Philippines Business Visa application form requirements and instructions

The Philippines has a mixed economic system. This includes private freedom along with centralized economic planning and a touch of government regulation. Philippines is a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The World Bank Group; Amidst lingering global and local uncertainties, the Philippine economy is poised to grow at 6.4 percent in 2019 and 6.5 percent in 2020 and 2021. The projection takes into account the global economic slowdown and domestic investments.

These numbers are vital to your decision of investing in a business in the Philippines. While being tipped to be amongst the most promising economies in the world (12th largest population and the 43rd largest economy in the world) there are a few procedures to be followed along the way.

Visa for the Philippines

A stay of less than 30 days in the Philippines does not require a visa. The traveller requires a passport with a validity of six months. The tickets for the return must be booked as well. A visa may be required if the purpose of the trip is other than a simple business meeting.

There are some rules to be followed for a stay of less than 30 days.

• The application form shall not be amended at any point
• 2×2 picture must be attached to the application
• No signature shall be scanned
• An explanation letter stating reasons for applying for a visa in the Philippines instead of the country of origin must be provided. The
• letter shall not be handwritten
• Photocopy of passport
• A copy of bank transaction showing financial standing
• Documents showing qualification and expertise in the field of intended business
• Copy of the ticket (two-way)

Application of the business visa

Passport

• Provide a signed copy of the passport with one copy of the personal information page.
• It should be valid for a minimum of six months
• It must have at least one black visa page.
• It should not be torn, frayed or altered in any way

Photographs

• Two colour passport-type photographs must be provided
• It must have been taken in the last six months
• The background should be all-white
• It should be a two x two inch picture printed on photo-paper

Business Cover Letter

• A business cover letter must be provided with the business visa application form
• The letter should be printed on the company letterhead

Visa Application Form

• A fully completed application form must be submitted
• All compulsory fields should be filled
• The form must be signed by the applicant and duly notarised

Travel arrangements

• Proof of travel arrangements must be provided
• A copy of the itinerary displaying the round trip travel dates must be included
• The name of the applicant as per the passport
• Details of previous trips to the Philippines in case the visa is for multiple visits

Applying for a Philippines Business Visa is trickier than expected. Hastening the embassy to accommodate the flight schedule is unlikely. The visa processing time depends on the nationality of the applicant and can take between two to ten business days. It is also important to understand the local business practices and the local employment workforce before establishing a business or investing in one. Certain instances would require support and approvals from the government. Compliance with the local laws is compulsory. Entering the new market might be challenging. It is not easy to understand the entire process and conform to the regulations.

Bring us as your global employment partner to engage with the local stakeholders and provide resource base with respect to manpower, experience and expertise. Connect with us to ensure a hassle-free journey to a successful future in the Philippines.