Applying for a visa to visit the Philippines can seem daunting for UAE expats who are unfamiliar with the process. However, it does not have to be difficult if you understand the basic steps and prepare all the necessary documents ahead of time.
In this article, we will provide an overview of the Philippine visa application process to help UAE expats prepare. We will outline the 5 key steps you need to take, explain the required documents, and provide guidance on submission and collection.
Understanding the process in advance takes away much of the stress. It also allows you to gather documents early so that your application goes smoothly. With some preparation and patience, getting a Philippine visa as a UAE expat can be straightforward.
Importance of understanding the application process and necessary documents
When applying for any visa, it is essential to understand the requirements and process to avoid delays or rejections. The same goes for Philippine visas for UAE expats.
By learning the steps and documents needed early on, you can review if you meet the requirements or not. This allows time to obtain any missing papers before starting your application.
You also avoid surprises down the line if documents are inaccurate or invalid. The Philippine consulates are quite strict about having complete and correct paperwork.
In addition, understanding the process means you know what to expect in terms of timelines, fees, and collection policies. This prevents confusion and helps the application go more smoothly.
Step #1: Prepare Required Documents
The first step when applying for a Philippine visa from the UAE is to prepare all the required documents. The main papers you will need are:
- Completed visa application form (2 copies)
- Recent passport photos (2 copies)
- Valid UAE residence visa passport with at least 6 months validity
- Passport data page copies (2 copies)
- UAE visa stamp copies (2 copies)
- No Objection Letter from employer or Trade License if self-employed
- Proof of financial capacity such as bank statements or salary certificate
- Confirmed flight and hotel bookings in the Philippines
There may be additional requirements depending on your personal situation. For example, married applicants will need marriage certificates, and those over 18 may require a UAE police clearance.
Detailed instructions on how to prepare the necessary documents
When putting together your Philippine visa documents, follow these tips:
- Print online forms in color, on clean, white A4 paper
- Use high quality scans or color copies of passport pages
- Get documents attested if specified
- Have employer letters printed on official letterhead with stamp
- Include required details like salary, position, validity period in letters
- Print enough copies according to document checklist
- Organize papers neatly into sets and staple related documents
- Bring black pens and extra passport photos
Ensuring your paperwork is prepared properly will prevent the consulate from rejecting applications due to errors. Neat, complete documents also create a good impression.
You can opt to use an agency to handle the preparation and submission if preferred. However, this will incur additional fees.
Step #2: Submission to the Embassy or Consulate
Once you have all the necessary Philippine visa documents ready, the next step is submission. There are two options depending on your visa type:
- Dubai visa holders submit to the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai
- Abu Dhabi visa holders submit to the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi
First-time applicants need to submit in person and have biometrics taken between 9am-12pm, Sundays to Thursdays. Arrive early to get a queue ticket.
On the first visit, the officer will review your documents and advise you to return on a specified date for passport stamping. You only pay AED 100 initially, with the balance due on collection.
Explanation of the submission process and any specific requirements
When submitting your Philippine visa application, take note of these requirements:
- Dress professionally as you will be photographed
- Know the exact visa fee amount in AED – fees may differ between Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Double check you have all needed documents before joining the queue
- Expect to spend 2-3 hours at the consulate/embassy in total
- Be polite to staff and follow instructions carefully
The submission process can feel lengthy if you are unfamiliar. But going prepared with all documents and an understanding of the requirements makes it straightforward.
If possible, avoid visiting just before holidays when queues may be longer. Following the officer’s guidance closely also prevents complications.
Step #3: Collection of Visa
Once the Philippine visa application has been submitted and reviewed, applicants need to return on the specified date to collect their passport with the stamped visa.
Collection is also in person at the consulate or embassy between 9am-12pm. Remember to bring your passport and the remaining visa fee in cash.
An alternative is to send a representative to collect the visa for you, provided you already completed the biometrics registration on your first visit.
After collection, the Philippine visa is valid for 59 days from the issue date. You must enter the Philippines before the expiry date.
Conclusion
We hope this guide gives UAE expats a helpful overview of the Philippine visa application process. While it may seem complicated, taking it step-by-step with the right documents makes it quite straightforward. The key is to understand what is needed and be organized in preparing your papers. Pat ience at the consulate and following instructions also prevents issues. Once you have your Philippine visa stamped, you can look forward to a wonderful trip to the Philippines! The visa process is just a small part of the exciting journey ahead.
