Under a new directive, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of Philippines has been authorised to issue digital nomad visas for up to one year. Targeting remote workers, the visa requires applicants to demonstrate a stable income and hold citizenship from countries offering reciprocal visa arrangements to Filipinos.
This move positions the Philippines among a growing list of nations embracing remote work visa programmes, even as some regions revert to physical office spaces.
With foreign visitor numbers still below pre-pandemic levels, the government hopes the digital nomad visa will bridge the gap by welcoming a new demographic of travellers who blend work and leisure. Officials expect the scheme to attract long-stay visitors who can contribute to the local economy without competing in the domestic job market. According to government data, tourism remains a key driver for the Philippines, contributing 8.6 per cent to its GDP in 2023. Authorities aim to further revitalise this vital sector by opening pathways for remote workers.
Earlier, the Philippines introduced an electronic visa (e-Visa) system for Indian passport holders. Launched by the DFA, the platform allows applicants to complete the entire visa process online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.
Following successful beta testing in 2023, the e-Visa system is expected to encourage more Indian travellers by removing traditional bureaucratic hurdles. Applicants can visit the official website, fill out forms, make secure bank payments, and receive their approved visas via email, offering a fast and paperless solution.
With these new initiatives, the Philippines is signalling its commitment to making travel easier and more accessible, welcoming a wider range of visitors to its shores.
(With inputs from multiple sources)
