With 11 years of experience, Duran & Duran-Schulze Law have successfully assisted foreign nationals from over 40 countries as well as Philippine citizens living abroad. If you are planning to apply for a Spouse Visa, we can assist you through the entire process.
Spouse Visa (13A)
Under Foreign Service Circular No. 21-10, the Spouse Visa (13A) is granted to foreign nationals is married to Filipino citizens, recognized under the Philippine Law. Additionally, their child/children under twenty-one (21) years old is eligible to apply for this visa.
Additionally, Spouse Visa allows its holders to live and work in the Philippines. However, they are still required to have a work permit, pay taxes, and follow Philippine laws and regulations. Once the foreign spouse lived in the country for a predetermined amount of time, he/she might also be qualified to petition for citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a Spouse Visa?
A foreign national who is legally married to a Filipino citizen and their unmarried child/children below twenty-one (21) years old.
Can I apply for a Spouse Visa outside the Philippines?
No, you must apply in person. The Visa Officer or Consul will conduct an interview and an appointment is necessary for this purpose. It is also essential to ensure that all visa requirements are complete, as incomplete submissions will not be accepted, potentially leading to delays or denial of the application.
How long does it take to get a Spouse Visa in the Philippines?
Processing a Spouse Visa (13A) usually takes two (2) to three (3) months, or even longer. If the application is approved, you will be given a 1-year probationary period to determine if you will be qualified for conversion to permanent resident status.
How long can I stay in the Philippines with a Spouse Visa?
With a Spouse Visa (13A), you can stay in the Philippines indefinitely provided the conditions are maintained.
Can I stay in the Philippines without a Spouse Visa?
According to Balikbayan Program, you can enter the Philippines without a visa and stay for one (1) year. However, you must enter the country with your Filipino spouse.
If you and your Filipino spouse wish to settle in the country, it is recommended for you to apply for a Spouse Visa, which grants them a multiple-entry privilege.
Can I work in the Philippines with a Spouse Visa?
Yes, you can work in the Philippines with a Spouse Visa, but you are still required to secure a work permit from the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Duran & Duran-Schulze Law Can Help
Visa Application Assistance
Our competent lawyer will assist you secure a visa in order to live and work in the Philippines. In addition, a Spouse Visa holder may be qualified to petition for citizenship once they have lived in the Philippines for a predetermined amount of time. In this regard, we also offer assistance with citizenship applications and naturalization.
Legal Counsel
Our law firm offers legal counsel and support to our clients by providing information about the visa application procedures and the necessary requirements, and helping them solve their problems to prevent any delays.
Follow Up and Monitor
Our team monitors the progress of the visa application and follows up with immigration authorities as needed to expedite the process. We also keep our clients informed of any updates or developments regarding their application status. In case of visa denials or delays, we assist our clients in exploring legal remedies to come up with a favorable outcome.
