@@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234 Have you watched the channel, "Becoming Pilipino": have you ever looked into citizenship? He did it through Congress, but there are Judicial ways too.
Hey all, let’s get Paul to 100k subscribers! He’s a legend and deserves a little silver plaque behind him when he broadcasts. The information he provides and the help he gives to others makes him a cut above. Let’s do this! 🎉
While I was on my probationary visa sadly my wife died, obviously I informed immigration and was informed that my visa would be cancelled and I could go back to the tourist visa....after a meeting with immigration officer and his advice I petitioned myself for the 13a visa...after further interviews I was successful..my ACR card says WIDOWED ..PERMANENT RESIDENT
I married my wife for ten years in the US, I got a 13a while in the US. I retired and we came here. And then I had to get a ACR that says my visa is permanent. After two years being here in the Philippines, my wife passed away from cancer. That left me with the responsibility to take care of my step daughter. Immigration said my 13a visa was revoked 72 hours after she died. Many years later, I remarried, applied for a 13a visa again. The people helping me get my second visa told me that the immigration should not have done that. The problem is they have forgot that years ago they were the people telling me I had no visa. Some people say you get what you pay for. I paid them to fix things way back then. I paid them again to get me my visa 13a again. But because I was paying them this second time, they just told me what I wanted to hear. I did not remind “them” that they are “them”. They have no shame anyway. Money explains what happens.
I don't know the differences between VISA requirements based on different countries but I do know if you have a decent amount of income you can get a VISA for permanent resident based on that alone, at least from the US.
@IB4U2Cme It didn't cost me any extra money, just the normal fee's....time and paperwork was the only downside The immigration staff were excellent in their support and advice to me.....just reaply in 5 yrs time and obviously report to immigration once a year
Hello Pauley, that was an excellent video chockfull of information. I am glad the Philippines takes all these steps to ensure and protect the legitimacy of the visa
Hi Paul. I’m new to your channel and find you to be a kind, thoughtful and intelligent dude. I feel lucky to have come across your channel as my interest in retiring in the Philippines grows. Great info as always. Thanks.
Glad to hear you got approved. Also pleased to hear about your volunteer work with the US Embassy. Thanks for the tip about the visa agency. It seems to be a good investment. One small slip on a form could give an official having a bad day a reason to refuse you. I recall the merry-go-round round experience you had with your marriage paperwork. You visited the municipal offices so often they should have put you on the payroll!😅
Paul, great vlog. I'm a single retired American, and I also used JRC, great company. I have the Quota Visa and could not be happier. Big advantages to this visa for Single guys. Yes, it is pricey, but you become a permanent resident and not a tourist. There is certain criteria, and JRC was extremely helpful in getting me through the process that I could never imagine doing myself. Always fun and educational watching your vlogs. Thanks for what you do!
Why didn’t you take the srrv visa with 20k locked in? What made you decide for the Quota visa? Myself am also thinking between these two visas. Yes i do have 50k in a bank here so basically i would qualify for both
To everyone with questions, there is no one answer. I will address a few, but the advantages are many over any other visa for MY situation. I contacted JRC and JR sent out a person from the Manila branch. I took my time and weighed out the differences for both. The Quota is not for everyone and only a limited number are allowed per calander year. Again, for me, I loved the PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS which is stated on the GOLD Card. 5 yrs before I neet to get automatic renewal for $400.00 for the entire 5 yrs. I never have to leave the country. Exit and entry is effortless. Opening up bank account is like your a citizen and you are treat like one. Once I provided my Quta Visa card to my current PH bank I was treated completely different in a good way. You can get a job and are equal to Filipinos looking for the same job. (I will never be looking for work but it's one of the many perc's. Application fees can be less if you own property. If not, more money will need to be shown your bank account. I recall it's 50 or 60k US but never held hostage like other Visa's and can be accessed if the visa is issued. Bottom line call JRC and compare the two or more for yourself. It may not be for you but was the best thing I ever did for my circumstances and peace of mind! Paul, maybe getting JR back on to talk about the advantages might be a good vlog. Best of luck everyone and god luv, the Philippines 🇵🇭
I also want to add. I have watched many vlogers try and give their opinion on Visa's. Be careful as, more often than not, I ended up being more confused watching their vlogs. In my opinion and while the vloger may be trying to help, they are not experts at all. Contact JRC or another reputable company that does this for a living. The government can make changes to Visa's overnight, it seems. So again, spend a little extra and hire the pros. You do not want to be on the wrong side of a bad situation because you listened to a vloger, friend or bar story. I cannot stress enough do your homework!
@@roswo that’s the key question personally I don’t think there is a real difference between a srrv and a quota visa. Only difference is you need 20 k $ locked in or showing a property in name then for quote visa you need showing 50 k $ but not lock in. I still undecided which one i take. Tmr i go talk with agent.
Some very good points to consider, but I do believe from the feeling that I get from your utube vids... your an honest , kind ,snd ( mostly) calm type of guy . So I would approve you too . But I have been to immigration in Manilla,and yes ,the outcome depends on the person that is interviewing you . Thsnk you for explaining the things that we are interested in🤙🏽
Hi Paul, I have been living in Cebu for 2 months (from Canada) and travelling back and forth from my condo in Cebu City to the Sibonga area for property in the province. I bought a car and scooter right away to get around the island.... and WHAT A LEARNING CURVE it was/is! The last couple of weeks driving along South Cebu highway has been an experience ;) The trip is pure pain each time My experience with Immigration involves questionable grease money... but i was in an out twice about 12 minutes each time for visa extensions and ACR application.. (that was worrisome in its own right)
Hahaha. I don't deal with immigration anymore. I deal with the Philippine Retirement Authority PRA. I get service way faster. Once a year only. Too easy. With an SRRV... you don't need an exit clearance at all. Leaving and coming back is so simple. If you separate from your Filipina your 13A visa is canceled. The Filipina cannot cancel the SRRV.
I'm married to an American woman. Seems that will eliminate about 60% of potential problems there for me lol. Looking to get srrv as well. Hope all is well with you.
However with the SRRV you are not a permanent resident nor do you possess an immigrant visa. During covid, people with the SRRV could not re-enter the country. Permanent residents and proof of family members was acceptable.
Thanks Paul for a very informing video ! As always your vid's have lots of good info/insight, I've just started the process to get our marriage license process started. Gathering intel from C&G Consulting, and will set up a interview soon with them. Plan is to marry my filipina, we've been together 2 years now. I built us/her & her 2 kids a house here in Dec 2022 on their land on the mountain. Hearing the changes etc coming we want & need to get this next "mission" accomplished also. She used to worked for the barrangay hall here, so I will go there for a barrangay clearance too. I'm pretty much the only Kano running around here, the police all know her well, and me too by now seeing me in town lol. Kinda funny, we were going back n forth a couple times to her parents place in Tap-Tap to drop off pig feed. 2 times, on the road they had a "road block" set up. Cops swinging AR 15 rifles around their necks lol. I stop, 1 officer comes to my window says "I need to check inside your car" Ok sir fine, then they saw my filipin and told us to just go ahead n go. We did have her 2 kids with us too, maybe that's why. Since 2 filipino kids in the car with a Kano hahaha......It's nice to have "connections" her brother in law works for the LTO, so he expedited me registering my used car , and then converting my Calif drivers license into a filipino license
Paul my good man i am here in Letey I know not too far from where you are so maybe one day in the future I will come over and say Hi love your show when I am in Canada and even here today the 16 of august from Tagoban city keep it up it is always good to ear what you come up with.
Hey Paul As I told you, I will be relocating to the Philippines next year, I been trying to decide weather to get a 13A or the SRRA. and after your information, it’s makes my choice easier and going to get my 13A done here before the move. I thank you much for your time.
I always get a balikbayan visa, good for one year… perhaps a permanent resident visa might be in order-in the coming years, but who wouldn’t enjoy taking their filipina, along with ID, and a copy of your original marriage certificate, on a visa run? Bang! On returning, you have your no cost, one year, balikbayan visa!
Hi Paul great content and I appreciate the straight shooting without the hype.. You have a great group of boys you feature as well. I have been married to a Filipina from Bohol for 11 years . We are Australian and coming home for Xmas. I am heading to Dumaguete to meet some friends mid December and would love to catch up for a coffee. Let me know and I appreciate if it’s not in your scope. More power to you my friend. Kind regards Darren
Thanks Paul for the great information, I’ll be applying for the 13A at some point after my wife and I arrive in the Philippines. I’m optimistic we’ll have no problems as we only have an 11 day age gap and have been married for 17 years. Thanks again.
Stayed at the Quest Hotel and Conference Center many times and yes, the Ayala Mall is right down the street. Would recommend the TGI Fridays outside seating there at the Mall.
HI PAUL. Another very helpul video with some humor thrown. Your comment about the guy being GRUMPY , Wasn t there a movie called GRUMPY OLD MEN? TY for helping EXPAT usa guys and others. GOD BLESS CIAO
Congratulation Paul, and thanks for all the information you provide. The Quest Hotel $75 USD Arrive a day before your appointment. Use JRC services. I didn't know you first had to get a 1 year temporary visa! Im looking forward to meeting you in person next year, If all goes well I will be in the Philippines sometime between January-March. Im still amazed you do all your videos without Editing! I started following you just before covid. I said it before, you have that Phil Donahue style of speaking and interviewing. I wish I could be there now, but I just got my very first SS check yesterday! 😉
The Tourist Visa fee is 1850 pesos every 2 months, so its less than $200 a year, . Yes, the ACR card say is apoumd 2000 pesos for the yea. Grand total, $225 for using the Tourist visa, and not $500-$600 a year that Paul stated. Good video Paul.
Discretion is the better part of valor. I've watched those other videos on the immigration subject. You are a smart man, let the dust settle first, then say something, if needed. For me, I have he Balikbayan Privilege (Filipina wife). And if I do decide to stay, I can get the SRRV Veteran preference. But for now, it's visit for a few months to get the feel if I want to stay. Great video Paul and long live the chicken!
good information video. I am coming to Cebu in November and will be staying at the Quest hotel. I've heard a lot about this hotel and have decided to choose it for my soft landing. However, I plan on only staying in Cebu for a week or so just to do some mall shopping and sightseeing, then on to Iloilo where I'll start my long-term stay. I'm really excited and can't wait to get there. I want to thank you for all the information you've shown us to help us determine where to go, who to see, and what to do when we get there. I plan on doing the srrv visa after I've been there at least 6 months, making sure I'm good to go living there. Since my daughter in-law is from Panay Island, I'll enjoy visiting her family while I live there. (I'm prior navy and 74).
Glad to have the SRRV which was a very simple process by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). The $1,400 application/processing was well worth to me, as well as only paying $10 a year to renew. It will pay for itself in a few years. The convenience and benefits that come with it is a plus.
Many US expats interviewed by Dan - on Vagabond Awake - much prefer spending that $ on a vacation out of country - somewhere in S E Asia every year or two - and simply start the tourist visa process over again upon returning ? Especially the non veterans !!! --?-- 🤗 These trips are not expensive either.
You can pay your yearly at a a satellite office until the fifth year . We renewed my 13a this year in Manila and done a little shopping before returning to the province. Pretty much the same as the yearly.
Yur situation is very similar to mine as in July we went to B.I. to switch from Probationary to Permanent 13A Visa & both times we were interviewed. In next 2-3 weeks it all should be said & done w/new ACR Card. The last time my asawa was asked " if I ever hit her" & both of us asked together "how much $ we bring in a year". I'm 68 w/25 yr. age gap. The process is interesting & most likely always a little different depending on yur interviewer. IMO always stay cool, calm & collected & don't be afraid to just kind of sit there & look dumb. I let my asawa do as much of the necessities as possible & it seems the people kind of enjoy communicating with her more than me anyway.
happy you are happy. I just do not agree that the Philippines does not offer Foreginers duel citizenship, you are to renouce your country citizenship if you want to become a filipino citizen. Funny we can or our family (my uncle is buried there) can die fighting for or protectng their country but they can not offer us what we offer rhem duel citizenship.
When I got my 13A last Sept I was able to do it in Iloilo instead of Cebu which I prefer, not a fan of Cebu. The cost was about the same 510 each, so 1020 for both, the fast ferry was 5oo the slow ferry was about 200 (both of us). We took the 5 am bus to Bacolod then the ferry across to Ilo and were in and out of Immigration very quickly, everyone was very friendly and nice. No issues with our marriage, my wife is 40 years younger than me, they didn't care we had been together for 4 years and married for 2. I just filed the papers for the renewal on Monday but no issues they just told me that they will text me to pick up the finished papers next week. They have never asked anything about our relationship or for any proof, pictures or anything. I've been in the Ph for 13 years 5 in Tagaytay and the rest in Apolong, Valencia.
My interview consisted of, "did you meet online?". No, on a blind date. My friend's girlfriend is my wife's cousin. That was it. Married for 11 years at the time.
Sharon and I went through much of the process of obtaining all the requirements ourselves, until we got very frustrated and tired. We decided that it would be best to use an immigration consultant, RJ Agency who had a satellite office very near where we live in the province. What a difference! The consultant made it much easier and the fees were worth every peso. the fees were the same as if we started from scratch, so out only regret was we didn't use their services right from the start. In any case, the remainder of the process was very easy for us. Also, our first interview was during COVID, so the agent visited our house to conduct it. The second interview was right in Moalboal, Only 10km from Badian where we live.
I have to add my kudos to JRC! We went to Manila for our 13a interview since they said it would be handled quicker and smoother than the Immigration folks at Cebu. Less than 30 days and I was approved. Bring photos to support your REAL relationship. Crazy but it works.
The problem with taking the bus is the drivers. We had a driver who thought he was in GTA and drove like he was. Almost tipped the bus on mountain curves, would pass when there was oncoming traffic including other buses, trucks and such, almost side swiped other vehicles more than once, almost rear ending several.
Hey Paul. I stay at Quest often and it is great. But, I have never paid over $50 USD since I book on Orbitz so if you can check that out next time you plan to go. I also stayed at the Mandarin just across the street from Quest but their pool sucks.
I stayed at the Red Planet (a block or two away from the Quest) last summer for a few days and had the opportunity to eat breakfast at the Quest Hotel. They have a HUGE buffet that was well worth the 1,000 pesos' I know you don't do food video's, but next time you are there, please do a minute or two just scanning the room showing the buffet.
Great info vlog Paul!....I would disagree about using JRC....I just recently found out thru one of the expat forums that JRC charges $4K US to process an application for the SRRV visa.....At first I didn't believe it....but it was true. The exact same service he does for $4K US Mary Rose Baranda who works for the PRA, does it for FREE. She will pre-screen all your documents and answer any questions you may have. She will also meet you at the PRA HQ in Mania and do your submission personally. I had my SRRV visa approved in 15 days....and other than giving her a tip, it didn't cost anything......but for all the expats that will read this, if you do have that $4K US lying around looking to spend it......by all means....please do so.......but just know that the PRA certified marketeers do it for FREE...ZERO, ZILCH not a cent.....
Good imfo Paul. I take my wife every year on vacation from Cebu and fly some place close like Thailand or Singapore ect. When we come back into Phil we prove we are married they just stamp my American Passport Balakbayan free for one year.
When my friend, who has been married to his Filipina for 20 years, applied for a 13A, the officer asked him if they had consummated the marriage yet. By the way , that are of similar age.
I saw a mention on some vlog that it's possible to get the exit clearance at the airport (NAIA) the day of the flight. Don't know how correct that is, but it sure would save a lot of extra back-and-forth.
Paul has almost 100k subscribers. Lets get this done. I have been one of his subs for a long time. After watching so many of his videos, I figured it was the least I could do. Have a great day everyone!
I used a imigration service and it makes it easy we had our interview and than 2 months later I got my probationary residence visa they told me at around 10 months ill get new NBI check and comeback and if all is well ill have my permanent 13a visa in 6 weeks
It’s similar in the US if you sponsor a foreign-born spouse there for a green card. You must go in person together to Immigration, you have docs to complete in advance, you are interviewed in person, and you have to show physical evidence that the relationship is real. This evidence includes photographs of joint travel, joint property, leases, and policy showing the spouse as beneficiary. This sort of thing isn’t done by zoom or email.
So I mentioned corruption in the Philippines before and gave an example from the 1990s involving airport inspections. But another, more recent example has to do with having the right connections. My wife wanted to get her driver's license renewed last time we visited. She was given an appt several weeks out, at which point we would have returned to the US. But her family has friends in the right places. She had her renewal the next day.
I will be (finally) getting my ACR-I card in a couple of weeks 🥵 With everything we've had going on, I just haven't had time to get the actual card, even though I've paid the fees during my extensions. After that we'll begin the 13A process. I was told, by the Supervisor at the Angeles City B.I. office, that we won't have any problems getting that done. It helps to have connections? 😂🤣 The Supervisor is a member of our Church 😉
I did stay at Quest last year and it was around 45 dollars a day. They have raised their prices, 75 dollars a day sounds a bit pricey for Philippines, getting close to US prices which is unfortunate. Hotel is clean but it is just a basic hotel(not a Luxury hotel by any standards). Regular rooms. I stayed there because I liked the location but next time around I have to shop for a better deal because I stay in Cebu more than a couple of days when I go there.
You could swim.
Hahahahha! Yes, I forgot to mention that
@@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234 Have you watched the channel, "Becoming Pilipino": have you ever looked into citizenship? He did it through Congress, but there are Judicial ways too.
@@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234 What about the ocean/ship option?
Just search ssrv visa. You can also use a visa agent for no additional fees. They get paid by PH retirement agency.
Hey all, let’s get Paul to 100k subscribers! He’s a legend and deserves a little silver plaque behind him when he broadcasts.
The information he provides and the help he gives to others makes him a cut above. Let’s do this! 🎉
Cool!!
While I was on my probationary visa sadly my wife died, obviously I informed immigration and was informed that my visa would be cancelled and I could go back to the tourist visa....after a meeting with immigration officer and his advice I petitioned myself for the 13a visa...after further interviews I was successful..my ACR card says WIDOWED ..PERMANENT RESIDENT
I married my wife for ten years in the US, I got a 13a while in the US. I retired and we came here. And then I had to get a ACR that says my visa is permanent. After two years being here in the Philippines, my wife passed away from cancer. That left me with the responsibility to take care of my step daughter. Immigration said my 13a visa was revoked 72 hours after she died. Many years later, I remarried, applied for a 13a visa again. The people helping me get my second visa told me that the immigration should not have done that. The problem is they have forgot that years ago they were the people telling me I had no visa. Some people say you get what you pay for. I paid them to fix things way back then. I paid them again to get me my visa 13a again. But because I was paying them this second time, they just told me what I wanted to hear. I did not remind “them” that they are “them”. They have no shame anyway.
Money explains what happens.
I don't know the differences between VISA requirements based on different countries but I do know if you have a decent amount of income you can get a VISA for permanent resident based on that alone, at least from the US.
@@johndoh5182 True, I am not that wealthy.
@IB4U2Cme It didn't cost me any extra money, just the normal fee's....time and paperwork was the only downside
The immigration staff were excellent in their support and advice to me.....just reaply in 5 yrs time and obviously report to immigration once a year
@@britishbicolano3252 Great to hear good news!
Hi Paul,..great 👍 video.
Thanks for sharing all that information with all of us.
Take care and keep up the great work.
MORE THUMBS UP PEOPLE, PLEASE. He deserves them! 👍👍
Great video. Very informational.
Paul, I think your multiple-years old TH-cam channel alone is enough to convince any agent of your honest and healthy relationship with Mae.
Nobody cares about making videos. Just provide documents and you're good.
scams u mean
Excellent Paul, thanks for sharing. Blessings to you and Mae.
Congratulations on the impending 100K Subscribers. Make sure we can see the silver play button next to the bird. 🦜
I go to Cebu from Dumaguete about once every 3 or 4 months. I have flown, taken the bus and the ferry. I have found for me that the ferry works best.
I love the Quest hotel in Cebu. So nice inside and a great breakfast buffet.
This was very much appreciated.
Good for you and Mae. Another positive step in simplifying and securing your futures 🤓
Congratulations to both of you Paul! Have a blessed day!
Hello Pauley, that was an excellent video chockfull of information. I am glad the Philippines takes all these steps to ensure and protect the legitimacy of the visa
Thanks for your content and your volunteer work. 😊
Great Vid. Paul. Nice Info.
Thanks Paul Great Video , I Hope You And Mae Have A Great Day ! 🙂🙏💯
Congrats on getting your 13A. Looking forward to seeing you and Mae soon! Tell Baby Mae, advance Happy Birthday, from me!!
How lovely Paul. Happy for the two of you .
That was not only informative, but entertaining as well!. Best wishes Paul & Mae. 🤠👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed it
Hi Paul. I’m new to your channel and find you to be a kind, thoughtful and intelligent dude. I feel lucky to have come across your channel as my interest in retiring in the Philippines grows. Great info as always. Thanks.
Good Video Sir Paul 😊.
Keep the video's comin.
Stay Safe 💕 💞 🙏 🙏
Glad to hear you got approved. Also pleased to hear about your volunteer work with the US Embassy. Thanks for the tip about the visa agency. It seems to be a good investment. One small slip on a form could give an official having a bad day a reason to refuse you. I recall the merry-go-round round experience you had with your marriage paperwork. You visited the municipal offices so often they should have put you on the payroll!😅
Paul I admire you for the volunteer work you do.
Well done
HEY SIR PAUL, THE BEST TO THE BOTH OF YOU KIDS WITH HAPPINESS AND GOOD HEALTH, COFFEES READY !!
One of the crazy people here, We’re in the very beginning of our 13A process this was helpful, thank you
My Pleasure
I am so happy every thing went smoothly, you and Mae are a good couple ❤
Nearly 100 000 paul 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Very helpful video. Thank you
Paul, great vlog. I'm a single retired American, and I also used JRC, great company. I have the Quota Visa and could not be happier. Big advantages to this visa for Single guys. Yes, it is pricey, but you become a permanent resident and not a tourist. There is certain criteria, and JRC was extremely helpful in getting me through the process that I could never imagine doing myself.
Always fun and educational watching your vlogs. Thanks for what you do!
Why didn’t you take the srrv visa with 20k locked in? What made you decide for the Quota visa? Myself am also thinking between these two visas. Yes i do have 50k in a bank here so basically i would qualify for both
@@PHVIDave what are the advantages to a quota visa , as compared to SRRV? If any ?
To everyone with questions, there is no one answer. I will address a few, but the advantages are many over any other visa for MY situation. I contacted JRC and JR sent out a person from the Manila branch. I took my time and weighed out the differences for both. The Quota is not for everyone and only a limited number are allowed per calander year.
Again, for me, I loved the PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS which is stated on the GOLD Card. 5 yrs before I neet to get automatic renewal for $400.00 for the entire 5 yrs. I never have to leave the country. Exit and entry is effortless.
Opening up bank account is like your a citizen and you are treat like one. Once I provided my Quta Visa card to my current PH bank I was treated completely different in a good way. You can get a job and are equal to Filipinos looking for the same job. (I will never be looking for work but it's one of the many perc's.
Application fees can be less if you own property. If not, more money will need to be shown your bank account. I recall it's 50 or 60k US but never held hostage like other Visa's and can be accessed if the visa is issued.
Bottom line call JRC and compare the two or more for yourself. It may not be for you but was the best thing I ever did for my circumstances and peace of mind!
Paul, maybe getting JR back on to talk about the advantages might be a good vlog.
Best of luck everyone and god luv, the Philippines 🇵🇭
I also want to add. I have watched many vlogers try and give their opinion on Visa's. Be careful as, more often than not, I ended up being more confused watching their vlogs. In my opinion and while the vloger may be trying to help, they are not experts at all. Contact JRC or another reputable company that does this for a living. The government can make changes to Visa's overnight, it seems. So again, spend a little extra and hire the pros. You do not want to be on the wrong side of a bad situation because you listened to a vloger, friend or bar story. I cannot stress enough do your homework!
@@roswo that’s the key question personally I don’t think there is a real difference between a srrv and a quota visa. Only difference is you need 20 k $ locked in or showing a property in name then for quote visa you need showing 50 k $ but not lock in. I still undecided which one i take. Tmr i go talk with agent.
hi Paul good morning happy weekend stay safe God bless you and your family 💖
Nice shirt Paul, I'm a Dog Dad too. 🐶😊 Oh yes, good info. Thanks
Hi 👋 OLD DOG 🐶! Thanks again for your experience & advice you give all of us👍😉TY brother 👍.. Blessings 🙏🌺🌸🌼
Laurice and I here in Santander-Talisay have been with you since the first video you ever made
Blessings and well deserved. ❤
Some very good points to consider, but I do believe from the feeling that I get from your utube vids... your an honest , kind ,snd ( mostly) calm type of guy . So I would approve you too . But I have been to immigration in Manilla,and yes ,the outcome depends on the person that is interviewing you . Thsnk you for explaining the things that we are interested in🤙🏽
Hi Paul,
I have been living in Cebu for 2 months (from Canada) and travelling back and forth from my condo in Cebu City to the Sibonga area for property in the province.
I bought a car and scooter right away to get around the island.... and WHAT A LEARNING CURVE it was/is!
The last couple of weeks driving along South Cebu highway has been an experience ;)
The trip is pure pain each time
My experience with Immigration involves questionable grease money... but i was in an out twice about 12 minutes each time for visa extensions and ACR application..
(that was worrisome in its own right)
Hahaha. I don't deal with immigration anymore. I deal with the Philippine Retirement Authority PRA. I get service way faster. Once a year only. Too easy. With an SRRV... you don't need an exit clearance at all. Leaving and coming back is so simple. If you separate from your Filipina your 13A visa is canceled. The Filipina cannot cancel the SRRV.
I'm married to an American woman. Seems that will eliminate about 60% of potential problems there for me lol. Looking to get srrv as well. Hope all is well with you.
However with the SRRV you are not a permanent resident nor do you possess an immigrant visa. During covid, people with the SRRV could not re-enter the country. Permanent residents and proof of family members was acceptable.
No exit clearance required with a SSRV, that is news to me.
In short how do you apply for SRRV once you're here? Got here Tuesday.
No exit clearance required with an SRRV. Traveling between US and Philippines is seamless.
This is the kind of information I need to know. 🤸👍🏼💙
I didn’t know you volunteered Paul, good on you, I think that was big time in your favour.
Thanks Paul for a very informing video ! As always your vid's have lots of good info/insight,
I've just started the process to get our marriage license process started. Gathering intel from C&G Consulting, and will set up a interview soon with them. Plan is to marry my filipina, we've been together 2 years now. I built us/her & her 2 kids a house here in Dec 2022 on their land on the mountain.
Hearing the changes etc coming we want & need to get this next "mission" accomplished also. She used to worked for the barrangay hall here, so I will go there for a barrangay clearance too. I'm pretty much the only Kano running around here, the police all know her well, and me too by now seeing me in town lol.
Kinda funny, we were going back n forth a couple times to her parents place in Tap-Tap to drop off pig feed. 2 times, on the road they had a "road block" set up. Cops swinging AR 15 rifles around their necks lol. I stop, 1 officer comes to my window says "I need to check inside your car" Ok sir fine, then they saw my filipin and told us to just go ahead n go.
We did have her 2 kids with us too, maybe that's why. Since 2 filipino kids in the car with a Kano hahaha......It's nice to have "connections" her brother in law works for the LTO, so he expedited me registering my used car , and then converting my Calif drivers license into a filipino license
Paul my good man i am here in Letey I know not too far from where you are so maybe one day in the future I will come over and say Hi love your show when I am in Canada and even here today the 16 of august from Tagoban city keep it up it is always good to ear what you come up with.
Hey Paul
As I told you, I will be relocating to the Philippines next year, I been trying to decide weather to get a 13A or the SRRA. and after your information, it’s makes my choice easier and going to get my 13A done here before the move. I thank you much for your time.
I always get a balikbayan visa, good for one year… perhaps a permanent resident visa might be in order-in the coming years, but who wouldn’t enjoy taking their filipina, along with ID, and a copy of your original marriage certificate, on a visa run? Bang! On returning, you have your no cost, one year, balikbayan visa!
Hi Paul great content and I appreciate the straight shooting without the hype.. You have a great group of boys you feature as well. I have been married to a Filipina from Bohol for 11 years . We are Australian and coming home for Xmas. I am heading to Dumaguete to meet some friends mid December and would love to catch up for a coffee. Let me know and I appreciate if it’s not in your scope. More power to you my friend. Kind regards Darren
From a soon-to-be retired expat in Dumaguete,thanks for the information. Regards from Spain.
Our pleasure!
Thanks Paul for the great information, I’ll be applying for the 13A at some point after my wife and I arrive in the Philippines. I’m optimistic we’ll have no problems as we only have an 11 day age gap and have been married for 17 years. Thanks again.
I'm so proud of you paul
Stayed at the Quest Hotel and Conference Center many times and yes, the Ayala Mall is right down the street. Would recommend the TGI Fridays outside seating there at the Mall.
Congrats Paul & Mae!
Congrats Paul !
Thank you for not doing what everyone else is doing, I'm so tired of hearing the replay of all the others
HI PAUL. Another very helpul video with some humor thrown.
Your comment about the guy being GRUMPY , Wasn t there a movie called GRUMPY OLD MEN?
TY for helping EXPAT usa guys and others.
GOD BLESS CIAO
I love the Quest!! Stayed there 3 different times. Got Married there in 2022!
Congratulation Paul, and thanks for all the information you provide.
The Quest Hotel $75 USD
Arrive a day before your appointment.
Use JRC services.
I didn't know you first had to get a 1 year temporary visa!
Im looking forward to meeting you in person next year, If all goes well I will be in the Philippines sometime between January-March.
Im still amazed you do all your videos without Editing!
I started following you just before covid.
I said it before, you have that Phil Donahue style of speaking and interviewing.
I wish I could be there now, but I just got my very first SS check yesterday! 😉
Congratulations on getting the 13A visa. Happy life you too!
The Tourist Visa fee is 1850 pesos every 2 months, so its less than $200 a year, . Yes, the ACR card say is apoumd 2000 pesos for the yea. Grand total, $225 for using the Tourist visa, and not $500-$600 a year that Paul stated. Good video Paul.
Discretion is the better part of valor. I've watched those other videos on the immigration subject. You are a smart man, let the dust settle first, then say something, if needed. For me, I have he Balikbayan Privilege (Filipina wife). And if I do decide to stay, I can get the SRRV Veteran preference. But for now, it's visit for a few months to get the feel if I want to stay. Great video Paul and long live the chicken!
good information video. I am coming to Cebu in November and will be staying at the Quest hotel. I've heard a lot about this hotel and have decided to choose it for my soft landing. However, I plan on only staying in Cebu for a week or so just to do some mall shopping and sightseeing, then on to Iloilo where I'll start my long-term stay. I'm really excited and can't wait to get there. I want to thank you for all the information you've shown us to help us determine where to go, who to see, and what to do when we get there. I plan on doing the srrv visa after I've been there at least 6 months, making sure I'm good to go living there. Since my daughter in-law is from Panay Island, I'll enjoy visiting her family while I live there. (I'm prior navy and 74).
I got my 13A in Sydney, Australia..took about 8 weeks..no drama
Glad to have the SRRV which was a very simple process by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). The $1,400 application/processing was well worth to me, as well as only paying $10 a year to renew. It will pay for itself in a few years. The convenience and benefits that come with it is a plus.
Many US expats interviewed by Dan - on Vagabond Awake - much prefer spending that $ on a vacation out of country - somewhere in S E Asia every year or two - and simply start the tourist visa process over again upon returning ? Especially the non veterans !!! --?-- 🤗 These trips are not expensive either.
How much is the retirement visa is it different too the srrv visa
Can you give me more information on the retirement visa what I need how much does it cost thank you .
@@DavidHosking-g4o It is best to consult with the expert’s to see what may be best for you.
I brought documents with me but not certified or apostiled and may be hard to get that done here any advice?
Old Dog...I am writting that down..might have to use your story in the future,,,.only kidding...Great story..You and Reekay are my immigration heros..
Well explained my friend.
Thank you for your information.
You can pay your yearly at a a satellite office until the fifth year . We renewed my 13a this year in Manila and done a little shopping before returning to the province. Pretty much the same as the yearly.
Yur situation is very similar to mine as in July we went to B.I. to switch from Probationary to Permanent 13A Visa & both times we were interviewed. In next 2-3 weeks it all should be said & done w/new ACR Card. The last time my asawa was asked " if I ever hit her" & both of us asked together "how much $ we bring in a year". I'm 68 w/25 yr. age gap. The process is interesting & most likely always a little different depending on yur interviewer. IMO always stay cool, calm & collected & don't be afraid to just kind of sit there & look dumb. I let my asawa do as much of the necessities as possible & it seems the people kind of enjoy communicating with her more than me anyway.
happy you are happy. I just do not agree that the Philippines does not offer Foreginers duel citizenship, you are to renouce your country citizenship if you want to become a filipino citizen. Funny we can or our family (my uncle is buried there) can die fighting for or protectng their country but they can not offer us what we offer rhem duel citizenship.
Thanks 👍
Short and sweet this morning😮
I got my 13A visa like you Paul back in May / hopefully its should be easier to travel in out of the PI
When I got my 13A last Sept I was able to do it in Iloilo instead of Cebu which I prefer, not a fan of Cebu.
The cost was about the same 510 each, so 1020 for both, the fast ferry was 5oo the slow ferry was about 200 (both of us).
We took the 5 am bus to Bacolod then the ferry across to Ilo and were in and out of Immigration very quickly, everyone was very friendly and nice.
No issues with our marriage, my wife is 40 years younger than me, they didn't care we had been together for 4 years and married for 2.
I just filed the papers for the renewal on Monday but no issues they just told me that they will text me to pick up the finished papers next week.
They have never asked anything about our relationship or for any proof, pictures or anything.
I've been in the Ph for 13 years 5 in Tagaytay and the rest in Apolong, Valencia.
Thanks Paul really good info.
My interview consisted of, "did you meet online?". No, on a blind date. My friend's girlfriend is my wife's cousin. That was it. Married for 11 years at the time.
Sharon and I went through much of the process of obtaining all the requirements ourselves, until we got very frustrated and tired. We decided that it would be best to use an immigration consultant, RJ Agency who had a satellite office very near where we live in the province. What a difference! The consultant made it much easier and the fees were worth every peso. the fees were the same as if we started from scratch, so out only regret was we didn't use their services right from the start. In any case, the remainder of the process was very easy for us. Also, our first interview was during COVID, so the agent visited our house to conduct it. The second interview was right in Moalboal, Only 10km from Badian where we live.
I have to add my kudos to JRC!
We went to Manila for our 13a interview since they said it would be handled quicker and smoother than the Immigration folks at Cebu. Less than 30 days and I was approved.
Bring photos to support your REAL relationship. Crazy but it works.
The problem with taking the bus is the drivers. We had a driver who thought he was in GTA and drove like he was. Almost tipped the bus on mountain curves, would pass when there was oncoming traffic including other buses, trucks and such, almost side swiped other vehicles more than once, almost rear ending several.
JRC saved me. The second interview hit right in the lockdown. JRC got it approved and we did not have to go to Cebu BI. They got the ACR card as well.
Hey Paul. I stay at Quest often and it is great. But, I have never paid over $50 USD since I book on Orbitz so if you can check that out next time you plan to go. I also stayed at the Mandarin just across the street from Quest but their pool sucks.
Good thing Mae can smile and lie at same time to get you approved. Just kidding congratulations on everything going great .
I stayed at the Red Planet (a block or two away from the Quest) last summer for a few days and had the opportunity to eat breakfast at the Quest Hotel. They have a HUGE buffet that was well worth the 1,000 pesos' I know you don't do food video's, but next time you are there, please do a minute or two just scanning the room showing the buffet.
check google maps/Quest Hotel/Photos…. nice room Cheers
I went by Cebu Air last time, and it was fast & convenient. Almost too fast for Philippine standards...😅
Great info vlog Paul!....I would disagree about using JRC....I just recently found out thru one of the expat forums that JRC charges $4K US to process an application for the SRRV visa.....At first I didn't believe it....but it was true. The exact same service he does for $4K US Mary Rose Baranda who works for the PRA, does it for FREE. She will pre-screen all your documents and answer any questions you may have. She will also meet you at the PRA HQ in Mania and do your submission personally. I had my SRRV visa approved in 15 days....and other than giving her a tip, it didn't cost anything......but for all the expats that will read this, if you do have that $4K US lying around looking to spend it......by all means....please do so.......but just know that the PRA certified marketeers do it for FREE...ZERO, ZILCH not a cent.....
correct
Good imfo Paul. I take my wife every year on vacation from Cebu and fly some place close like Thailand or Singapore ect. When we come back into Phil we prove we are married they just stamp my American Passport Balakbayan free for one year.
Another good video
Hello Paul, I am a fan of yours and I have a quick question for you. Do you know what if any insurance covers any meds there?
When my friend, who has been married to his Filipina for 20 years, applied for a 13A, the officer asked him if they had consummated the marriage yet. By the way , that are of similar age.
I saw a mention on some vlog that it's possible to get the exit clearance at the airport (NAIA) the day of the flight. Don't know how correct that is, but it sure would save a lot of extra back-and-forth.
You are smart to use a service... it's cheap insurance if something goes sideways (like the first person on your story).
congratulations
You guys stay happy!
Paul has almost 100k subscribers. Lets get this done. I have been one of his subs for a long time. After watching so many of his videos, I figured it was the least I could do. Have a great day everyone!
I used a imigration service and it makes it easy we had our interview and than 2 months later I got my probationary residence visa they told me at around 10 months ill get new NBI check and comeback and if all is well ill have my permanent 13a visa in 6 weeks
sounds like a real hastle, they should make it a zoom call thing and email documents needed or mailed to your residence
It’s similar in the US if you sponsor a foreign-born spouse there for a green card. You must go in person together to Immigration, you have docs to complete in advance, you are interviewed in person, and you have to show physical evidence that the relationship is real. This evidence includes photographs of joint travel, joint property, leases, and policy showing the spouse as beneficiary. This sort of thing isn’t done by zoom or email.
My wife and I was in and out of there in 5 minutes. 13A permanent, approved.
Hi Paul , the ECC can be done online on the official BI website. I just made one a week ago.
planes my jam . bus from bangkok tp pattaya was rough enough, and the cambodia run on mini bus was annoying from pattaya .
So I mentioned corruption in the Philippines before and gave an example from the 1990s involving airport inspections. But another, more recent example has to do with having the right connections. My wife wanted to get her driver's license renewed last time we visited. She was given an appt several weeks out, at which point we would have returned to the US. But her family has friends in the right places. She had her renewal the next day.
I will be (finally) getting my ACR-I card in a couple of weeks 🥵 With everything we've had going on, I just haven't had time to get the actual card, even though I've paid the fees during my extensions.
After that we'll begin the 13A process.
I was told, by the Supervisor at the Angeles City B.I. office, that we won't have any problems getting that done.
It helps to have connections? 😂🤣 The Supervisor is a member of our Church 😉
I did stay at Quest last year and it was around 45 dollars a day. They have raised their prices, 75 dollars a day sounds a bit pricey for Philippines, getting close to US prices which is unfortunate. Hotel is clean but it is just a basic hotel(not a Luxury hotel by any standards). Regular rooms. I stayed there because I liked the location but next time around I have to shop for a better deal because I stay in Cebu more than a couple of days when I go there.
75 dollars actually is cheap now in many countries now