Yes! The Philippines is launching a digital nomad visa very soon

With postcard-worthy beaches, endless islands to explore, and welcoming locals, the Philippines is every traveller's dream. If you've ever entertained ideas of living there, soon you can – because the Philippines is (finally) launching a digital nomad visa. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr recently signed Executive Order No. 86, allowing the Department of Foreign Affairs to issue digital nomad visas to eligible non-immigrant foreigners. This visa allows holders to work remotely in the Philippines for up a year, with multiple entries allowed while the visa remains valid. Once the year is up, remote workers may also renew their digital nomad visa for the same duration. 

Applications for the digital nomad visa are not open yet, but a pilot programme is expected to begin 60 days after the Order goes into effect. That was back on April 24, so if all goes well, we should have more news in late June or early July this year. 

Who is eligible for the Philippines digital nomad visa?

To qualify for the visa, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Prove they work remotely using digital technology.
• Demonstrate proof of sufficient income earned out of the Philippines.
• Have a clean criminal record.
• Possess valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay.
• Hold a passport from a country that offers digital nomad visas to Filipino citizens and maintains a Foreign Service Post.
• Not pose any threat to the internal or external security of the Philippines.
• Not be employed within the Philippines.

Where to explore in the Philippines? Your options are truly endless. There's the thrumming capital city Manila, island paradise Boracay, surfing heaven Siargao, and scuba diving gateway Cebu plus countless other under-the-radar islands to lug your laptop to. For more inspiration, check out our guide to the Philippines. 

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