The Philippines make it easy to enter the country for most people. If you are from the US, The UK, Australia and many other countries the only thing you need is a valid passport. The passport must have two blank pages and more than six months before it expires. This method of entry is referred to as a "Tourist Visa." You can stay up to 21 days. If you wish to stay longer you will need an extension. You need to get this extension within 21 days. This will extend your stay up to 59 days.

If you wish to stay longer, you must get your passport stamped by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) every 59 days. To do this, you must go to (BI) within 30 days before your latest extension expires.

It cost on average, about $50 or P2000 a month. I budget P2000 a month even though the amount is often less. This amount helps to build a cushion of the more expensive months. Your second extension will be more than $100. I've been paying P3000 or about $75 for most of my 59 day extensions.

While I'm on the subject, if your last day falls on a non-working holiday or weekend, you are expected to renew your extension on the last working day prior to your extension expiring. If you fail to do so, you'll be required to pay fines and additional fees.

Within 16 months of your arrival you are required to leave the country. I've read on the BI site that it must be three days and I've asked a travel agent that confirms this. Many expats living in the Philippines however tell me its not required to stay out for three days.

The BI offers a one year re-entry visa. I got one before I entered the country but if I had it to do over again, I wouldn't do that. It will save you some money and time if you plan to leave the country many times within a year. Otherwise, I can see no reason to obtain this and I wouldn't get it.

These are the main requirements. You should consult with a travel professional to make sure you have what you need. I have lived in the Philippines for more than a year. I consider it the best decision of my life.

Rusty Ferguson

More information on visiting the Philippines:

Expats Living In The Philippines http://heyjoe.ph/ Expats Living In Cebu http://cebuexperience.com/.