Moving to the Philippines: A Guide for Expats to Live Here
In recent years, many expats have experienced why “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.”
Its gorgeous beaches, bustling cities, and low cost of living have made it a popular choice for expats. The mostly English-speaking population as well as the many opportunities its growing economy has to offer also add to the attraction.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to move to the Philippines.
Accommodation (US$600–700) A one-bedroom serviced apartment within Metro Manila can cost around ₱30,000–35,000 (US$600–700), which covers monthly rent, homeowners’ association fees, utilities, and internet connection.
Food and drink(US$600 to US$1,000) The monthly food and grocery expenses for a family of four can range from around ₱30,000 to ₱50,000 (approximately US$600 to US$1,000) per month. It is still cheaper to make home-cooked meals.
Eating out (US$350-500) Eating out three times a day for a month can set you back ₱19,000-29,000 (around US$350-500) depending on your choice of restaurants.
You can buy cheap meals for ₱150-200 (around US$3-4) at small eateries called carinderias. A meal at fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s costs ₱300-400 (around US$6–7), while a meal at high-end restaurants cost ₱850-1,113 (around US$15–20).
Electricity (US$100 to $200) An average monthly electricity bill for a family of four living in a 3-bedroom apartment or house in Manila is around ₱5,000 to ₱10,000 (US$100 to $200) per month.
Water (US$11.25) The basic rate for the first 10 cubic meters (m3) of water consumed per month is at ₱36 per m3 (or approximately US$ 0.75), while the succeeding blocks had higher rates. Assuming a family of 4 consumes an average of 20 m3 of water per month, their water bill in Manila would be approximately ₱540 (or US$11.25) before taxes and other fees.
Internet (US$ 20-100) DSL plans cost around US$20-60 per month, Fiber optic internet plans are around US$ 30-100 per month, and mobile data can start as low as US$1 while postpaid ones are around US$20-60 per month.
Mobile Phone (US$50-540)You can purchase mobile phones from official brand stores, authorized retailers, or online platforms. You could find budget-friendly smartphones from local and international brands starting at around US$50 to US$100. Mid-range smartphones typically ranged from US$140 to US$360, while high-end flagship devices could cost upwards of US$540 or more.
Visa (US$250-450) A non-immigrant visa can cost anywhere between US$250 (one-year stay) to US$450 (three-year stay). Prepare to spend around $150 for every additional family member, such as your spouse and children.
*The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso, and US$1.00 is roughly equivalent to ₱50-₱55.
Living Standards
The favorable exchange rate from USD to PHP can provide you with increased purchasing power. This can potentially contribute to a higher standard of living in the Philippines.
The relatively lower cost of living in the Philippines compared to many Western countries can also contribute to a potentially higher quality of life. Basic necessities, accommodation, and certain services are more affordable, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle within a reasonable budget.
The Philippines is a developing country. You would see a clear difference between business and living districts even in the Manilla
Healthcare standards in the Philippines can vary, with major cities offering relatively good medical facilities. However, it’s important to note that healthcare in rural areas may not be as advanced. You may need to rely on private healthcare providers and have adequate health insurance coverage for any medical needs. Medications are generally cheaper compared to Western countries, but prices can vary.
Your personal choices and preferences will play a significant role in determining how far your earnings can go. If you choose to live a more lavish lifestyle, spend on luxury items, or frequent high-end establishments, your expenses will naturally increase.
Job Opportunities
If you already have a new job lined up once you arrive, consider yourself lucky because it is hard to come into the Philippines as a tourist without a job and then have to look for one.
Foreigners are allowed to work in the Philippines, but the company hiring you must first prove that they can’t hire a Filipino for your position because none of them are qualified enough. If it all works out, you’ll get a 9G work visa.
We advise that you start looking before you come to the Philippines. This way, you will be hired as an expat — and get expat packages, which are way higher than local salaries.
Expats with teaching qualifications and English proficiency can work as ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers in language schools, international schools, or universities.
Some multinational companies operating in the Philippines hire expats for specialized positions or to bring in specific expertise. These positions may be in fields such as finance, engineering, marketing, technology, or management.
Expats with experience in development work, humanitarian aid, or social services may find opportunities in NGOs and international organizations operating in the Philippines. These roles can involve community development, project management, research, or advocacy work.
With the rise of remote work and digital nomadism, some expats choose to work as freelancers or remotely for companies based in other countries. This can include fields like graphic design, writing, programming, digital marketing, or consulting.
Language
Expats won’t have any major issues communicating with Pinoys because most speak and read English fluently.
Though the official language is Filipino, there are still over 500 dialects in the country with most speaking Tagalog, followed by Cebuano or Bisaya, Ilokano, Ilonggo, and more.
The Philippines is made up of over 7,600 islands. Though health care services are generally available all over the country, facilities in far-flung provinces are still not up to par with Western standards.
Despite this, expats can enjoy high-quality and affordable healthcare, especially if they live in or travel to Metro Manila where the medical and healthcare centers (both public and private) are of a higher, world-class standard and are staffed with some of the best doctors in the world.
The country’s overall healthcare system is managed by the Department of Health (DOH). It runs public hospitals and community clinics nationwide. Private hospitals are also available and usually have better technology and facilities though they charge much more than government hospitals, which are almost free.
Expats will also find it extremely easy to communicate with medical personnel because of their high level of English speaking skills. Most Philippine doctors are top university graduates with almost a third of them having either studied or practiced in US medical schools and hospitals.
The nursing and medical technician personnel in the Philippines are also world-class — with the Philippines supplying over half a million nurses to countries like the USA, Canada, and the UK.
It is easy to find a good doctor or a good dentist in the Philippines since there are so many of them. You can ask your employers for referrals, as well as other expats and Pinoy friends. You would need one because it is difficult to get medication without a prescription even if you are a foreigner.
You can also use The Filipino Doctor, a database of all the doctors in the Philippines that also has an app for easy access.
Pharmacies
There are many pharmacies in the Philippines with chains like Mercury Drug and Watsons as major players. The availability of rare or high-risk medicines is also quite stable with many of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies very active in the local medical and business scenes.
Health Risks While Traveling in the Philippines
The Philippines is a tropical country, and you might be exposed to diseases and health risks such as dengue, malaria, typhoid, cholera, leptospirosis, rabies, and more especially as you venture further out from the big cities. We highly recommend that you update your and your family’s vaccines before travelling.
As an expat in the Philippines, understanding the healthcare landscape and ensuring adequate health insurance coverage is essential for your well-being and peace of mind. The Philippines offers a diverse range of healthcare services, but the quality and accessibility can vary.
You and your employer help finance this insurance system as well as contributions from local and national government subsidies.
You will both equally share the monthly contribution rate of 2.75% of your salary (as from January 2018) to pay into PhilHealth.
PhilHealth coverage is available to individuals who are residing in the Philippines for at least six months.Foreigners who are holders of the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR i-Card) are also eligible.
PhilHealth aims to provide access to affordable healthcare services for all registered members, including those who are less privileged or have low incomes. It covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, outpatient care, and preventive healthcare.
However, the system is not perfect. There have been reports of long waiting times, inadequate healthcare facilities, and disparities in the quality of services across different regions.
While the quality of public health insurance in the Philippines has room for improvement, it plays a significant role in providing healthcare coverage and financial protection to a large portion of the population.
Private Health Insurance
The Philippines is teeming with insurance companies that offer private health packages according to your needs and budget.
Most expats may be more accustomed to private health insurance systems in their home countries and prefer to maintain that familiarity when living in the Philippines. Opting for private health insurance can provide them with a sense of peace of mind, knowing they have coverage that aligns with their expectations and prior experiences.
Also, some private health insurance plans for expats provide coverage not only within the Philippines but also internationally. This feature is particularly advantageous for expats who frequently travel or require medical treatment outside the country.
Filipino cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Chinese, Western, and many other international influences tweaked to suit the Filipino palate. So expect a variety of dining options — from fine dining restaurants to local and international fast-food chains to street food serving local, international, and Filipinized international dishes.
Boodle fight in the Philippines
Don’t forget to try the Boodle Fight when you are in the Philippines. A boodle fight is a unique and exciting Filipino dining experience that brings people together to enjoy a feast with their hands. It is a popular tradition among military groups and during special occasions or gatherings. During a boodle fight, a variety of traditional Filipino dishes are laid out on banana leaves spread across a long table.
Expect to spend around $150–200 for a month’s food supplies, whether you buy from supermarkets, small neighbourhood stores (called “sari-sari store”) or convenience stores.
You can also shop at wet markets to buy fresh and cheap produce. In the Philippines, a variety of products can be bought in the smallest of portions, many of which are sold in small packets. You can buy a stick of cigarette from street vendors and sari-sari stores, a sachet of shampoo, or a single egg.
Food is affordable and accessible, and there is a wide range of foreign cuisines available in the country. When it comes to convenience, there are several food delivery services that are available in major cities of the Philippines.
One of the most popular is FoodPanda — riders in the iconic pink logo can be seen in most cities in the Philippines.
Rice is a staple and is available in all meals, while pork is lovingly prepared in hundreds of ways. Signature Filipino dishes include adobo, a meat dish stewed in vinegar, garlic, pepper and soy sauce, and Lechon, a whole roasted pig stuffed with herbs that prompted the late Anthony Bourdain to declare it as “the best pig ever”.
Lechon is a popular dish in the Philippines. Lechon Kawali is one of many iterations of lechon.
Crime and Safety
Safety can be a concern in certain parts of the Philippines. Some areas may have higher crime rates, and expats are advised to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places.
While Metro Manila has its share of crime, it is important to note that most residents and visitors do not encounter any major safety issues. Compared to Metro Manila, Cebu City generally has a lower crime rate. Meanwhile down South, Davao City is known for its strict law enforcement and safety measures. The local government places a high emphasis on security, which has contributed to Davao City being perceived as relatively safe compared to other urban areas in the country.
It’s helpful to research the safety reputation of different cities and neighborhoods before deciding on a location.
After staying for 60 days, a tourist must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ACR I-Card), valid for one year.
Those who are moving to work must apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP), which the employer must handle, including organizing all the necessary documents and forms. To get an AEP, the sponsoring company must show that no local Filipino is qualified to do the job they hired you for.
Those planning to stay longer can apply for a non-immigrant visa, given to foreigners who will study, engage in business, and work in the country.
You might also want to look into the Special Resident Retiree Visa (SRRV) that allows expats 35-49 years of age to come and go at any time. However, SRRV has financial requirements where you either make a bank deposit of US$20,000 or US$50,000 if you plan on purchasing an apartment or vehicle in the future.
If you have a Filipino spouse, you can apply for a Section 13A spouse visa, which will allow you to work even without an Alien Employment Permit (AEP).
There are 88 airports in the Philippines, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). Of these, 21 are classified as international airports, 21 are classified as principal airports, and 46 are classified as community airports. Some of the most popular airports in the Philippines include:
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
This is the busiest airport in the Philippines, located in Pasay City, Metro Manila. It serves as the gateway to the Philippines for many international travelers.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
This is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. This airport is a major transportation hub for the Visayas region, serving both domestic and international flights.
Clark International Airport (CRK)
This airport is located in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. It serves as a secondary gateway to the Philippines and is a major center for air travel in the Northern Luzon region.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Located in Iloilo City, Iloilo, it serves the Western Visayas region for both domestic and international travels.
Davao International Airport (DVO)
This airport is located in Davao City, Davao del Sur. It is a major gateway for travelers flying to and from the Mindanao region.
Kalibo International Airport (KLO)
Located in Aklan, it is the main airport for tourists visiting the world-famous Boracay island.
Book your flights to the Philippines early especially if you plan to arrive in December when many Filipino overseas foreign workers (OFWs) come home for the holidays.
Check out the Philippine Travel Associations‘ biannual travel expos in February and August for airlines’ discount flight deals.
Philippine Airlines is the country’s flagship carrier
Philippines Airlines, the country’s flagship carrier, operates flights to the Philippines. For those traveling from the US, note that the only airports offering non-stop flights to the Philippines are the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport, and the John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
You can also book a travel agency to arrange a car or van service to pick you up from the airport or use ride-hailing apps such as Grab.
Shipping
Bring personal items you can’t live without like mementos, photos, favorite books and toys, as well as computers, laptops and other gadgets.
Everything else is readily available at affordable prices like clothes, food, home appliances, furnishings, toiletries, and even vehicles. There are lots of car dealerships as well as many second hand vehicles for sale.
You can fly to the Philippines with many of your personal belongings and buy everything else in local shops.
Some items are more expensive in the Philippines such as electronics, vitamins and supplements, luxury goods, baby furniture and accessories ( baby car seats, high chairs, etc.), and books.
You can get them shipped here from online stores, but it might be worth checking the shipping costs; some items might be more expensive to order online than to buy them in Philippine stores.
Prohibited Items
The Philippine government does not allow certain items to be brought into the country like firearms, any mechanical devices used in gambling, and illegal narcotics or synthetic drugs.
You can also bring certain types of pets, provided you take the necessary steps to get clearances and permissions.
Remember, though, that the Philippines is a tropical country with a warm climate, so you need to take this into consideration if you’re bringing a cold-weather dog, for example.
Bringing in certain exotic or endangered animals is also prohibited.
Finding a mover in the Philippines is easy. A quick Google search should give you some leads, but if you need help finding international movers, fill out the form on this page.
You can also ask your new employer for recommendations or if you have local friends, or family in the Philippines, ask them for some referrals as well.
The Philippines has a wide range of accommodations you can choose from based on you or your family’s specific needs and budget.
You will be limited to renting at first since foreigners are not allowed to own property in the Philippines other than condominiums (pending clearances and other conditions).
Before you leave your home country, we recommend visiting Philippine real estate websites and portals like Asia Property HQ. You can easily filter what properties are available based on location, budget, size, and more, so you get a general idea of available listed properties.
Type of Home
You might need a house if you are with your spouse and children, but a flat will do if you are flying solo. This can also help you narrow down your search. You could even go for a room rental in someone’s home via Airbnb if you are on a tight budget and want to start small.
There are many homes for rent or lease in various gated communities found in the major cities with many landlords who cater strictly to the expat market.
If you move to the Philippines with your family, you might want to rent a house instead of an apartment.
An ongoing nationwide construction boom also bodes well for your hunt for a flat; there are many newly completed apartments in all the major cities for you to choose from.
Most apartments come fully furnished with essential appliances like a stove, refrigerator, and washing machine. There are laundromats within most neighborhoods that charge $1-2 per load. You may need to purchase electric fans and even an airconditioning unit as the weather can get humid in the summer.
Most newly built condominiums have a fitness center and a pool. If you’re renting in the outskirts of Metro Manila, rates for the same type of accommodation may cost around $100-200 or even less.
Renting Property & Lease Terms
Many employers arrange all accommodations and rentals for their expat employees.
Filipino landlords prefer long term leases — two years or more — so companies usually rent a property for five years, for example, and just assign it to their expat staff and get rental payment via salary deductions.
If you will be arranging for your own housing, there are some accommodations available for a minimum of one year and are often renewable.
The standard payment terms are two months’ security deposit and one month’s advance. Higher-end apartment owners — and property owners who agree to a minimum one year lease period — require one year’s rent in advance in the form of post-dated checks.
Before you sign any lease contract, though, get a real estate lawyer to check the documents or ask your company’s human resources department to help you validate the agreement. Most lawyers offer this service and will only charge minimum rates.
If you prefer shorter term accommodations, expect to pay a bit higher than regular rentals (if computing per-day rent) especially in major cities. Options include Airbnb rentals, hotels, and serviced apartments.
There are many condo-hotels/serviced apartments in Metro Manila and Cebu — from major global players like the Marriot & Ascott chains down to cheaper micro-apartments/hostels. In the rural areas and provinces, many of the beach resorts, bed and breakfasts, and traveller inns will gladly accept long term guests as well.
The country’s landscape shifts from extremely rural to highly urban: the mega-metropolis that is Metro Manila and to a smaller scale, Cebu and Davao, the main cities in the central and southern parts of the country.
If you are moving for work, chances are that your employers have already arranged your housing. Most expats in the Philippines are assigned or prefer to live in the National Capital Region, specifically in the two central financial and business districts: Makati City and Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Here are some of the areas you can consider to make your new home.
Do you want to settle in a rural area, an off the beaten track location, somewhere near the ocean, or smack in the middle of a bustling city?
Consider which region you are planning to settle in based on its proximity to your new job, to friends and family, to public transport, and nearby services and amenities (like shopping centers, schools and hospitals).
High-rise buildings along Makati in Metro Manila
Metro Manila
The majority of expats in the Philippines live in Metro Manila, the country’s capital and largest city. Metro Manila is home to a wide range of expat communities, from retirees to business professionals.
The city is also a major center for education, healthcare, and entertainment, making it a popular choice for expats of all ages.
Metro Manila is also home to Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and is where many multinational companies are headquartered. The metropolis has a well-developed property market, but it is also extremely congested.
Unfortunately, in big cities within Metro Manila, poverty is prevalent and part and parcel of the local reality. You’ll have to deal with bad traffic jams, and the crime rate is quite high. You’ll also have to contend with air pollution and, during the monsoon season, flooding in certain areas.
Subic Bay
Subic Bay is a former US Naval base that is now a thriving economic zone and tourist destination in the Philippines. It is located about 100 kilometers northwest of Manila and is home to a diverse population of Filipinos, expats, and tourists.
The area has a large expat community, which can be helpful for newcomers who are looking for support and social connections. There are various expat groups and organizations that regularly organize events and activities.
However, Subic may not be ideal for expats who require easy access to international schools or specialized healthcare facilities. While there are some schools and medical facilities in Subic, expats may need to travel to nearby cities for more comprehensive services.
Additionally, some expats may find that Subic lacks the cultural and entertainment options that they are looking for, particularly in terms of nightlife and shopping.
Tagaytay City
One of the main advantages of living in Tagaytay City is its proximity to Manila, which is less than two hours away by car. This makes it convenient for expats who need to travel to the capital for work, leisure, or medical reasons.
Tagaytay City also has a range of amenities that cater to the needs of expats, including international schools, shopping malls, and healthcare facilities.
The cost of living in Tagaytay City is generally lower than in Manila, although some amenities and services may be more expensive due to the city’s tourism industry.
However, while Tagaytay City has a range of dining options, expats who crave international cuisine may find the selection to be limited.
Also, if you require easy access to beaches or a bustling urban environment, Tagaytay City may not be the place for you. The city is situated on a ridge, so while it offers stunning views of Taal Lake and the surrounding countryside, it does not have direct access to the sea.
Southern Luzon Provinces
The Southern provinces of Luzon (also referred to as CALABARZON which stands for Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon), specifically Laguna and Cavite, are also popular with expats because they’re relatively safer compared to Metro Manila and because of their proximity to Metro Manila.
Laguna and Cavite are only roughly 1–2 hours’ drive away from Metro Manila, thanks to an extensive freeway system. Housing options include gated communities, mid-rise condominiums, and rural properties available for all budgets.
There are many restaurants, hotels, and golf resorts, mountain ranges, lakes, and resorts in these provinces.
Boracay Island
Boracay is a small island located in the central Philippines, specifically in the Western Visayas region. The island is only 7 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide at its narrowest point.
The island’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, and there are many resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars that cater to tourists. The island has a vibrant nightlife scene, and there are many activities for visitors to enjoy, such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.
If you enjoy the beach lifestyle and want to live in a small, close-knit community, then Boracay may be a good option for you. However, it is worth noting that the island can be quite crowded and busy during peak tourist season, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
Cebu City
Next to Manila, Cebu City is the second most popular choice for most expats, especially if you’re looking for opportunities to work or start a business. Cebu City is located in the central region and also home to a large expat community, so you will have the opportunity to meet and socialize with people from different parts of the world.
Accommodation, food, and transportation are generally affordable, which means that you can stretch your budget further while still enjoying a good quality of life.
However, just like any city, Cebu City has its challenges. Traffic can be heavy and chaotic, particularly during rush hour, and air pollution can be a problem in some areas.
Davao City
Davao City is the largest city in Mindanao, the country’s second-largest island. Compared to other cities in the Philippines, such as Metro Manila and Cebu City, Davao City is relatively affordable.
The city is rarely affected by typhoons, making it a relatively safe place to live.
Being the home city of former President Duterte, Davao City is generally considered a safe place to live, with low crime rates compared to other cities in the Philippines. The city has a strict anti-smoking ordinance, and a curfew is in place for minors to ensure their safety.
Palawan Island
Palawan Island is an excellent choice for expats who appreciate nature, adventure, and a relaxed way of life. The island is a beautiful and serene tropical paradise located in the western part of the Philippines. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking beaches, stunning limestone cliffs, and lush forests, making it an ideal location for expats seeking a peaceful and nature-filled lifestyle.
Palawan Island is a popular destination among tourists, but it also has a growing expat community. There are several international schools, hospitals, and amenities available for expats to enjoy.
Palawan is also home to The Earth School developed by UNEP and Ted-Ed.
Whichever location you choose, make sure it is in a secure and crime-free area.
Your main bills will cover the following utilities and services: electricity, water, internet, and your mobile phone plans.
Sadly, these companies are practically monopolies, so prices are a bit higher as compared to other Asian countries. The quality of service has improved steadily over the last two decades though they are still not 100% consistent.
Once you have secured property to live in, you have to discuss with your landlord how the bills will be handled.
In the Philippines, most utility accounts are in the name of the landowner to prevent red tape and the often arduous process of changing the account name over to you, the tenant.
What often happens is that you will get the physical bills and be responsible for paying for it monthly, even though it is not in your name.
Remember to check with your landlord regarding the current status of all the bill payments before signing any contracts.
Electricity
Electricity in Metro Manila and most of Luzon is provided by Meralco, while Veco supplies power to Cebu and most of the Visayas region.
Water
Water in Metro Manila is supplied either by Maynilad Water Services, Inc. or Manila Water Company. Manila Water Company also supplies water to most of the country renamed as Cebu Water Company and Laguna Water Company.
The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), which oversees the water supply in Metro Manila, implemented a volumetric billing system based on the amount of water consumed by households.
Internet
There are five internet service providers (ISP) in the Philippines that offer a wide array of packages to match your budget and bandwidth usage. These ISPs are Converge ICT, Globe, SKYCable, and PLDT .
Paying Your Bills
There are various ways to pay your utility bills in the Philippines. You can physically make your payments in their offices, numerous remittance payment centers around town, in convenience stores, as well as online using your credit card, or via online banking.
Phone and Internet
Internet connection prices in the Philippines start at a low of $10 a month to a high of $600 a month. There are five internet service providers (ISP) in the Philippines that offer a wide array of packages to match your budget and bandwidth usage. These ISPs are Converge ICT, Globe, SKYCable, and PLDT .
Mobile Phone
There are only two mobile phone providers in the Philippines, namely Globe Telecom and Smart Communications, and you can easily get an account under your name and one not tied to your work or landlord. Both offer a dizzying range of pre-paid (top-up credit) or post-paid (fixed monthly rate) plans for your mobile wifi and phone needs.
Globe and Smart are in constant competition with each other to get the lion’s share of Philippine mobile users that they sometimes give phones and credits away amongst so many other freebies. This is why it pays to monitor special deals to maximize your savings.
Bank Account
If you are moving to the Philippines for work or to retire, you will need to open a bank account to receive your salary, pensions, dividends as well as help you facilitate paying for all your bills, utilities, and send money from home.
There is a thriving banking system in the Philippines. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) or Central Bank, regulates the entire industry made up of international and local universal, commercial, rural, cooperative, and thrift banks.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is the Central Bank in the Philippines
Most will allow foreigners to open savings and checking accounts in either Philippine pesos or US dollars.
You can also get both debit and credit cards from your local bank, which are widely used in major urban cities. But always have cash handy when you travel into more rural areas due to technological limitations (limited phone lines and internet connections).
There are also several international banks in the country including ANZ, Bank of America, Citibank, Deutsche Bank AG, ING Bank, JP Morgan Chase Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and the Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC).
If you are moving with your children, you are going to have to think of where they will continue their education.
Philippine culture places great importance in education. There are many schools you can choose from but to make this daunting task easier, you need to decide where your preferences lie.
The school should be in a safe and accessible neighborhood, preferably near where you live or work. What qualities are you looking for in a school? What is your preferred model of education for your kids?
International Schools
International schools are perfect for children who have moved from different countries. Though it can be costly if not subsidized by your employer, the curriculum is globally recognized, and your child will be exposed to children from different nationalities and religions.
Some expats enrol their kids in local private schools to expose them to the Philippine way of life and culture.
The curriculum is mandated by the Department of Education, matching global standards with many middle class as well as affluent Filipino high school students moving on to study university abroad in the USA or Europe.
Interest in progressive Schools — or schools that follow Montessori, Waldorf, and other non-traditional methods — have grown in recent years in the Philippines. Home schooling is also extremely popular, with many parents committing themselves to teaching their children full time.
Higher Education/Graduate School
If you don’t have any children with you but are interested in further studies, the Philippines have some of the best universities in Asia and the world.
The Asian Institute of Management is also headquartered in Makati City. This international management school and research institution attracts foreign masters students from all over the world to take advantage of one of the best business schools in Asia.
As a foreign resident working in the Philippines, you are required to pay taxes on your net taxable income.
This is because most foreigners working are also classified as resident aliens due to their prolonged stay and employment period, so their taxes are the same as those of Filipino nationals.
The rates range from a low of 5% to a high of 32% depending on your income, with the employer deducting the taxes at the source, so you don’t have to go to the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the country’s governing tax body, monthly.
There is also a 12% Value-added tax (VAT) on almost all goods you purchase except for agricultural food products like vegetables, which are exempted.
Culture
The Philippines has often been described as a Chinese, Southeast Asian child that was raised for 300 years in a Spanish convent and then 50 years in Hollywood. This phrase pretty much sums up the cultural influences still found in the population today.
Filipinos are friendly. They also love to have a party.
It makes for an interesting mix of ideas which you’ll definitely enjoy experiencing during your stay in the Philippines.
Religion
The Philippines holds the distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia that is predominantly Roman Catholic.
This is because Spain colonized them for a long time. Over 80% of its almost 110 million population is Roman Catholic, while the remaining 20% is broken down as follow: 10% Protestant, 6% Islam, and the remaining 4% split between Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, and traditional tribal religions.
Role of Women
The Philippines has been accused of having a machismo, misogynistic society and in some pockets of the country, this still holds true. However, it is predominantly a matriarchal society, where the woman and the mother are highly respected — and sometimes makes all the decisions — within the family unit.
Women have the same political and social rights as men, with many holding public offices and the top positions in various business and industrial sectors. In fact, the first female head of state in Southeast Asia was Corazon Aquino who was elected in 1986, making her second overall in Asia after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of India.
Social Customs in the Philippines
Filipinos are extremely warm and friendly. They are easy-going to a fault and most expats have an easy time befriending locals who enjoy hanging out with foreigners to share experiences, food, and to learn about their countries of origin.
Socializing revolves around food and celebrations since Pinoys love to party as well! Fiestas or patron saint feast day celebrations are happening all over the country every single day.
Filipinos are friendly. They also love to have a party.
Don’t be surprised to find yourself in a seemingly never-ending series of gender reveal, christening, weddings, kiddie birthday parties, confirmations, graduations, promotions, retirements, separations, anniversaries, school reunions (even if you didn’t study there!) and even funerals and cremation celebrations.
Pinoys usually give a free pass to expats who might not be familiar or aware of certain words or gestures that can seem insulting or offensive. They’ll happily teach you what you are allowed or not allowed to say, act, or do.
But like in most of Asia, saving face is deeply ingrained in the Filipino psyche.
They don’t take too well when corrected in front of others as well as being exposed to public displays of anger and disappointment.
Filipinos either will stay quiet or may laugh, crack a joke and expertly change the topic to avoid further embarrassment.
To find other expats, join the many groups and clubs, as well as work or at schools.
How to Live in the Country Permanently
Becoming a permanent resident in the Philippines as an expat involves going through a formal process and meeting certain criteria.
Here are some common pathways to obtain permanent residency:
Quota or Non-Quota Immigrant Visa
The Philippine government offers immigrant visas under specific categories, including quota and non-quota visas. Quota visas are limited in number and subject to annual quotas set by the government. Non-quota visas, on the other hand, have no numerical limits. These visas are typically granted to individuals with close family ties to Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens AKA Balikbayans.
Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV)
The SIRV program allows foreigners who invest a substantial amount in the Philippines to apply for permanent residency. The minimum investment required varies and is subject to change, so it’s important to check with the appropriate Philippine government agencies for the most up-to-date requirements.
Retirement Visa
The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) offers a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) program for foreigners who wish to retire in the Philippines.
It requires a minimum age (usually 35 or 50 years old) and meeting financial criteria, such as depositing a certain amount in a Philippine bank or purchasing property.
Employment-Based Visas
Expats who have secured employment with a Philippine company or have been offered a job by an employer in the Philippines may be eligible for employment-based visas. These visas are typically valid for the duration of the employment contract and may provide a pathway to permanent residency after a certain period of continuous employment.
Marriage to a Filipino Citizen
Foreign nationals who are married to a Filipino citizen can apply for a spousal visa. After a certain period of marriage, the foreign spouse may become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
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