Conversion to Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) by Marriage

This visa is available to foreigners from countries who do not have reciprocity agreements with the Philippines provided they have a valid marriage recognized under Philippines aw with a Filipino citizen. The visa allows the foreigner to live in the Philippines for up to five years. Extensions are available if required.

The foreigner is required to hand over his passport to the Bureau of Immigration during the application process. The passport is returned upon approval of the application. The time involved is usually two or more months. Holders of this visa are not required to get an alien employment permit. A temporary work permit, if needed, may be proceeded while waiting for formal visa approval.

What is a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)?

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows a foreign national to reside in the Philippines temporarily. In the context of this document, it refers to the conversion of a Non-Quota Immigrant Visa by Marriage to a TRV.

• Who can apply for Conversion to TRV by Marriage?
  • Foreign nationals whose country does not have an existing reciprocity agreement with the Philippines are eligible to apply.
• How do I apply for Conversion to TRV by Marriage?
  • The application process involves several steps:
    1. Secure the CGAF and checklist of documentary requirements.
    2. Submit the filled-up application form, applicant’s passport, and complete requirements to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU).
    3. Pay the visa application fees and courier fees.
    4. Attend the hearing and proceed to the Alien Registration Division (ARD) for biometrics capturing.
    5. Once the ACR I-Card is approved, it will be transmitted to the Office of the Executive Director (OED).
    6. If the visa application is approved, the OED will implement the visa into the applicant’s passport, and the courier will deliver the Approval Order, passport, and ACR I-Card to the applicant.
• What documents are required for the Conversion to TRV by Marriage?
  • The required documents include a joint letter request, duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa, passport copies, birth certificate of the Filipino spouse, marriage certificate, NBI Clearance (if applicable), BI Clearance Certificate, and Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance (if applicable).
• Are there additional requirements for dependent children?
  • Yes, dependent children of the applicant must also submit specific documents such as their passport copies, proof of filiation with the petitioner, NBI Clearance (if applicable), BI Clearance Certificate, and Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance (if applicable).
• What happens to my passport during the application process?
  • As per Immigration Administrative Order No. SBM-2014-006, the applicant’s passport is required to be surrendered to the Bureau during the application process and will be returned via courier service delivery upon proper disposition.
• Can I withdraw my application or request documents back during the process?
  • No, any request for the pull-out of required documents during the application process shall be deemed as an act of abandonment, resulting in the dismissal of the application.
• How long does it take to process the Conversion to TRV by Marriage?
  • Processing times may vary, but typically visas for approved applicants are issued within a specified period after the completion of the application process.
• Where can I obtain the necessary application forms and information?
  • Application forms and information can be obtained from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at the BI Main Office or from the official BI website