The Philippines recently announced updates to its digital nomad visa program, aiming to simplify the process and stay competitive in a region where several attractive destinations offer similar visas.
To boost the economy and increase tourism revenue, authorities approved a digital nomad visa scheme back in June 2023, under the Digital Nomad Act.
The initial program allowed remote workers to live and work from the Philippines for up to two years, though no tax incentives were approved at that time.
The decision came in response to a petition from the Private Sector Advisory Council for Tourism (PSAC-Tourism), which requested President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to allow the issuance of this visa without tax benefits.
However, this may soon change, as lawmakers are reportedly considering tax breaks for remote workers so the country can keep competing with strong regional rivals like Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia.
If approved, digital nomad visa holders would no longer be considered tax residents, exempting them from local income taxes.
But for the time being, the country has only committed to streamlining the application process.
Over the last couple of years, the Philippines has witnessed a significant rise in international visitors.
Data from the Department of Tourism (DOT), shows that over 2 million tourists visited the country in the first quarter of 2024, generating $2.78 billion in revenue—marking a 120.70 percent recovery from the same period before the pandemic.
Authorities aim to attract 16 million visitors annually, who can greatly contribute to the economy. Simplifying the digital nomad application process seems to be part of their strategy.
Philippines Digital Nomad Visa—How to Get It?
For adventurers ready to be captivated by the Phillipines’ crystal-clear waters and dynamic cities, there are some requirements to make before embarking on this journey. Let’s review them:
- Valid Passport – You must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Visa Application Form – Fill out the required form.
- Two Recent Passport-Sized Photos – Provide recent photos as specified by the government.
- Proof of Remote Work – Show evidence that you are a remote worker, freelancer or business owner with clients based outside the Philippines.
- Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Clean Criminal Record – You must demonstrate a clean criminal record with a certificate issued in your home country.
- Health Insurance – International comprehensive policy is required.
- Minimum Income Requirement – You must earn at least $2,000 per month.
- Pay the visa application fee.