SRRV Philippines: Top 20 Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)
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Are you planning to retire in the Philippines or stay long-term without the hassle of visa runs? The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) is one of the most attractive retirement visas in Asia — and many expats are now taking advantage of it.
As a PRA-accredited SRRV Marketer, I work with retirees and expats every day. Here are the 20 most frequently asked questions I get from clients, answered clearly and accurately to help you get started.
What is the SRRV?
The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) is a lifetime visa issued by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). It allows you to live in the Philippines indefinitely, enter and exit multiple times without re-applying for visas.
2. Who is eligible for the SRRV?
Anyone 40 years old and above with no derogatory record with Philippine Immigration can apply for an SRRV. 😎
What is the minimum visa deposit required?
Deposit depends on your SRRV type:
Classic:
Aged 40- 49 years old without Pension USD 50,000
Aged 40- 49 years old with Pension USD 25,000
Aged 50 years old and above without Pension USD 30,000
Aged 50 years old and above with Pension USD 15,000
Courtesy:
Aged 40- 49 years old without Pension USD 6,000
Aged 40- 49 years old with Pension USD 3,000
Aged 50 years old and above USD 1,500
4. Can I withdraw my deposit?
You can only withdraw the deposit if you:
Cancellation of SRRV: If you decide to leave the SRRV program.
Conversion: If you choose to convert your deposit to purchase a condominium unit or enter into a long-term lease (25+ years) approved by PRA.
In case of death: The deposit will be released to your next of kin or beneficiary, following your will or succession laws.
5. What documents do I need to apply for the SRRV?
Typical requirements include:
SRRV Application Form
Notice of Client Registration
Valid Passport
Police Clearance (home country, apostilled)
Medical Certificate
Proof of Pension (if applicable)
Proof of Deposit (bank certificate or remittance)
💡 Each applicant is unique — we’ll give you a personalized checklist based on your age, passport, and residence.
How do I apostille my documents?
For U.S. documents, we can handle the apostille process for you with express service in as fast as 2 business days. For other countries, we will guide you on how to complete the apostille through your government office or recommend a trusted agency to process it quickly and correctly.
You are not alone in this process. We can proudly say that have never sent a client back home for any SRRV requirement.
How long does the process take?
If your documents are complete, processing time depends on where you submit:
📍 Manila (Main Office): Within 45 days
📍 Clark, Cebu, Davao: Around 2 months
I need to be in the Philippines during processing?
Yes — you must be in the country because your passport is submitted to PRA for visa stamping.
Can I bring my spouse or children?
Yes! Your legal spouse and dependent children under 21 can be included as dependents. Your visa deposit includes up to 2 dependents.
Do I have to pay annual fees?
Yes. PRA charges an annual fee which covers the principal member and up to 2 dependents.
SRRV Classic: $360/year
SRRV Courtesy: $100/year
SRRV Courtesy (Former Filipinos): $50
Do I need to renew my SRRV?
No. Once granted, the SRRV is lifetime and permanent as long as you keep your deposit and pay your annual fees.
Can I work or start a business in the Philippines with an SRRV?
Yes — SRRV holders can start a business in the Philippines.
If you wish to be employed by a Philippine company, you will need to apply for a work permit. The PRA can assist you with this process.
What happens if I lose my passport?
You will need to report it to PRA, get a new passport from your embassy, and have your SRRV re-stamped. The process is straightforward but must be done formally.
Do I still need to pay travel tax when leaving the Philippines?
You are exempt from travel tax if you have stayed in the Philippines for less than 1 year.
If you have been in the country for more than 1 year, you must pay the travel tax before departure.
Can I apply even if I have a criminal record?
PRA may accept applications for minor or old cases, but serious offenses can lead to disqualification. We first collect your police report and have it reviewed by PRA lawyers before proceeding — this avoids wasting time and ensures you have a clear path forward.
16. What if I don't have a pension?
You can still qualify under the SRRV Classic with a higher deposit amount or SRRV Courtesy (50+).
Can I use Cash or Money in the Philippines for the visa deposit?
No. Deposits must be wired internationally to PRA-accredited banks (usually via SWIFT transfer). It must come from outside the Philippines, and it must be in USD.
💡 Tip: We recommend sending your deposit at least 1 month before your application to allow time for the bank to issue the certificate needed by PRA.
Can I buy land in the Philippines with an SRRV?
Foreigners, regardless of the type of visa they hold, cannot own land in the Philippines. However, you still have several options: you can buy a condominium unit (foreign ownership is allowed up to 40% of the total building), lease land for up to 50 years with a possible 25-year renewal, or form a corporation where you own up to 40% and let the corporation hold the land title.
Another practical option is entering into a long-term lease agreement that can cover your lifetime.
19. How much does an SRRV cost?
The cost of an SRRV depends on the type you choose. The main expense is the visa deposit, ranging from USD 1,500 to USD 50,000 — but you still own this money. There is also a one-time application fee of USD 1,500 for the principal (USD 300 per dependent) and an annual PRA fee of USD 50–360 depending on the SRRV type.
Other costs include a medical exam (around PHP 2,500), NBI clearance (PHP 150), and any apostille/legalization fees for foreign documents.
We will go over the expenses during the consult so you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for and how much it will cost.
Bottom line: The SRRV is a flexible way to retire in the Philippines. Whether you’re moving permanently or just want an easier way to come and go, this visa gives you peace of mind. Have more questions unanswered? Comment them down below! 😊
While our passports are at the PRA, can we travel around the Philippines? Since we have to remain in the Philippines for 45 days, we would like to use the time to visit and check out different retirement locations.
You can go directly to the Pillipines Retirement Authority (PRA) website: pra.gov.ph
My wife and I are in our 70’s. If I apply for an srrv with my wife will she be allowed to keep her visa and remain in the Philippines in the event of my death?
I am a retired Canadian, 65 years old, in excellent health without any medication. I have all the necessary documents for the SRRV classic visa, but my problem is that in Canada you must have a family doctor to get an appointment for the medical examination or wait several years. My question is: if I arrive in Manila with my documents (except for the Canadian medical examination) will I be able to do the medical examination in Manila and then apply for the SRRV visa?
Is the information on this website up to date in 2025? If there have been changes, please advise.