Manila's metropolitan vicinity, home to more than 10 million Filipino citizens, serves as the Philippines' cultural, political, and economic hub. For expatriates looking to transfer to their destination country, moving to Manila one of major cities is a more and more alluring option and not just because of the city's abundance of sunny days and job prospects. Nevertheless, the city is also frequently dismissed as merely a collection of little communities devoid of a conventional nucleus. However, moving to Manila continues to be the top option for non resident foreign national who enjoy the commotion of the city.
Manila might mean two different things. First, it could be referring to Manila, the Philippine nation's capital city. Second, Manila is another name for the Metropolitan Manila district. Officially, it is referred to as Metro Manila or the National Capital Region (NCR). The City of Manila, Quezon City, Taguig, Pasay, and Makati are just a handful of the cities that make up this region.
It's simple to write off Manila as a travel destination. Most tourists just consider it a starting place for exploring the nation's gorgeous islands. So, to assist you get there, here is a travel guide to help you hat you need to know before moving to Manila.
Before Moving to Manila: Travel Requirements for Foreign Nationals
Visitors must comply with all government procedures before departing for or migrating to the Philippines. Even though the majority of visitors do not need to apply for visas for short-term stays, they should nevertheless pack the essential travel documents. Remember this advice.
The Documents You Must Bring:
- Genuine Passport
- Itinerary for a roundtrip flight
- Hotel reservations
- A valid photo ID (such as a business or school ID)
- Evidence of Financial Stability
- Possessions You Shouldn't Bring
The following things are ones you should not bring with you if you are relocating or traveling in the Metro Manila Philippines.
- Cannabis, cocaine, illicit drugs, or synthetic substances
- Explosive devices and firearms
- imitation guns
- Misbranded Food or Drug Products
- Rags & Used Clothing under R.A. 4653
- Products made in imitation that infringe on intellectual property rights.
Visa Categories for Travelers to Manila
Visas of various kinds are necessary to enter Manila. The government organization that grants visas to visitors from other countries is the Bureau of Immigration. It's crucial that you educate yourself on the various visa categories, regardless of whether you want to stay for a brief vacation or are on a job contract for a few years.
1. Tourist Visa
Those who intend to stay in the nation for no longer than thirty days are given a tourist visa. Once all conditions, including: have been satisfied, the application procedure takes roughly 10 business days.
- Travel authorization or an original passport that is still valid six months after the date of departure from the Philippines
- completely completed visa application
- A duplicate of your international flight details or trip itinerary
- Application payment documentation
2. Work Visa
All foreign nationals wishing to work in Manila must have the 9 (G) permit, which must be secured prior to beginning employment. The application procedure takes about 4-5 business days, and the conditions are:
- Your employer's letter of request addressed to the Secretary of Labor
- Properly completed and signed application form
- A replica of your curriculum vitae
- AEP: Alien Employment Permit
3. Student Visa
Only foreign students from international schools who are at least 18 years old and whose sole aim is to enroll in a course at any higher institution, such as universities, seminaries, or colleges, with the consent of the Commissioner of Immigration, may be granted a student visa. After all relevant paperwork has been submitted, such as the following, the typical processing period for a student visa is two months.
- There are two completed application forms.
- the two pictures
- Your birth certificate, both in original and in a copy, authenticated by the Philippine Embassy.
- For individuals seeking for graduate courses, original copies of all required documentation, including the Certificate of Good Moral Character, Police Clearance, medical exams, and diplomas, must be submitted all documentation has to be verified by the Philippine Embassy.
4. Dependent or Spouse Visa
The Immigrant Visa is available to your spouse and unmarried, underage children under the age of 21. If your spouse intends to work, she or he must also submit a separate work visa application. Important documents should be secured by your dependent or spouse, some of which include:
- a passport that is good for between six and twelve months
- two properly filled out application forms
- sized photographs for passports
- reports of physical and medical exams
- Evidence that the application fees have been paid
The following are the top 4 reasons for moving to Manila:
1. English is a common language.
The topic "Why did you move to Manila?" comes up frequently in conversations.
This does not negate the fact that there is a language barrier at all, though. There are 187 different languages spoken in the Philippines, with Tagalog being one of the most common. Since many of their terminology are also derived from Spanish, if you are familiar with Spanish you will also be familiar with parts of the vocabulary and the numbers.
90% of Filipino citizen speak English, a fact that many people may not be aware of, but which is advantageous for those who are fluent in the language.
2. Manila Attractions & Activities
Manila is home to some of the world's most impressive malls. For Filipinos, malls are not just places to buy new Nike footwear or get new apple phone ; they are also gathering places where people can enjoy free wi-fi and cool air conditioning. Even church services are held within their malls!
There are plenty that stick out from the crowd, therefore these are our top picks:
Shopping Malls
- Mandaluyong City's SM Megamall
- Makati City Greenbelt Mall
- Taguig's Venice Grand Mall
Historical Landmarks
- Intramuros
- Santiago Fort
- Chinatown
And now for some interesting activities you should try.
- Transportation via jeep
- Neighborhood Nightlife
- (Dampa) Wet Markets
3. Less Expenses
Most people become addicted to living expenses. Manila is more affordable in comparison to the average expense of foreign currency in other capital cities, which means you may save an enormous amount of money!
Does a lower price necessarily imply a lower level of quality? The answer is no. In Metro Manila, there are a ton of completely furnished apartments available for less money.
I strongly advise renting a hotel or Airbnb in Manila before you depart so you can look for longer-term accommodations. You can then make a huge decision when you've had a chance to adjust to your environment.
Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is a desirable, more affluent neighborhood to look for rentals. It is thought to be the most developed area in the Philippines, which makes Filipinos rather proud of it.
4. Accepted Credit/Debit Cards
National banks including the Philippine National Bank, Metrobank, and Bank of the Philippine Islands are available to expats. Additionally, they have the option of choosing foreign organizations like HBSC, Bank of America, and Citibank.
The Verdict on Moving to Manila
Moving in Manla is a wise decision for a number of reasons. Its natural beauty, colorful history, and equally diversified culture are unmatched anywhere else in the world.
There are many employment opportunities in sectors that deal with technology and have a good health insurance if you're looking for work. By sampling wonderful meals, you will become closer to the vacation spots of your dreams and exciting national events. Start making plans for your move right away if everything here sounds good.
For more information on Vista Residences, email [email protected], follow @VistaResidencesOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, or call the Marketing Office at 0999 886 4262 / 0917 582 5167.
