IMMIGRATION:
Philippine Tourist visa (9A) is issued to foreigners (restricted of non-restricted) for the purpose of pleasure, business and/or medical treatment:
Non-restricted nationals from countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, UK and USA (refer website http://www.dfa.gov.ph/consular/visa.htm for a complete list), are allowed to enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding 21 days, provided their passports are valid for a period of at least 6 months beyond the contemplated period of stay. The initial 21 days should NOT incur any fees. Fees are paid only during applications to extend your visa further. (Tip: If you are asked how long you are staying in the Philippines, do not go beyond the 21 days if you do not have your visa extended as yet).
After the initial 21 days, an application to extend a further 38 days can be made (initial extension to a total of 59 days), through the Bureau of Immigration office. Henceforth, for non-restricted nationals, the Chief of Visa Extension Section may grant you 2 months for every extension, but not to exceed the maximum period of 16 months.
It is possible to acquire a visa in advance (for 59 days) before your arrival from any Philippine Embassy or Consulate closest to you, if any. For further information on Philippine posts overseas, visit http://www.dfa.gov.ph/posts/pemb.htm or http://www.dfa.gov.ph/posts/philcon.htm. Visa fees will apply.
After a 16 months stay, you will need the approval from the Bureau of Immigration ( official website) based on the merits of your application. Most will just fly out of the country to the nearest overseas destination and return to start the clock again. If you do so, bring your vessel Philippine entry papers, boat registration and any proof of your entering Philippines by yacht with you. You will be questioned at the airport on why you only have a one-way entry into the Philippines on your return trip.
For restricted nationals, the Chief of Visa Extension Section may grant 1 month for every extension but not to exceed a maximum period of 6 months. The Commissioner and the Associate Commissioners have the right to approve the length of stay based on the merits of your application.
You should file your application 7 days before the expiration of your approved stay. If the expiry date falls on a Saturday or Sunday or a legal holiday, the application for extension of tourist visa and the full payment thereof shall be made on or before the last business/working day immediately preceding the expiry date of your lawful stay, otherwise, you are liable to pay for penalties and motion for reconsideration.
Note: Temporary visitors are required to register for Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) at the BI pursuant to the Alien Registration Act after a stay of six (6) months. The ACR I-Card is a microchip-based credit card-sized identification card issued to registered alien to expedite the entire process of alien registration and integrates the issuance of various paper-based alien documentations. For more information and procedures, check here.
When visiting the Bureau of Immigration (or any government establishments), a strict dress code is followed. Generally, no slippers, no flip flops, no shorts.
In Davao, the Bureau of Immigration is in front of Victoria Plaza, Bajada street. The relevant fees are posted on the wall inside.