Living in the Philippines?

Question

I've been trying to find suitable information about living in the Philippines permanently, and wondered if anyone knew the best sites that tell you about passport requirements, accomodation and what else you need to live there without being a citizen for at least 5 years.
Anyone could help, I'd be in their debt.

Salamat.

Answer 1

It's the easiest country I've ever lived in, I've been here for 14 years and have never needed more than a tourist visa, which is renewed every two months by the agency I leave my passport with. Costs about 300usd a year including the exit clearance which you need after 6 months.
Go on a trip somewhere every year and start the process over again on return.

Don't buy a house, renting is so cheap and gives you independence to change your location every so often. If you don't have to live in Manila/Cebu, then visit a few places with good ferry and airline connections and decide where you like the best.

I live on an island off the coast of Northern Palawan, land is cheap to buy on the main island if you must, it's unpolluted and really friendly, 3 planes a day and two super ferry companies a week to the local town.

Renting a 2 bed house in a place like Puerto Galera is around 200usd a month, cheap hotels around 15usd a night.

Any questions about anything else, you sound English, send me a note, I've been retired here for my whole time and it's great, be friendly and don't upset the locals without good reason, and you'll be welcomed

Answer 2

First of all, inquire at your embassy. The first thing you have to do is arrange your travel papers. You might be able to stay here for 5 years but you will be an illegal alien. I have a friend who was born here and went to the US when he was still young, he became an American citizen. He stayed here for 5 years. When he came back to the US, he payed a huge amount of money to the immigration.

Answer 3

But it's so hot there, ugh! 90 degrees every single day of the year for the rest of your life, sweating. Even Filipinos hate it. They might like to be friends with you to glean some cash, but they'll always wonder, why does he want to live here when he can live where it's cool, rich, and happening?

Answer 4

Try the yahoo group PHILIPPINE LIVING ISLAND PARADISE its called PLIP for short.
Just do a search in the groups section of yahoo.

Sincerely

Jerry O

Answer 5

I think state department website will give you the requirements.