Philippines Business Visa 2026 -- 9(d) Treaty Trader & Business Entry
The Philippines offers several visa options for business travellers, from short-term visits under the visa-free programme to long-term 9(d) treaty trader visas and Special Investor Resident Visas (SIRV).
Business Visa Options
Option 1: Visa-Free Business Entry (30 Days)
For: Citizens of 157 visa-free countries conducting short-term business activities
Allowed activities:
- Business meetings and negotiations
- Attending conferences and trade shows
- Site visits and inspections
- Signing contracts
- Market research
Not allowed: Gainful employment, receiving salary from a Philippine company
Extension: Can extend at Bureau of Immigration up to 36 months
Option 2: 9(d) Treaty Trader / Investor Visa
For: Nationals of countries with bilateral trade/investment treaties with the Philippines (USA, Japan, Germany, UK, and others)
Purpose: Long-term business operations, trade, or investment management
Requirements:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of trade or investment in the Philippines
- Business registration documents (SEC, DTI)
- Financial statements showing substantial trade/investment
- Employment contract or Board Resolution
- Police clearance from home country
- Medical clearance
Validity: Initially 1 year, renewable annually
Fee: Approximately $200-400 USD depending on embassy
Option 3: Special Investor Resident Visa (SIRV)
For: Foreign nationals making substantial investments in the Philippines
Minimum investment: USD 75,000 in qualifying investments (stocks listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange, or in industries identified as growth areas)
Benefits:
- Multiple entry, indefinite stay
- No need for exit clearance or re-entry permits
- Study or attend school in the Philippines
- Can bring dependents
Issued by: Board of Investments (BOI)
Option 4: Special Resident Retiree Visa (SRRV)
For: Foreign nationals aged 35+ who want to retire or base business operations in the Philippines
Deposit: USD 20,000-50,000 depending on age and programme
Benefits: Multiple entry, indefinite stay, can invest deposit in approved activities
Issued by: Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA)
Important Business Visa Rules
- No employment on tourist visa: You cannot work or receive a salary in the Philippines on a tourist or visa-free entry. For employment, see our work visa guide
- Alien Employment Permit (AEP): Required for any foreigner working in the Philippines, issued by DOLE
- SEC registration: Foreign companies must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission to operate in the Philippines
- Tax obligations: Business activities in the Philippines may create tax obligations with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
Application Process
- Determine the correct visa type for your business activity
- Gather all required documents
- Apply at the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate
- Attend an interview if required
- Wait for processing (5-15 working days for 9(d) visas)
- Collect your visa and travel to the Philippines
Related Visa Guides
Work Visa (9(g))
For foreigners employed by Philippine companies.
Visa Costs
Complete fee table for all visa types.
Business Visa Summary
- Short visits: Visa-free (30 days)
- Long-term: 9(d) treaty trader
- Investment: SIRV ($75K min)
- Retirement: SRRV ($20K-50K)
- Authority: Bureau of Immigration