The Balikbayan Privilege

One Year Visa-free Stay

The balikbayan privilege allows a one-year visa-free stay in the Philippines to a former Filipino (balikbayan) who is now a citizen of Italy, Malta or San Marino, or any country listed under Executive Order (EO) 408 dated 9 November 2014, as amended.[1]

The non-Filipino spouse and children of a balikbayan may avail of the balikbayan privilege on the following conditions:

     · They enter the Philippines together with the balikbayan.

     · They are citizens of Italy, Malta, San Marino or any country listed under EO 408.

     · They observe and comply with immigration rules and regulations.

To avail of the balikbayan privilege, a balikbayan is advised to bring either his old Philippine passport or a copy of his Birth Certificate as proof of his previous Philippine citizenship.

The accompanying non-Filipino spouse and children of a balikbayan should present an English translation of following documents to show evidence of relationship:

     · Marriage Certificate for the spouse

     · Birth Certificate for each child

     · Adoption papers for the adopted children

Extension of Stay

A balikbayan is given an initial stay of one (1) year, which may be extended up to six (6) months by the Bureau of Immigration office in the Philippines.

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[1] Executive Order 408 dated 9 November 2014, as amended, contains a list of countries whose nationals may enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days provided that they are holders of a passport valid at least six (6) months beyond the period of stay in the Philippines, and possess return or outward bound tickets to their country of origin or next country of destination. For more details, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..