Moving to the Philippines?
Moving to the Philippines?
The Philippines has become one of Southeast Asia's most popular destinations for expats, retirees, and digital nomads alike. With a cost of living 70-80% lower than the US or Europe, your money goes significantly further while enjoying a comfortable quality of life. The country boasts a large English-speaking population, friendly locals known for their hospitality, and a thriving expat community.
From the cosmopolitan energy of Manila and Cebu to the relaxed beach towns of Palawan and Siargao, there's a place for every lifestyle. The Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) makes it easy for retirees to establish permanent residency, while remote workers can enjoy visa-free stays of up to 36 months with extensions.
Strong
Job Market
Strong
Job Market
Growing BPO, tech, and service sectors with strong demand for English-speaking professionals.
Quality of Life
Affordable living costs combined with a warm climate and welcoming culture
Innovation Hub
Manila is emerging as a regional hub for startups and digital services.
Infrastructure
Expanding airports, improving urban transport, and ongoing infrastructure development.
World-Class Education
World-Class Education
Reputable universities and a strong English-based education system.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Tropical island lifestyle with stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and a relaxed pace of life.
800+
Verified Movers
25,000+
Reviews
8,000 – 25,000
Avg Local Move
17
Regions
800+
Verified Movers
25,000+
Reviews
8,000 – 25,000
Avg Local Move
17
Regions
800+
Verified Movers
25,000+
Reviews
8,000 – 25,000
Avg Local Move
17
Regions
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
€150–€500
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
€50–€200/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
€100–€400
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
€200–€800
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
€50–€200
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
€75–€250
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Most Asked Questions
Tourist Visa (Visa-Free Entry)
Citizens of 157 countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days. This can be extended at any Bureau of Immigration office for up to 36 months total. Extensions cost around ₱3,000–₱5,000 every 1-2 months. This is the most common option for digital nomads and those testing the waters before committing to a longer-term visa.
Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)
The SRRV is ideal for retirees aged 35+ (or 50+ for the classic option). It requires a deposit of $10,000–$50,000 depending on the program variant, which can be used for property investment or kept in a Philippine bank. Benefits include multiple-entry privileges, exemption from exit clearance, and the ability to work or study. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Quota Immigrant Visa (Marriage Visa)
If you're married to a Filipino citizen, the 13(a) visa grants permanent residency. Initial processing takes 6-12 months at the Philippine consulate. After one year of probationary status, you can apply for permanent resident status. This visa allows you to work without a separate work permit.
Pre-Arranged Employment Visa
For those with a job offer from a Philippine company, the 9(g) visa is the standard work visa. Your employer must secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from DOLE before you can apply. The visa is typically valid for 1-3 years and renewable. Processing takes 2-3 months.
Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG)
Investors and business owners who create jobs for Filipinos can apply for SVEG. Requirements include investing at least $75,000 in a business and employing at least 10 Filipino workers. This visa grants permanent residency and multiple entry privileges.
Customs Regulations for Household Goods
Foreign nationals transferring residence to the Philippines can import used household goods duty-free if owned for at least 6 months prior to arrival. You'll need a packing list, passport, visa, and a letter from the Bureau of Customs. Vehicles are subject to high duties (40-100%). Prohibited items include firearms, drugs, and certain food products. Expect customs clearance to take 1-3 weeks.
Moving Costs Breakdown
Moving Costs Breakdown
Understanding the full cost of your move
helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$100 – $300
2–3 Bed Apartment
$300 – $700
4+ Bed / House
$700 – $1,500
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$100 – $300
2–3 Bed Apartment
$300 – $700
4+ Bed / House
$700 – $1,500
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$3,000 – $10,000
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$2,000–$8,000/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$2,000–$8,000
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$5,000–$20,000
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$1,000–$5,000
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$8,000–$25,000
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$3,000 – $10,000
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$2,000–$8,000/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$2,000–$8,000
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$5,000–$20,000
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$1,000–$5,000
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$8,000–$25,000
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$3,000 – $10,000
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$2,000–$8,000/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$2,000–$8,000
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$5,000–$20,000
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$1,000–$5,000
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$8,000–$25,000
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
· Research cities and islands that fit your lifestyle · Start decluttering and deciding what to ship vs. buy locally · Begin gathering quotes from verified international movers · Check passport validity and visa requirements for the Philippines
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your SRRV, 13(a), or appropriate visa application · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (PhilHealth or private)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Open a Philippine bank account (BDO, BPI, or Metrobank) · Organize important documents: birth certificates, medical records, apostilles · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation (Airbnb or hotel) for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to Manila or Cebu · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and do a final check of your old property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Philippine contact details with the mover
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your SRRV, 13(a), or appropriate visa application · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (PhilHealth or private)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your SRRV, 13(a), or appropriate visa application · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (PhilHealth or private)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Open a Philippine bank account (BDO, BPI, or Metrobank) · Organize important documents: birth certificates, medical records, apostilles · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation (Airbnb or hotel) for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation (Airbnb or hotel) for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to Manila or Cebu · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and do a final check of your old property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Philippine contact details with the mover
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and do a final check of your old property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Philippine contact details with the mover
Most Asked Questions
Most Asked Questions
Tourist Visa (Visa-Free Entry)
Citizens of 157 countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days. This can be extended at any Bureau of Immigration office for up to 36 months total. Extensions cost around ₱3,000–₱5,000 every 1-2 months. This is the most common option for digital nomads and those testing the waters before committing to a longer-term visa.
Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)
The SRRV is ideal for retirees aged 35+ (or 50+ for the classic option). It requires a deposit of $10,000–$50,000 depending on the program variant, which can be used for property investment or kept in a Philippine bank. Benefits include multiple-entry privileges, exemption from exit clearance, and the ability to work or study. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Quota Immigrant Visa (Marriage Visa)
If you're married to a Filipino citizen, the 13(a) visa grants permanent residency. Initial processing takes 6-12 months at the Philippine consulate. After one year of probationary status, you can apply for permanent resident status. This visa allows you to work without a separate work permit.
Pre-Arranged Employment Visa
For those with a job offer from a Philippine company, the 9(g) visa is the standard work visa. Your employer must secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from DOLE before you can apply. The visa is typically valid for 1-3 years and renewable. Processing takes 2-3 months.
Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG)
Investors and business owners who create jobs for Filipinos can apply for SVEG. Requirements include investing at least $75,000 in a business and employing at least 10 Filipino workers. This visa grants permanent residency and multiple entry privileges.
Customs Regulations for Household Goods
Foreign nationals transferring residence to the Philippines can import used household goods duty-free if owned for at least 6 months prior to arrival. You'll need a packing list, passport, visa, and a letter from the Bureau of Customs. Vehicles are subject to high duties (40-100%). Prohibited items include firearms, drugs, and certain food products. Expect customs clearance to take 1-3 weeks.
Want to know more about each city?
Want to know more about each city?
Want to know more?
Patrocinadores
A + Internacional
A + Internacional
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.
Reclutamiento de Experiencia en el Extranjero
Reclutamiento de Experiencia en el Extranjero
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Seguro de salud Aetna
Seguro de salud Aetna
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa e Inmigración
Agato Visa e Inmigración
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
Especialista en Inmigración y Reubicación Aims
Especialista en Inmigración y Reubicación Aims
AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.
Abril Internacional
Abril Internacional
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
AvD
AvD
AvD is Germany’s historic automobile club, promoting road safety, motorsport, driver support, and the preservation of classic vehicles.
AXA PPP Internacional
AXA PPP Internacional
AXA Global Healthcare provides international health insurance, giving members worldwide access to quality medical care and ongoing healthcare support.
Load More
Start now
¡Regístrate para ponerte en contacto con expertos locales de servicios de confianza!
¡Regístrate para ponerte en contacto con expertos locales de servicios de confianza!
Recursos
Redes sociales
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Recursos
Redes sociales
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Recursos
Redes sociales
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Sponsors
A + Internacional
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.
Reclutamiento de Experiencia en el Extranjero
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Seguro de salud Aetna
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa e Inmigración
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
Especialista en Inmigración y Reubicación Aims
AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.
Abril Internacional
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
AvD
AvD is Germany’s historic automobile club, promoting road safety, motorsport, driver support, and the preservation of classic vehicles.
AXA PPP Internacional
AXA Global Healthcare provides international health insurance, giving members worldwide access to quality medical care and ongoing healthcare support.
Load More