to permanent residency
- No quota system
- Can include dependent children
- Multiple entry privileges after conversion
- No specific education/skill requirements
Considerations
- Requires valid marriage recognized by Philippine law
- Requires country reciprocity
- 1-year probationary period before PR conversion
- Strict character requirements
- Health examination required
Application Process
Verify reciprocity
Ensure applicant's country has reciprocity with Philippines
Prepare documents
Gather marriage certificate, birth certificates, financial documents
File joint petition
Joint Letter Request to Bureau of Immigration Commissioner
Medical examination
Undergo medical exam including health and disease screening
Interview
Attend interview at Bureau of Immigration
Await decision
Receive approval decision from BI
Application Forms
Immigrant Visa by Marriage Application
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