Eligibility Quiz
Were you a Philippine citizen at the time of your birth?
Overview
The 13(g) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa is a permanent residency pathway designed specifically for former natural-born Philippine citizens who have since acquired foreign citizenship. This visa allows you to return to the Philippines and live there indefinitely without the need to reacquire Philippine citizenship.
It is often compared to the Balikbayan program; however, while the Balikbayan status provides a one-year visa-free stay, the 13(g) visa is a formal immigration status that grants permanent residency. It is an ideal solution for those who wish to retire or reside in the Philippines permanently but prefer to maintain their foreign passport and do not wish to undergo the dual citizenship process under RA 9225.
Legal Context and Limitations
The 13(g) visa is a "Non-Quota" visa under the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, meaning there is no annual limit on how many people can receive this status.
While this visa provides permanent residency, it is important to distinguish it from citizenship. As a 13(g) holder, you remain a foreign national in the eyes of the law. This means you are still subject to certain restrictions, such as the inability to vote in Philippine elections or own land in your own name (though you may own condominium units).
Furthermore, all 13(g) visa holders are required to participate in the Annual Report during the first 60 days of every calendar year. This involves reporting to the Bureau of Immigration (or participating online) and paying a small administrative fee to maintain your status.
Rights as a 13(g) Visa Holder
Holding a 13(g) visa grants you a stable, long-term legal status in the Philippines with several key benefits:
- Permanent Residency: You have the right to live in the Philippines indefinitely without needing to renew your stay every few months.
- Work Rights: You are generally exempt from the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) requirement. However, you must still obtain a Certificate of Exclusion from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to work legally.
- Travel Privileges: You enjoy multiple entry and exit privileges. You must pay the standard travel taxes and re-entry permits at the airport when departing.
- Family Reunification: Your legal spouse and unmarried children under 21 can reside with you permanently as your dependents.
- Simplified Registration: You will be issued an ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration), which serves as your official identification in the Philippines for opening bank accounts and accessing local services.