A Guide to the Philippines 9(a) Temporary Visas

Diving into the world of international travel can sometimes seem daunting, especially when it comes to understanding visa policies and requirements. 

The 9(a) Visa in the Philippines stands out for its unique features and offerings to travelers. 

This article sheds light on this visa type, from its purpose and benefits to the application process and beyond. 

What is a 9(a) Visa for the Philippines

The Philippines offers a 9(a) Temporary Visitors’ Visa to foreigners. This visa is for those who wish to visit the country for short periods of time. The reasons for visiting can include tourism, business, transit, education, or work. 

It is mandatory for individuals from certain nations, referred to as ’restricted,’ to obtain this entry permit prior to their arrival in the country. 

Conversely, travelers from ’unrestricted’ nations can make their journey to the Philippines sans an entry permit. 

Upon landing in the country, most foreign nationals receive a default stay duration of 30 days. The time can range from 7 to 59 days, depending on where the person is from. 

This initial period can be extended, allowing the visitor to relish Filipino hospitality for up to a staggering 16 months. 

Understanding the 9(a) Visa Application Process

Navigating the application process for a 9(a) Temporary Visa can be broken down into systematic steps. 

The applicant’s journey begins with an email submission to the Embassy, which includes scanned copies of their basic requirements along with any additional documents specific to the visa type applied for. These preliminary submissions are subject to an initial assessment by the Embassy. 

Once the Embassy has reviewed and deemed the submitted documents satisfactory, the applicant will be notified. 

After that, they need to do two more things: submit their original documents and pay the visa fees. 

Submit the Documents

The applicant can submit the original documents in one of two ways: by mail or in person at the Embassy, granted an approved appointment. As for the visa fee payment, this depends on the submission method. 

If the application is sent via mail, payment is made through a bank transfer to the Embassy’s account, and proof of this transaction must be included in the mailed application. 

In contrast, applicants who choose to submit their documents in person can make a cash payment directly at the Consular Area’s Cashier in the Embassy. 

The evaluation process for visa applications from nationals requiring a visa and those requesting multiple entry visas might take a longer duration, as these applications need prior approval from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). 

What Happens After the Visa is Approved

Once an application is approved, it can be retrieved in one of two ways: either by mail, where the applicant must include a self-addressed envelope with suitable postage stamps when submitting their visa documents, or by personal pick-up. 

In the latter scenario, applicants may request to receive a notification either via email or phone call from the Embassy when their visas are prepared. 

Despite receiving visa approval, applicants must adhere to the entry and health protocols of the country. 

Basic Requirements for 9(a) Visa

The following are the requisites for the application: 

• The completed application form. This can be downloaded from the online visa application website of the Philippines government. 
• A machine-readable passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay in the Philippines. 
• A photocopy of the passport’s data page should be provided. 
• A booking confirmation or travel itinerary displaying the arrival and departure dates. 

Supplementary Requirements for 9(a) Business Visa

Business owners looking to secure a 9(a) Business Visa need to provide a notarized Invitation Letter from a recognized government or private entity in the Philippines or an endorsement from a chamber of commerce acknowledged by the host government. 

The letter must be addressed to the Head of Post and contain relevant details. Evidence of business operations or income, such as a business permit/license or registration, a bank statement from the past three months, or tax payment proofs, should be provided. 

Furthermore, details of the hotel accommodation or proof of lodging must be submitted. 

Additional Requirements for 9(a) Employment Visa for Employees

Employees aiming for a 9(a) Employment Visa should present an employment certificate with salary details or a notarized letter of guarantee from the employer. 

A notarized invitation letter from a Philippine government or private entity and an endorsement letter from the applicant’s company are required. Also, the details of hotel accommodation or proof of lodging should be provided. 

Additional Requirements for 9(a-2) Tourism or Leisure Visa

Tourism or Leisure Visitors seeking a 9(a-2) Visa for Tourism in the Philippines must show proof of financial capacity. 

This could include the latest bank statement and payroll slips for the preceding three. months, an employment certificate with salary details, proof of business income, or a pension statement for the preceding three months (for retirees). 

A notarized letter of guarantee from the sponsor with proof of financial capacity and identification is also necessary. Applicants need to provide the details of their hotel accommodation or proof of lodging. 

Additional Requirements for 9(a-3) Medical Treatment Visa

Those applying for medical treatment under a 9(a-3) Visa need to provide an acceptance letter or confirmation of treatment from a Philippine medical or wellness institution. 

Evidence of the medical condition (with an English translation), such as a medical abstract from the referring medical or wellness institution, should be included. 

Proof of financial means, such as the latest bank statement, a payroll slip for the preceding three months or employment certificate with salary details (for employees), a pension statement for the preceding three months (for retirees), a receipt/confirmation of advance payment made for the treatment, or a notarized letter of guarantee from the sponsor with proof of financial capacity and identification, should be provided. 

Health insurance policy details (if any), and hotel accommodation or proof of lodging details should also be furnished. 

Online vs. In-person Application

The Online Visa Application System offers a convenient platform for foreign nationals seeking temporary visitor visas. It allows applicants to submit their requests virtually via the official portal. This digital method streamlines the process, making it quicker and easier for applicants. 

However, for other types of visas, the application process might require a more direct approach. These applicants should initiate their inquiries by sending an email to the embassy. This traditional route often includes a more personalized review of applications, which could be beneficial for complex or specific visa types. 

Processing Time for the 9(a) Visa for the Philippines

The duration to process a 9(a) Visa for the Philippines usually spans from one to two weeks, starting from the day the Consulate receives the complete visa application packet. 

 It’s important to note that certain categories of this visa might demand additional time for processing due to the specific requirements and scrutiny involved. 

Therefore, applicants should anticipate potential variances in the processing timeframe depending on their visa category. 

Fees Associated with the 9(a) Visa

The application fee for the 9(a) temporary visa for the Philippines varies depending on the nature of the entry and the urgency of the processing. 

Regular single-entry applications are typically charged at around USD 30, while expedited single-entry services cost approximately USD 40. For multiple entries with a validity of six months, the fee is approximately USD 60. If the multiple entries are valid for one year, the fee increases to an estimated USD 90. 

Please note that these are approximate charges and may vary. 

How to Extend the Stay Under a 9(a) Visa

For individuals holding a 9(a) visa in the Philippines, the maximum duration of stay initially granted by the Philippine Consulate is fifty-nine days. However, if they wish to extend their stay beyond this period, a formal request for an extension must be submitted. 

 This application needs to be lodged at the Bureau of Immigration located in Manila or, alternatively, the closest Immigration office to the applicant’s temporary residence. By doing so, they can legally prolong their visit to the Philippines beyond the initially authorized fifty-nine days. 

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of international exploration might appear intimidating, especially when dealing with complex visa regulations and prerequisites. 

This comprehensive guide on the Philippines’ 9(a) Visa simplifies this process, illuminating its unique features, benefits, and application procedure. By comprehending the nuances of this non-immigrant permit, applicants can confidently plan their short-term visit to the Philippines, whether for leisure, business, employment, or other pursuits.