How to Apply for a Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)
The Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) is a special non-immigrant visa issued to foreign nationals and former Filipino citizens who wish to retire and reside in the Philippines. The SRRV program is administered by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), a government-owned and controlled corporation created under Executive Order No. 1037. The Philippines is one of the most attractive retirement destinations in Asia, offering a low cost of living, warm tropical climate, English-speaking population, and world-class healthcare facilities. With an SRRV, retirees enjoy multiple-entry privileges, indefinite stay, and a host of incentives that make settling in the Philippines convenient and hassle-free.
SRRV Types and Deposit Requirements
The PRA offers several SRRV categories, each with different deposit requirements and eligibility criteria. Choose the type that best fits your situation:
- SRRV Smile: Requires a time deposit of USD 20,000. Open to foreign nationals and former Filipino citizens aged 35 and above. The deposit is maintained in a PRA-accredited bank and is refundable upon cancellation of the visa. This is the most popular option for retirees who want a straightforward, no-investment-required visa.
- SRRV Classic: Requires a time deposit ranging from USD 10,000 to USD 50,000 depending on the applicant's age. Applicants aged 50 and above with a pension of at least USD 800/month may deposit as low as USD 10,000. Applicants aged 35–49 must deposit USD 50,000. The deposit may be converted into an active investment such as purchasing a condominium unit or long-term lease of a property.
- SRRV Courtesy: Available to former Filipino citizens, ambassadors and diplomats accredited to the Philippines, and nationals of countries with existing agreements with the Philippines. Requires a deposit of only USD 1,500. This is the most affordable SRRV option for qualified applicants.
Benefits of the SRRV
Holders of a valid SRRV enjoy the following privileges and incentives while residing in the Philippines:
- Multiple Entry and Exit: SRRV holders may enter and leave the Philippines as many times as they wish without needing to apply for a re-entry permit or exit clearance
- No Exit Clearance Required: Unlike other foreign visa holders, SRRV holders are exempt from the Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) requirement when departing the Philippines
- Tax-Free Import of Household Goods: Retirees may import personal and household effects valued up to USD 7,000 free of customs duties and taxes (one-time privilege)
- Banking Privileges: SRRV holders may open peso and foreign currency bank accounts in Philippine banks, facilitating financial transactions and investments
- Investment Opportunities: Retirees may convert their required deposit into an active investment (under SRRV Classic), such as purchasing a condominium, leasing property, or investing in a Philippine business
- Indefinite Stay: The SRRV grants the holder the right to reside in the Philippines indefinitely, subject to annual reporting and payment of the annual fee
- Special Tax Incentives: Income from sources outside the Philippines is not subject to Philippine income tax for SRRV holders who derive their income exclusively from foreign sources
Requirements
Personal Documents
- Valid passport with at least six (6) months remaining validity (original + photocopy of data page)
- Police clearance or NBI clearance equivalent from the applicant's country of origin or last country of residence (authenticated/apostilled)
- Medical examination certificate from a PRA-accredited hospital or clinic in the Philippines (to be obtained upon arrival)
- Twelve (12) pieces of passport-size photos (2x2, white background)
- Completed PRA application form (available at PRA office or downloadable from PRA website)
- Birth certificate or equivalent identification document (for former Filipino citizens applying under SRRV Courtesy)
Financial Requirements
- Required time deposit amount based on SRRV type: USD 20,000 (Smile), USD 10,000–50,000 (Classic), or USD 1,500 (Courtesy)
- Proof of pension or retirement income of at least USD 800/month (for SRRV Classic applicants aged 50+ who wish to deposit only USD 10,000)
- Inward remittance of the required deposit amount through a PRA-accredited bank — funds must be remitted from abroad
- Processing fee of USD 1,400 for the principal applicant (includes SRRV visa fee, medical exam, and other charges)
- Annual fee of USD 360 per year (due every anniversary of SRRV issuance) to maintain active SRRV status
- Additional deposit of USD 15,000 per dependent (for spouse and/or unmarried children under 21 years old)
Note: Requirements may be updated by the PRA from time to time. Former Filipino citizens applying under SRRV Courtesy must provide proof of former Filipino citizenship (e.g., old Philippine passport, birth certificate, or report of birth). All foreign documents must be authenticated or apostilled by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate in the country of origin. Always verify the latest requirements with the PRA before applying.
Step-by-Step Process
How to Apply for a Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)
Step 1: Submit an online pre-application through the PRA website
• Visit the official PRA website (www.pra.gov.ph) and fill out the online application form
• Provide personal information, preferred SRRV type, and contact details
• You may also apply in person at the PRA Main Office in Manila or at PRA satellite offices
Step 2: Receive confirmation and schedule an appointment
• The PRA will review your pre-application and contact you via email
• You will receive a list of required documents and instructions for the next steps
• Schedule your arrival in the Philippines (if applying from abroad)
Step 3: Arrive in the Philippines and visit the PRA office
• Bring all required documents (passport, police clearance, photos, application form)
• The PRA office is located at the Citibank Tower, Makati City
• A PRA officer will review and verify your documents
Step 4: Remit the required deposit to a PRA-accredited bank
• The PRA will provide you with bank details for the wire transfer
• The deposit must be remitted from abroad (inward remittance)
• The bank will issue a Certificate of Time Deposit upon receipt
Step 5: Undergo a medical examination
• Visit a PRA-accredited hospital or clinic for the medical exam
• The exam includes chest X-ray, blood tests, and general physical examination
• Results are typically available within 1–2 working days
Step 6: Pay the processing fee and submit all documents
• Pay the USD 1,400 processing fee (principal applicant) at the PRA cashier
• Submit all completed documents, including the medical certificate and bank deposit certificate
• The PRA will endorse your application to the Bureau of Immigration (BI)
Step 7: Wait for SRRV processing and BI endorsement
• The PRA and BI will process your application within 20 working days
• Your passport will be stamped with the SRRV visa
• You will also be issued an Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card)
Step 8: Receive your SRRV visa and ACR I-Card
• Return to the PRA office to collect your passport with SRRV visa stamp
• Collect your ACR I-Card (biometric card)
• You are now a Special Resident Retiree of the Philippines!Example Explained
Step 1: Begin by submitting a pre-application on the PRA website (www.pra.gov.ph). This online form collects your basic information, preferred SRRV type, and contact details. The PRA uses this to assess your initial eligibility and prepare for your visit. You may also inquire through PRA's accredited marketing representatives or visit the PRA office directly if you are already in the Philippines.
Step 2: After submitting the pre-application, the PRA will send you a confirmation email with a detailed list of requirements and instructions. This includes information on which documents need to be authenticated or apostilled, the list of PRA-accredited banks, and the schedule for medical examinations. If you are abroad, you should start preparing your police clearance and other documents while waiting for your travel date.
Step 3: Upon arrival in the Philippines, visit the PRA Main Office at the Citibank Tower, 8741 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. Bring all required documents — passport, authenticated police clearance, passport photos, and the completed application form. A PRA officer will review your documents, verify your identity, and guide you through the next steps of the process.
Step 4: Remit the required deposit amount to a PRA-accredited bank. The deposit must come from outside the Philippines as an inward remittance (wire transfer). The PRA will provide you with the specific bank account details. Once the bank receives the funds, it will issue a Certificate of Time Deposit, which you will submit to the PRA as proof of deposit.
Step 5: Undergo a medical examination at a PRA-accredited hospital or clinic. The exam typically includes a chest X-ray, blood tests (including HIV/Hepatitis screening), and a general physical examination. Results are usually available within 1 to 2 working days. The medical certificate must confirm that you are in good health and free from communicable diseases.
Step 6: Pay the processing fee of USD 1,400 for the principal applicant at the PRA cashier. This fee covers the SRRV visa fee, medical exam, ACR I-Card, and other processing charges. Submit all completed documents, including the medical certificate and bank deposit certificate. The PRA will compile your application file and endorse it to the Bureau of Immigration for visa issuance.
Step 7: The PRA and Bureau of Immigration will jointly process your SRRV application. This typically takes about 20 working days. During this period, your background is checked, your deposit is verified, and your visa is prepared. Your passport will be stamped with the SRRV visa, and an ACR I-Card will be produced.
Step 8: Return to the PRA office to collect your passport with the SRRV visa stamp and your ACR I-Card. The ACR I-Card is a biometric identification card that serves as your proof of registration as a foreign national residing in the Philippines. You are now officially a Special Resident Retiree and may enjoy all the privileges and benefits of the SRRV program.
Complete Example: Applying for an SRRV
Real-World Scenario
Scenario: Robert and Linda are a retired American couple (both age 62).
Robert receives a US Social Security pension of USD 2,400/month.
They have visited the Philippines several times and want to retire
permanently. They choose the SRRV Smile program.
What They Prepare (in the US):
• Valid US passports (both with 2+ years remaining validity)
• FBI background check certificates (authenticated by Philippine Embassy)
• 12 pcs. passport-size photos each (2x2, white background)
• Marriage certificate (authenticated/apostilled)
• Proof of pension: Social Security benefit verification letter
Their Timeline:
Week 1 — Submit online pre-application on PRA website
Week 2 — Receive PRA confirmation email with document checklist
Week 3 — Fly to Manila, check into hotel
Day 1 in Manila — Visit PRA Main Office (Citibank Tower, Makati)
9:00 AM — Present documents to PRA officer
10:00 AM — Documents reviewed and accepted
11:00 AM — Proceed to PRA-accredited bank
Day 2 — Wire transfer of USD 20,000 (Robert) + USD 15,000 (Linda as dependent)
Total deposit: USD 35,000 via inward remittance
Bank issues Certificate of Time Deposit
Day 3 — Medical examination at accredited hospital
Both Robert and Linda undergo chest X-ray, blood tests, physical exam
Day 5 — Medical results released; both cleared
Submit all documents + deposit certificate + medical cert to PRA
Pay processing fee: USD 1,400 (Robert) + USD 300 (Linda as dependent)
Day 25 (20 working days later):
9:00 AM — Return to PRA office
9:30 AM — Collect passports with SRRV visa stamps
10:00 AM — Receive ACR I-Cards (biometric ID)
Result: Robert and Linda are now SRRV holders!
They can now:
• Reside indefinitely in the Philippines
• Enter and exit freely without exit clearance
• Import household goods tax-free (up to USD 7,000)
• Open Philippine bank accounts
• Enjoy their retirement in tropical paradise
Total Cost: USD 35,000 (deposit, refundable) + USD 1,700 (processing fees)
Annual Fee: USD 360/year (to maintain SRRV status)
Processing Time: Approximately 20 working daysSRRV Fees and Deposit Schedule
| SRRV Type | Required Deposit | Processing Fee | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRRV Smile | USD 20,000 (time deposit, non-convertible to investment; refundable upon cancellation) | USD 1,400 (principal) / USD 300 (dependent) | USD 360/year |
| SRRV Classic (age 50+, with pension) | USD 10,000 (convertible to active investment such as condo purchase or long-term lease) | USD 1,400 (principal) / USD 300 (dependent) | USD 360/year |
| SRRV Classic (age 50+, no pension) | USD 20,000 (convertible to active investment) | USD 1,400 (principal) / USD 300 (dependent) | USD 360/year |
| SRRV Classic (age 35–49) | USD 50,000 (convertible to active investment) | USD 1,400 (principal) / USD 300 (dependent) | USD 360/year |
| SRRV Courtesy | USD 1,500 (for former Filipino citizens, diplomats, and nationals of countries with agreements) | USD 1,400 (principal) / USD 300 (dependent) | USD 360/year |
Note: The deposit is fully refundable upon cancellation of the SRRV, less any applicable bank charges. For SRRV Classic, the deposit may be converted into an active investment (e.g., condominium purchase), but the investment value must be maintained for the duration of the visa. All fees are subject to change — verify current rates with the PRA before applying. Additional dependent fees apply for each spouse or unmarried child under 21.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work in the Philippines with an SRRV?
Yes, SRRV holders may work in the Philippines, but they must first obtain a Special Work Permit (SWP) or an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The SRRV itself is a retirement visa and does not automatically grant work authorization. However, the PRA can assist SRRV holders in applying for the necessary work permits. SRRV holders who wish to engage in business may also register their business with the appropriate government agencies (DTI, SEC, or LGU).
Q: Can I withdraw my deposit after receiving the SRRV?
You may only withdraw your deposit upon cancellation of your SRRV. For SRRV Smile, the deposit must remain as a time deposit for the entire duration of your visa — it cannot be converted into an investment or withdrawn while the visa is active. For SRRV Classic, the deposit may be converted into an active investment (such as a condominium purchase), but the investment value must be maintained. If you cancel your SRRV, the full deposit amount (less any bank charges) will be returned to you.
Q: Can I bring my family as dependents under my SRRV?
Yes, SRRV holders may include their spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age as dependents. Each dependent requires an additional deposit of USD 15,000 and a dependent processing fee of USD 300. Dependents will also receive their own SRRV visa stamps and ACR I-Cards. Dependents must undergo the same medical examination and submit the same personal documents (passport, police clearance, photos). If a dependent child turns 21, they must apply for their own visa to continue residing in the Philippines.
Q: I am a former Filipino citizen. Which SRRV type should I apply for?
Former Filipino citizens who have become naturalized citizens of another country are eligible for the SRRV Courtesy, which requires only a USD 1,500 deposit. This is the most affordable SRRV option. You will need to provide proof of your former Filipino citizenship, such as an old Philippine passport, PSA-issued birth certificate, or a certification from the Bureau of Immigration confirming your former citizenship. The SRRV Courtesy provides the same privileges as the other SRRV types, including multiple entry/exit, indefinite stay, and tax-free importation of household goods.
Q: Do I need to renew my SRRV? How do I maintain it?
The SRRV itself does not expire and does not require renewal in the traditional sense. However, you must pay an annual fee of USD 360 to maintain your active SRRV status. This fee is due every year on the anniversary of your SRRV issuance. You must also comply with the Annual Reporting requirement by visiting the PRA office or filing the report online. Failure to pay the annual fee or comply with reporting requirements may result in the cancellation of your SRRV. Additionally, your ACR I-Card must be renewed periodically (typically every 5 years).
Q: What happens if I leave the Philippines for an extended period?
SRRV holders may leave the Philippines for any length of time without losing their visa status, as long as they continue to pay the annual fee of USD 360 and comply with the Annual Reporting requirement. There is no minimum stay requirement for SRRV holders. However, if you fail to pay the annual fee for an extended period, the PRA may cancel your SRRV. It is recommended to notify the PRA if you plan to be abroad for a prolonged period and to ensure your annual fees are paid on time to avoid any issues upon your return.
Important Reminders
- The SRRV is processed exclusively through the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) — do not transact with unauthorized agents or fixers who claim to process the SRRV outside of the PRA
- All required deposits must be remitted from abroad as an inward remittance — locally sourced funds are not accepted for the SRRV deposit requirement
- Pay the annual fee of USD 360 on time every year to maintain your SRRV status — failure to pay may result in visa cancellation
- Keep your ACR I-Card valid and carry it at all times while in the Philippines — it serves as your primary identification as a registered foreign national
- SRRV holders are exempt from exit clearance (ECC) requirements when departing the Philippines, but you must present your valid SRRV visa and ACR I-Card at immigration
- If you wish to cancel your SRRV, visit the PRA office and file a formal cancellation request — your deposit will be refunded less any applicable bank charges
- Former Filipino citizens may also explore the Balikbayan Program (RA 6768) as an alternative, which grants visa-free entry for up to one year but does not provide the same long-term residency benefits as the SRRV
- Always verify the latest requirements, fees, and procedures with the PRA before applying — policies may change without prior notice. Contact the PRA hotline or visit their official website at www.pra.gov.ph
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the Bureau of Immigration you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest Bureau of Immigration first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.