Bob604
Canadian expat in the Philippines
Forum posts
108
Contacts
9
About me
Canadian, Married
Lives in Makati City, Metro Manila
Speaks I speak English.
Registration: 28 July 2017
Why do expats continue to move, live, and retire in the Philippines? by Nielsen Flute
This country has so many strikes against it that no sane person should negotiate with. Let's begin. Low quality of life and high costs. Even in Cebu now for a small studio rent is 25k for a cramped space with no internet / cable. Value for ...
I certainly agree on one point that is mentioned above. Unless you want to live out in the Province with no air con and eat rice with stinky fish every day, it is no bargain moneywise in the Philippines. Yes we are living in one of the more ... Read More
taxes
There is a tax treaty in place between Canada and the US. You will only need to pay taxes in one country. There is a lot of information on-line regarding this issue, or you can consult with a tax adviser in either country who specializes in ... Read More
work in the Philippines with sponsorship by FSELBY
Hello My name is Fineas. I am from the UK and looking for work in the Philippines with sponsorship. Focused around Manila. Anybody on these forums got any tips?
In your introduction you say 'I work well in fast paced and innovative environments'. Hard to find that in the Philippines ..... Read More
Open business in boracay, Philippines. by Cortes pri
Hello-shalom, :cheers: What is the requirements for opening a small business to a foreign citizen in the Philippines? (I am a citizen of Israel and my plan is to invest in Boracay island). I need all the information you have.. Office ...
Without contacts here in the Philippines from your home country, whom you can trust to help you get established, you will lose all your money. Come to the Philippines (Borocay) and spend at least a year figuring out the ways people do business ... Read More
Franchise as Foreigner by ralf1970
Hello, someone here have own as Foreigner a Franchise in the Philippines?? Possible to do it ?? Greetings Ralf
Filipinos are a very friendly and congenial group of people. They welcome most foreigners to their country. Come to the Philippines, enjoy your vacation, but remain a tourist and a guest of the country only. You will be viewed as being very rich ... Read More
Cell phone by Dwsses12
I have my cell phone from the usa. With Verizon. When i go to the Philippines i have another sim card i convert to. Cheaper than paying Verizon 10$ a day. How can i keep my American phone number? I need to keep a cell company in usa? Also. ?
Most people in your situation simply purchase a dual sim phone. Best prices on Amazon or E bay, but if you are already in the Philippines, you might check prices on Lazada as well. Amazon may not ship some items to the Philippines. Read More
New to Expat.com by todutter
I'm from Indianapolis, Indiana and am considering a move to the Philippines. I am a CPA and have over 30 years of small business and individual tax accounting experience. I am the managing partner in my small firm and have contemplated ...
While you were here in the Philippines, did you see any other parts of the country other than Manila? Assuming you wish to stay in Manila, most expats here would strongly recommend that you come with enough resources to sustain your living ... Read More
Should I buy a house in metro manila? by kindawn
Pretty straight forward question: should I buy a house in Metro Manila? (Yes it will be under my filipina wife's name and I totally trust her) Anyone has experience living in a house or subdivision in metro manila? I have been here for 3 years ...
Looking for a real estate purchase here in the Philippines, is very cumbersome and confusing by using the internet. On any site, it is almost impossible to filter listings or isolate to a chosen district, and also tell for sure what listing may be ... Read More
Returning to Philippines to Get Married by moonunit0103
Hi, After 58 days with my GF island hopping in Visayas, I am looking to return to Ormoc to get married, and want to know the process for getting married in the Philippines, going from a Tourist Visa to a 13A Visa, and whether the Balikbayan Stamp ...
Permanent residency with a 13A still requires you to undertake a renewal process after 5 years, so I guess it is not really permanent by definition. In addition, you will still need to submit an annual report fee at the beginning of each year ... Read More
Returning to Philippines to Get Married by moonunit0103
Hi, After 58 days with my GF island hopping in Visayas, I am looking to return to Ormoc to get married, and want to know the process for getting married in the Philippines, going from a Tourist Visa to a 13A Visa, and whether the Balikbayan Stamp ...
You will require only one extra document before you begin the process of obtaining your Philippine marriage license . That is your 'Legal capacity to marry' which you can obtain at your embassy here in the Philippines. I have found that ... Read More
Television
Simply Google ' Broadcast Television in the Philippines' ... Everything you need to know will be found here.... Read More
Another Visa question by Reviral
I have booked a trip to the Philippines but in my haste managed to book 34 days, flights paid for. I don't have time to get another passport photo, bank statements, and a notarized signature plus the time it takes to process and return the visa. ...
I would not want to proceed to Philippine airport exit immigration with an expired visa. Here we have a very lucky experience, but the officer could just as easily denied passage out of the Philippines and sent you to downtown immigration office to ... Read More
Advise about living in Philippines and working in USA. by johndelucca
I am married for 10 years to a Filipino and we have house in Angeles City. I also have A-card. I recently sold my house in USA and am planning to make Philippines my home. I am retired, but still work in US. Is anyone under similar circumstances? I ...
Hello John What kind of work will you be doing in the US, while living in the Philippines? Can I assume you are doing this work on your computer? Will you still keep a US address? There are a number of ways to look at this, but you ... Read More
I've overdosed on bad news !!!!! by JB pal
Hi, Like here in the United States we mostly hear about bad news and every so often a feel good story. I'm single married once and planning on spending 4 to 6 months in your country to possibly live there. Not a big city guy and just started ...
Hello Joseph If you simply keep your brains out of your pants, it is possible for any intelligent guy to find a Filipina who will not steal your money ..... Read More
Another Visa question by Reviral
I have booked a trip to the Philippines but in my haste managed to book 34 days, flights paid for. I don't have time to get another passport photo, bank statements, and a notarized signature plus the time it takes to process and return the visa. ...
Stop panicking! Read the above from pej1111 carefully. I assume you are a UK citizen and you have a return ticket issued. Your first 30 days are on a free Visa entry. You can simply obtain a 30 day extension while here in the Philippines. ... Read More
13a visa by Gem23
Do my filipina wife need to be US citizen first before she apply me a 13a visa? Because that's what consulate said. Were almost 2yrs now living here in US and were going to planning to move in Philippines in the future.
As I understand it, the 13A Visa was designed for a foreigner who has legally married a Filipino citizen living in the Philippines and the foreigner wishes to live in the Philippines without continual renewal of his tourist Visa. . How your ... Read More
Which bank in Manila gives the best term rate? by Richard Yan
For 500K peso or more? Thank you.
If you are presently banking with BDO and you can accept a little risk, it is possible to set up your own self directed brokerage account by logging into BDO Nomura. With this on-line account, it is possible to very easily transfer funds between ... Read More
Which bank in Manila gives the best term rate? by Richard Yan
For 500K peso or more? Thank you.
I am not too sure why anyone would have LONG TERM savings of more than 500K pesos in a Philippine bank. Maybe to accumulate pesos in an account over time to buy a car or other asset, but otherwise I believe it is much better to set up a pipeline ... Read More
CNI for Australian Permanent Residents
There is not enough information here. What is your citizenship and where are you presently living? If your partner can apply for this certificate by mail, why not ask him to do it that way? What do you mean by 'doing the Permanent ... Read More
VISA extension for 6 months by TerryGF
Hi, I am going to Cebu in July and I want to stay 6 months after my first 29 extension. Do I need to show proof of travel from the country when I apply for the extra 6 months? Thanks
I believe the maximum extension you can now obtain beyond your first 30 day extension is for only 2 months. Thereafter, you may obtain extensions in 2 month increments. Philippine Immigration is very consistent is dreaming up ways to extract more ... Read More
Cell Phone Questions by moonunit0103
Hi, I have an unlocked Moto G5 Plus GSM phone, using AT&T. I am coming to the Philippines for 2 months. Can I just install a prepaid SIM Card that I purchase when I land, or is there a reason to get a dual SIM cell phone? I understand that I ...
The only reason I see that you might need to purchase a dual sim phone is so you could retain your AT&T number and also make use of a local number at the same time while you are here in the Philippines.. I believe your AT&T GSM phone will ... Read More
Rental House in Dipolog by LeeBre
Hi I'm Jon from Los Angeles, California and getting married this Tuesday 12/18/18! My wife and her family live in Dipolog and I'm looking for a short term rental from now for 1 month minimum and 6 months maximum. Needs to be fully furnished. ...
Hello Jon Very interested in hearing how the wedding turned out today. Your fiancee met you at the airport and everything was arranged as you expected? Read More
New members of the Philippines forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Philippines forum? Don’t know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
moonunit0103 Voltage converters are easy to purchase here in the Philippines. However, check the labels on your power supply/chargers for your laptops and cellphones. Many, if not most will operate safely in a range of voltages of somewhere ... Read More
Rental House in Dipolog by LeeBre
Hi I'm Jon from Los Angeles, California and getting married this Tuesday 12/18/18! My wife and her family live in Dipolog and I'm looking for a short term rental from now for 1 month minimum and 6 months maximum. Needs to be fully furnished. ...
Hello Jon from LA. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. It sounds as if you have yet to make a visit to this part of Mindanao . Your fiancee has made all your long distance wedding arrangements? ? She must be one amazing girl ! P15000 ... Read More
A new expat here by brucemj
Hi All, My name is Bruce and I made a permanent move to Cebu last May from California. For the past 6 months have worked on getting settled in. While I am 'new' here now I did live here for a bit over 2 years from 2012 to 2014 so was ...
Welcome here Bruce. I am up in Manila, but hope you meet up with expat buddies in Cebu Bob Read More
Got My One Year Multi Entry Visa Today by moonunit0103
Hi, I have recently decided to travel to the Philippines, so I applied for a passport, and then sent an application to the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC for a Multi Entry 1 year Visa, which came back 10 days later. I have read some other ...
PAL now has a non-stop flight to JFK with the new A350. No stop over in Vancouver anymore... Read More
American Refused Entry at Cebu by GuestPoster256
Has any American heard of being refused entry at Cebu airport because of passport expiration date? Many countries requires 6 months. Many countries don't enforce it. I will have 5 months left on my passport. It looks like I won't have time ...
Go to this site https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/requirements/processing-times.html Also note: Processing Times The processing times below apply to all passport services. Processing Times Routine 4-6 ... Read More
Cell phone by Dwsses12
Have you kept your cell phone and number with your server in your county. Or is it better to get a new phone and number in the Philippines. If your going to live there.
Yes, I just edited my response above and added a line. You may be out of luck here in the Philippines with your Verizon sim card. CDMI technology is not compatible with GSM world wide networks.. Read More
Cell phone by Dwsses12
Have you kept your cell phone and number with your server in your county. Or is it better to get a new phone and number in the Philippines. If your going to live there.
If your existing cell phone is not equipped to handle a dual sim card, pick up a new phone here in the Philippines (or elsewhere) with dual sum capability. That way, you can maintain your existing number with your existing carrier, and also obtain ... Read More
How much will it cost to buy a small flat? by egalex
Hi there I would like to ask how much it will cost to buy a small flat in the Philippines? and what is the cost of living?
Since you are a foreigner, it will only be possible for you to purchase a condominium type of investment. As in many countries, prices for real estate vary widely depending on the location that you chose to live. For example, a small flat, ... Read More
Canadian coming Philippines wanting ideas for investing by PhilCanbeno1
Hello everyone Salamat for accepting me to your blog. I have been reading several the questions and answers it us great exchange ideas. I have been to Manila twice and spent several trips and time China. I am looking for investment oppurtunities, ...
Okieboy has this correct ! Leave your money at home. Keep it invested in what you are comfortable with. Simply transfer the returns on your investment to the Philippines and use as you wish .... Read More
permenant residence by Tyronevb
Good Day I am a new member and a south african citezen trying to get as much information to live in the Philippines i have been there 4 times for vacation and realy love the country if anyone could pass on some information to be a permenat residence ...
Correct. Dozens of previous posts covered this topic on Expat forum in the last few years. Simply Google the topic. Read More
13a temporary resident visa and Education by Truco2
Hi all. Its just what the topic states. I was wondering if 13a temporary resident visa holders can enroll themselves in a degree course in some college here in the philippines. And if yes, are there any requirements? As there are no requirements for ...
A 13A Visa is a permanent resident visa by marriage, not a temporary visa. Just the first year 13A is probationary, but still a permanent visa. Yes, you may enroll at some colleges here for a degree as long as you have the educational ... Read More
Extended stay visas for Australians in the Philippines by cupss
Hello everyone, My partner and I wanted to spend some extended time in the Philippines (approximately 6 months) and I have read on the internet that there is a visa that can be extended for a maximum of a 36 month stay. However when I approached the ...
Get your first Visa in Australia before you leave. This will allow you to stay for a maximum of 59 days and will be the cheapest option for you. About 4 or 5 days before the expiration of your first Visa, make a visit to the Philippine Bureau of ... Read More
Extend tourist visa in Manila by Richard Yan
I think the Makati extension office not doing tourist visa extensions as of July 2018. Where in Manila can I do it now.? Thank you for your help.
Flex 14 is correct. Additionally, I believe the Immigration Extension Office in BGC is still operating and will do the Visa extension for you. However, with Philippine Immigration, it is wise to check the website for most current information if ... Read More
What to expect when moving to the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Is there anything you wish you had known before moving to the Philippines? For example, transportation, internet speeds, types of housing, aspects of the culture or social life. In your opinion, what's the most important thing ...
You will probably receive 10 different answers from folks who live in 10 various locations throughout the Philippines. The answer is very subjective, unless you are spelling out your own specific requirements. For example: rural or city ... Read More
Visa (JUST MARRIED). by kaboona58
I cant find the answer on Philippines immigration website. I arrived here on a 30 day stay from the UK and on expiry was granted a further 2 months. I just recently married a Philippine national and my current 2 month extension expires mid july. To ...
I wish the many folks that post information here would please publish correct information as you are confusing each and all of us. First of all the total fees for obtaining a 2 month extension to your Tourist Visa (after your first 30 day ... Read More
Thinking about moving to Leyet
With your guaranteed income, it will be possible for you to live quite comfortably almost anywhere in the Philippines. Statistically, Leyte will be more prone to feeling the brunt of pacific storms, but I am sure you have other reasons for ... Read More
Small business in Phillippines by Ikawsapat
Hello, I would like to get some feedback about small businesses in Philippines. I have read over the internet about small businesses like selling load, ukay ukay, food, groceries...etc I have a friend who want to start and I would be interested ...
From what I can understand from your note, the best advise anyone can give you is not to invest one single peso in your 'friend's' idea .... Read More
Fresh Expat. Need ACR Card for Apartment? by MykeAngelo
Hello, I am planning to move to the Philippines from US in less than a year and was wondering if the ACR Card is needed to rent an apartment in the Philippines? As far as I know it's needed to open a PH bank account. So do fresh expats pay cash ...
I just did some research in this licensing topic. As I understand it , this is a problem for new expats who do not have an existing Philippine drivers licence. If you already have a Philippine drivers licence, it can be renewed, even though you ... Read More
Fresh Expat. Need ACR Card for Apartment? by MykeAngelo
Hello, I am planning to move to the Philippines from US in less than a year and was wondering if the ACR Card is needed to rent an apartment in the Philippines? As far as I know it's needed to open a PH bank account. So do fresh expats pay cash ...
Although this does not apply to me, I have a number of friends here in the Philippines who have been extending their tourist Visa over 3 months and they also have a Philippine driver's licence. What official web site can I point them to, which ... Read More
Leaving and re-enterring Philippines on 59 day visa. by BassMan_720
I've just left the Philippine Embassy in London. I had intended to obtain a 1 year multiple entry visa, which would have given me multiple entries of 59 days maximum for the 1 year period. This would have been ideal for me as I plan to do ...
Within certain countries like Britain, Canada, Australia and the USA, It is possible to get a one year multi entry Visa for the Philippines. Each trip is good for a maximum of 59 days and the Visa is good for one year. It cannot be purchased in ... Read More
Travel arrangements
Being from Florida, you might also enjoy the Ocean Park Tour at your Hotel choice...Your friends can show you around Manila and the nitelife around Manila. From Miami, Ali Nippon Airways, Delta and Cathay Pacific seem to offer the cheaper fares, ... Read More
Dealing with loneliness in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, Expatriation can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit lonely at times. Please share with us some tips for dealing with loneliness. What are some potential factors that lead to loneliness when moving to the ...
Mugtech says..... "I agree this is an isolating factor, but it works well for me. I am happy to NOT know what the current family dispute is about. No one ever calls me as a witness in these disputes, which is fine with me. I make it a point ... Read More
Travel arrangements
It does not make really much difference what airline you fly, as long as if the destination is in the Philippines. There are dozens of travel sites which will compare fare prices from your home city in the USA. Philippine Airlines will give you a ... Read More
Job Employment by artzcarl
Good day! Im currently a fresh college graduate with no working experience yet, but im willing to work here in the philippines, but i have applied to so many companies mainly the BPO companies, but i keep on hearing the same thing, "Im ...
As a foreigner, your chances of finding just any employment in a country that has over a 20% unemployment rate are about one in one thousand! Read More
Early Retirement With U$1,000,000? by GuestPoster1050
Hi Folks, If I sold my home, rental property, private business shares, and some collectibles, I would have about U$1,000,000 after fees and taxes. Would this be enough to retire comfortably in the Philippines? Assuming 30 year retirement with no ...
It might be best for you to talk with some fee based financial advisers at home. You could simply invest the US $1,000,000 at a reasonable safe return of around 5%, which would give you $50,000 per year to live on. Simply rent here in the ... Read More
Sending Money/Girlfriend Allowance by Kimo Kiting
Hello, I am new to the forum and this is my first post. I would like to thank all of the active members who have provided a wealth of information in pasts discussions. I hope to get to know many of you who are currently living in the Visayas. ...
My heavens! 400 to 500 US per month ?? That is P 25,000 per month! And all she can show is some food, legos and 2 new pairs of shoes?? That is enough money to feed her parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, aunts and uncles including their ... Read More
Dealing with loneliness in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, Expatriation can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit lonely at times. Please share with us some tips for dealing with loneliness. What are some potential factors that lead to loneliness when moving to the ...
If an immigrant or expat cannot find their own answers to loneliness, then isn't the simplest solution to just return to the home country ? Read More
Job requirements
With the type of visa you have, you might contact the Dept. of Labor or Philippine Immigration and verify whether you are eligible to work. http://www.ble.dole.gov.ph/index.php/web-pages/118-alien-employment-permit and ... Read More
permanent visa for pakistani by GuestPoster140
after 1 year TRV pakistani can get Pemanent resident visa(PRV). if no what reason?
When does a foreigner have the right to open a bank account here in the Philippines? I think not ! Read More
300,000 Pesos House by allan8888
Hi, just want to ask if 300k Php is enough to build a 2 storey house in manila?
At the moment. I am visiting here on Panglao Island (Bohol) . An American friend of mine and his girlfriend have just recently moved into a new 3 bedroom 2 story house in a sub division here. The cost for him was 5 million pesos and still some ... Read More
Permanent stay in Philippines by Grattray
Thank you. I packed up my life in Sydney to move to Manila on Sunday to be with my partner is a PH National. I am on a 30 day tourist visa and have no job. Consulate told me I can extend tourist visa for another 30 days. I have been on all ...
The above note regarding the 13A Visa is incorrect! The writer sohailbhudha96 is using information for another type of Visa. The permanent 13A Visa (by marriage) is good for 5 years. I would also be interested in the renewal fees today, but ... Read More
Permanent stay in Philippines by Grattray
Thank you. I packed up my life in Sydney to move to Manila on Sunday to be with my partner is a PH National. I am on a 30 day tourist visa and have no job. Consulate told me I can extend tourist visa for another 30 days. I have been on all ...
Hey . sohailbhudha96 , I do not think the question was so much about the appropriate Visa but more about locating an employment agency where he can advertise his skills. There are numerous posts on this expat site about extending tourist visas ... Read More
cash and stocks by Vivnay
Any tips on transferring PHP from Hong Kong to Manila? Remitters like I-remit have the best rates but cap transfers at PHP 400k/month. Offshore Philly banks such as BPI will take you for a ride with their fx spot rates. Also looking at a few high ...
Except for a few recession resistant stocks, the equity markets in the Philippines have been an under performer in the last year. Some people call this a buying opportunity ! Read More
Jobs for Indians in Philippines (Manila) by masterappu
Hi. I am an Indian who have completed Masters degree in Electronics and Communication (Signal Processing and Embedded Systems). I have also completed my UG in Electrical and Electronics. Currently I am working in an IT firm. I would like to know ...
Vivnay .... exactly ! A related fact to this post is there are tens of thousands of Filipinas registered on various on-line dating sites. Many of these girls strike up an on-line romance with Indians as well as other foreigners, promising ... Read More
Jobs for Indians in Philippines (Manila) by masterappu
Hi. I am an Indian who have completed Masters degree in Electronics and Communication (Signal Processing and Embedded Systems). I have also completed my UG in Electrical and Electronics. Currently I am working in an IT firm. I would like to know ...
There are no jobs in the Philippines for unskilled foreign workers. End of Story! There are exceptions if you are lucky enough to be employed by a foreign company in the Philippines that is headquartered in your home country. This means there are ... Read More
Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A) probation: Work? by mikaelarhelger
I am getting my Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A). For now it will be probationary (one year). Is it allowed to work here during that time?
Some of the information pertaining to fees, written in this post is out of date. When inquiring about Visa fees, simply access the government website. If you like, print off copy and take with you to immigration if you feel you are being ... Read More
100k budget for the house by Senyorita chubbylita
I want to ask for an advice very low budget for building a small house 2 bedrooms 1 toilet and bath small kitchen and dining thank you budget plan pls
So much rambling on here about the cost to build a house in the Philippines. Is it 100,000 pesos or $100,000 dollars? 100,000 pesos will hardly build a shack anywhere in the Philippines, while $100,000 US dollars or 5 million pesos will build ... Read More
Au Pair Visa Interview - French Embassy in Philippines by GuestPoster225
Hello. I applied for an Au pair visa for France. The French Embassy in Makati called me today to schedule an interview. Are interviews natural? isn't it a sign of a possible refusal? what are the things they usually ask?? I got nervous when i ...
Interviews with embassy personal are usually much more relaxed than one would first imagine. Generally, there is no worry or concern here unless you have submitted some dubious documentation in your application. They may need to also see that you ... Read More
65+ Retirees - how are you planning for those last days by kilgore99
For those senior (65+) retirees. Do you plan to spend those last few years/Months of your ailing health/life in the Philippines or return back to your home country in those twilight years. I understand the benefits of life in the Philippines, when ...
Good comments LemSaDipolog . Lots of guesswork here in the Philippines to make up most statistics is my opinion .... Read More
Very confusing by JB pal
Reading about the Philippines is confusing. I was thinking on retiring in Asia. The visa requirements seem hassle free in the Philippines. Thailand would be my other choice I like Ipoh a lot. Tagaytay in the Philippines l like as well Davao ...
I am sure you will see many responses to you post, and each response will offer you something to think about. It seems you have certainly done a little homework! Since everyone is different, with different likes, needs, and dislikes, no one ... Read More
How to deal with stress when moving to the Philippines by Priscilla
Moving abroad is no easy feat. Everyone has their own ways of dealing with stress, so we invite you to share some insights regarding this topic. What are the main factors that contribute to stress when moving to the Philippines (cultural ...
I would like to comment on the window issue, since street level noise consisting of 'beeps', 'honks', and motorcycles can definitely add to ones stress when it is bad enough to disrupt conversation, let alone sleeping. I would ... Read More
Retirement Manila (BGC) by Kevin 380
Kevin and Zenaida from Reading UK. Have Purchased a two bed Condo Uptown Residence Bonifacio Global City. Move there for our retirement this July 2018. Once there will apply for my 13a Non immigrant visa wife being Filipina married 32 years. at ...
samangelevski is correct regarding the police clearance certificate from your home country in order to obtain a 13A Visa. If you can provide evidence you have lived here for most of the preceding 6 months however, you may be exempt from this ... Read More
Are foreigners allowed to establish a business in the Philippines by shalinit
Hi, Needed to know if foreigners are allowed to establish any kind of business in the Philippines. If so, what are the possible avenues?
Tee post above written by IrekSikorski , poses a very interesting topic and might be better placed in a separate forum here on expat. Very factual information posted, and arguably very true. Read More
65+ Retirees - how are you planning for those last days by kilgore99
For those senior (65+) retirees. Do you plan to spend those last few years/Months of your ailing health/life in the Philippines or return back to your home country in those twilight years. I understand the benefits of life in the Philippines, when ...
Interesting post. I did not realize that the average age of a Filipino was that high, but for sure in many villages out in more remote areas of the Province, the average life expectancy is much lower than that! I have personally visited ... Read More
Documents needed to emigrate to Philippines by Gideon Kriel
Mabuhay everyone. I am happily married to a lady from Davao. We are residing in South Africa and plan to relocate/move to Davao next year sometime. What documents/paper work do I need in order for me to stay there/ to apply for a spousal visa? Can ...
Hello Gideon Kriel... All the information you are looking for is on the official Philippine government website. Check out these links... http://www.immigration.gov.ph/faqs/visa-inquiry/permanent-resident-visa and especially this ... Read More
Lost Visa! by Jazz14mg
I'm so careless about losing my Visa which actually expired what can I do to put things back to normal?
All this is not very clear to me. First of all, Jazz14mg, you say you have lost an expired Visa. This is correct? You, being an American from Utah, must have a Visa stamp in your US passport. Is this correct? Then I conclude you have lost ... Read More
Extend visa at airport
Yes, I believe you can, but Airport Immigration upon entry is not obligated to do that for you, so be prepared to go to the main immigration office or a convenient branch office near where you might be staying. Either way, the process is not ... Read More
Cooking like a local in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, Enjoying the local food of your expat country is great, but learning to cook the dishes yourself is even better. Please share what it's like cooking like a local in the Philippines. What are some of the most popular local dishes that ...
In some of the more isolated villages out in the Province, it is hard to find anyone over 45 to 50 years old. If the food out in the province is so fresh and delicious, why is everyone dying so young ? Read More
How to deal with stress when moving to the Philippines by Priscilla
Moving abroad is no easy feat. Everyone has their own ways of dealing with stress, so we invite you to share some insights regarding this topic. What are the main factors that contribute to stress when moving to the Philippines (cultural ...
I had a relatively simple solution for dealing with any stressful situations, when I first arrived in the Philippines about 5 years ago. What worked for me, was a stroll to the nearby Burgos bar where I would sip on a few San Mig Lites and mingle ... Read More
Retiring to the philippines to marry. by Willcel
Hi l am a 71 years young Englishman who has decided after meeting online a young Filipino lady and getting to find out about each other over a long period decided to implement what was in my mind before to retire to the philippines, I have visited ...
Here is a passage from Silvercobra's earlier post in this forum. In my opinion, this is the truest statement in this whole thread. "Ask yourself why a beautiful young woman, who could basically have anyone she wanted, choose a foreigner ... Read More
Expat Health Insurance by GabDen
Hi there, I’ll move to Makati from March and I was wondering what health insurance other expats have in the Philippines. Thank you for your answer in advance. Happy New Year! Gab
Any insurance policy, whether it be Medical, Life or Travel, will be written with numerous multiple exclusions, which give the insurer a legal right to dismiss your claim even when you thought you had excellent coverage. A fact. Insurance ... Read More
Jobs for Indians in Philippines (Manila) by masterappu
Hi. I am an Indian who have completed Masters degree in Electronics and Communication (Signal Processing and Embedded Systems). I have also completed my UG in Electrical and Electronics. Currently I am working in an IT firm. I would like to know ...
Pehad ... on a more personal note, your Filipina will definitely not be excited with your salary as a driver even if you do find a job here. Wait til you have at least a good retirement income and a large nest egg to support her. Furthermore, ... Read More
Jobs for Indians in Philippines (Manila) by masterappu
Hi. I am an Indian who have completed Masters degree in Electronics and Communication (Signal Processing and Embedded Systems). I have also completed my UG in Electrical and Electronics. Currently I am working in an IT firm. I would like to know ...
Pehad ....Your future employer will need to provide you with the evidence that there are no Filipino drivers here to fill the particular job you are applying for. Then open your browser and read the information on these ... Read More
New to Cebu City by Jacqueline88
Hi all! My name is Jacqueline. I am a doctoral student from California planning to move to Cebu City on May 21st for a clinical internship. I would love to meet new people and to hear more about what life is like in Cebu City. I spent 2 years ...
Yes... Hot time of thee year for sure and you need a working air con for wherever you might be residing. Because of your proposed length of stay, you might want to try looking on other rental agency sites such as 'Flip Key'' Read More
What visa is needed
The short answer is 'yes'; it will be possible to change your Visa once you have arrived in the Philippines. And you most likely will require a work permit as well. However, without special skills that are in demand here in the ... Read More
Intercultural relationships in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some fun anecdotes and information regarding intercultural marriages and relationships in the Philippines. This will provide some insight to current and future expats regarding relationship norms in mixed ...
detgator Who are you directing your question to, and what new language are you using here? Read More
Intro and an Inquiry About Starting a Small Food Stall Business
samangelevski In hindsight, what were the most glaring errors in your business. Poor sales, missing inventory, gross margins, or other reasons... ? Read More
sending money from australia by drkicks
I am selling my house and shifting to Angeles City .I want to know how to send my pension every month . Should I arrange direct debit from my bank account or do I get a good rate by sending it direct to a bank account . I live in Australia My ...
If any foreign bank transfers local currency into pesos and deposits to a Philippine bank, there is a charge. If the charge does not appear on your statement as a separate item, it is built into the exchange rate the bank is giving you. Banks do ... Read More
US Citizen Overstaying in PH. by Than29
I was born in California, USA , I'm half Filipino/American 19yrs. old. My father is American , and mother is Filipina . My mom worked in US and overstayed before, so she got deported back here in the Philippines and mom also brought me when I ...
In re-reading, I think Than29 may be here with his US passport or at least US citizenship credentials, and someone calculated the fee for over staying in the Philippines, based in months. He may need some legal help as this is a special case ... Read More
US Citizen Overstaying in PH. by Than29
I was born in California, USA , I'm half Filipino/American 19yrs. old. My father is American , and mother is Filipina . My mom worked in US and overstayed before, so she got deported back here in the Philippines and mom also brought me when I ...
Most of the information you are looking for will best be found with communication to the US Embassy. If you were born in California, you are a US citizen by birth, and should be able to obtain a US passport if you can provide the necessary ... Read More
Transfer a call center to Cebu, need help! by jofa
Hi guys! I have no idea from where to start and hope your tips will help me.I will be responsible I am working for a tourist agency in Dubai with its own call center of 80 agents. Our boss want to ship or move or transfer the call center from Dubai ...
MikeVillanueva Bacolod is a pretty quaint community and it is your favorite community because you grew up in that town. A place like Bacolod might lack the communication infrastructure for a call center and may not have a large English speaking ... Read More
Starting a Maid Agent bussiness
You have been able to put together a business plan for yourself selling labor that shows you will make a profit? Your competition is available FREE services such as Craigslist, jobsjob.com, pinoy exchange and many others. Just Google .. Read More
Pension payments by Silvercobra
I am retired and living in the Philippines. My pension is paid into an Australian bank then I transfer to my Philippines bank. Centrelink can transfer directly to my Philippines bank but I want to know how much will get here. For example if I send ...
Your $1000.00 Australian should turn into approx. PHP 40,800 here in your Philippine bank account. Read More
The jobs that are the most in-demand for expats in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some information regarding the job market for expats in the Philippines. This information will be incredibly helpful to anyone considering moving there, so we're very grateful for your contribution. What are the ...
The number one item I can derive from all the discussion on this topic is this: 'The most obvious reason for an expat to be gainfully employed in the Philippines is to show your wife's or partner's family, that you are not rich!' Read More
INVESTMENT - P2P Loans by GabDen
Hi guys, I'm looking for investment ideas; if you have any I would appreciate if you shared it with me. Ideas like P2P loans. Do you have any experience with Peer-to-Peer loan investments? Websites like ...
This is an expat forum for the Philippines, but most of your research ( in the attached links) seems to be with money managers and investment clubs based in the US. If you cannot obtain at least a Tax ID, most of these investments are not ... Read More
planning to buy house in cebu for 1million peso by appleswed
hi! im Apple and i am from sweden, me and my husband are planing to buy a house in Cebu and we only have 1million peso budget for that. if someone knows theres a house for sale please let me know as soon possible! Thanks/Apple
vaevictis88 You are not too clear on whether you have already made some vacation trips here in the Philippines. If you were here , you need to talk to a builder who lives in the area where you plan to build. In the Philippines, houses can be ... Read More
Help is Appreciated
Hang on to your job in the US until you can locate something positive for yourself in the Philippines. Look for work in US companies that have a branch office or some relative business here in the Philippines. In nearly all cases, Filipinos will ... Read More
The jobs that are the most in-demand for expats in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some information regarding the job market for expats in the Philippines. This information will be incredibly helpful to anyone considering moving there, so we're very grateful for your contribution. What are the ...
A job that is in very much demand for new incoming expats, is to entertain the many pretty Filipinas you will discover here. If you are a nite owl, so much the better since most of the work occurs during the evening hours. However, there is ... Read More
About visa documents by kbrenchley
We submitted marriage certificate and our son's birth certificate to the Philippines government for visas. We've got our dependent visas but never got those documents back. The agent said the government keeps it and will never return it. Is ...
Without much to go on, and from my personal experience, I do not think your agent is lying. In the Philippines, you will need dozens of the same original document. :) Read More
Are Condos a Good Idea? by tambok17
Is it a good idea to buy a condo in the Philippines? If so, how can one hedge oneself from losing out?
Unfortunately, there are no comprehensive rental websites in the Philippines, and even worse are the Realtor web sites. What web sites you find are all confusing with same property listed multiple times and listings not updated for example. Again ... Read More
Good recruitment agencies for English Expats?
One step further..... I assume you are both British subjects and at the moment you live outside the Philippines. And you did live here before ? Are you asking for a recruitment agency here in the Philippines to find you a job since you have some ... Read More