Technology and people’s lifestyle are deeply connected, progressing hand in hand to push forward for innovation and growth. By embracing this trend, the Philippines has taken a significant step towards accepting the digital age with the signing of Executive Order No. 86 (“Authorizing the Issuance of Digital Nomad Visa”), by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This Order provides a legal framework for foreign nationals to temporarily live and work remotely in the Philippines, supporting the Philippines’ goal of promoting tourism and boosting economic growth.
The issuance of special non-immigrant visas to Digital Nomads aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the Administration’s focus on promoting tourism, economic development, and digital innovation. This significant move is likewise the result of the recognition of the Philippines as the 7th fastest-growing remote work hub in 2023 by the World Economic Forum, underscoring the nation’s potential in this rapidly evolving global landscape.
Pursuant to this Order, the Department of Foreign Affairs (“DFA”) was authorized to issue a Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) to non-immigrant foreigners who desire to enter and/or stay in the country for a temporary period for the purpose of working remotely using digital technologies, and whose clients or employers are situated outside the Philippines. (Section 1. Digital Nomad Visa)
To be eligible for a DNV, Foreign-Applicants must comply with the following:
a. Must be at least 18 years of age;
b. Must show proof of remote work using digital technology;
c. Must show proof of sufficient income which is generated outside the Philippines;
d. Must show proof of no criminal record;
e. Must have health insurance valid for the period of the DNV;
f. Must be a national of a country that offers DNVs to Filipinos and where the Philippines has a Foreign Service Post (FSP);
g. Must not pose threat to the internal or external security of the Philippines; and
h. Must not be employed in the Philippines.
The above-mentioned conditions must be maintained throughout the validity period of the DNV. (Section 2. Conditions)
DNV holders can stay in the Philippines for a maximum period of one (1) year, renewable for the same period. DNV holders will also be granted entry privileges during the validity of their DNVs. (Section 3. Validity)
The DFA shall likewise determine the grounds for revocation, which can include among others, the local employment, commission of fraud or misrepresentation in the application, and/or violations of immigration laws. (Section 4. Revocation)
This guide provides a general overview of the above Executive Order at the time of writing only and is not intended to be a comprehensive legal advice. This should also not be taken as an opinion on the topic. For more details and information, you may coordinate with any GVES Law Partner regarding the matter.
Atty. Mary Grace L. Villanueva is an Associate at GVES Law.