Philippines•AsiaVaries
25 USD
Varies (Validity tied to assignment duration)
Yes
Not Required
Allowed
No
Not Required
Short-term visa for foreign nationals arriving in the Philippines aboard a private yacht or sailboat for leisure purposes without local employment.
The 9(a-5) Filmmaking Visitor Visa is a specialized sub-category of the Philippine Temporary Visitor Visa (9a) designed specifically for foreign nationals entering the country for movie or documentary production. Historically, the Philippine government established this category to facilitate international media projects while ensuring that foreign crews comply with local regulations. It serves as a bridge for production teams who need to conduct professional activities without establishing a formal employer-employee relationship with a Philippine entity.
This visa is ideal for foreign film outfits, independent documentary filmmakers, and production crews planning short-term shoots on location within the Philippines. Unlike a standard tourist visa, the 9(a-5) provides a formal framework for the temporary importation of professional equipment and grants the crew official recognition by the International Press Center (IPC) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). It is strictly intended for projects where the applicants are funded by foreign sources and do not receive any compensation from within the Philippines.
Must be a foreign national visiting temporarily on board a private yacht or sailboat.
Must not engage in any employer-employee relationship with a Philippine entity.
Must not receive any compensation for services rendered in the Philippines.
Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay.
Personal appearance is required for the submission of documents.
Must provide proof of financial capacity (e.g., bank statements).
Must have confirmed return or onward travel tickets (or flight reservations).
Education
none or higher
Min. Savings
2,000 EUR
Printed copy of the OVAS visa application form.
Passport valid for at least six months beyond the stay.
Recent passport-sized photo with a white background.
Letter from the owner/captain detailing: port of entry, date of entry, period of stay, list of crew/passengers, and vessel particulars (type, name, registration, call sign).
Boat insurance policy.
Cargo manifest.
Character reference or shipping agent in the Philippines (if applicable).
Proof of financial capacity (e.g., 6 months of bank statements).
Confirmed return/onward airline ticket or flight reservation.
For minors: Birth certificate (if traveling with parents) or notarized letter of permission from parent/guardian (if not).
| Journalism Visitor Visa Application | — |
Let's check your eligibility against published requirements. 2 minutes. Free trial.
Check Eligibility