Senator Introduces Bill To Create Digital Nomad Visa In The Philippines

Photo by Krisia V

Senator Joel Villanueva introduced a bill that would create a digital nomad visa in the Philippines.

Villanueva filed Senate Bill No. 2991, which would allow visitors to stay in the country longer if they worked remotely for a foreign-based company. The visa would be valid for one year, with the option to renew it for an additional year.

Visa applicants would have to meet several requirements. Some of the requirements include proof of income, having health insurance, having no criminal record, and not being considered a threat to the country. Visa holders would not be eligible for employment in the Philippines.

Boosting Tourism

One of the main goals of the bill is to boost tourism. The Philippines was ranked as the 7th fastest growing remote work hub in 2023, according to the World Economic Forum. In 2024, the Department of Tourism recorded a 9.15% increase in visitors, and record high tourist related revenues. With his bill, Villanueva hopes to turn the Philippines into a new digital nomad hub.

In a statement, Villanueva said:

“From our pristine beaches, green mountain ranges to our city’s vibrant urban hubs, each location in the Philippines provides unique advantages for remote workers. Digital nomads spend money and therefore, would benefit the economy. The Philippines is a promising destination for those who embrace nomadic lifestyle and leverage technology to work remotely from outside their home country.

While they are not allowed to take local jobs, they can share their knowledge and best practices to the local communities. The digital nomad visa program should be more than a bureaucratic procedure. It should foster an environment that will genuinely welcome visitors to our shores and allow ‘workationing’ possible for an extended period.”

If the bill passes, the Philippines will join a growing number of countries that offer digital nomad visas.