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Philippines Retirement Visa (SRRV Smile) Application Guide

Philippines Retirement Visa (SRRV Smile) Application Guide: A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice. Immigration policies and requirements can change, and individual circumstances may vary. For the most accurate, up-to-date information, please consult the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), the Bureau of Immigration, or a qualified attorney.

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1. Introduction

The Philippines has long been recognized as a top retirement destination due to its tropical climate, low cost of living, and friendly local culture. To streamline the process of welcoming foreign nationals as retirees, the Philippine government, through the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), administers the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) program. One of the most popular variants of the SRRV is known as SRRV Smile.

This guide provides an in-depth look at the SRRV Smile visa category—covering eligibility, documentary requirements, application procedures, fees, benefits, and responsibilities under Philippine laws.

2. Legal Basis for the SRRV Program

  1. Executive Order No. 1037 (1985): Established the Philippine Retirement Park System, paving the way for policies and incentives to attract foreign retirees.
  2. Republic Act No. 9593 (2009) – Tourism Act of 2009: Recognizes the importance of tourism (including retirement tourism) in economic development.
  3. Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRRs) of the PRA: Provide detailed guidelines on how SRRV applications are processed and regulated.

The PRA (an agency under the Department of Tourism) is entrusted with the mission of promoting the Philippines as a retirement haven and administering the SRRV system.

3. Overview of SRRV Categories

While SRRV Smile is the focus of this article, it is helpful to understand the other categories briefly:

  1. SRRV Smile: Ideal for active retirees (age 35 and above) who can maintain a time deposit with a Philippine bank.
  2. SRRV Classic: Allows retirees to use their time deposit to purchase real estate or condominium units (under certain conditions).
  3. SRRV Human Touch: Designed for ailing retirees who need medical care and meet specific deposit and insurance requirements.
  4. SRRV Courtesy: For former Filipino citizens (and their spouses) or retired foreign diplomats who served in the Philippines.
  5. SRRV Expanded Courtesy: For foreign nationals who are retired officers of international organizations recognized by the Philippines.

For the purpose of this guide, the focus will remain on the SRRV Smile category.

4. What is the SRRV Smile?

The SRRV Smile is a special, non-immigrant visa designed for foreign nationals (including spouse and dependents, under certain terms) who are at least 35 years old and wish to retire in the Philippines. It requires a visa holder to maintain a retirement deposit in a designated Philippine bank.

Key Features:

  • Minimum age requirement: 35 years old.
  • Financial requirement: A US$20,000 time deposit maintained at an accredited PRA bank.
  • No requirement to convert the deposit into an investment (unlike SRRV Classic).
  • Entitles the holder to multiple-entry privileges and indefinite stay in the Philippines.
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5. Eligibility Requirements

  1. Age: The principal applicant must be 35 years old or older.
  2. Good Reputation: The applicant must have no criminal record and must pass a background check.
  3. Health Status: The applicant must be physically fit to reside in the Philippines. This is typically proven by passing a medical examination.
  4. Financial Capability: The applicant must meet the US$20,000 time deposit requirement in an accredited Philippine bank.
  5. Valid Passport: Must have a passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay.

Note on Dependents

  • Spouse: Legally married spouses can be included under the principal applicant’s SRRV. A certified true copy of the marriage certificate (authenticated if foreign-issued) is usually required.
  • Children: Unmarried children under 21 years old (biological or legally adopted) may also qualify as dependents.

6. Documentary Requirements

When applying for the SRRV Smile, the applicant must generally submit the following:

  1. SRRV Application Form
    • Duly accomplished and signed. (Available at the PRA website or office.)
  2. Original Passport
    • Ensure validity for at least six (6) months.
    • Photocopies of all passport pages, including the bio-data page.
  3. Medical Clearance
    • Medical examination report (PRA Form No. 11).
    • Chest X-ray or sputum test results (if required).
    • Issued by a licensed physician in the Philippines (or from the applicant’s home country, authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate).
  4. Police Clearance or NBI Clearance
    • If applying from abroad: Provide a police clearance from the applicant’s country of origin or last country of residence (authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate).
    • If applying in the Philippines: Provide an NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) clearance.
  5. Proof of Time Deposit
    • Certificate of time deposit (minimum US$20,000) issued by a PRA-accredited bank in the Philippines, in the name of the applicant.
  6. Visa Fees and PRA Fees
    • Payment receipts or proof of payment.
  7. Marriage Certificate / Birth Certificate (if applicable)
    • For inclusion of dependents (spouse/children).
    • Authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if foreign-issued.
  8. Photographs
    • Recent 2” x 2” ID photos (check PRA instructions for quantity).

7. The Application Process

Step 1: Prepare All Required Documents

Gather original and authenticated (as required) documents, including your passport, medical clearance, police clearance, and proof of time deposit. Ensure that your passport is valid and that the bank certificate accurately reflects the required deposit amount.

Step 2: Submit Application to the PRA

  • You may apply either in person in the Philippines or through a Philippine Consulate/Embassy abroad (in coordination with the PRA).
  • Complete the SRRV application form and pay the applicable fees (see Fee Structure below).

Step 3: Processing & Background Check

  • After submission, the PRA will conduct a review of your documents, verify your bank deposit, and perform a background check in coordination with other relevant agencies.

Step 4: Issuance of the SRRV

  • If everything is in order, the PRA endorses your application to the Bureau of Immigration for the issuance of the SRRV stamp in your passport.
  • You will receive a PRA SRRV identification card.

Step 5: Maintain Compliance

  • After obtaining the SRRV Smile, visa holders are expected to comply with any ongoing requirements (such as maintaining the time deposit).

8. Fee Structure

The SRRV Smile typically comes with the following fees (subject to change; check the PRA’s latest schedule of fees):

  1. Application Fee (Principal Applicant)
    • US$1,400 (one-time).
  2. Application Fee (Dependent)
    • US$300 (each, one-time).
  3. Annual PRA Fee
    • US$360 per year (covering principal and two dependents).
    • Additional dependents may require an extra fee.
  4. Time Deposit Requirement
    • US$20,000 (minimum) in a PRA-accredited bank.
    • Must remain in the bank for the duration of holding the SRRV Smile. (No investment conversion under SRRV Smile.)

These are approximate amounts and may vary based on PRA regulations and exchange rates.

9. Maintaining the SRRV Smile

  • Annual Report: SRRV holders are typically required to submit an annual PRA fee and confirm certain details (e.g., address, contact info).
  • Bank Deposit: The time deposit of US$20,000 must remain in the bank. Under SRRV Smile, this cannot be withdrawn or converted into an investment for as long as you hold the SRRV Smile status.

Failure to maintain these requirements or any violations of Philippine law may result in visa cancellation.

10. Benefits of the SRRV Smile

  1. Indefinite Stay: Visa holders can stay in the Philippines indefinitely, avoiding the need for frequent visa renewals.
  2. Multiple-Entry Privileges: Freedom to travel in and out of the country without reapplication for entry visas.
  3. Exemption from Exit Clearance and Re-entry Permits: SRRV holders are generally exempt from obtaining ACR I-Card and other exit/re-entry permits from the Bureau of Immigration.
  4. Customs Privileges: Certain importation privileges (e.g., tax-free import of personal effects up to a certain limit, subject to PRA and Bureau of Customs rules).
  5. Access to Services: PRA occasionally offers benefits such as discount programs, assistance with utility connections, and referral services.

11. Possible Limitations and Considerations

  1. Non-Immigrant Status: SRRV does not confer citizenship or permanent resident status. It is a special resident retiree’s visa that can be revoked if conditions are not met.
  2. Local Employment: SRRV holders generally cannot engage in local employment without the appropriate work permit. Consult the Bureau of Immigration and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for guidelines.
  3. Changing Visa Category: To switch from SRRV Smile to another SRRV category (e.g., SRRV Classic to invest in real estate), you may need to secure PRA approval and fulfill additional requirements.
  4. Dependents’ Age Limit: Only unmarried children under 21 are eligible as dependents; children above 21 may need their own SRRV if they meet requirements.
  5. Bank Deposit: Under SRRV Smile, the deposit is not available for investment or withdrawal. If you prefer to invest your deposit (e.g., in real estate), you might consider SRRV Classic.

12. Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I buy property with SRRV Smile?
    • No. SRRV Smile requires you to maintain the US$20,000 deposit. If you want to buy real estate under SRRV, you may apply for SRRV Classic, which allows the deposit to be converted into certain approved real estate investments.
  2. Is there a minimum stay requirement in the Philippines under SRRV Smile?
    • There is no strict minimum stay duration. However, you must keep your PRA membership fees up to date and maintain a valid SRRV (including your time deposit).
  3. Can I work in the Philippines with an SRRV Smile?
    • Generally, SRRV is for retirees and does not permit local employment without separate work authorization. You may work remotely (e.g., online) for a foreign company if permitted under Philippine laws, but local employment would require additional permits.
  4. What if I want to withdraw my time deposit?
    • Under SRRV Smile, withdrawing your deposit normally cancels your SRRV status. If you wish to invest your deposit instead of keeping it in the bank, you might opt for or switch to SRRV Classic (subject to PRA rules).
  5. How long does the application process take?
    • Processing times vary, but it generally takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on completeness of documents, background checks, and PRA/Immigration workload.

13. Final Thoughts and Best Practices

  • Stay Updated: Regulations and fees can change. Always consult the official PRA website or speak to a PRA representative or legal professional before making final decisions.
  • Use PRA-Accredited Banks: Ensure your deposit is placed in a bank recognized by PRA to avoid complications.
  • Maintain Good Standing: Comply with immigration laws, local regulations, and PRA requirements to protect your SRRV status.
  • Seek Professional Advice: If you have unique circumstances—such as dual citizenship, extended families, or investment interests—consult an immigration lawyer or professional consultant well-versed in PRA regulations.

References and Resources

Conclusion
The SRRV Smile offers an attractive pathway for foreign nationals who wish to enjoy the warm hospitality, beautiful scenery, and lower cost of living in the Philippines. By meeting the deposit requirements, submitting the necessary paperwork, and maintaining PRA membership, retirees can benefit from indefinite stay privileges and multiple-entry access. As with any legal process, it is crucial to stay informed, consult official sources, and when needed, seek professional assistance to ensure a smooth retirement journey in the Philippines.

We process:
Air tickets, hotels, travel /Government File processing

  1. 9G Working Visa（1-3Years）
  2. 13A / MCL21 TRV Spousal Visa- married to a Filipino citizen
  3. Tourist Visa Extension
  4. Alien Employment Permit (AEP) / Special Working Permit (SWP)
  5. Inclusion of dependent Spouse and unmarried child
  6. Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC)
  7. Cancellation /Apply of Alien Employment Permit replacement (loss AEP)
  8. Cancellation of CEZA Working Visa (CWV)
  9. Cancellation of 9G Working Visa (9G)
    11.Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) SIRV ASRV
  10. Quota Visa SEC13
  11. Overstay MR
  12. Lifting of Blacklist(BL) and Hold Departure Order (HDO)
  13. Order To Leave (OTL)
    other Immigration related concern:
    Alien Registration
    Annual Report (A.R)
    ACR I-CARD Issuance
    Voluntary Application for ACR I-CARD
    Renewal ACR I-CARD
    Re-Issuance of ACR I-CARD
    ACR I-CARD Waiver
    Cancellation of ACR I-CARD
    Philippine-Born Registration
    Certification for Not the Same Person
    ACR I-CARD Certification
    BI Clearance Certification
    Pending Visa Application Certification
    Certified True Copy Certification
    Travel Records Certification
    Certificate of Non-Registration / Registration
    Application for Retention / Re-acquisition of Phil. Citizenship
    Inclusion of Dependents under R.A. 9225
    Recognition as Filipino Citizen
    Affirmation of Recognition as Filipino Citizen
    Cancellation of Alien Certificate of Registry (ACR)
    Special Study Permit
    Provisional Work Permit
    Special Work Permit – Commercial
    Special Work Permit – Artists & Athletes
    Joining Filipino Seaman
    Signing Off Filipino Seaman
    Joining Foreign Seaman
    Repatriating Foreign Seaman
    Filipino Supernumerary
    Foreign Supernumerary
    Penalty on Late Filing / Non-Filing of Foreign Seafarer’s Notice of Arrival (Joining Crew)
    Administrative Fine Imposed on a Foreign Crew Member if Not Properly Documented
    Penalty for Late Filing / Non-Filing of Notice of Departure
    Waiver for Exclusion Ground
    Downgrading of Visa
    Transfer of Admission Status
    Amendment / Correction of Admission
    Re-Stamping of Visa RA 7919
    Re-Stamping of Visa
    Failed to Stamp – Encoded
    Failed to Stamp – Not Encoded
    Interim Extension (Grace Period)

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