Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV) in the Philippines: How to Qualify and Apply
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Guide to qualifying and applying for the Philippines Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV).
Contents
About This Guide
This guide is based on current procedures and requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources
References & Further Reading
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:
Quick overview: The SIRV lets eligible foreign investors and their immediate family live long-term in the Philippines based on qualifying investments. Below are clear steps, required documents, and tips specific to the Philippines.
Who can apply
- Foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in the Philippines.
- Immediate family (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can be included.
- Investors must comply with national laws and any sector-specific foreign ownership limits.
Basic eligibility checklist
- Proof of qualifying investment in a Philippine enterprise (BOI-endorsed project, SEC-registered corporation, or other approved vehicle).
- Clean criminal record and medical clearance.
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Compliance with foreign ownership rules for the chosen business/industry.
Typical investment routes
- Direct capital infusion into a registered corporation or enterprise.
- Purchase of approved securities or other BOI-approved investment instruments. Note: Exact minimum investment amounts and eligible instruments can vary-confirm latest thresholds with BOI.
Step by step: How to apply
- Decide investment vehicle
- Choose whether to invest directly in a company, buy approved securities, or use other BOI-accepted instruments.
- Register or document the investment
- If forming a company, register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and get company papers (Articles of Incorporation, Treasurer's Affidavit of investment, etc.).
- If required, apply for BOI endorsement/registration for the project or investment.
- Gather core documents (see checklist below)
- Submit SIRV application to the Bureau of Immigration (BI)
- Prepare original documents and clear photocopies.
- BI may require additional forms or BOI endorsement.
- Pay applicable fees and wait for processing
- Processing times vary-ask BI for current timeframe.
- Biometric processing and issuance
- You may be called for biometrics/interview before final issuance.
- Arrive/Stay formalities
- Once approved, follow BI instructions for visa stamping, entry, and reporting requirements.
Required documents (common)
- Valid passport (bio-data pages and copies).
- Completed BI application form for SIRV (obtain from Bureau of Immigration).
- Proof of investment:
- BOI endorsement or certificate if applicable.
- SEC registration or company documents showing paid-up capital and investor share.
- Bank statements showing transfer of investment funds.
- Police clearance / NBI clearance or equivalent from country of origin and current residence.
- Medical certificate (good health), chest X-ray or other BI-required tests.
- Passport-size photos (as per BI specs).
- Marriage certificate and birth certificates for dependents (if applying for family).
- Proof of accommodation or local contact.
- Cover letter / Letter of Intent detailing nature of investment and business plan.
- Proof of payment of visa processing fees and any applicable taxes.
(Always check the BI and BOI pages for the latest form names and exact document specifications.)
Checklist
- Passport (valid 6+ months) + copies
- BI SIRV application form (completed)
- BOI endorsement / investment certificate (if applicable)
- SEC/company registration and Treasurer's Affidavit
- Bank statements / proof of fund transfer
- Police/NBI clearance (origin and residence)
- Medical certificate / X-ray
- Photos (passport size)
- Marriage/birth certificates for dependents
- Cover letter / business plan
- Payment receipts for fees
Processing time, fees and tips
- Processing times vary-ask the BI office handling SIRV for current estimates (commonly several weeks to a few months).
- Fees vary; expect application fees plus possible endorsement fees from BOI and standard BI charges.
- Tip: Get BOI endorsement early if your investment/project requires it-this avoids delays.
- Tip: Legalize or apostille foreign documents where required; Philippine consulates can assist.
- Tip: Use a local immigration lawyer or consultant familiar with SIRV if your investment structure is complex.
After approval
- The SIRV grants long-term residency privileges; check BI for whether stamp/ID is issued immediately or after arrival.
- Maintain records of your investment and annual compliance if required by BOI or other agencies.
Useful next steps:
- Visit BOI and Bureau of Immigration websites to confirm current investment thresholds, required forms, fees, and office locations.
- Prepare all original documents and certified translations (if documents are not in English or Filipino).
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