How to Get the SIRV Philippines Investor Visa in 2025

July 18, 2025

The Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) in the Philippines offers foreign investors a pathway to indefinite residency while contributing to the nation’s vibrant economy. Designed for those eager to invest in approved sectors, the SIRV Philippines combines the allure of long-term residency with the opportunity to engage in profitable business ventures in a country known for its low cost of living, English proficiency, and strategic Southeast Asian location. This comprehensive guide outlines the step-by-step process to obtain the SIRV, detailing eligibility, requirements, application procedures, benefits, and key considerations for 2025, empowering investors to navigate this opportunity confidently.

Eligibility Criteria for the SIRV Philippines

The SIRV Philippines is tailored for foreign nationals seeking to establish a long-term presence in the country through investment. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria that the Philippine government sets, ensuring they contribute positively to the economy while maintaining good standing. Below is a detailed list of eligibility requirements:

Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old at the time of application to ensure they have the legal capacity to enter into investment agreements.
Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must not have been convicted of a moral turpitude crime, verified through police clearances from their home country or the Interpol Division of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines.
Health Requirements: A medical certificate, authenticated by the Philippine Department of Health or an accredited institution, must confirm that the applicant is free from contagious diseases and mentally fit.
Financial Capability: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to invest at least US$75,000 in an eligible Philippine enterprise, with funds remitted through accredited banks such as the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) or the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP).
No Mental Health Institutionalization: Applicants must not have been institutionalized for mental disorders or disabilities, ensuring their ability to manage investments responsibly.
Dependents Inclusion: The applicant’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 may also apply for the same visa, allowing families to relocate together under one investment.

These criteria ensure that the SIRV Philippines attracts reputable investors who can contribute to the nation’s economic growth while adhering to immigration standards.

Required Documents for the SIRV Application Process

The SIRV application process demands meticulous preparation of documents to demonstrate compliance with eligibility and investment requirements. The Board of Investments (BOI) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) scrutinize these documents to ensure transparency and adherence to regulations. Below is a comprehensive list of required documents:

Completed Application Form: A duly accomplished and notarized SIRV application form, available from the BOI or Philippine Embassy/Consulate, with recent passport-sized photographs.
Valid Passport: The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the Philippines.
Police Clearance: A clearance from the applicant’s home country or the NBI’s Interpol Division, valid for six months, confirming no criminal record involving moral turpitude.
Medical Certificate: Issued by an accredited hospital or the Philippine Department of Health, this certificate certifies that the applicant is physically and mentally fit and is valid for six months.
Proof of Inward Remittance: Certification from the DBP or LBP verifying the remittance of at least US$75,000, converted to a peso time deposit with a maturity period of 30 to 180 days.
Birth Certificate: Authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate, or a family/household registry for the applicant and dependents.
Marriage Contract: If applicable, authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate for spouses included in the application.
Processing Fee: A non-refundable fee of US$300 per applicant, payable during submission.

These documents form the foundation of the SIRV application, and accuracy is critical to avoid delays or rejections. Applicants should ensure all certifications are authenticated to meet BOI and BI standards.

Step-by-Step SIRV Application Process

Navigating the SIRV application process requires careful adherence to procedural steps, as the BOI and BI maintain strict oversight to ensure compliance. The process involves multiple stages, from initial submission to visa issuance. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying for the SIRV Philippines in 2025:

Step 1: Verify Eligibility: Confirm that you meet the age, health, criminal record, and financial requirements outlined by the BOI.
Step 2: Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, ensuring they are complete, authenticated, and valid for the specified periods.
Step 3: Submit Application: Apply at a Philippine Embassy or consulate in your home country or the BOI SIRV Center in Manila. If applying abroad, the Foreign Service Post will endorse the application to the BOI.
Step 4: Secure Inward Remittance: Remit at least US$75,000 to an accredited bank (DBP or LBP) and convert it into a peso time deposit for 30 to 180 days.
Step 5: BOI Evaluation: The BOI reviews the application for completeness and eligibility, potentially requesting additional documents or an interview.
Step 6: Probationary Visa Issuance: Upon BOI approval, the BI issues a probationary multiple-entry visa valid for six months, allowing entry into the Philippines.
Step 7: Convert to Investment: Within 180 days of the probationary visa issuance, convert the time deposit into an eligible investment and report it to the BOI.
Step 8: Indefinite Visa Conversion: Submit proof of investment (e.g., share certificates, Articles of Incorporation) to the BOI for endorsement to the BI, which issues the indefinite SIRV.

This structured process ensures that applicants meet all regulatory requirements while transitioning from a probationary to an indefinite visa status.

Eligible Investment Sectors for the SIRV Philippines

The SIRV Philippines requires investment in sectors that align with the government’s economic priorities, as outlined in the Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) by the BOI. These sectors promote growth and development while excluding certain areas to protect national interests. Below is a list of eligible investment sectors:

Manufacturing: Investments in companies producing goods, such as electronics, food processing, or textiles, are permitted.
Services: Business process outsourcing (BPO), consultancy, and other service-oriented enterprises qualify.
Tourism and Travel: Investments in hotels, resorts, or travel agencies that boost the tourism industry are eligible.
Healthcare: Enterprises in medical services, hospitals, or healthcare technology are prioritized.
Construction and Engineering: Projects supporting infrastructure development, such as roads or renewable energy facilities, qualify.
Publicly Listed Corporations: Purchasing shares in BOI-approved publicly listed companies is an acceptable investment.
Education: Investments in schools, training centers, or educational technology are permitted.
Environmental Initiatives: Projects focused on sustainability, such as waste management or renewable energy, are encouraged.

Notably, investments in wholesale trading, condominium units, or partnerships are not allowed, and foreign ownership in nationalized industries is capped at 40%. Applicants must conduct thorough research to ensure their investment aligns with BOI guidelines.

Benefits of the SIRV Philippines for Foreign Investors

The SIRV Philippines offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive option for foreign investors seeking residency and business opportunities. These benefits enhance the quality of life and financial prospects for visa holders and their families. Below is a list of key benefits:

Indefinite Residency: The SIRV grants the right to reside in the Philippines indefinitely, as long as the investment is maintained.
Multiple-Entry Privileges: Holders can enter and exit the Philippines without needing to reapply for a visa, facilitating international travel.
Family Inclusion: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can join the principal applicant under the same investment, promoting family unity.
Tax-Free Importation: First-time settlers can import used household goods and personal effects without duties or taxes.
Access to Local Amenities: SIRV holders can access national healthcare and education systems, integrating seamlessly into Philippine society.
Business Opportunities: The visa allows investors to engage in profitable sectors, contributing to personal wealth and the local economy.
Pathway to Long-Term Stay: While citizenship is challenging, the SIRV provides a stable foundation for those seeking a permanent base in Southeast Asia.

These benefits position the SIRV as a compelling choice for investors looking to combine residency with economic engagement in the Philippines.

Why Professional Assistance from Triple i Consulting is Essential

The SIRV application process, while straightforward in theory, is fraught with complexities that can overwhelm even seasoned investors. From navigating BOI regulations to ensuring compliance with BI requirements, the process demands precision and expertise. Engaging professional assistance is critical to avoid costly errors. Below are reasons to seek help from Triple i Consulting:

Expert Navigation: Triple i Consulting, the first ISO 9001:2008-certified firm in the Philippines for business registration services, offers unparalleled expertise in SIRV applications.
Document Preparation: Our team ensures all documents are complete, authenticated, and submitted correctly, minimizing delays or rejections.
Investment Guidance: We provide tailored advice on selecting BOI-approved enterprises, ensuring your investment meets eligibility criteria.
Streamlined Processing: Our established relationships with the BOI and BI expedite evaluations and visa issuance.
Ongoing Compliance: Triple i Consulting assists with converting probationary visas to indefinite status and fulfilling annual reporting requirements.
Personalized Support: Our immigration specialists offer end-to-end guidance, from initial consultation to final visa approval.

Given the intricate nature of the SIRV Philippines process, partnering with Triple i Consulting ensures a seamless experience. Investors can focus on their business goals while we handle the complexities.

Final Thoughts

The SIRV Philippines presents a unique opportunity for foreign investors to secure indefinite residency while contributing to the nation’s dynamic economy. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing the required documents, and following the step-by-step application process, investors can unlock benefits like multiple-entry privileges, tax-free importation, and access to local amenities. The requirement to invest at least US$75,000 in approved sectors, such as manufacturing or tourism, ensures alignment with national priorities, while the inclusion of dependents fosters family unity. However, the complexity of the process underscores the need for professional guidance. Triple i Consulting is a trusted provider that offers expert support to help you confidently navigate the SIRV application.

Is Assistance Available?

Yes, Triple i Consulting can streamline your SIRV application, ensuring compliance and efficiency. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experts: