What the 13(a) visa is

• A non-quota immigrant visa under Sec. 13(a) of the Philippine Immigration Act, which covers "the wife or the husband or the unmarried child under twenty-one years of age of a Philippine citizen, if accompanying or following to join such citizen." Source: Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 (CA 613), Sec. 13(a).
• The BI processes it as "Conversion to non-quota immigrant visa by marriage (Probationary)" for "a foreign national on the basis of his valid marriage to a Philippine citizen." Source: Bureau of Immigration: Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A).
• It starts as a probationary visa; after the probationary period you apply to convert to permanent. The length of the probationary period (commonly reported as one year) is not stated on the BI page [unverified].
• Reciprocity: the 13(a) is reportedly limited to nationals of countries that give Filipinos similar treatment, and the U.S. is reported to qualify, per Philippine Embassy Oslo (DFA). We could not load that page live on Oct 18, 2026 [unverified].

Where to apply

• Inside the Philippines (conversion): BI Main Office (Intramuros, Manila) or other immigration offices the BI authorizes for this transaction (list linked on the BI page).
• From abroad: a Philippine embassy or consulate can issue the visa; check your consulate's page [unverified] for its process and fees.

Source: Bureau of Immigration: Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A).

Steps (BI conversion process)

1. Get the Consolidated General Application Form (CGAF) from the BI Public Information and Assistance Unit or the BI website.
2. Submit documents for pre-screening at the Central Receiving Unit (or frontline staff at an authorized office).
3. Get the Order of Payment Slip and pay fees.
4. Submit a copy of the Official Receipt.
5. Attend the hearing (schedule and venue are on the receipt).
6. Image and fingerprint capture at the Alien Registration Division; submit ACR I-Card requirements.
7. Check the BI website for approval.
8. If approved, submit your passport for visa implementation.
9. Claim your ACR I-Card.

Source: Bureau of Immigration: Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A).

Fees published by the BI

Important: the BI page says these fees were "updated as of 06 March 2014 and may change without prior notice." Treat them as a guide only; the Order of Payment Slip shows the current amount. Source: Bureau of Immigration: Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A).

Documents

The BI requires its official checklist of documentary requirements, the application form, and an additional-information form for children if needed. The checklist itself is a separate download on the BI site; we did not reproduce its items here [unverified]. Applicants commonly need a PSA marriage certificate (or Report of Marriage), the Filipino spouse's proof of citizenship and a police clearance; confirm on the current BI checklist.

Adding children

Unmarried children under 21 can be included as dependents of a 13(a) or temporary resident visa holder with proof of relationship, at the BI Main Office. Source: Bureau of Immigration: Immigrant Visa by Marriage (13A).

13(a) vs SRRV

The 13(a) needs no bank deposit but requires a valid marriage to a Filipino. The SRRV is open to anyone 40+ but requires a USD 15,000+ deposit (pensioners 50+). See SRRV requirements. 13(a) holders with an ACR I-Card can look at PhilHealth. Going the other way (a Filipino spouse moving to the U.S.)? See our immigration guides.

Planning a scouting trip?

Most people who retire here visit first, often for a month or more. Compare flights from the US to the Philippines on Kiwi.com · see our Flights to Manila guide · stay connected with an Airalo Philippines eSIM (eSIM guide). Arriving? Read NAIA airport guide and eTravel registration.

FAQ

• What is the 13(a) visa in the Philippines?
  A non-quota immigrant visa under Sec. 13(a) of the Philippine Immigration Act for the foreign spouse (or unmarried child under 21) of a Philippine citizen. It is first issued as probationary.
• How much does the 13(a) visa cost?
  The BI page lists PHP 8,620 for the principal plus USD 50 for a 1-year ACR I-Card, but says the fees date from March 6, 2014 and may change. Check your Order of Payment Slip.
• Where do I apply for a 13(a) visa?
  At the BI Main Office or other authorized immigration offices for conversion inside the Philippines, per the Bureau of Immigration.