The Philippine President Marcos recently signed an executive order to officially implement the 'digital nomad' visa system, providing legal basis and visa convenience for foreign nationals intending to reside in the Philippines short-term and engage in remote work.
According to news from the Philippine presidential office on the 25th, the Department of Foreign Affairs, in conjunction with the Department of Justice, Department of Tourism, and the Bureau of Immigration, will jointly study and formulate relevant supplementary measures to ensure the effective implementation of the visa system.
'Digital nomads' refer to individuals who rely on the internet and mobile devices to perform remote work. The Philippine presidential office states that in recent years, due to the relatively low cost of living, rich natural landscapes, and growing population of remote workers, the Philippines is becoming an ideal destination for 'digital nomads' worldwide.
The executive order also requires the Department of Foreign Affairs to establish a database covering all holders of the 'digital nomad' visa and strictly comply with the 2012 Data Privacy Act for data processing and protection.
According to the regulations, foreign applicants for the 'digital nomad' visa must fulfill the following conditions: be at least 18 years old; provide proof of performing remote work using digital technology and earning income from outside the Philippines; have no criminal record; possess health insurance covering the visa duration; originate from countries that offer 'digital nomad' visas to Philippine citizens; and not seek employment within the Philippines.
Foreign nationals holding a valid 'digital nomad' visa can stay in the Philippines for up to one year and may apply for a one-year extension, with the ability to enter multiple times during the validity of the visa.