For those unfamiliar with the terminologies, the SRRV stands for Special Resident Retiree’s Visa. It is a special visa program that allows foreign retirees and their dependents to reside in the Philippines. It offers numerous benefits, such as indefinite stay, multiple-entry privileges, and certain tax exemptions. On the other hand, the 13A Spousal Visa is for foreign nationals married to Filipino citizens, granting them a long-term/permanent residency visa in the Philippines.

While these two visas cater to different circumstances, some individuals may find themselves in a situation where they wish to transition from an SRRV to a 13A Spousal Visa.

Fortunately, the process of switching from an SRRV to a 13A Spousal Visa is indeed possible by applying for a Downgrading of Visa, although it involves a series of steps and requirements. To shed light on this topic, we will discuss the necessary procedures, the specific steps involved, and the essential information you need to know to successfully navigate this visa transition.

Why do expats change their visa status from SRRV to 13A Spousal Visa?

There are several reasons why expats may choose to switch their visa from an SRRV to a 13A Spousal Visa in the Philippines. Let’s discuss the 2 major reasons why:

1. Marriage to a Filipino Citizen: One of the primary reasons expats opt for the switch is their marriage to a Filipino citizen. When a foreign national marries a Filipino spouse, they become eligible to apply for a 13A Spousal Visa. This visa offers long-term residency and various benefits, including the ability to work and engage in business activities in the Philippines. Under the 13A, the holder is granted permanent residency with an ACR I Card valid and renewed only once every 5 years.
   
   

2. Financial Considerations: The SRRV program has certain financial requirements, such as a minimum deposit in a Philippine bank. This may come from US$ 1,500 for members with Military Services to US$ 20,000 for members who do not have pension supporting documents. Click this link to know more about the visa deposit per SRRV Category.

Switching to a 13A Spousal Visa can provide financial relief for those who no longer wish to maintain the SRRV's financial obligations. Aside from the cheap 13A Spousal Visa fees, applying for it does not require any deposit in a Philippine bank compared to the SRRV.

Why do some expats choose to maintain or apply for the SRRV?

Why do some expats choose to maintain or apply for the Special Resident Retiree's Visa? It's important to note that many expats find the SRRV program highly appealing for various reasons.

1. Those who are not married to Filipino Citizens: The SRRV program caters to individuals who prefer a self-reliant approach to their residency in the Philippines. It recognizes the diverse needs and preferences of retirees, acknowledging that not everyone may desire or have the opportunity to enter into a spousal relationship with a Filipino citizen. The independent nature of the SRRV allows individuals to shape their retirement experience in the Philippines according to their own wishes and aspirations.

2. Freedom from Spousal Dependency: Unlike the 13A Spousal Visa, the SRRV allows retirees to have complete control over their visa status. Expats who do not want to rely on a Filipino spouse for their visa can find peace of mind in the independent nature of the SRRV. This provides them with the flexibility to make decisions regarding their residency in the Philippines without being bound by their marital status.

3. Lifetime Visa and Easy Renewals: One of the key attractions of the SRRV program is its lifetime-stay privilege. Retirees who obtain an SRRV can enjoy the freedom of residing in the Philippines indefinitely. Additionally, the SRRV comes with a corresponding identification card that can be easily renewed annually or every two years, both within and outside the Philippines. This convenience simplifies the renewal process, allowing retirees to continue enjoying their retirement without unnecessary visa-related hassles.

4. Exemptions from Bureau of Immigration Requirements: The SRRV program offers exemptions from some of the major requirements imposed by the Bureau of Immigration. These exemptions can include the need for an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR), the annual report, and the exit clearance. By maintaining or applying for the SRRV, expats can navigate the immigration landscape with ease and avoid certain bureaucratic procedures that can be time-consuming and cumbersome.

5. SRRV Military Service Option: The SRRV program also caters to individuals with military service backgrounds. Qualified applicants who have served in foreign armed forces may be eligible for the SRRV Military Service option, which offers reduced visa deposit requirements. This provision recognizes the contributions of military personnel and provides them with an attractive pathway to retire in the Philippines.

How do you change your status from SRRVisa to 13A Spousal Visa?

Well, since this article is about changing the status, we’ll provide more information on the process that must be approached. The process entails several steps:

1. Apply for Cancellation of SRRV Membership - The first step is to apply for the cancellation of your SRRV membership. This process requires submitting the necessary documentation to the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). You may contact the PRA directly. If you wish to avoid any hassle and not deal with legal documents, you may consult with your Trusted Service Provider. Once your membership is canceled, your visa status will be downgraded to a tourist visa.

2. Prepare for your 13A Spousal Visa paperwork: While on a tourist visa, you can begin preparing the required documents for your application for a 13A Spousal Visa. The specific documents may vary depending on your situation and the requirements of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. Know more about this by clicking here.

3. Apply for a 13A Probationary Residency : Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for a conversion to a 13A Probationary Visa. This application is typically done at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.Once your application is approved, you will be granted a 13A Probationary Visa with a visa and an ACR I Card valid for a year.

4. Apply for a 13A Permanent Residency : After holding the 13A Probationary Visa for at least one year, you can apply for an amendment to 13A Permanent Residency. This application also involves submitting the required documents and paying the necessary fees at the Bureau of Immigration. Upon approval, you will receive a 13A Permanent Resident Visa, which grants you long-term residency in the Philippines.