If you’re planning to retire in the Philippines, this article is for you.
It’s written based on our discussions with retirees who have been living in the Philippines for many years and want to share their tips and tricks on how they kick-started their new lives in this island nation of Southeast Asia.
Here, you can find a step-by-step guide on how to retire in the Philippines, starting from key information to help you decide whether the Philippines is the right place for you or not, followed by preparation steps and what you need to do to set up your life in the Philippines.
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Contents
Why Retire in the Philippines
We listened to some exchanges between expats in the Philippines, and the most common reasons they’ve shared for moving to the country include:
- Better Life Quality: A majority of people say that they have a better quality of life than in their home country because of the lower cost of living. You can expect to pay only US$1,500 a month and retire in the Philippines comfortably. With this budget, you can rent a house with some space, eat good food, and have a budget for entertainment. In fact, some people retire here and even spend less than US$1,000 a month.
- Relaxed Life: Culture in the Philippines can be chill and relaxed. People are warm and friendly. Life moves at a slower pace. So, you can move away from the hustle and bustle of Western countries and live a relaxed life here.
- Lower Labor Cost: The Philippines’ wage is quite low. You can pay only 8,000 pesos (~US$145) for a full-time helper per month who can speak English. This is a deal you can’t find elsewhere, including in a country like Thailand. A helper can do your laundry, clean your house, take care of your kids, and cook for you, making your life in the Philippines very convenient.
- Language: This is a unique benefit that you can’t easily find elsewhere in the world. Since English is an official language of the Philippines, you don’t need to learn a new language at all. A majority of people speak good English no matter where you go here.
- Visa: The Philippines has one of the best retirement visas in the world. Not only are the requirements low, but you can live here for a lifetime hassle-free.
Challenges of Retiring in the Philippines
If you want to retire in the Philippines, there are certain challenges you need to face. Most of them aren’t major, but they’re something you should be aware of.
- Infrastructure: Since the Philippines is an island country prone to typhoons, the overall infrastructure isn’t that good. For example, unless you live in Manila, getting around can be inconvenient with limited public transportation. In some places, the internet may be slow and frequently cuts out. Temporary power and water shortages are also common. Of course, the problem varies based on your location.
- Power Outages: Depending on where you live, power outages, known as “brownouts” in the Philippines, happen regularly. For example, in Dumaguete, there are planned power outages twice a month on average. Each lasts from 6 am until 6 pm. When it happens, many people just go to a shopping mall or a place that has its own power generator and air conditioning.
- Dealing with the Government: If you need to deal with a Philippine government office, such as for a visa or shipping your household goods, you should expect it not to be easy. They are known to be bureaucratic and often involve long queues and unclear instructions. So, many people just hire an agent to do it on their behalf.
- Healthcare: While healthcare in the Philippines is affordable and provides good treatment, quality hospitals are mainly available only in major cities. Also, you can only get good treatment if you can afford it. Refilling your medications can be quite a challenge. You may need to visit multiple pharmacies to get your prescriptions filled.
Cost of Retiring
One of the great things about retiring in the Philippines is the cost of living, which is still relatively cheaper compared to Western countries.
Many expats agree that a month of living in the Philippines will only cost around $800 to $2,500. This means you can live in the Philippines on a budget of less than US$1,000 a month. However, if you want a comfortable life, you need to increase your budget. US$1,500 per month is normally enough for a comfortable life.
There are also those who spend more than US$2,500 per month. It’s a wide range because the cost of living depends on many factors, including:
- Location
- Lifestyle
- Number of people in your household
Below are ballpark figures of basic monthly expenses in the Philippines:
| Expense | Price in US$ |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (Rent) | $150 – $500 |
| Food | $80 – $200 |
| Electricity | $27 – $30 (no air-conditioning) / $140 – $160 (with air-conditioning) |
| Tap water | $10 – $16 |
| Drinking water | $5 – $10 |
| Internet | $30 |
| Mobile communication | $6 |
| Miscellaneous | $60 |
“I paid, in general, less than $2,500 per month, and I’m considered to be splurging. I have a nice 2-bedroom bungalow in a beautifully landscaped compound in a nice area of town (Dumaguete). I have fast internet, cable TV, and air-conditioning.”
— An anonymous retiree expat living in Dumaguete with his Filipino wife
Related article: How Much is The Average Cost of Living in The Philippines?
Where to Retire
Choosing a place to retire in the Philippines is very important. It’s not just about lifestyle—it’s also about safety and infrastructure.
For example, during our research, one person told us that his city was hit by Typhoon Yolanda, and the electricity was gone for two months, including the internet. He had an online business, and 90% of his customers were gone because of that.
Also, as mentioned earlier, the infrastructure across the country isn’t always ideal. In some places, you may need to travel far to reach a good hospital.
So, when it comes to choosing a place to retire in the Philippines, here are four things I recommend you consider:
- It should have a good private hospital. We’re not invincible. When you get sick, you need access to good treatment. And you must be able to afford it.
- It should not be prone to typhoons. On average, 19 typhoons hit the Philippines each year. When they do, it can be very inconvenient, and sometimes dangerous, to live through.
- It should have solid infrastructure. This includes stable electricity and water, decent internet, and transportation options.
- It should be in a safe neighborhood. While the Philippines is generally safe, living in a secure area is always a smart choice.
Recommended Cities to Retire
- Iloilo City: A hidden gem. Clean, organized, and convenient. It has everything you need, including good hospitals and malls. Traffic isn’t bad either.
- Marikina: A quiet suburb in Metro Manila. You’ll find everything you need, and it’s considered a safe area. If you need something from the capital, it’s less than an hour’s drive.
- Cebu City: Probably the most famous beach city in the Philippines. Though it’s an island, it has big malls, good hospitals, and a large expat community.
- Dumaguete: A small, walkable city that’s chill, relaxed, safe, and close to nature. Many retirees live here.
- Davao City: A large city known for its safety since the local government takes rules seriously. It offers access to both mountains and beaches.
Related article: Best Places to Live in The Philippines For Expats
Preparing for Relocation
Once you’ve decided to relocate to the Philippines, it’s time to start planning for your move.
In this section, we’ll walk you through step-by-step guides based on the real experience of Andy, a retired U.S. military officer.
When he married Maricel (a Filipina who later became a naturalized American), they made solid plans to leave their home in Washington and move over 6,000 miles to Lipa City, Batangas.
Relocation, however, did not come easy. To ensure they had enough financial resources to live in the Philippines, the couple focused on saving.
“We worked a lot. We barely saw each other at home. She (Maricel) worked in the morning, while I worked at night,” Andy shared.
By their third year of saving, they began the relocation process: updating their passports, securing visas, deciding what to bring, and completing the paperwork for bringing pets.
Like Andy and Maricel, here’s what you’ll need to prepare before moving to the Philippines:
Visas
Before your move, the first thing you need to secure is a visa. There are three main visa options available for retirees:
- Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV)
- Permanent Resident Visa (13a)
- Tourist or Temporary Visa
Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV)
The SRRV is the most popular option for retirees and is considered one of the best retirement visas in the world. It grants a lifetime stay in the Philippines, and the general requirements are relatively low.
Key features:
- Lifetime stay in the Philippines
- Multiple-entry visa (you can enter and exit freely)
- Allows your legal spouse or dependents to stay with you
- Age and financial requirements vary based on the option you choose
Popular SRRV options:
- SRRV Classic: For anyone over 50 who can deposit US$10,000 to US$20,000, or have a monthly income of US$800 (single) or US$1,000 (married) that can go toward a condo purchase or long-term lease
- SRRV Expanded Courtesy: Designed for former Filipino citizens or ex-military officers with a lifetime pension of at least US$1,000/month. The deposit is only US$1,500
Since visa rules change over time, check the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) website for the latest requirements and a list of documents needed for your application.
Find out more: A Basic Guide to the Retirement Visa (SRRV) in the Philippines
Tip: It’s best to apply for the SRRV while you’re still in your home country. Some documents, like a police clearance, are easier to obtain before you leave. For a hassle-free experience, consider using a visa service provider.
Permanent Resident Visa (13a)
If you’re married to a Filipino citizen, you can apply for the Permanent Residence (PR), officially known as the 13(a) non-quota immigrant visa. As the name suggests, this visa grants lifetime residency. You can live and work in the Philippines without needing a special work permit.
Here are the key differences between the Permanent Resident Visa and the SRRV:
- There’s no age requirement
- There’s no fixed financial requirement; you just need to prove you can support yourself
- You can work without applying for a work permit
- You can apply from overseas through a Philippine consulate or embassy
If you’re married to a Filipino, this visa is often the more practical and straightforward choice.
Find out more: How to Become a Permanent Resident in the Philippines
Tourist or Temporary Visa (9a)
This option is best for those who are still deciding whether or not to retire in the Philippines. The visa is officially called the 9(a) non-immigrant or temporary visa. It allows you to stay in the Philippines for a limited time.
While it’s primarily used for travel, many people initially retire using this visa before switching to a long-term one.
- Depending on your nationality, if you’re from a country with a visa-free agreement, you can initially stay for 7 to 59 days without applying for a visa. You can extend your stay for up to 36 months.
- If you’re from a country without a visa-free agreement, you need to apply for the visa in advance. The initial stay is 30 days, and you can extend your visa for up to 24 months.
Note: The extension process can be tedious and time-consuming. This visa is recommended only if: - You’re still deciding whether the Philippines is the right place for you
- You’re applying for another type of long-term visa
Should I Use an Immigration Consultancy Agency?
This decision depends on your comfort level and schedule.
If you choose to do it yourself, you’ll need to spend time researching and coordinating with local authorities. The process may involve dealing with unclear instructions and long queues.
If you use an immigration consultancy service, they can assist with document submission and guide you through the application process, for an extra fee.
If you’re applying for a 13(a) Permanent Resident Visa, your Filipino spouse can also help with the process.
ACR I-Card
The ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card) is an official ID for foreigners who stay in the Philippines for more than 59 days.
Once you’re in the Philippines, you’ll need to get this card. The process is straightforward:
- Visit your local Bureau of Immigration (BI) office with:
- Your passport
- A proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- Fill out the application form (available at the BI office)
- Have your biometric data captured
- Pay the application fee
The ACR I-Card is valid for one year and must be renewed annually
Paperwork
In addition to securing a retiree visa, there are other important documents you should prepare, including:
- A valid passport. If it’s about to expire, it’s better to get a new one
- Your return flight ticket. Depending on your visa, you may need to present it to immigration at the airport
- Additional copies of:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Academic records
- Bank references (helpful when opening a bank account in the Philippines)
These documents may be required for various applications while living in the Philippines.
Tip: It’s recommended to scan and save digital copies of all important documents. This way, you can easily reprint them when needed.
Accommodation
When finding a place to retire in the Philippines, you have plenty of options—renting a condo, signing a long-term lease, or leasing land and building a house on it.
While foreigners cannot own land in the Philippines, you can legally own a residence in the following ways:
- Lease land from a Filipino owner for up to 50 years, with a one-time renewal of 25 years
- Purchase one or more condo units in a building that is at least 60% Filipino-owned
- Form a partnership with a corporation that is 60% Filipino-owned
If you are married to a Filipino, you can purchase land, but the title must be in your spouse’s name.
If you prefer not to own, renting is a flexible option. Popular websites for property listings include Lamudi, Property24, Carousell, MyProperty, and Rentpad.
Tip: If you work with a real estate broker, verify their license through the official website of the Philippine Regulatory Commission. This is especially important when purchasing from developers.
Flights
Book your flight a few months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak season (November to May). This helps secure lower fares, guarantees you a seat, and prepares you for potential crowds and long lines at Philippine airports.
Also, check which airport is closest to where you plan to retire. For example:
- If you’re retiring in Cebu, look for flights that land at Mactan-Cebu International Airport
- If you’re headed to North Luzon, it’s best to fly into Clark International Airport
Landing at Mactan-Cebu International Airport is generally more convenient for anyone moving to the Visayas region.
Other international airports in the Philippines include:
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Pasay City)
- Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao)
- Puerto Princesa International Airport (Palawan)
Planning What to Ship
Consider choosing between cargo boxes, which are good for bringing a few smaller items, or a container van that can store large pieces of furniture and appliances.
Decide on your mode of transport: by air if you want faster delivery, or by sea if you’re looking for lower costs.
You can use this shipping company’s form to get a free quote for moving your belongings to the Philippines.
Tip: If you have an SRRV visa, you can bring household goods and personal items into the Philippines without paying customs tax, as long as the total value is under US$7,000.
What to Bring
Take along quality kitchenware, bath essentials, and computer gadgets, as these are often hard to find and more expensive in the Philippines.
If you take prescription medications, bring your doctor’s prescription as well. Although most medications can be refilled locally, pharmacies will typically require both a valid prescription and an ID.
Good to know: Depending on your location, refilling your prescriptions can be inconvenient. You may need to visit multiple pharmacies to get everything you need.
What Not to Bring
There are certain items you should avoid bringing to the Philippines unless absolutely necessary.
- Electronic appliances that run on 110V power. The Philippines uses 220V, and using a step-down transformer may lead to higher electricity bills or even damage your appliances during shipment.
- Warm clothing or heavy fabrics. These are generally uncomfortable to wear due to the hot and humid climate.
- Firearms, communication equipment, and medicine are regulated items due to national security and public health reasons. Import permits and clearances may be required.
You can check the full list of restricted items on the Philippine Bureau of Customs website.
Find out more: Shipping to the Philippines: Services, Costs, and Customs
Pet
You can bring your pets to the Philippines, but the specific requirements depend on your country of origin. Visit the website or contact the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate for the latest pet transport requirements.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when bringing pets:
- Make sure your pet’s breed can adapt to the tropical climate in the Philippines
- Keep all required documents on hand to present to airport authorities—otherwise, your pet may be returned to the country of origin at your expense
- Choose a pet-friendly airline
- Small pets (in carriers) or emotional support animals may be allowed in the cabin
- Larger pets must be placed in the plane’s cargo hold
- Pet quarantine is not always required upon arrival in the Philippines
Health Insurance
Health insurance is important when living in the Philippines. You may want to get coverage before flying in to ensure your policy starts the moment you arrive.
There are several types of health insurance available for expats in the Philippines. Common options include:
- International insurance
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)
- PhilHealth (public insurance)
If you have the budget and want top-tier care, international insurance is the best option. It’s the most expensive, but it comes with the highest coverage. You can visit any private hospital, and the insurance will typically cover the full cost of treatment.
A more affordable choice is to enroll in an HMO. While the coverage isn’t as extensive as international insurance, it’s suitable for common medical needs. Top HMO providers in the Philippines include Maxicare, Medicare Plus, Caritas Health Shield, and Insular Health Care (InLife).
For those on a tighter budget, PhilHealth is a public health insurance option. It’s available to foreign retirees who are at least 60 years old and have made 120 monthly contributions.
Health insurance is a broad topic. You can read more about it in our detailed health insurance guide.
It’s worth noting that the quality of hospitals in the Philippines varies greatly. While doctors are well-trained and fluent in English, public hospitals may have limited staff, outdated equipment, and long waiting times.
Private hospitals, on the other hand, are generally well-equipped and more suitable for retirees and expats. Even with better service, costs are still affordable by Western standards. For example, a typical doctor visit may cost less than US$30.
Find out more: Hospitals in the Philippines: What to Do When You Need Medical Treatment
Settling in the Philippines
Tess lived in the US for about 40 years. It was where she built her career as a registered nurse, found love, and raised a family. But after retiring in 2018, she decided to return to her birth country, the Philippines. This meant re-acquiring her Filipino citizenship and adjusting to local life. The cultural shift wasn’t too difficult for Tess. She enjoyed reconnecting with old friends, making new ones, and learning new skills.
Still, she faced challenges, especially when making major purchases and dealing with the country’s bureaucratic systems.
Here’s what you should do and expect when setting up your life in the Philippines.
Banking
One of the first things you should do is open a local bank account to send money or make managing your personal finances easier. You can choose from major national banks like BDO Unibank, Metrobank, Bank of the Philippine Islands, and Security Bank.
Alternatively, you can open an account with international banks like Citibank, HSBC, JP Morgan Chase, and Bank of America.
When opening an account, visit the bank in person and prepare the following:
- Two valid IDs (such as your ACR I-Card and foreign passport with English text or translation)
- Passport-sized photos
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or rental contract)
- The required minimum deposit varies depending on the type of account you open.
Sim Card
Getting a local SIM card is also important, and it’s easy to do. You can find one at convenience stores or mobile provider outlets. Popular providers include GoMo, Globe Telecom, and Smart Communications.
You may also want to keep your home country number. For instance, US citizens often need their US number to access online banking. Some providers like T-Mobile offer international plans that include the Philippines.
Tip: If your phone supports eSIM, ask your provider to activate it. That way, you can keep your home number on eSIM and use the physical SIM slot for a local number.
Utilities
If you’re renting, your place may already come with electricity, water, and sometimes internet installed.
However, if you purchase a property, you’ll need to set these up yourself. Contact the appropriate utility companies and be ready to show your ID and proof of address.
Taxation
One advantage of retiring in the Philippines is that retirement income—including pensions—is not taxed locally.
However, if you earn Philippine-sourced income (like dividends, interest, royalties, wages, or real estate profits), you are required to pay taxes on those earnings.
If you’re a US citizen, you may still need to file US taxes. As the saying goes, “nothing is inevitable except death and taxes.“
Culture
When retiring in the Philippines, there are a few cultural issues you should be aware of. These things happen often and can put you in a bad mood if you’re not prepared. I’ve seen many retirees complain about these issues.
However, in my view, there’s not much you can do to change them. You’re in a foreign land, not your home country, so the best way to handle it is to adapt. As the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” And when you’re in the Philippines, do as Filipinos do.
Dealing With Philippine Government Offices
Even though there have been efforts to improve procedures, bureaucratic red tape is still a common issue in government offices.
You might have to wait in long queues, wait your turn, or even come back another day if you don’t have all the required documents.
Every time you deal with a government office in the Philippines, it’s best to set aside an entire day and bring all your documents to avoid hassles. Arrive early and make sure you have everything you need for your application.
Also, watch out for “fixers” who promise to speed up your paperwork for a fee. They’re usually scammers who may steal your money or misuse your personal information for identity theft and other illegal activities.
Only deal with legitimate staff at the official counters of government offices. If possible, bring a reliable Filipino friend to help, or consider hiring a BI-accredited agency for support.
Social and Cultural Life
Filipinos are generally known for their warm and hospitable personality. It’s easy to connect with others because of their friendly nature. Most people also speak English well, since it’s one of the country’s official languages.
Many retirees find Filipinos living in cities to be more liberal and assertive. They quickly adapt to the fast-paced rhythm of city life and are used to interacting with people from various cultures. Life in major Philippine cities is often Western-like.
Living in the city allows you to enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle, surrounded by bars, malls, restaurants, and other modern conveniences. On the other hand, people in the countryside tend to be more traditional. They hold onto cultural practices and live at a much slower pace.
Settling in rural areas means being closer to nature, enjoying quiet surroundings, and having access to fresh air and organic food. It’s often easier to maintain a healthier lifestyle in the province.
A few expats shared their experiences with buying big-ticket items like a condominium, motorcycle, or car. If you plan to make similar purchases, be sure to talk with a reliable agent or a trustworthy local friend. Spend enough time researching the buying process and know the costs involved.
It’s important to decide the kind of lifestyle you want and prepare for associated expenses. Talk to the right people and be cautious when buying property or vehicles to avoid scams.
‘Filipino Time’
One cultural trait you’ll often hear about is “Filipino Time”. It’s the tendency to arrive late to events or appointments. Historians trace this back to the Spanish colonial era, when elite figures would intentionally arrive late as a sign of status.
Today, however, much of the delay is caused by heavy and unpredictable traffic, especially in urban areas. If you plan to travel across towns or cities for an appointment, it’s best to allot two to three hours of travel time. This helps avoid being late due to traffic or other delays.
Ready to Retire in the Philippines?
Depending on your situation, it may take up to two years to fully prepare for your permanent move. This includes handling passport and visa requirements, moving possessions and pets, and finding the right place to live.
Stay connected with locals or expats who already live in the Philippines. They can give you useful, firsthand advice on what to expect and how to prepare.
It’s also important to stay informed. Watch local news, check government websites regularly, and keep up with changes in immigration and airport policies.
You can also join local organizations or community groups that help retirees adjust to life in the Philippines. These groups can help you meet new people, learn about your new surroundings, and even join local tours or social activities.
For example, the PRA’s Social Dynamics Program offers events focused on social integration, community building, and educational tours. You can also find expat and foreign retiree groups through social media or local community boards, depending on where you live.
