Immigration

Spouse visa 13(a): getting it, keeping it, losing it

Apply for the 13(a) as the spouse of a Filipino, switch from probationary to permanent, travel and stay compliant, and know what happens after a separation or a death.

Last verified: 2026-10

Situations covered (19)

Not married yet: marry first, the 13(a) comes after
Nationality not on the reciprocity list: Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or a specific procedure
Applying from abroad: 13(a) visa issued by a Philippine embassy
Overstaying: fix your tourist status before filing the 13(a)
Filing in the Philippines, married in the Philippines: probationary 13(a)
Filing in the Philippines, married abroad: probationary 13(a)
Earlier marriage: check that it was properly ended before filing
Probationary year under way: prepare the permanent status
Time to file for permanent status (amendment to permanent 13(a))
Permanent application pending: protect your file
Probationary year expired without filing: act now
Travel as a resident: ECC-B with Re-entry Permit
Annual obligations: annual report and ACR I-Card
Working with a 13(a): no AEP needed, but sector rules remain
Returning after a long absence: extension or returning resident visa 13(e)
Separation or pending case: the 13(a) may be revoked
Marriage dissolved: the basis of the 13(a) is gone
Death of the spouse with children: exception, the status can be kept
Death of the spouse without children: the 13(a) basis disappears

ImportantEducational and methodological guide. It does not replace a consultation with a lawyer registered with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). Bureau of Immigration (BI) fees come from its Citizen's Charters and change without notice: always confirm the amount at the counter and ask for an Official Receipt (OR).

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