Requirements and Application Process of Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in the Philippines for Bangladeshi Spouses

The Philippines and Bangladesh have maintained diplomatic ties for over 50 years, with the Philippines being the first Southeast Asian country that acknowledged Bangladesh’s independence in 1972. Since then, their relationship has grown across various sectors on regional and global levels.

In 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported 15,929 marriages between Filipinos and foreign nationals. Due to these international marriages, foreign spouses may require frequent travel to or extended stays in the Philippines for family matters, which a tourist visa may be insufficient. In this regard, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) granted a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for foreign spouses of Filipino citizens. 

What is a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)?

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a non-quota immigrant visa offered to foreign nationals whose country does not have an existing reciprocity agreement with the Philippines, but have a valid marriage certificate with a Filipino citizen that is recognized by Philippine laws. Additionally, their child/children who are unmarried and under twenty-one (21) years old may also apply for this visa. 

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) Requirements in the Philippines

To assess your eligibility for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), the Bureau of Immigration (BI) requires specific documents to verify the legitimacy of the marriage and the absence of any criminal history. Upon application, you must have a  Philippine tourist visa valid for at least one (1) month.

TRV Requirements for Bangladeshi Spouse Applicants

• Joint letter request addressed to the Commissioner from the applicant and the petitioner

• Duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa

• Photocopy of passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay (at least 30 days from the filing date). Passport should have annotation of name of Filipino spouse

• PSA Birth Certificate of the petitioning Filipino spouse or certified true copy of BI-issued Identification Certificate (IC) as Filipino citizen of the petitioning Filipino spouse

• Marriage Certificate or Marriage Contract

• Valid National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance, if application is filed six (6) months or more from the date of first arrival in the Philippines

• BI Clearance Certificate

• Additional documentary requirements, if applicable

TRV Requirements for Dependent/s

• Duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa

• Photocopy of passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay

• Proof of filiation with the petitioner, if applicable

• Valid NBI Clearance for each dependent fifteen (15) years of age or above, if application is filed six (6) months or more from the date of first arrival in the Philippines

• BI Clearance Certificate

• Additional documentary requirements, if applicable

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) Application Process in the Philippines

To process your TRV application, follow these procedures: 

• Get Visa Assistance. Getting visa assistance from a service provider is optional, but necessary to be guided with the requirements and application process. With their expertise on handling visa applications, they can provide solutions on any issues that may arise along the way. They can also assess if TRV is suitable for your situation.

• Prepare the Requirements. You should prepare the required documents as listed above and any supporting documents for a smooth and hassle-free transaction. 

• Submission of the Application. Applications can be filed in person at the BI main office, through the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country, or at the BI-accredited agency. 

• Interview and Biometrics. An interview with you and your Filipino spouse will be conducted to verify the authenticity of your marriage and residency claims. Biometric data will also be collected.

• Payment of Fees. Pay the necessary fees. It is advisable to check the BI official website or contact them for the updated fees.

• Probationary Period. Upon approval, a TRV and an Alien Certificate of Registration Identification Card (ACR I-Card) will be issued to you, granting you a one-year probationary residency in the Philippines under specific conditions.

• Application for Extension. After the one-year probationary period, the BI will review your to determine if you are eligible for a two (2) or five (5) years extension. Please note to apply for the extension before your probationary visa expires. If approved, your TRV can be renewed every two (2) or five (5) years, subject to BI approval.

• Maintain Residency. To maintain your visa status, you must reside in the Philippines continuously. Any changes in your residence or status must be promptly reported to the BI.

Please note that your passport is required to be surrendered to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) while your application is being processed. If you request the return of any required document, such as your passport, birth certificate, or marriage certificate, it will be considered an abandonment of their application. As a result, the application will be dismissed, and any fees paid will not be refunded.

Validity Period of a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for Bangladeshi Spouses in the Philippines

If you are planning to apply for conversion of status from Tourist Visa (9A) to Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), you must first convert to a one (1) year probationary visa. Afterwards, the Bureau of Immigration may amend your status to the applicable validity period.

For Bangladeshi men married to Filipino women, you are qualified for TRV valid for five (5) years upon compliance with the requirements. You are also eligible for another five (5) years extension of TRV.

Meanwhile, for Bangladeshi women married to Filipino men, you are qualified for TRV valid for two (2) years upon compliance with the requirements. You are also eligible for another two (2) years extension of TRV. 

Difference between Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and Spouse Visa (13A)

The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and the 13(A) Spouse Visa are both options for foreign spouses married to Filipino citizens. The only difference between them is that the TRV is issued to foreign spouses from countries that do not have a reciprocity agreement with the Philippines. Despite the difference, TRV and 13A  holders generally have similar benefits and privileges in the Philippines.

Benefits and Privileges of Bangladeshi Spouses in the Philippines

If you and your Filipino spouse chose to settle in the Philippines, here are the following benefits and privileges you possess as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) holder:

• Residency. TRV holders are granted to stay in the Philippines for two (2) or five (5) years, which is also extended for another 2 to 5 years. 

• Work Opportunities. TRV holders are also granted to work in the country even without an Alien Employment Permit (AEP). An AEP is issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to foreign nationals who want to work in the country. However, if your TRV application is still processing, you are required to secure a Special Work Permit (SWP)  to legally work in the country. 

• Property Ownership. As a TRV holder, you can lease, buy, and own a property in the Philippines but there are certain restrictions. It is advisable to consult with a lawyer before leasing or buying a property to be guided. 

• Investment. The Philippines has continuous economic growth, making it an ideal country for investment. TRV holders can engage in investment activities and may open a bank account either in peso or dollar deposits.

• Philippine Citizenship. If you have resided in the country for a continuous period of five (5) years, given that your marriage with your Filipino spouse is maintained, you are eligible to become a Filipino citizen through naturalization. 

In case of separation, annulment, divorce, or death of your Filipino spouse, your TRV will be canceled and you may need to revert to a Tourist Visa to legally stay in the country.